The music heard on this CD compilation has been released on various earlier LPs and CDs, though the restored sound on this Oktav edition is an improvement over most of them. The seven tracks come from a 1950 radio broadcast that originated at Amiralen in Mamo, Sweden. Charlie Parker is a special guest on the first four songs, backed by trumpeter Rolf Ericson (who later joined Duke Ellington), pianist Gosta Theselius, bassist Thore Jederby, and drummer Jack Noren. Parker seems to have overcome the demons caused by his drug addiction on this evening, playing with enthusiasm amidst being in a foreign land with an unfamiliar band. He is at his best on Anthropology and Cheers (both derived from I Got Rhythm's changes), while he makes a late entrance in his own Cool Blues, generously featuring Ericson then coming in only to trade fours with him then carry the tune out. The last three selections feature Swedish alto saxophonist Arne Dommérus in Parker's place, a performance from the same evening and venue, plus the identical musicians to accompany him. These songs are a bit livelier due to the familiarity of all of the musicians, though Dommérus is clearly influenced by Parker (as were nearly all up and coming alto saxophonists in the early '50s). The highlight is the extended workout of All the Things You Are (which refreshing omits the famous introductory vamp popularized by Dizzy Gillespie). The drums and piano aren't nearly as well recorded on the master source as the other instruments, though the sound is excellent for a radio broadcast of this vintage. ~ Ken Dryden, Rovi

1		Anthropology
2		Cheers
3		Lover Man
4		Cool Blues
5		Fine and Dandy
6		Out of Nowhere
7		All the Things You Are

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