Bill Elliott - Swingin' the Century
Written: Oct 13 '99
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Product Rating:
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Pros: classic songs and great originals for big band swing
Cons: none
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| anitar's Full Review: Browse Titles/Other |
The most recent CD from the Bill Elliot Swing Orchestra (aka BESO) is a grand one to round out the century with.
- the opening title tune, "Swingin' the Century", is secretly a tribute to my favorite Century Ballroom in Seattle, or so I hear. It's medium to fast tempo and drives right along. Bob Reitmeir does the clarinet solos.
- The second number might be one of the most unusual -- it's the Shim Sham song! An original by Bill, it may take the place of "Tuxedo Junction" which this swing line dance is commonly done to these days. The words and rhythm will help you remember where you are in the dance.
- "Camp Hollywood Special" is appropriately fast, dedicated to the Hollywood-style lindy dancers who like their music smokin'!
- Bill's Lucky Stars, the vocal group, does a smooth, cool job on "When We Dance"
- Classic numbers are Arlen and Mercer's Blues in the Night (vocal by Cassie Miller), and Come Rain or Come Shine; Somebody Loves Me and Oh Lady Be Good, by Gershwin, and Jeep Jockey Jump by J. Gray (new to me!). All others are Bill Elliot Originals.
- As a change from swing (what!?) try Boogie Woogie Rhumba.
I think my favorite number, for great melody, danceable rhythm, and clever, funny lyrics, is "Let's Get Married."
"We're just too harried --
We need time to focus on us
So let's get married,
and put an end to all of this fuss!"
The CD liner has beats-per-minute listings, so DJs and dance teachers can plan their sets.
lots more info at http://swingorchestra.com/, their new URL.
So I definitely think you should complete your Bill Elliott Triple Play (for now) and get this CD.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
anitar
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Member: Anita Rowland
Location: Seattle, WA
Reviews written: 34
Trusted by: 18 members
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