If you're looking for music that brings a smile and fills you with joy, check out all six of the Terry Gibbs dream band discs. Although recorded in the late '50s, the sound is quite decent. Some of the discs are from tapes Gibbs found in a closet, but someone at Fantasy did a fine job with them. The sound is very upfront, in-your-face. Although most tracks were recorded live at one of two LA clubs, there isn't too much of that live audience ambience. However, the shouts and enthusiasm of Gibbs and the band... more info
Late 50s reunion band that simply jumps out at you...:
This entire series of the "Dream Band", with arrangements by Bill Holman, and great work by Med Flory, Conte Candoli, Joe Maini, and Mel Lewis driving the proceedings is worth the whole set - come to think of it, why isn't there a boxed set of these? From Gibbs' first countdown ("UHH, OOOH, EEE, AHHH...) the swinging is relaxed (not low-energy, just relaxed) and a joy. Great COOL Big Band Live recordings.
you will be movin' and groovin':
adding this to your collection. Gibbs played with Goodman in his early years as vibraphonist and that alone brings not just superb craftsmanship but a very swinging head and this does not let you down. The drive, execution and sheer fun that shines on this CD which chronicles live stuff from the late 50's (and beautifully rendered) will have you smiling any hour you turn it on...Mel's sticks and feet toss the beat all over with the thump and verve of a careeening locomotive while the musicians play their... more info
Talk about swinging!:
I don't know why I bought this albumn, but thank God you can't wear out a CD as it is one of the most enjoyable I own. The Bill Holman arrangements are absolutely as swinging today as the day they were done. The drums of Mel Lewis...impeccable and drive the band to great heights. The album will put you in a good mood. It's bright, fun, creative and one of the most swinging CD you could own. I love it!
