December 2008

Jonah Jones
Jonah Jones at the Embers
Mosaic Singles
George Wein
George Wein is Alive and Well In Mexico
Mosaic Singles

By Scott Yanow

From Mosaic Singles comes Jonah Jones’ At the Embers and George Wein Is Alive and Well in Mexico. Trumpeter Jones was one of the few swing-era survivors who became a major hit more than a decade after that era ended. He performed Dixieland, swing and pop standards while using a mute and a rhythm section that emphasized shuffle rhythms. At the Embers was the first and arguably the most rewarding album in this extensive series. Wein, most famous as a concert producer, was always a fine swing pianist, occasionally leading the Newport All-Stars through the years. His Mosaic set from 1967 includes the final recordings of clarinetist Pee Wee Russell, along with fine contributions from cornetist Ruby Braff, tenor saxophonist Bud Freeman and Wein himself. Both of the Mosaic Singles also include additional previously unreleased selections that add to the CDs’ value.