Dreaming Down The River To New Orleans

by Thomas Jefferson

Overview

Thomas Jefferson was one of the top New Orleans trumpeters of the 1960s, a lyrical and melodic player who also sang in a style that hinted at Louis Armstrong. Unlike some of the trad dates of the era, his sessions always found the musicians in-tune and featured high musicianship in addition to spirited playing. This set, Dreaming Down the River to New Orleans (from 1962) features Jefferson (who takes four vocals) with three different groups; it is a pity that his name is not listed as leader, for he is the star throughout. Jefferson performs four numbers in a sextet with trombonist Jim Robinson (in peak form), clarinetist Louis Cottrell, pianist Lester Santiago, bassist Jerry Adams, drummer Paul Barbarin, and four others with Barbarin in a group featuring trombonist Frog Joseph and clarinetist Sam Dutrey. Sister Elizabeth Eustis and a choir sing on "Just A Closer Walk With Thee." The remainder of the set has Jefferson in an excellent octet with Joseph and both Cottrell and Raymond Burke on clarinets. Overall, the ensembles are clean but exciting, the solos are concise and meaningful, and Jefferson's playing is quite enjoyable, clearly inspiring the other players. A gem. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	04/04/2003
Label:	Ghb Records
UPC:	0762247513827

Tracks

1. Dreaming on the River
2. Blues for Paul
3. Paper Doll
4. Fidgety Feet
5. Bourbon Street Parade
6. Just a Closer Walk With Thee
7. Apple Blossom Time
8. Lazy River
9. Moose Parade
10. Why Should I Cry Over You
11. While We Danced at the Mardi Gras
12. Over the Waves
13. Sensation Rag
14. Pallet on the Floor
15. Just a Little While to Stay Here
16. Now Is the Hour

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Thomas Jefferson   Primary Artist,Vocals,Trumpet
Louis Cottrell, Sr.   Guest Artist
Jim Robinson   Guest Artist,Trombone
Paul Barbarin   Guest Artist,Drums
Stan Mendelson   Piano
Lester Santiago   Piano
Placide Adams   Bass
Louis Cottrell, Jr.   Clarinet
Monk Hazel   Drums
Joe Capraro   Guitar
Raymond Burke   Clarinet
Sam Dutrey   Clarinet
Frog Joseph   Trombone
Sister Elizabeth Eustis   Vocals
Chink Martin   Tuba

Technical Credits

Traditional   Composer