In Concert

This live concert (released for the first time on this 1997 CD) mostly features the 1959 Stan Kenton Orchestra playing fairly accessible and swinging material. Other than a pair of Bill Holman tunes and a Johnny Richards selection ("La Suerte de Los Tontos") taken from his Cuba Fire suite, the repertoire consists of standards. In addition to trumpeter Rolf Ericson, Bill Trujillo on tenor and alto saxophone player Lennie Niehaus (all of whom have some solo space), this edition of the Kenton crew was most notable for including trombonist Jimmy Knepper and bassist Scott LaFaro (shortly before he joined the Bill Evans Trio). Among the better numbers are Holman's "Fearless Finlay," "Intermission Riff," "Bernie's Tune" and a dramatic "Street Scene. " Not essential, but Stan Kenton collectors will want this intriguing and swinging set. - Personnel: Stan Kenton (piano); Billy Root, Sture Swenson, Bill Trujillo, John Bonnie (saxophone); Joe Burnett, Rolf Ericson, Bud Brisbois, Roger Middleton, Frank Huggins (trumpet); Bill Smiley, Kent Larson, Jimmy Knepper, Archie LeCoque, Jim Amlotte (trombone). Liner Note Author: Herb Wong.