Bug Music (1996)

About this title: Bug Music is a tribute to the music of the Raymond Scott Quintette, the John Kirby Sextet and Duke Ellington, headed by the remarkably versatile clarinetist Don Byron. Raymond Scott's legendary compositions feature eccentric song titles (including, on this set, "Siberian Sleighride," "Tobacco Auctioneer" and "War Dance for Wooden Indians"), complex and thoroughly composed arrangements (all of which were originally memorized rather than being written out) and unique melodies. Kirby's brand of swing, which is quite complementary to Scott's novelties, often utilized themes from classical music ... read more

Tracks:

1. The Dicty Glide [Ellington]
2. Frasquita Serenade [Lehar/Reichert/Wiln]
3. St. Louis Blues [Handy]
4. Wondering Where [Shavers]
5. Bounce of the Sugar Plum Fairy [Tchaikovsky]
6. Charley's Prelude [Singer]
7. Royal Garden Blues [Williams/Williams]
8. Siberian Sleighride [Scott]
9. The Penguin [Scott]
10. The Quintet Plays Carmen [Scott]
11. Powerhouse [Scott]
12. Tobacco Auctioneer [Scott]
13. War Dance for Wooden Indians [Scott]
14. Cotton Club Stomp [Ellington/Carney/Ho]
15. Blue Bubbles [Ellington/Miley]
16. Snibor [Strayhorn]

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