Harry James Dance Parade - Your Dance Date (CD)

Harry James – Dance Parade / Your Dance Date combines two albums originally issued by Columbia in 1950 and brings them together on a single CD released by Collectables Records in 2002. The 15 tracks were recorded between 1939 and 1950 and provide an interesting overview of different periods in the development of Harry James and his orchestra. The first group of recordings includes energetic instrumental performances such as Flash, Back Beat Boogie, Feet Draggin’ Blues and Cross Country Jump, reflecting the hot swing style of the earlier period. Other selections include Record Session, Sharp as a Tack, Jeffrie’s Blues, Crazy Rhythm and Sweet Jenny Lou. The programme continues with These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You), New Two O’Clock Jump, Big John’s Special, Deep Purple, Squaty Roo and In a Mist. The two original albums illustrate the changing character of the Harry James orchestra, from powerful swing-oriented performances to more melodic and dance-focused material. This Collectables release is therefore more than a simple collection of big-band standards: it brings together two historical Columbia albums and documents over a decade of Harry James’ musical development. An appealing release for listeners and collectors interested in swing, classic big-band jazz and the distinctive trumpet sound of Harry James.