Stan Kenton

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It was always Stan Kenton’s goal to have a concert jazz orchestra as opposed to a dance band, a powerful outfit with five trumpets, a forceful five-piece trombone section, and thick-toned saxophonists.

Although the big band era largely ended during 1945-46, Kenton was really hitting his stride in 1947 as is obvious during this five-song short.

Kenton is featured on his theme song “Artistry In Rhythm” and his short-time vocal group The Pastels is heard on “Down In Chihuahua.”

The band really makes an impact during the ensembles of “Just A-Sittin’ And A-Rockin” which has June Christy singing over the loud brass.

Also included are the classic instrumental “Concerto To End All Concertos” and June Christy singing her biggest hit with the band, “Tampico.”

At the time, the Stan Kenton Orchestra included such notables as lead trumpeters Buddy Childers and Ray Wetzel, trombonists Kai Winding and Milt Bernhart, bassist Ed Safranski, and drummer Shelly Manne.

-Scott Yanow

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