Red Norvo: I Surrender, Dear

This may be Red Norvo's date, but the stars on this track are trombonist Jenney and pianist Wilson. Jenney is a lyrical player who makes every note count. He is little remembered today, but in 1940 he won the Down Beat poll on his instrument, and this performance displays his melodic sensibility. Teddy Wilson's mere presence is noteworthy amidst this rare integrated band from 1934, but his swinging piano solo is more tangible evidence of why he was enlisted for the gig. This track is a step below the xylophonist's most celebrated work of the era -- Norvo newbies should first check out "In a Mist" or "Dance of the Octopus" -- but this is still a solid performance by one of the finest mid-1930s jazz ensembles.