AMG Review of Drummer Man

Bob Rusch
All Music Guide

Roy Eldridge (trumpet) got the featured billing (along with vocalist Anita O'Day) he deserved on Drummer Man, a date featuring Gene Krupa fronting a big band. This was a reunion of sorts, but one that worked well, better in some cases than the original. The title's a bit misleading, for although Krupa's propulsions were clearly heard, his soloing was limited to a few features. Still, any drummer or fan of drumming will respond to the ambiance of this date.