Red Norvo & His Orchestra - Red and Mildred

1980 release

This collection of radio transcriptions features Red Norvo's 1938 big band. The Eddie Sauter arrangements are consistently inventive and allow the orchestra to play quite quietly at times so its leader's xylophone could be heard not only as a solo instrument but in the ensembles. Mildred Bailey and Terry Allen contribute occasional vocals while the most impressive soloist next to Norvo is clarinetist Hank D'Amico. The band's distinctive sound and ability to swing hard at a light volume makes its music quite delightful and accessible.

Scott Yanow