In Concert

AMG Review of In Concert

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

This double LP features one of Stan Kenton's hardest-swinging orchestras live at a concert in England. Since the rhythm section includes drummer Mel Lewis and bassist Curtis Counce, there was little doubt that the emphasis is on swinging jazz. Boasting soloists of the caliber of trumpeter Sam Noto, altoist Lennie Niehaus, tenorman Bill Perkins and trombonist Carl Fontana, the Kenton orchestra could hold its own with all competitors of the time. The ensemble mostly performs arrangements by Bill Holman, Pete Rugolo and Bill Russo plus two charts from Gerry Mulligan ("Swing House" and "Young Blood") and, although the repertoire is dominated by older material, these well-recorded renditions sound quite fresh and exciting.