Buddy Rich Plays and Plays and Plays

by Scott Yanow Although not quite as exciting as his new orchestra of a decade before, the 1977 Buddy Rich big band still had plenty to say. The drummer features charts by Sammy Nestico ("Ya Gotta Try"), Bob Mintzer, Dick Lieb, Don Menza ("Time Out"), Phil Wilson, Lou Marini and Barry Kiener on this worthwhile LP (not yet reissued on CD). With both Bob Mintzer and Steve Marcus heard on tenors and the other soloists including guitarist Steve Khan (on "Kong") and several of the brass players, this is an excellent big-band set that has become a bit obscure.