Lunceford had one of the most renowned and influential bands of the Swing era - so it's a shame that there is so of them on film. This is one of the only two film appearances I know about - the other being on Blues in the Night - but (with the possible exception of the cheesy hellfire visuals at the very start) - it's an absolute treat to watch.
It's only to be found as an extra on a small number of DVDs, in variable (and slightly shaky) quality - so I've used the best source I could find, cleaned up and stabilised the picture, and upscaled to HD to make it clearer and more enjoyable. My last attempt was a little overdone - this one feels more natural and smoother.
Numbers:
• Jazznocracy (opening credits)
• It's Rhythm Coming To Life Again
• Rhythm Is Our Business (vocals by Willie Smith)
• You Can't Pull The Wool Over My Eyes (vocals by Myra Johnson)
• Moonlight On The Ganges
• Nagasaki (vocals by Dan Grissom)
The Band
• Jimmie Lunceford - director
• Eddie Tompkins - trumpet, vocals
• Paul Webster - trumpet
• Sy Oliver - trumpet, arranger
• Elmer Crumbley - trombone
• Russell Bowles - trombone
• Eddie Durham - trombone, guitar, arranger
• Willie Smith - alto sax, clarinet, baritone sax, vocals, arranger
• Dan Grissom - alto sax, clarinet, vocals
• Joe Thomas - tenor sax, clarinet
• Earl Carruthers - baritone sax, clarinet, alto sax
• Laforet Dent - alto sax
• Edwin Wilcox - piano, celeste, arranger
• Al Norris - guitar, violin
• Moses Allen - string bass
• Jimmy Crawford - drums
• Myra Johnson - vocal
