Buddy Rich Big Band Machine [LRC Ltd]

Personnel include: Bob Mintzer (tenor saxophone); Peter Yellin, Bill Blaut (alto saxophone); Lloyd Michels, Richard Hurwitz (trumpet); Barry Maur, Gerald Chamberlain (trombone); Greg Kogan (piano); Cornell Dupree, Wayne Wright (guitar); Ray Armando (congas).

Includes liner notes by Tom Surowicz.

Personnel: Buddy Rich (drums); Cliff Morris, Cornell Dupree, Jon Beck, Wayne Wright (guitar); Bob Martin (flute, saxophone); Pat La Barbera, Steve Marcus (soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Joe Ramano, Bill Blaut, Pete Yellin, Joe Romano (alto saxophone); Bob Crea, Bob Mintzer (tenor saxophone); Roger Rosenberg (baritone saxophone); Richard Hurwitz, Danny Hayes, Lloyd Michaels, John Hoffman , Larry Hall , Charles Camilleri, Ross Konikoff, Charlie Davis (trumpet); Barry Maur, Gerald Chamberlain, Anthony Salvatori, Alan Kaplan, Keith O'Quinn (trombone); John Leys (bass trombone); Greg Kogan, Buddy Budson (piano); Ray Armando (congas); Sam Woodyard (percussion).

Recorded in 1975, this is the original Groove Merchant recording of a jazz-funk orchestra loaded with heavyweight soloists. Indeed, it is as fine a modern band as Rich ever dished out. The disc is not as good as the Japanese P-Vine version, which has two bonus tracks and the original artwork. If this more in your budget range, get it, but be aware the import has the complete session. ~ Michael G. Nastos