Can anyone forget that mid-1940s photograph of the entire Gene Krupa Orchestra decked out in bebop berets, dark shades and large floppy bowties? From the outset of his career the devilishly handsome Gene Krupa was acutely aware of the value of image and showmanship. It was this, when coupled to his prowess as a master drummer, which had earned him a loyal following. Drastic times demand drastic measures and when economics forced him to scale back his big band to just a three-piece combo he was determined not to downsize his performance. What transpired is that Gene Krupa became akin to a jazz inspired musical vaudeville act with the much-overrated multi-instrumentalist Eddie Shu being as much the centre of attention as Krupa himself. Never mind sucking and blowing an arsenal of horns, apparently, (if pushed) Shu wasn't averse to demonstrating his ability as a ventriloquist! Stick a broom up where the sun doesn't shine and he'd probably also sweep the bandstand! Nevertheless, this threesome became a regular feature on JATP tours and a big draw on the nightclub circuit. Perhaps better to watch in person than listen to on record but one cannot ignore the fact that Krupa shifted stacks of shellacs and as this is Avid's second he still retains much interest.