The first time ever on CD, this session from 1969 is a forgotten gem and finds Humph on scintillating form revisiting numbers he'd recorded with his earlier band.
It features him with his old friend Wally Fawkes, who'd been on his popular 1954 Humph At The Conway LP. We can enjoy them duetting together when Humph picks up his clarinet instead of playing trumpet.
Lyttelton's former trombonist Keith Christie is also featured to great effect on what was clearly a joyous reunion. Humph had by then led a band for 21 years. To celebrate the occasion he assembled this special line-up, also including younger musicians. The dynamic chemistry he achieved can be felt by the audience's enthusiastic reaction.
Lyttelton's Armstrong-inspired trumpet has never been heard on better form. The purpose of the concert, part of a series to prove `Jazz Is Alive and Well', is demonstrated perfectly here and certainly follows Humph's declared motto I Play As I Please !
