Shorty Rogers - Moton Swing 1951-1956 (LP)

"Moten Swing 1951-1956" by Shorty Rogers is a captivating journey through the golden era of cool jazz and big band sounds. This album, released on Down Home in 2020, compiles tracks from the mid-1950s, showcasing Rogers' mastery of the flugelhorn and his knack for arrangement. The collection features a stellar lineup of jazz greats, including Harry Edison on trumpet and Bud Shank on alto saxophone, among others. With a blend of genres like cool jazz, big band, hard bop, and even a touch of exotica, the album offers a rich and diverse listening experience. From the swinging title track "Moten Swing" to the tender ballad "Over the Rainbow," and the playful "Twelfth Street Rag," this album is a testament to Shorty Rogers' innovative spirit and his significant contributions to West Coast jazz. Spanning over an hour and sixteen minutes, "Moten Swing 1951-1956" is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast looking to dive into the vibrant sounds of the 1950s.