Breakin' It up on Broadway

AMG Review of Breakin' It up on Broadway

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

The original Dukes of Dixieland's recording career can be easily divided into three parts by record label: Audiofidelity (1956-60), Columbia (1961-64) and Decca (1965-66). While the popular group was well recorded in each of these phases (and there were a few earlier dates that preceded their signing with Audiofidelity), the Columbia albums (few of which have been reissued on CD yet, unfortunately) are the most rewarding. During that period, the group utilized a more modern rhythm section than most Dixieland bands, including on this set pianist Gene Schroeder, bassist Jim Atlas (formerly with Jimmy Giuffre), drummer Charlie Lodice and (in the biggest surprise) guitarist Jim Hall. However, the main reason to search for these Dukes of Dixieland sets is for the frontline (which includes both Fred Assunto and Jac Assunto on trombones), particularly for clarinetist Jerry Fuller and the great trumpeter Frank Assunto (who also took occasional vocals). Highlights of this particular album by the Dukes include "Runnin' Wild," "Lady Be Good," "If I Were a Bell" and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love."