Although this was recorded in the 1950's and is thus part of the Dixieland Revival rather than the authentic stuff of the teens and 20's, it is so well done that it is fast becoming my favorite Dixieland recording. The recording is superb, everything is crystal clear. The players, many of whom were around and recording back in the 20's!, are on top of their games and together craft an extremely listenable collection of tunes. There are some standards here as well as some that are nearly unknown, but all are well done, with plenty of musical precision coupled with that indefinable freedom that makes for exciting Dixieland jazz. If you're not sure of the role the piano takes in a Dixie setting, this recording will set you straight. Yes, there are banjos here, but the piano(s) not only help with motion of the harmony, they really spice up the fills, take over on the melody and provide some quite tasty rides here and there. That said, at no point is it "too much"; everything mixes well and these great arrangements truly allow this band to create what must be seen as a reference work for these tunes. Well done!
