Expert: Jim Tompkins-MacLaine - 10/17/2007

Question
Thank you for your time.

I’m looking to buy a CD of a very specific music type, but not sure what artist / band to look for.  The best way I can describe the type of music I’m looking for is by saying the style is like the intro. music from the cartoon “The Jetsons’”…Or maybe “The Flintstones” (minus the words…Just the music).  

I’ve done some samplings under 50’s or 60’s jazz, but most of what I heard seemed too R&B or “smoky”…I’m looking for that kind of fun, upbeat kitschy jazz sound that would remind someone of a camera panning a 50’s or 60’s nightclub…Just before the Rat Pack come stumbling in or something.

Any leads would be much appreciated.   

Respectfully;

Sean C.  

Answer
This is probably the "funnest" question I've had in years. I love that style too, and what it is is late 50s big band. It's hard to find because the late 50s kind of abandoned the big band and went towards the combo. . .

The Count Basie Orchestra was doing some of that. There is an arranger, Sammy Nestico, who did some of that. Look for an instrumental recording of "Cottontail" or "Cloudburst." And don't discount vocal music. Look up Lambert, Hendricks and Ross.

Write back if you need more. . .