Kenton Showcase (1953)

About this title: This recording contains eight compositions apiece by Bill Russo and Bill Holman for the Stan Kenton Orchestra of 1953-54. All of the inventive music has since been reissued on CD by Mosaic but those Kenton collectors not having that deluxe set will want to pick this up. Quite a few different soloists have their spots (including trumpeters Sam Noto and Buddy Childers, altoists Davey Schildkraut and Charlie Mariano, trombonist Frank Rosolino and (on "In Lighter Vein") altoist Lee Konitz. It's a fine showcase for the two talented writers. Scott Yanow, All Music Guide

Tracks:

1. A Theme of Four Values [Russo]
2. A Study for Bass [Russo]
3. Blues Before and After [Russo]
4. Bacante [Russo]
5. Thisbe [Russo]
6. Egdon Heath [Russo]
7. Sweets [Russo]
8. Dusk [Russo]
9. Bags [Holman]
10. Hava Havana [Holman]
11. Solo for Buddy [Holman]
12. The Opener [Holman]
13. Fearless Finlay [Holman]
14. Theme and Variations [Holman]
15. Kingfish [Holman]
16. In Lighter Vein [Holman]
17. Of All Things [Holman]
18. Lover Man [Sherman/Davis/Ramir]
19. My Funny Valentine [Hart/Rodgers]
20. Bags [Alternate Version] [Holman]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.