Henry “Red” Allen – Mr Allen

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Mr. Allen is the title of a notable jazz album he recorded on June 5, 1962.

Album Details: Mr. Allen

  • Recording Date: June 5, 1962.
  • Personnel: The session featured Allen on trumpet and vocals, supported by Lannie Scott (piano), Frank Skeete (bass), and Jerry Potter (drums).
  • Original Release: Originally released in 1963 on the Swingville label (SVLP 2034).
  • Alternative Titles: The album was later re-released and re-titled as The Henry “Red” Allen Memorial Album (Prestige PRST 7755) following his death in 1967.
  • Musical Style: The record highlights Allen’s “big sound” and infectious bravado, bridging the gap between traditional New Orleans jazz and the innovations of the swing era.

Background on Henry “Red” Allen

  • Origins: Born in Algiers, New Orleans, he was the son of brass band leader Henry Allen Sr..
  • Career: He was the first trumpeter to fully incorporate the rhythmic innovations of Louis Armstrong while maintaining a highly individual, often modernistic approach.
  • Legacy: Known for his eccentric vocal delivery and experimental trumpet techniques, he remained a popular performer until his death from pancreatic cancer in 1967

Track listing:

00:00 A1 There’s A House In Harlem
03:47 A2 St. Louis Blues
08:02 A3 I Ain’t Got Nobody
11:11 A4 Nice Work If You Can Get It

14:27 B1 Just In Time
17:43 B2 Biffly Blues
22:37 B3 Cherry
25:41 B4 Sleepy Time Gal

Personnel:

Franklin Skeete – bass
Jerry Potter – drums
Lannie Scott – piano
Henry “Red” Allen – trumpet

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Recorded: August 30, 1962

Rudy van Gelders studio, New Jersey

Label: Prestige Swingville SVST2034