Vaughan’s interpretation of the Cole Porter tune “Just One of Those Things” highlights the musical quality found on this disc. “On Green Dolphin Street” and the striking Gershwin number “But Not For Me” showcase Sarah’s range stylishly as well.
Herman’s Herd digs in deep for some instrumentals and Woody takes over on vocals for a few cuts to show his own voiced proficiency.
Taken as a whole, On the Radio: The 1963 Live Guard Sessions is a very fascinating recording. The skills of the performers are unparalleled, of course, but the chitchat and sense of the program often distracts from the talent of Herman and Vaughan. While including the intros and advertising for the National Guard does offer insight into the time period, I could have done without the recurrent bluster. All the same, collectors will agree that this rare coupling of Woody Herman and Sarah Vaughan is well worth a listen.
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