1944-45 Broadcasts (Live)

This interesting set of radio broadcasts features the 1944-1945 Lionel Hampton big band at a time when it featured tenor saxophonist Arnett Cobb, clarinetist Herbie Fields (whose odd playing is an acquired taste), pianist Milt Buckner, and Dinah Washington, who sings on six of the 17 selections. Hampton's band was based in swing, helped lead the way toward R&B, and was a little touched by bebop at the time. The combination often resulted in excitable performances, as one can hear on "Hamp's Boogie Woogie," "Oh Lady Be Good," "K Ration Hop," "Air Mail Special," and "Flying Home Number Two." Unfortunately, the full personnel is not given, but these performances (taken from the Victory Parade of Spotlight Bands, three Jubilee shows, and a couple conventional airchecks) have plenty of exciting moments and showcase one of the most popular big bands of the era.