Fats Waller

Although this "complete" reissue of Fats Waller's Rhythm sides was never finished (it only made it to four volumes), each of the four two-fers that did get released are perfectly done. Volume III features many fine solos by trumpeter Herman Autrey and Gene Sedric on tenor and clarinet, has three examples of Fats Waller's exciting big band (which on "I Got Rhythm" finds Waller "battling" fellow pianist Henry Duncan) and contains quite a few memorable recordings including "Got a Bran' New Suit," "I've Got My Fingers Crossed" and "All My Life." Throughout even the weakest selection, Fats Waller's powerful stride piano and verbal interjections really drive the ensembles. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide