The Jazz Orchestra of the Delta is a 17-member big band lead by Jack Cooper and, on this
present recording, featuring trumpeter Marvin Stamm and vocalist Sandra Dudley. The
Memphis-based group and special guests direct their attention here to the music composed and
inspired by
Cole Porter. Dr. Cooper spent the better part of the last decade scoring these chestnuts, and his
careful consideration is apparent in the effortless swing that the band brings to these pieces.
"Love for Sale" and "Night and Day" get a star treatment from Sandra
Dudley and Marvin Stamm. Both war horses sound fresh and sprite. "So in Love" is
transformed by Dudley into a plush and sensuous ballad of yearning. "Twelve" and
"Two in Love" are Cole contrafacts composed by Peter Erskine and Dr. Cooper,
respectively, that allow the orchestra to take center stage and show how well a Cole Porter idea can
swing. Tap your foot to this one.
For more information, please see
Summit Records.
~ C. Michael Bailey
