The Big Band Almanac

This is a terrific book to have sitting among all the Cd's, LP's and 78's of the wonderful era of the big dance bands that one may be lucky enough to possess.Covering the period of the first half - and a bit beyond - of the 20th century, there is very little left wanting here. The book reveals succinct, and often obscure detail of the vast majority of the bands that were operating during those years. The sidemen, singers, the leaders of course, are mentioned in considerable and extensive detail. In fact it's possible to trace the careers of many famous names, some of whom enjoyed long and distinguished musical careers, by following what outfits they worked with throughout their careers. There is a very comprehensive index and, literally, hundreds of photographs, many of which are quite rare. This american book, written by Leo Walker, himself a career bandsman, cannot be praised too highly. What great enjoyment those talented, famous, and sad to say, mostly now gone, musicians continue to give us. This book should be on the bookshelf of anyone with more than a passing interest in their music.

I bought this as a present for my father who has a huge interest in the big bands and a weath of music cd's. He has found it an invaluable and immensely interesting source of information and reference. It's well written, clearly presented and an excellent book for dipping in and out of. A highly recommended book.

This book is a must for any big band nut but I was a little disappointed that some of the great British bands were not included.

This is a wonderful book, full of detail concerning the big bands. Can't put it down!

Informative, but lacking in the human touch.

A must for anyone interested in Big Bands

Excellent