Ted Lewis was a huge star, this recording will give you a glimpse as to why. Like many successful singers of his day he hired the hottest of jazz musicians to back him, and he gave them plenty of room to stretch out. He sounds a bit like WC Fields in his delivery but please do not let that put you off, he is sensational. His status as a star meant that he got to record in the best of the recording studios, which means that so much of this music, when restored, sounds as good if not better than when it was originally released. This includes many of the early recordings of such future greats as Benny Goodman, the Dorsey's, Muggsy Spanier, George Brunis and others. "Dip Your Brush," "The Lonesome Road" and "Egyptian Ella" are but a few of my favs from this CD, the latter is not only hilarious but the HOT HOT jazz behind his vocals makes me jump up and dance. If you look at the lineup of musicians you can see why! Take a listen to some of the tracks on the music sample list on this page to get a taste of what I am talking about. This record label is famous for its outstanding audio restoration work, this CD is no exception. Even if you have never heard one of his recordings do not hesitate to buy this one as it contains many of his hits. You will be happy that you did. Also highly recommended is Ted Lewis Classic Jazz/Everybody's Happy. How did a man who was this amazingly talented become so unknown!
November 8, 2007Wonderful tunes from a great bandleader, taken from a golden era.
Easy to listen to, anytime.
June 14, 2007Ted Lewis has for a long time been one of my favorite entainers. He has a different style that is very good and entaining. In one word Superb.
February 14, 2007There's over 67 minutes of hot, old-time jazz in this exceptional album. I'm always wary of expecting much from reissues of old recordings, but these cuts are clear and clean while still retaining all the warmth and color you'd hope for. A great technical job!
The Ted Lewis band featured many of the greats of jazz: Teagarden, Goodman, Spanier, Dorsey. Yet, the sound is still Lewis throughout. The song selection here is not only the Best of Ted Lewis but also typical Ted Lewis, with several vocals by Lewis himself. The "jacket" contains full personnel and a short history of the band.
If you enjoy old Dixieland, this will be a great addition to your library. August 19, 2000
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