This double CD reissues the first three LPs by
the Firehouse Five Plus Two, a very popular Dixieland group in the 1950s. In addition to trombonist Ward Kimball (who occasionally lets loose on a siren), the main soloists are generally trumpeter Danny Alguire and either Clarke Mallery, Tom Sharpsteen, or
George Probert on clarinet. The spirited jamming mixes together standards, a few obscurities, and an occasional original (including "Firehouse Stomp," "Fireman's Lament," and "Firechief Rag"). Although not exactly innovative, the music is quite fun and easily recommended to Dixieland fans. ~ Scott Yanow