American trombonist Turk Murphy counts as one of the prime movers in the West Coast resurgence of Dixieland jazz in the late 1930’s; Murphy’s brand of traditional jazz remained popular until his death in 1987. Hs band played concerts and festivals throughout the world, was featured along with Dizzy Gillespie, Earl Hines and Ella Fitzgerald at the inauguration of New York’s Louis Armstrong Stadium, and played Carnegie Hall. Recorded live at the ‘73 Heidelberg Jazz Festival, the band’s free-flowing, relaxed two-beat feel combines the best of the New Orleans and Chicago styles. The use of tuba instead of bass leans towards Dixie, as does the intricate ensemble play, yet there are also brilliant solo passages, reminiscent of Chicago jazz of the 1920’s. An infectious rendition of King Oliver’s Dr. Jazz, a vintage version of Jelly Roll Morton’s The Pearls, the swinging, down-home feel on St. James Infirmary, and a rambunctious Panama are among the album’s classic gems. Leon Oakley’s cornet and Pete Clute’s piano stand out throughout. Music geared for traditional jazz lovers and those yearning for some ‘good-time’ music – as the audience’s joyous response to band’s play attests.
