One of the many Benny Carter recordings cut after he returned to jazz on a full-time basis in the mid-'70s, this double-LP set is the jewel among the seemingly countless number of gems. Eight of Carter's compositions are performed by the all-star American Jazz Orchestra ("Doozy" gets two versions) along with his old theme song "Sleep" and his recently written six-part "Central City Sketches." Virtually every player in this big band was a potential star soloist; among the more notable musicians are trombonist Jimmy Knepper, tenors Lew Tabackin and Loren Schoenberg and either John Lewis or Dick Katz on piano. But, as is often the case, Benny Carter frequently steals solo honors and his brief trumpet spot on "Central City Blues" is memorable. --Scott Yanow, All Music Guide

TRACK LISTING

1 Doozy (Second Version) 05:23

2 When Lights Are Low 05:02

3 A Kiss From You 02:56

4 Sleep 03:28

5 Central City Sketches: Central City Blues 03:09

6 Central City Sketches: Hello 04:16

7 Central City Sketches: People 04:24

8 Central City Sketches: Promenade 03:22

9 Central City Sketches: Remember 03:37

10 Central City Sketches: Sky Dance 03:27

11 Lonesome Nights 05:10

12 Doozy (First Version) 04:41

13 Easy Money 07:00

14 Symphony in Riffs 04:39

15 Souvenir 04:09

16 Blues in My Heart 07:01