The Dazzling Trumpet Of Claude Gordon And His Orchestra
Liberty LRP 3022
1957
Available from online vendors so I will not be posting a sample.
Billboard liked this set, however the sound to my ears, is dated for 1957 when this market had begun to be influenced by more "exotic" music, more "flamboyant" arrangements and better engineered projects.
From the back cover: Claude began acquiring his musical proficiency at the age of eight while attending grade school in Helena, Montana. A few years later, he became cornet soloist for the Helena School Band – an amazing feat for a fifth grader!!! Claude subsequently played professional engagements with the Gordon Family Orchestra, a group composed of his father, mother, two brothers and a sister – all accomplished and polished performers.
Claude led many groups in the Montana and North Dakota regions until 1938 when the inevitable Hollywood lure brought him to California. Word of Claude's amazing trumpet technique preceded him to the "big town" and led to featured spots with the Matty Malneck, Ronnie Kemper and Frankie Masters bands. His flawless performances soon caught the ear of Lud Gluskin, CBS musical director, and he was signed to the coveted first trumpet chair with the Columbia Broadcasting System staff orchestra.
In 1949, Claude Gordon became restless with the studio routine and organized his first commercial dance band. Claude made a series of Capitol transcriptions with the group, but the band business was slumping in 1950 and he returned to the security of CBS. Claude formed his present aggregation in 1955 and has been one of the most sought-after groups in the business – smashing box-office records at college and ballroom dates on the Pacific Coast.
– Dick Whittinghill - One of Southern California's favorite disc jockeys. His witty morning show on KMPC, Los Angeles, is a must for early risers. Dick abandoned a promising singing career (he was a member of the famed Pied Pipers along with Jo Stafford) and has since become a top radio personality.
From Billboard: March 2, 1957: Big band dance music, a great swinging beat, and attractive packaging combine to make this one an eye and ear-catcher. Claude Gordon, gaining in popularity among the college set, plays great trumpet, with arrangements much in the manner of old Bobby Sherwood band. The music is as fresh and interesting as the title, and deserves adequate stocking and air play.
Makin' Whoopee!
Rhapsody For Trumpet
My Baby Just Cares For Me
Stormy Weather
Gypsy In My Soul
Bavarian Bounce
Purple Shades
It's Easy To Remember
It Happened In Monterey
Nice Work If You Can Get It
Lullaby Of Broadway
Great Day
I was the lead trumpet on Jazz for Jean-Agers album. I invested my recording pay into the Claude Gordon Band and never ever seen a return on my investment.
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