Various Essential Artists
Jam Session: America’s Jazz Ambassadors Embrace The World
Storyville Records
By George W. Harris

There was once a time in music when musicians actually had their own distinct sound and style. I know in this day of MTV and VH1 it’s hard to conceive, but you don’t even have to take my word for it, as this disc of recordings by the likes of Satchmo, Brubeck, Duke and Diz (among others) will more than ably serve as evidence.

Once upon a time, America actually sent out musicians as amba ssadors of good will to show the benefits of American culture. Could you imagine if we did that today with the likes of Amy Winehouse or Brittany Spears?!? No wonder they want to kill us!

Anyway, I digress. This disc consists of concerts ranging from 1956-80 from bands that served in State Department Tours of Africa, the Middle East, and other parts of the world. The sound quality varies from excellent to serviceable, but the music itself is absolutely first rate. 1962’s Armstrong shines through “Someday You Will Be Sorry” while the classic Brubeck Quartet sounds fantastically futuristic on “The Golden Horn.” Benny Carter gives a gentlemanly 2 song set, while Ellington’s Orchestra swings heavily through “Perdido” and “Things…” while an alumnus band with Clark Terry and Paul Gonsalves stretch out on “Blues For The Champ of Champs.” A tight Herman’s Orchestra from 1956 includes Vince Guaraldi on piano for a pair of ditties, while Dizzy’s Orchestra is as exuberant as all get out on “Cool Breeze” and “Manteca.” These guys do more for international relations than Obama could ever dream of.