Kid Ory: Ory's Creole Trombone

This pioneering recording of the first African-American New Orleans jazz band on record both stands on its own merit and confirms the authenticity of Orys 1940s recordings. Much is the same: the joyous, uncluttered ensemble work and Orys familiar swagger (notice his delightful anticipatory attacks, often a full beat ahead) are present. Careys impassioned sweet-hot lead is also heard, just as it would be 23 years later. Notice the excellent clarinet work by Dink Johnson, a pianist and drummer who admired Larry Shields of the ODJB. He plays a sensible arpeggiated style, avoiding the de rigueur swooping and squawking effects. The band sounds relaxed despite the vigorous 220 beats-per-minute. With careful listening, one may hear glimpses of Ed Garlands string bassan instrument that did not record well during those pre-microphone daysduring the first strain at measure 12 and similar spots.