Swingsation (CD) by Jimmie Lunceford

If you have never heard the great Lunceford band of the mid-'30s this is an excellent starting point. These recordings give you an accurate reference for not only their serious, high-quality musicianship but their showmanship and fun quotient, all in one. While their swing is unflappable, numbers like "He Ain't Got Rhythm," "Stomp It Off," "Rhythm Is Our Business," "Runnin' Wild" and especially "I'm Nuts About Screwy Music" set them apart from the pure listening and dance bands while setting a precedent for the jive music to follow. Lunceford is still far too underrated in the general scheme of things. This CD is a great portal to their music, especially for young people. Recommended. ~ Michael G. Nastos, All Music Guide