Product Review

This CD provides a cross-section of recordings by some obscure Wisconsin and, perhaps, Chicago dance bands. The close proximity of these cities meant that it was easy for bands to travel back and forth for recordings or live performances. Most of these sides are more or less competent, pleasant performances of the popular songs of the day. And a few, such as the Mandel Terry sides, include some very forward, innovative arranging which give us a hint of the Swing Era devices that were to follow shortly. They, therefore, remain an important, if obscure document of the continuing development of this music.