Clarinet Marmalade x 2

[Swing Band Heaven]

Here are two different versions of Clarinet Marmalade. The first is by Fred Elizalde and issued on Brunswick 120 and the second by Fletcher Henerson issued in the UK on Columbia CB 367.

Clarinet Marmalade - Fred Elizalde and His Music

Clarinet Marmalade - Fletcher Henderson and His Orchestra

[operabass78s]

Great tune and both great recordings! (Though I'm not exactly unbiased, always had a soft spot for Fletcher Henderson). The Brunswick side seems to have an odd little pitch flutter that is most noticeable in the piano solo. Anyone else notice this?

[Swing Band Heaven]

Yes, with the Brunswick side the pressing is slightly off centre which is the reason for the flutter.

[operabass78s]

Interesting. You wouldn't think a slight offset would be that noticeable in the pitch.

[Henry]

The Henderson "Clarinet Marmalade" was recorded in NYC March 19, 1931, along with three other titles: "Sugar Foot Stomp," "Hot and Anxious," and "Comin' and Going." Soloists: Benny Morton, trombone; Coleman Hawkins, tenor and baritone sax; Rex Stewart, trumpet; Russell Procope, clarinet; Bill Challis, arranger, patterned after Frankie Trumbauer version with Bix Beiderbecke. Composer credits to Larry Shields and Henry Ragas, members (clarinet and piano, respectively) of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band. (Recording info from "Hendersonia: The Music of Fletcher Henderson and his Musicians," by Walter C. Allen [privately published: Highland Park, N.J., 1973, pp. 266-7.]) A terrific showpiece for some major talent in the Henderson band! Thanks for posting.