Clark Terry led a short-lived big band in the mid-'70s, and the 18-piece orchestra is showcased on this set from the 1974 Wichita Jazz Festival. With arrangements by
Ernie Wilkins,
Phil Woods,
Jimmy Heath, and
Allan Foust, the emphasis during this CD reissue is on swinging in a beboppish fashion. However, C.T. kept an open mind and his performance also has versions of
Kenny Dorham's "Una Mas" and
Wayne Shorter's "Nefertiti" along with some more basic material. In addition to the flügelhornist/leader (who takes a trademark vocal on "Mumbles" and good-humoredly announces the songs), such soloists as altoist Phil Woods, tenor man Jimmy Heath, and pianist
Duke Jordan are among the more important voices. This is an easily recommended CD for straight-ahead jazz fans.
