(Swing) The Dukes of Wail - No Turning Back - 1999, MP3, 320 kbps

The Cleveland-based Dukes of Wail consists of seasoned jazz musicians spanning several generations. Drummer Tom Edward has played in jazz ensembles and, since the 1950's, has backed up artists such as Johnny Desmond, Johnnie Ray, Don Cornell and Anita Bryant. Tenor saxophonists Dick Ingersoll and Chris Burge represent the younger end of the Duke's age range, touring in Europe and Asia playing avant-garde jazz. The Duke's powerful vocalist, Dennis DeSapri, is a veteran of 1960's rock and roll bands and Italian show bands. Guitarist Don Better is self taught in jazz and blues, but teaches classical guitar at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Bassist Marc Better has studied with bassists from the renowned Cleveland Orchestra, but credits jazz giants Ray Brown and Charles Mingus as influences.

"No Turning Back" is authentic jump blues in the tradition of Louis Jordan and Louis Prima fused with a jazz sensibility. The CD includes covers of classic jump blues and swing tunes as well as originals. It is a ride on a Rocket 88 out of the past into a streamlined rhythm and blues future.

Dick Ingersoll - tenor saxophone
Christoper Burge - tenor saxophone
Tom Edwards - drums
Dennis DeSapri - vocals
Marc Better - bass
Don Better - guitar
Joe Hunter - piano