Jess Stacy - Jess Stacy and Friends

Pianist Jess Stacy's Commodore recordings are reissued in full on this single CD. Stacy is heard during 1938-1939 playing solos (Bix Beiderbecke's "Candlelights," "You're Driving Me Crazy," and five of his originals); performing a duo version of "She's Funny That Way" with tenor saxophonist Bud Freeman; accompanying his wife, singer Lee Wiley (along with cornetist Muggsy Spanier), on memorable versions of "Down to Steamboat Tennessee" and "Sugar"; and performing six numbers (four standards and two originals) with drummer Specs Powell in 1944. Although the alternate takes are not included, this is a superior and easily recommended set to fans of the swing piano. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide