AMG Review of 1926-1932

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Some of Bing Crosby's finest early recordings are on this single CD. The first track, 1926's "Pretty Lips," was allegedly previously unissued, but in reality it had come out before, and Crosby is not even on it. Otherwise, this is a strong release, with the artist featured with Paul Whiteman's Orchestra (cornetist Bix Beiderbecke has a few spots), as part of the Rhythm Boys, and on dates with Sam Lanin, the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, Duke Ellington ("Three Little Words" and "St. Louis Blues"), and Gus Arnheim ("One More Time"). Although not a complete set, there are many high points to be heard, including "Mississippi Mud," "Changes," "From Monday On," "You Took Advantage of Me," "Let's Do It," and "Dinah" (co-starring the Mills Brothers). Recommended as an excellent sampler of Bing Crosby's years as a jazz singer.