California Ramblers - Crazy Words, Crazy Tune (1927)

"Crazy Words - Crazy Tune" Words: Jack Yellen, Music: Milton Ager Performed by California Ramblers (Golden Gate Orchestra) Perfect 14771, January 27, 1927 (date shown on video is incorrect) Personnel: Chelsea Quealey, Roy Johnston, t / Abe Lincoln, tb / Bobby Davis, cl, ss, as / Sam Ruby, ts / Adrian Rollini, bsx / Jack Russin, p / Tommy Felline, bj / Herb Weil, d / Ed Kirkeby, v. The original bandmembers were from Ohio, but chose the name California Ramblers because they thought people would be less inclined to listen to a jazz band from the Midwest. The "Ramblers" came from the name of one of the venues where they had played, the "Ramblers Inn" in Pelham, New York. The band was instantly successful, and would remain well-known throughout the decade. Perhaps the most prolific recording group in the 1920s. Adrian Rollini (1904-1956) was a talented and versatile musician important in 20s and 30s jazz. Pioneer in the use of bass sax as solo instrument. Later switched mainly to vibes. He was a child prodigy on piano, took up other instruments. At 14 led band in New York. With California Ramblers 1924-27. In London 1928-29 with Fred Elizalde, with intervals back in US with Bert Lown 1930-31, then periods with Leo Reisman and Richard Himber. Freelance recording, mostly leading studio groups of top jazzmen such as Benny Goodman, Bunny Berigan, Pee Wee Russell, Joe Venuti, Manny Klein, Jack Teagarden, Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey. Excellent records 1933-34 of current pops and evergreens. In 1935 established club Adrian's Tap Room at New York's Hotel President. Popular spot featured Rollini's combo augmented by visiting jazzmen. Began concentrating on vibes. On Radio including 1936 work in band on Hit Parade. Late 1930s led trio in commercial vein. Spotlighted own versatility on many instruments. Much radio time late 1930s from Times Square spot. Continued into 1950s, mostly with trio. Settled in Florida, occasionally led groups. Last job at Miami hotel September 1955. Composed various jazz numbers featured by groups including "Vibrollini", "Gliding Ghost", "Preparation", "Au Revoir", etc.