I Remember Harlem

This out-of-print LP features Roy Eldridge in generally superb form. Recorded during his visit to Paris with the Benny Goodman Sextet, the well-rounded set finds him a dominant force on seven selections (six of which are his compositions) with a French septet. In addition, Eldridge is heard in an exciting quintet with tenor saxophonist Don Byas (the trumpeter's "Oh Shut Up" is based on the chords of "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone"), Eldridge and Claude Bolling perform "Wild Man Blues" and "Fireworks" as duets reminiscent of the interplay of Louis Armstrong and Earl Hines, and Eldridge even takes three loose but fun piano solos. This music is highly recommended but will probably be difficult to find. ~ Scott Yanow