John Sheridan, best known as the longtime pianist with
the Jim Cullum Jazz Band, is a superior swing/stride pianist. He has led a series of albums under the title of his "Dream Band," of which this is the third. Joined by cornetist
Randy Reinhart, trombonist
Russ Phillips, tenor saxophonist
Brian Ogilvie, clarinetist
Ron Hockett, guitarist
Reuben Ristrom, bassist
Phil Flanigan, drummer
Ed Metz Jr., and (on eight of the 16 selections) singer
Rebecca Kilgore,
Sheridan has a right to be proud of this band. The pianist contributed the arrangements for a variety of tunes, some of which are fairly obscure, including "Stop, Look and Listen," "Humpty Dumpty Heart," "People Like You and Me," and "Walkin' by the River." Each of the musicians has their chance to be featured,
Kilgore as usual uplifts every song on which she appears, and other highlights include "All the Cats Join In,"
Sheridan's showcase on "A Gal in Calico,"
Reinhart on "I'm in the Mood for Love," and the closing jam on "The Dixieland Band." Highly recommended to swing and trad jazz fans. ~ Scott Yanow