It is always great to hear Buddy kicking a big band. Unfortunately, this is a very raw recording which is probably why it's called "Very Live...". Audio quality is not good, balance is poor, etc. You do however get to hear a master drummer with a mostly younger, less experienced band. I think it explains some of his "anger issues."

Of interest to tenor players is Mr. Sal Nistico who also played with Woody Herman and Count Basie. No slouch, he. Sal was a true monster of the instrument he loved, and it shows on these cuts. I was lucky enough to dig this group in-person, including the fun of interviewing (for TV) Buddy when his place opened. The other musicians are superb, too, for Buddy wouldn't allow mediocrity onto his bandstand.

Nobody will ever play like Buddy Rich, nobody~