by Scott Yanow
This CD reissue is a perfect place for listeners to start exploring the warm tenor sound of Bud Freeman. A distinctive player whose style straddles the boundary between swing and Dixieland, Freeman is heard here in a quartet also including pianist Dave Frishberg (years before he became famous as a composer/vocalist), bassist Bob Haggart and drummer Don Lamond. Freeman (55 at the time) is heard at the peak of his powers on a dozen standards (some of which are rarely played), plus five alternate takes. Highlights include &You're a Sweetheart,& &Chicago,& &It's Only a Paper Moon& and &Somebody Stole My Gal.&