Steppin' in Society - The Knickerbockers (Ben Selvin), 1925

One of my first records, which I was lucky to find in such a good condition. It is also an excellent example of the early electric Columbia records, with an astonishing fidelity! Although they weren't formed as a band yet, most of the Six Jumping Jacks are present in this record. Oliver, Lewis, Abbott, Reser, and Johnston. In the band's original formation, only Bill Wirges, and Tom Stacks would be missing! Maybe it's because Reser was present in this session, but there's lots of aspects in this record that just scream Six Jumping Jacks, or any of Reser's bands. I wouldn't discard the idea that Reser arranged this session. Personnel: Ben Selvin, violin, leader Earl Oliver, cornet Tommy Gott, cornet Sammy Lewis, trombone Larry Abbott, clarinet, alto sax, soprano sax Unknown, clarinet, alto sax, baritone sax, soprano sax Lucien Smith, tenor sax, soprano sax, clarinet Lew Cobey, piano Harry Reser, banjo Jimmy Johnston, bass sax Milton Sands, drums Recorded May 26th, 1925, NY. Issued as Columbia 391-D