Jasmine Records Bob CHESTER & His Orch. - Chester's Choice CD Bob Chester & His Orch.

This compilation illustrates the different facets of a popular dance orchestra led by a personable, well-liked and competent musician who seems to have been happy with his lot The selection kicks off with the album’s title track, Chester’s Choice. This fast moving opus, with a hint of Hawaiian War Chant and written by arranger Ben Homer, is not typical of the Chester style but it makes a great opener. The instrumental that follows, Flinging A Wing Ding, has an easier pace and is more like the riff tunes favoured by the band.Several vocalists contribute to the proceedings, starting with Betty Bradley who sings sweetly on Yes, My Darling Daughter - there’s that link to Miller again as Glenn had some success with this catchy number. Betty has two other songs later in the disc, while Bill Darnell makes a single appearance with another Forties ‘Pop’, Dolores, in a nice arrangement. Dolores O’Neill also has four solo features and is at her best on the delicate and charming slow version of Deep River; although brief, her vocal is full of sincerity and emotion. Her further ballad work on Take Care is notable too, and she shows her versatility on the swinging Clap Your Hands On The After Beat. Trumpeter Al Stuart joins her to sing Pushin’ The Conversation Along, a typical boy/girl novelty ditty of the time.