AMG Review of Big Bands, Vol. 1 [MCA]

Stephen Thomas Erlewine
All Music Guide

MCA Special Products' Big Bands, vol. 1 isn't a definitive collection by any means, but it's an enjoyable sampler of swing and big band highlights from the MCA vaults, containing selections from Woody Herman ("Woodchopper's Ball"), Les Brown ("Sentimental Journey"), Count Basie ("One O'Clock Jump"), Glenn Miller ("Moonlight Bay"), Jimmy Dorsey ("Tangerine"), Ella Fitzgerald ("A Tisket a Tasket"), Charlie Barnet ("Cement Mixer") and Guy Lombardo ("The Band Played On," "Tennessee Waltz"). These may not be their best songs or thier hits, but the disc is entertaining enough to justify its budget price for curious or casual fans.