Manhattan Masters

When Storyville first reissued the Manhattan label material on two LP’s, technology had not yet advanced to the point where it would be possible to present all eighteen titles on a single pressing and still retain the full spectrum of sound. Happily though, the entire output is now available in one complete chronologically sequenced package and with much better fidelity than ever was dreamed of in those pre-digital days. Muggsy Spanier was an ideal lead man in a small ensemble punching out his phrases on the beat and stating the melody line firmly. His solos were based on melodic variation and always coherent and virile, his mastery of the plunger mute being particular impressive. Above all he was an uncompromising musician, remaining true to his own concept of jazz to the end of his life.