CD Review: Barney Bigard 1944-1945

Label: Stemra Classics 930, Made In France 1997, Classics Records
Personnel: Barney Bigard & His Orchestra with George Auld, Barney Bigard Sextet, Barney Bigard Quintet, Lamplighters All Stars/Crystalette All Stars, Monette Moore

Barney Bigard's luscious tone and fluid articulation made him the personification of the New Orleans clarinet style. He was among the most unique of instrumental stylists, with an individual voice like no other jazz clarinetist. Duke Ellington used Bigard's sound to vividly mark the Ellington band's rainbow of tonal textures during its golden era of the 30's and 40's. Ellington's genius for mixing palettes of tone colors extended to other great jazz players. Ben Webster, Johnny Hodges, Rex Stewart and Cootie Williams were just a few of them. Barney Bigard's recordings with the Duke are among the very best of both men.

The re-issues in this set were made just after Barney's departure from the Ellington band in the mid 40's. They are superb examples of the kind of small band swing being played during the crucial transition period just preceding the bebop revolution. They vividly show past and future influences of that time. The great swing trumpeter, Joe Thomas, is featured. Joe, Barney, and "the other" Joe Thomas (on tenor sax) make exquisite 2 and 3 part improvised ensemble counterpoint on the ballad "Can't Help Lovin' That Man." It is a perfect example of the highest jazz principles. A whispered Bigard low register "Rose Room" shows why that song is a jazz clarinet favorite.

Unlike many "old school" players who were passed by when bebop arrived, Barney Bigard had a distinguished musical career in his later years. He was a featured member of the Louis Armstrong All Stars at its founding in 1946, nicely returning to his roots. After 3 long stays with Louis, he settled and played mostly in Southern California, a featured dean of his art. A hotbed of traditional jazz to this day, it was the perfect setting for this jazz pioneer's twilight years.

Barney Bigard was a most important jazz voice. He was also one of its most wondrous clarinet talents.

 - Bob Sparkman  June 20, 2003

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