Johnny Dankworth discography...
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Johnny Dankworth discography...
Born in 1927, Johnny Dankworth was a regular at Club Eleven, the birthplace of British modern jazz, on its formation in 1948. A talented alto sax and clarinet player he became a very successful band leader, composer and arranger.
He made his first record in 1944, playing clarinet, with Freddie Mirfield and his Garbage Men and in 1948 took part in the historic 'Bop at Club Eleven' recordings for Esquire. He played in the Tito Burns sextet with Ronnie Scott and did some arranging for Ted Heath, before forming the Johnny Dankworth Seven in 1950 when Club Eleven closed. This proved to be a very popular and highly regarded band that survived until 1953 when Dankworth broke it up to form his own big band.

He was an inventive alto sax player whose relaxed, fluid and elegant style, at first very reminiscent of Charlie Parker later changed towards the style of Lee Konitz. His early arranging for the Seven was neat and fairly complex and produced first class performances from a very fine set of sidemen.

The Johnny Dankworth Seven and Orchestra...
Johnny Dankworth formed the Seven in 1950. It came about as a result of of trumpeter Leon Calvert and trombonist Eddie Harvey sitting in with the Johnny Dankworth Quartet at Club Eleven. This made Dankworth realise the possibilities of a four horn group playing music along the lines of the Miles Davis band.
The original personnel was Dankworth (alto), Jimmy Deuchar (tpt), Don Rendell (tenor), Eddie Harvey (tmb), Bill Le Sage (pno), Joe Muddel (bs), Tony Kinsey (d). Muddel was soon replaced by Eric Dawson and in 1952 Eddie Blair replaced Jimmy Deuchar and Eddie Taylor replaced Tony Kinsey. The group was successful and lasted until 1953 when it was disbanded on the formation of Johnny Dankworth's big band. The band played neat, at types complex, musical arrangements and featured solos from all the musicians. Unfortunately not a lot of Seven music is currently available on CD.

Don Rendell on The Johnny Dankworth Seven...
Johnny Dankworth c1957 The Orchestra lasted from 1953 to 1964. It started out as a conventional big band but by 1956 Dankworth had modified the lineup to the extent that he had ten brass and only three reeds with a conventional rhythm section. The standard five man reed section was replaced by alto, tenor and baritone saxes plus trumpet and trombone. This played alongside a four man trumpet and trombone sections. This gave the band a distinctive brassy sound although clever writing and arranging could minimise the absence of the standard reed lineup. To survive the band played a lot of dance band music albeit jazz influenced.
Johnny Dankworth c1958 The band could produce an excellent 'jazz' sound and besides Dankworth himself had some good jazz soloists including, Dickie Hawdon, Danny Moss, Art Ellefson, and later the multi-talented Alan Branscombe. Dankworth's musical talents were bigger than jazz alone and over time the jazz element of the band's music became diluted as he sought a more structured environment for his music.
British jazz history is likely to remember him for Club Eleven, his Johnny Dankworth Seven and his early big band rather than his later jazz tinged orchestral works.
He was knighted for services to music in 2006 having received the CBE in 1974.
Johnny Dankworth died, after a period of illness, on February 6th, 2010.

Thanks are due to John Gaylor for his advice and detailed help in preparing this discography page.
Johnny Dankworth's own label
Sepia CDs are available only from Dankworth's own marketing website.

CD titles in green are deleted and will have to be obtained second hand...

Freddie Mirfield and his Garbage Men - September 13th, 1944 (Decca)
Freddy Randall (tp), Dennis Crocker (tb), Johnny Dankworth (clt), Sam Dowell (ts), Sam Bayes (p), Bobby Coram (g), S. Peacey (b), Sam Mirfield (d).
Good Old Wagon Blues^/Miss Annabelle Lee/At The Jazz Band Ball (unissued)/On The Sunny Side Of the Street (unissued)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

Carlo Krahmer Chicagoans - December 14th, 1946 (Esquire)
Johnny Dankworth (clt), Dick Katz (p), Carlo Krahmer (vib), Alan Hodgkins (g), Coleridge Goode (b).
Coquette. (Unissued until 1977 - Carlo Krahmer memorial album ESQ306)

Victor Feldman Quartet - February 17th, 1948 (Esquire)
Johnny Dankworth (clt), Eddie Thompson (p), Bert Howard (b), Victor Feldman (d).
Mop Mop^*#/Ladybird*#/Quaternity*/Moonlight in Vermont*/Gone With The Wind*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(#Hallmark CD - Basement Bop - British jazz in the 1950s)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(^Proper Records 4CD Box set - Jazz in Britain 1919 - 1950)

Jazz At The Town Hall Ensemble - March 30th, 1948 (Esquire)
collective personnel:Ronnie Scott (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Reg Arnold (tp), Dennis Rose (p,tp), Jimmy Skidmore (ts), Bernie Fenton (p), Joe Muddel (b), Jack Fallon (b), Carlo Krahmer (d), Cab Kaye (vcl).
Buzzy*^/How High The Moon*^/If You'se A Viper (vcl CK)/Thats My Desire (vcl CK).(other titles made at this session were never issued.)
(^Indigo CD - Boppin' At Esquire)
(*Giant Steps Records CD - Great Scott)
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(*Proper Records 4CD Box set - Ronnie Scott "Boppin' With Scott")


Johnny Dankworth Quartet (Live, Club XI concert) - April 9th, 1949 (Esquire) (JJ3)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Norman Stenfalt/Tommy Pollard (on Night In Tunisia only) (p), Joe Muddel (b), Laurie Morgan (d).
Bremavin*/Lover Man*=/Second Eleven*#+/Body and Soul*#/Night in Tunisia*.
(#Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(+Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(=Giant Steps 2CD set - Soho After Dark 'London's '50s Modern Jazz Scene')
(=Proper Records 4CD Box set - Jazz in Britain 1919 - 1950)

Alan Dean's Beboppers - April 29th, 1949 (Decca)
Ronnie Scott (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Reg Arnold (tp), Bernie Fenton (p), Pete Chilver (g), Joe Muddel (b), Laurie Morgan (d), Alan Dean (vocal).
Gone With The Windmill (take 1)*#/Gone With The Windmill (take 2)*/Barbados*/Elevenses*/Ool-Ya-Koo*.
(*Jasmine CD - Bop-in' Britain Vol 1)
(#Proper Records 4CD Box set - Jazz in Britain 1919 - 1950)

Steve Race Bop Group - August 31st, 1949 (Paxton)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Leon Calvert (tp), Steve Race (p), Pete Chilver (g), Jack Fallon (b), Norman Burns (d).
Vertigo*/Marzipan*/Bugle Call Bop*/Microcosmo*.
(*Jasmine CD - Bop-in' Britain Vol 1)

Alan Dean's Beboppers - September 17th, 1949 (Esquire)
Ronnie Scott (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Hank Shaw (tp), Tommy Pollard (p), Pete Chilver (g), Joe Muddel (b), Laurie Morgan (d), Alan Dean (vocal).
Gone With The Windmill*^/Barbados*^/Elevenses*/Ool Ya Koo*^/Galaxy*#.
(#Giant Steps Records CD - Great Scott)
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(^Indigo CD - Boppin' At Esquire)
(*Proper Records 4CD Box set - Ronnie Scott "Boppin' With Scott")

Joe Daniels and his Hotshots - October, 1949 (Parlophone)
Johnny Dankworth (clt), Kenny Baker (tp), Jock Bain (tb), Pat Dodd (p), ? (b), Joe Daniels (d).
Sugarfoot Stomp/Drummin Dan'.

Johnny Dankworth Seven - May 18th, 1950 (Jazz Parade)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Don Rendell (ts), Jimmy Deuchar (tp), Eddie Harvey (tb), Bill Le Sage (p), Joe Muddel (b), Tony Kinsey (d).
Lightly Politely*^/Strike Up The Band*/Marmaduke*/Little Benny*.
(*Jasmine CD - Bop-in' Britain Vol 1)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

July 29th, 1950 (Esquire)
personnel as May 18th except that Eric Dawson replaced Joe Muddel, add Marion Williams (vcl).
Sam's Song (MW vcl)/Haunted Ballroom Theme (JD plays cl)/Seven Not Out*/Cherokee*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)

October 14th, 1950 (Esquire)
personnel as July 29th except Frank Holder replaces Marion Williams.
Perhaps/*Get Happy*/Lament And Wild Dance/Don't Blame Me (FH vcl)^.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

The 1951 Melody Maker All-Stars - February 3rd, 1951 (Esquire 10-115)
Kenny Baker (tp), Gordon Langhorn (tb), Ronnie Chamberlain, Henry McKenzie (cl), Ronnie Scott (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Dave Shand (bs), Victor Feldman (vib), Ralph Sharon (p), Ivor Mairants (g), Charlie Short (b), Jack Parnell (d).
Brand's Essence*/Marshall's Plan*.
(*Giant Steps Records CD - Great Scott)
(*Proper Records 4CD Box set - Ronnie Scott "Boppin' With Scott")
(*Acrobat CD - Ronnie Scott Not So Fast - The Complete Esquire Recordings 1951)

Johnny Dankworth Seven - April 27th, 1951 (Esquire)
personnel as July 29th, 1950.
Marching Through Georgia/Blue Moon (vocal Alan Dean)/So In Love/Stardust.

July 12th, 1951 (Esquire)
personnel as July 29th, 1950.
I Hear Music*^/Leon Bismark*^/The Slider*^#/Webb City*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(#Giant Steps 2CD set - Soho After Dark 'London's '50s Modern Jazz Scene')
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

November 8th, 1951 (Esquire)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Don Rendell (ts), Eddie Blair (tp), Eddie Harvey (tb), Bill Le Sage (p), Eric Dawson (b), Eddie Taylor (d), Cleo Laine (vcl).
Mr And Mississippi (vcl CL)^/Lush Life (vcl CL)^/Strictly Confidential*^/Allen's Alley*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

December 17th, 1951 (Esquire)
personnel as above.
It's No Sin (vcl CL)/Wedding Of The Painted Doll/Stomping At The Savoy*/Myob*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)

March 4th, 1952 (Esquire)
personnel as November 8th 1951, add Frank Holder (vcl) and Cleo Laine (vcl).
I've Got You Under My Skin (vcl FH)/The Very Thought Of You (vcl CL)^/Bopscotch*/Our Delight*.
(*Charly/Esquire 4 CD box set - bebop IN BRITAIN - issued in 1991 currently only available second hand...)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

The 1952 Melody Maker All-Stars - March 24th, 1952 (Esquire 20-001)
Jimmy Deuchar (tp), Keith Christie (tb), Vic Ash (cl), Ronnie Scott (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Victor Feldman (vib), Ralph Sharon (p), Ivor Mairants (g), Joe Muddel (b), Jack Parnell (d).
Leap Year (2 takes one take on*)/Up The Poll (2 takes one take on^)/M.M.Special (Part 1)/M.M.Special (Part 2).
(*Giant Steps Records CD - Great Scott)
(*Proper Records 4CD Box set - Ronnie Scott "Boppin' With Scott")
(^Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Seven - February 10th, 1953 (Parlophone)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Don Rendell (ts), Eddie Blair (tp), Eddie Harvey (tb), Bill Le Sage (p), Eric Dawson (b), Tony Kinsey (d), Frank Holder (bgo-1), Cleo Laine (voc-2).
Two Ticks*/Moon Flowers(1)*/Honeysuckle Rose(2)*#/Swingin'*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


Johnny Dankworth Seven - May 6th, 1953 (Parlophone)
Personnel as February 10th, + Frank Holder (vcl), Cleo Laine (vcl).
Easy Living(vcl CL)*^#/Oo-De Boop*/I Get A Kick Out Of You(vcl FH)*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


This was the first recording date for Johnny Dankworth's big band
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - November 12th, 1953 (Parlophone)
Derek Abbott, Eddie Blair, Bill Metcalf, George Boocock (tp), Maurice Pratt, Keith Christie, Eddie Harvey, Gib Wallace (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Lew Smith, Maurice Owen (as), Rex Morris, Freddy Courteney (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Bill Le Sage (p), Eric Dawson (b), Allan Ganley (d).
S'Wonderful*#/Younger Every Day*^.
(#Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


December 23rd, 1953 (Parlophone)
Personnel as November 12th.
The Slider*/Talk Of The Town*#.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


January 21st, 1954 (Parlophone)
Personnel as November 12th except Geoff Cole (as) replaces Lew Smith.
My Buddy*/Runnin' Wild*#/The Jerky Thing.
(*Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


The 1954 Melody Maker All-Stars - March 7th, 1954 (Esquire 20-031* )
Kenny Baker (tp), Don Lusher (tb), Vic Ash (cl), Johnny Dankworth (as), Ronnie Chamberlain, (ts,sops), Ronnie Scott (ts), Harry Klein (bs), Vic Feldman (vib), Bill McGuffie (p), Tito Burns (acc), Ivor Mairants (g), Johnny Hawksworth (b), Eric Delaney (d).
For Voters Only# (2 takes, one take on*)/Gallop Poll (2 takes, one take on*)/Swingdido*.
(#Hallmark CD - Basement Bop - British jazz in the 1950s)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - April 14th, 1954 (Parlophone)
Derek Abbott, Eddie Blair, Bill Metcalf, George Boocock (tp), Maurice Pratt, Keith Christie, Eddie Harvey, Bill Geldard (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Geoff Cole, Maurice Owen (as), Rex Morris, Freddy Courteney (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Bill Le Sage (p), Eric Dawson (b), Allan Ganley (d), Cleo Laine (vcl on all titles).
Ain't Misbehavin'*#/I Got Rhythm*#/I Know You're Mine*#/I Got It Bad And That Ain't Good*#.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


Aces Anonymous or Mike Nevard's Melody Maker All Stars - May 13th, 1954 (The Cool Europeans - MGME3157)
Don Rendell (ts), Johnny Dankworth (as), Albert Hall (tp), Ralph Dollimore (p), Johnny Hawksworth (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Deep Purple*/Rhumblues/I'll Remember April/Amalgam/Two Sleepy People.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Aces Annonymous or Mike Nevard's Melody Maker All Stars - May 15th, 1954 (New sounds from Olde England - Blue Note BLP5052
John Dankworth (as), Don Rendell (ts), Harry Klein (bs), Albert Hall (tp), Ralph Dollimore (p), Johnny Hawksworth (b), Tony Kinsey (d).
Quick Returns*/Crystal/I'm Putting All My Eggs In One Basket(1)/Jazz Club USA/Nom De Plume/Epigram.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - June 1st, 1954 (Parlophone)
Derek Abbott, Bill Metcalf, Eddie Blair, George Boocock (tp), Maurice Pratt, Keith Christie, Eddie Harvey, Bill Geldard (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Geoff Cole, Maurice Owen (as), Tommy Whittle, Rex Morris (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Derek Smith (p), Jack Seymour (b), Allan Ganley (d), Frank Holder, Tony Mansell, Cleo Laine (vcl).
Bugle Call Rag*^/Four Of A Kind*#/Perdido*^#/You Go To My Head*#.
(^Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


August 9th, 1954 (Parlophone)
Personnel as June 1st.
Hold My Hand (vcl TM)/The High And Mighty (vcl TM).

October 6th, 1954 (Parlophone)
Personnel as June 1st.
Mambo In Moonlight (vcl FH)/Stop! Proceed With Caution .

November 3rd, 1954 (Parlophone)
Personnel as June 1st.
Cole Storage*/Get Happy*#.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - January 6th/7th, 1955 (Capitol)
Derek Abbott, Bill Metcalf, Douggie Roberts, Jimmy Venn (tp), Maurice Pratt, Keith Christie, Bill Geldard, Danny Elwood (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Maurice Owen, Dougie Robinson (as), Rex Morris, Don Pashley (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Derek Smith (p), Bill Sutcliffe (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Singin' In The Rain*/Waterloo Walk/Non-stop London*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)

Johnny Dankworth revived the 'Seven' for a live broadcast by the BBC
Johnny Dankworth Seven - January 31st, 1955 (BBC)
Johnny Dankworth (as), Don Rendell (ts), Eddie Blair (tp), Maurice Pratt (tb), Bill Le Sage (p), Joe Muddel (b), Tony Kinsey (d), Frank Holder (voc-1), Cleo Laine (voc-2).
Easy Living*(2)/Scrapple From The Apple*/Too Marvelous For Words*(1)/Lover Man*/Deed I Do*(2)/Body And Soul*(1)/Marmaduke*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)

Cleo Laine with Keith Christie Quintet - March 3rd, 1955 (Esquire)
Cleo Laine(vcl), Keith Christie (tb), Johnny Dankworth ("Dee") (cl,as), Bill Le Sage (vib,p), Bill Sutcliffe (b), Allan Ganley (d).
It Was A Lover And His Lass*#^/Spread A Little Happiness*/You're Blase*/I'm On A See-saw*/You've Done Something To My Heart*^/Mad About The Boy*/It's A Pity To Say Goodnight*#/A Love Like Ours*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#Hallmark CD - Basement Bop - British jazz in the 1950s)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

The Melody Maker All-Stars - March 7th, 1955 (Esquire EP56* others 10-436 )
Kenny Baker (tp), Keith Christie (tb), Vic Ash (cl), Johnny Dankworth (as), Ronnie Chamberlain, (ts,sops), Tommy Whittle (ts), Harry Klein (as,bs), Vic Feldman (vib), Bill McGuffie (p), Tito Burns (acc), Bert Weedon (g), Joe Muddel (b), Eric Delaney (d). (Add Joe Harriott (as) on Waxing The Winners)
Gershwin Ballad Medley: (Summertime*/Someone To Watch Over Me*/Love Walked In*/Embraceable You*)/Waxing The Winners (Part 1)/Waxing The Winners (Part 2).
(*Hallmark CD - Basement Bop - British jazz in the 1950s)

Keith Christie Quartet - July 26, 1955 (Esquire 20-047) (JMC27)
Keith Christie (tb), Johnny Dankworth ("Dee") (as), Bill Sutcliffe (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Sultry Serenade/Baby Please Stop/Cottontail#/Never No Lament/Mainstem*/I Got It Bad*/Drop Me Off at Harlem/It Don't Mean a Thing.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(#Giant Steps 2CD set - Soho After Dark 'London's '50s Modern Jazz Scene')

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - November 2nd, 1955 (Parlophone)
Derek Abbott, Bill Metcalf, Charlie Evans, Tommy McQuater (tp), Garry Brown, Laurie Monk, Bill Geldard, Danny Elwood (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Rex Rutley (as), Pete Warner, John Xerri (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Dave Lee (p), Bill Sutcliffe (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Feather Merchant*/Indiana*^.
(^Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)


December 15th, 1955 (Parlophone)
Personnel as November 2nd except Frank Donlan (tp), and Ronnie Fenwick (as), replaceTommy McQuater and Rex Rutley.
Crazy Rhythm (unissued)/Moby Dick*.
(*Avid 2 CD set - Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine - Spread a Little Happiness)

January 20th, 1956 (Journey into jazz - Parlophone PMD1042*)
Personnel as December 15th.
Memories Of You^/Itinerary For An Orchestra*.
(^Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(^EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

March 7th, 1956 (Journey into jazz - Parlophone PMD1042)
Personnel as December 15th except Dougie Roberts (tp) replaces Frank Donlan.
Jersey Bounce*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

This was the first recording date for Dankworth's new big band lineup of 5 trumpets, 5 trombones and only 3 saxophones, + rhythm.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - May 10th, 1956 (Parlophone)
Derek Abbott, Bill Metcalf, Stan Palmer, Colin Wright, Dougie Roberts (tp), Garry Brown, Harry Buckles, Laurie Monk, Bill Geldard, Danny Elwood (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as,cl), Pete Warner (ts), Alex Leslie (bs), Dave Lee (p), Bill Sutcliffe (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Experiments With Mice^*/Applecake*.
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

August 9th, 1956 (Journey into Jazz - Parlophone PMD1042^)
Personnel as May 10th, except Eric Dawson (b) replaces Bill Sutcliffe.
Blues In The Night/Adios*^/Take The 'A' Train^.
(*Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(^Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(^Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

December 19th, 1956 (Parlophone)
Personnel as August 9th, except Tony Russell (tb), Bill Harrington (ts), replace Harry Buckles and Pete Warner.
All Clare*/Melbourne Marathon*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

February 1st, 1957 (Parlophone)
Personnel as December 19th.
Duke's Joke^/Coquette^*.
(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(^Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - March 21st, 1957 (5 Steps to Dankworth - Parlophone PMC1043)
Dickie Hawdon, Derek Abbott, Bill Metcalf, Stan Palmer, Colin Wright (tp), Jack Botterill, Garry Brown, Laurie Monk, Tony Russell, Danny Elwood (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as), Tommy Whittle (ts), Alex Leslie (bs,cl), Dave Lee (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Somebody Loves Me*/Limehouse Blues*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Dickie Hawdon Quintet - March 25th, 1957 (5 steps to Dankworth - Parlophone PMC 1043)
Dickie Hawdon (tp), Johnny Dankworth (as), Dave Lee (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
One For Janet*/Magenta Midget*.
(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - May 21st, 1957 (Parlophone)
Personnel as March 21st, except Ted Barker (tb) and Danny Moss (ts,cl) replace Jack Botterill and Tommy Whittle.
Big Jazz Story*/Firth Of Fourths^.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(^Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*^Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - August 29th, 1957 (5 Steps to Dankworth - Parlophone PMC1043)
Dickie Hawdon, Derek Abbott, Bert Courtley, Stan Palmer, Colin Wright (tp), Ted Barker, Garry Brown, Laurie Monk, Tony Russell, Danny Elwood (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as), Danny Moss (ts,cl), Alex Leslie (bs,cl), Dave Lee (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Export Blues*^/Hullabaloo^.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(^Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(^Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

September 2nd, 1957 (5 steps to Dankworth - Parlophone PMC1043)
Personnel as August 29th.
Just A Sittin' And A Rockin'*/Stompin' At The Savoy*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Laurie Monk Quartet - September 4th, 1957 (5 steps to Dankworth - Parlophone PMC 1043)
Laurie Monk (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Somerset Morn*/Horoscope*.
(*Vocalion CD - 5 Steps to Dankworth & Journey into Jazz)
(*Avid 2 CD set - Cleo Laine & John Dankworth: Three Early LPs & More)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - March 10th, 1958 (The vintage years - Parlophone PMC1076)
Personnel as August 29th except Bob Carson (tp) and Jack Botterill (tb) replace Bert Courtley and Ted Barker.
The Breeze And I*^/How High The Moon^/Stardust*^.
(^Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

March 13th, 1958 (The vintage years - Parlophone PMC1076)
Personnel as March 10th.
Swingin' The Blues*/I Can't Get Started*/How Deep Is The Ocean*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

March 20th, 1958 (The vintage years - Parlophone PMC1076)
Personnel as March 10th.
Crazy Rhythm*/Moonglow*/Jive At Five*.
(*Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

March 27th, 1958 (GEP8671)
Personnel as March 10th.
Show Me/I Could Have Danced All Night.

April 1st, 1958 (The vintage years - Parlophone PMC1076* GEP8671+)
Personnel as March 10th.
On The Street Where You Live+/I've Grown Accustomed To Your Face+^/Idaho*.
(^Sepia CD - The John Dankworth Big Band - The Vintage Years 1953-1959)
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

June 20th, 1958 (The vintage years - Parlophone PMC1076+)
Personnel as March 10th but add Johnny Scott (fl), Bill Le Sage (vib), Jim Powell (tuba).
The Colonel's Tune*#/Jim And Andy's*/Don't Get Around Much Any More+*.
(*EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(#Giant Steps 2CD set - Soho After Dark 'London's '50s Modern Jazz Scene')

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - May 12th,13th and 19th, 1959 (Jazz Routes - Columbia 33SX1280)
Dickie Hawdon, Derek Abbott, Stan Palmer, Colin Wright, Bob Carson (tp), Laurie Monk, Tony Russell, Danny Elwood, Garry Brown (tb), Ron Snyder (tb,tuba), Johnny Dankworth (as,cl), Danny Moss (ts,b-cl), Alex Leslie (bs,cl,fl), Dave Lee (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Tribute To Chauncey*/Slow Train*/Sunflower/Dauphine Blues*/Honeydew Melon*#/Joe And Lol's Blues*#/Internationale*/Kool Kate*#/New Forest*/Specs Yellow/Desperate Dan*#/Blue Furs*/Caribe*.
(*Roulette CD - The Best of the Roulette years)
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)

In 1959 Johnny Dankworth took his band to the Newport Jazz Festival in USA and the band was recorded for a Top Rank album. This is probably the most sought after of Dankworth's LPs on the second-hand market.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - July 3rd, 1959 (Top Rank 30/019)
Personnel as May 19th except Kenny Wheeler (tp) replaces Colin Wright.
Firth Of Fourths^*/Caribe*/Royal Ascot^*/Don't Get Around Much Anymore^*/Doggin' Around*/Jones*/Take The 'A' Train*.
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(*Harkit CD - John Dankworth Orchestra - Britain's Ambassador of Jazz)

Recordings for three BBC Programmes - 101403/101404 and 102115 collected here on one CD...
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - ca. September, 1959 (BBC)
Personnel similar to other 1959 recordings.
Intro*/Candy Bar*/Kool Kate*/Jersey Bounce*/Mood Indigo*/Allen's Alley*/The Guys From Gothenburg*/Indian Summer*/Swingin' The Blues*/Harlem Airshaft*/Tribute To Chauncey*/Donegal Cradle Song*/Joe & Lol's Blues*/Melbourne Marathon*/I'll Never Be The Same*/How About You*/For Dancers Only*/Desperate Dan*/Highgate Hideaway*/My Old Flame*/Bluesology*/The Folks Who Live On The Hill*/Specs Yellow*/Just You, Just Me*.
(*Vocalion - The Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - Highgate Hideaway BBC Transcription recordings)

Recordings for three BBC Programmes - 107423/4/5 collected here on one CD...
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - ca. September, 1959 (BBC)
Kenny Wheeler, Derek Abbott, Stan Palmer, Bob Carson (tp), Dickie Hawdon (tp,tenor hrn), Laurie Monk, Tony Russell, Danny Elwood, Garry Brown or Ken Wray) (tb), Ron Snyder (tuba), Johnny Dankworth (as,ldr), Danny Moss (ts,b-cl), Alex Leslie (bs,cl,fl), Derek Smith (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d), Dave Lindup (arr).
Intro*/Candy Bar*/Don't Be That Way*/Carioca*/New Forest*/Threesome*/Duet For Sixteen*/Ill Wind*/Doggin' Around*/When you're Smiling*/Groovin' For Nat*/Seven League Boots*/Prince Two*/Skeleton In The Bathroom*/Square Face*/The Gypsy In My Soul*/Two's Company*/Love For Sale*/We Are The Lambeth Boys*/Willow Weep For Me*/Royal Ascot*/Theme*.
(*Vocalion CD - The Johnny Dankworth Orchestra Duet for 16)

The Rex 2 CD set issued in late 2010 contains 40 previously unissued recordings from c1959/60. The notes give no band personnel or dates and do not say where the recordings originated. It appears they were made for the BBC Overseas Service. The Vocalion CD contains transcriptions of three BBC broadcasts complete with announcements - Programme 4(107426), Programme 5(107427) and Programme 6(107428)...
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra c1959/60 (Too Cool For The Blues - Rex REXX3370 / Vocalion)
Personnel not listed but probably similar to other 1959 recordings.
Too Cool For The Blues*+/Sentimental Instrumental*+/Three Little Words*+/Old Blues*+/There Will Never Be Another You*+/Smoke Gets In Your Eyes*+/Runnin' Wild*+/I May Be Wrong*+/They All Laughed*+/The Song Is You*/Tracey's Trip*+/Caravan*+/They Can't Take That Away From Me*+/Riverside Stomp*+/Squareface*/The Gypsy In My Soul*/Two's Company*/Love For Sale*/We Are The Lambeth Boys*/Willow Weep For Me*/My Buddy*+/Vice+/Singin' The Blues*+/Don't Be That Way*/The Carioca*/New Forest*/ Threesome*/Duet For Sixteens*/ Ill Wind*/Doggin' Around*/When Your Smiling*/Groovin' For Nat*/Seven Leagues Beauty*/ Chelsea Bridge*/Skeleton In The Bathroom*/A Foggy Day*+/Love Me Or Leave Me*+/The Wizard*+/Embraceable You*+/Flyin' Home*/Wild Ascot*.
(*Rex Recordings 2 CD set - Too Cool For The Blues)
(+Vocalion - The Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - Too Cool For The Blues BBC Transcription recordings)

Around 1960/61 the Dankworth big band recorded 24 titles that may have been issued by Big Band International, which Lord's Jazz Discography describe as "from private recordings". I have never seen or heard the record but John Gaylor has provided a scan of a 2 LP set issued by Golden Era Records, distributed by West Audio in the US. These two LPs contain the same 24 titles and the record sleeve carries the statement that "the material on the LP comes from private recordings and there is absolutely no usage of material from commercial record companies". The LP set is titled "Big Band Jazz From England - Volume 2".
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - c1960/1 (Big Band International LP2703)
Dickie Hawdon, Derek Abbott, Stan Palmer, Colin Wright, Bob Carson (tp), Laurie Monk, Tony Russell, Danny Elwood, Garry Brown, Ron Snyder (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as), Danny Moss, Alex Leslie, Art Ellefson, George Tyndale (saxes), Dave Lee (p), Eric Dawson (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Limehouse Blues/Little Horror/I Can't Get Started/By Pass/How High The Moon/Royal Garden Blues/Somebody Loves Me/Jersey Bounce/The Breeze And I/Battered Chops/Bluesology/I've Grown Accustomed To Your Face/Take The A Train/A 5th Of 4th/9.20 Special/Allen's Alley/DBA Special/Blue Post/Cobwebs/So What/Moaning/S.O.Blues/Blues In The Night/You Do Something To Me.

On May 25th and 26th, 1960 the Dankworth Orchestra, with the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Hugo Rignold recorded an album entitled Collaboration for the American Roulette label. This was issued in the UK as an LP on SagaXIP 7006.

During 1960 and 1961 The Dankworth Orchestra recorded for the Roulette label. Some of the titles were released on Columbia and some by Roulette in the UK, some were released on both labels. I do not know how many of these records were released in the UK although some were on a long deleted Roulette CD which was released in the UK that included titles from 1959, 1961 and 1964.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - July 1st and 5th, 1960 (The criminal - Roulette/Columbia SEG8037*)
Dickie Hawdon, Kenny Wheeler, Gus Galbraith (tp), Tony Russell, Eddie Harvey, Ian McDougall (tb), Ron Snyder (tu), Johnny Dankworth, Peter King (as), Danny Moss, Art Ellefson (ts), George Tyndale (bs), Dudley Moore (p), Spike Heatley (b), Kenny Clare (d).
Moanin'#/Riverside Stomp*/Freedom Walk*/After The Party*/Treasure Drive*.
A fifth title was recorded about this time - African Waltz#+. For this Johnny Scott (f,pic) was added, Ronnie Stephenson replaced Kenny Clare and Ron Snyder was out.
(#EMI 2 CD set - The Best Of Johnny Dankworth)
(*Harkit CD - John Dankworth Orchestra - Britain's Ambassador of Jazz)
(+Giant Steps 2CD set - Soho After Dark 'London's '50s Modern Jazz Scene')
(+Acrobat CD - British Modern Jazz Singles, EP tracks & Rarities 1960 - 62)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - 1960 (Curtain Up - Columbia 33SX1572)
Dickie Hawdon, Kenny Wheeler, Gus Galbraith (tp), Tony Russell, Eddie Harvey, Ian McDougall (tb), Ron Snyder (tu), Johnny Scott (f,pic), Johnny Dankworth, Peter King (as), Danny Moss, Art Ellefson (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), Alan Branscombe (p), Spike Heatley (b), Ronnie Stephenson (d).
The Avengers Theme*/Chano.
(*Roulette CD - The Best Of the Roulette Years)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - June or July, 1961 (Fontana)
Tommy McQuater, Kenny Wheeler (tp), Johnny Dankworth (as), Alan Branscombe (p), Spike Heatley (b), Ronnie Stephenson (d).
Fall Guy*.
(*Harkit CD - All Night Long)

John Gaylor writes: this (below) was the band I used to see at the Savoy Ballroom in Southsea in the early 1960s with Alan Branscombe on piano (also doubling on vibes and alto sax). The late Bobby Breen was the band's vocalist and bongo player, and for a while Joy Marshall joined him as female vocalist. The band used to visit about four times a year. His most requested number each visit from us jazz fans gathered around the stage was a Dave Lindup number called "Old Blues" which could last up to 15 minutes and featured solos from all the band members.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - 1961 (Curtain Up - Columbia 33SX1572)
Ronnie Simmonds, Leon Calvert, Kenny Wheeler, Gus Galbraith (tp), Tony Russell, Eddie Harvey (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Ray East (as), Danny Moss, Art Ellefson (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), Alan Branscombe (p), Spike Heatley (b), Ronnie Stephenson (d). (1)Kenny Napper replaced Spike Heatley.
String Of Camels/Winter Wail*/Cannonball*+/S.O. Blues*/Daily Date/When My Sugar Walks Down The Street*(1).
(*Roulette CD - The Best of the Roulette years)
(+Acrobat CD - British Modern Jazz Singles, EP tracks & Rarities 1960 - 62)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - 1961 (#Curtain Up - Columbia 33SX1572)
Ronnie Simmonds, Leon Calvert, Kenny Wheeler, Gus Galbraith (tp), Tony Russell, Eddie Harvey, Ian Mcdougall (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Ray East (as), Vic Ash, Art Ellefson (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), Alan Branscombe (p), Kenny Napper (b), Ronnie Stephenson (d).
Abandonado/O Pato/Sack O' Woe*#/Curtain Up*#.
(*Roulette CD - The Best of the Roulette years)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - 1963 (Fontana)
Personnel similar to above.
Hoe Down/Sing Sing Sing/Off The Cuff/Avenger's Theme.

The Daily Mail International Jazz Festival All-Stars - June 6th, 1963
Shake Keane (tp-1), John Dankworth (as), Joe Harriott (as-1), Tubby Hayes (ts), Alan Branscombe (p), Coleridge Goode (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Milestones(1)*/There Is No Greater Love*.
(*Acrobat 3CD set - Tubby Hayes - Without A Song (Rare Live recordings 1954-73)

At this time Johnny Dankworth started to produce albums that were not just a succession of big band jazz tracks, but were themed LPs or suites and the first of them was issued as What the Dickens!, the titles linked to associations with Charles Dickens characters or phrases.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra with featured guests - July 29th and 31st, August 7th, and October 4th, 1963 (Fontana TF5203)
Gus Galbraith, Leon Calvert, Kenny Wheeler, Dickie Hawdon (tp), Tony Russell, Eddie Harvey (tb), Ron Snyder or Alf Reece (tu), Johnny Dankworth, Roy East (as,cl), Vic Ash (cl,ts), Art Ellefson (ts,b-cl), Alan Branscombe (p,vib,xyl), Kenny Napper or Spike Heatley (b), Johnny Butts (d). Special guests: Jimmy Deuchar (tp), Tony Coe, Tubby Hayes, Peter King, Ronnie Scott, Bobby Wellins, Dick Morrissey (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), Ronnie Stephenson (d), Roy Webster (perc)
Prologue/Weller Never Did^/Little Nell^/The Infant Phenomenon/Demdest Little Fascinator/Dotheboys Hall/Ghosts^/David And The Bloaters/Please Sir, I Want Some More/The Artful Dodger/Waiting For Something To Turn Up/Fodson And Fogg/The Pickwick Club/Sergeant Buzfuz/Finale.
(Vocalion CD - What the Dickens / Off Duty!)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

The first five titles of the suite listed below were recorded in New York on October 9th and featured a number of star American musicians. The rest of the suite was recorded in London. Clark Terry and Bob Brookmeyer were flown to London and these two play on all tracks. The Suite was titled The Zodiac Variations, the titles linked to star signs.
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra with featured guests - October 9th and 28th, November 2nd and 10th, 1964 (Fontana TF5229)
Greg Bowen (tp), Leon Calvert (tp,fhrn), Kenny Wheeler (tp,ten-hrn), Gus Galbraith (tp), Tony Russell, Johnny Marshall, Chris Smith (tb), Ron Snyder (tu), Johnny Dankworth, Al Newman (as,cl), Vic Ash (cl,ts), Art Ellefson (ts,cl), Paul Carroll (bs,as,cl), Alan Branscombe (p,vib), Kenny Napper (b), Johnny Butts (d). Special guests: Clark Terry (tp), Bob Brookmeyer (v-tb), Ronnie Scott (ts), David Snell (harp), Lucky Thompson (ts), Danny Moss (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), Chuck Israels (b), Phil Woods (as), Zoot Sims (ts), Osie Johnson (d).
Theme: Way With The Stars^/Gemini/Leo/Scorpio/Sagitarius^/Aquarius/Pisces/Aries/Taurus/Cancer/Virgo/Libra/Capricorn/Coda.
(Vocalion CD - The Zodiac Variations / $1,000,000 Collection)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

Ian Wilson comments that Fontana 6852 006 contains five titles from this LP and the recording date is given as 1967 on the record. "Lord's Jazz Discography" disagrees and gives the date as c1970. I suspect the record is probably correct...
Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - 1967 - (The $1,000,000 Collection - Fontana TL5445)
Derek Watkins, Les Condon, Kenny Wheeler (tp,flhrn), Henry Lowther (cnt,vcl), Chris Pyne, Mike Gibbs (tb), Dick Hart (tu), Johnny Dankworth (as,arr), Ray Swinfield, Tony Roberts, Tony Coe, (reeds), Laurie Holloway or Alan Branscombe-1 (p), Kenny Napper (b), John Spooner (d), Tristan Fry (perc).
Winter Scene^/Sailor/Two Piece Flower(1)/Little Girl In Blue/Composition With Colour/Face In A Crowd/La Clownesse/Garden Of Delight/Madonna^/Hogshead Of Hogarth(1).
(Vocalion CD - The Zodiac Variations / $1,000,000 Collection)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

This record is a work that the LP cover describes as a tone poem. It is a suite, based on the story of Don Quixote, and was written by Kenny Wheeler to be played by the John Dankworth Orchestra. It was Wheeler's first major work and was written after a period of illness which may be why some tracks have been described as "mournful". Others have described it's jazz content as slight but it is included here as part of Wheeler's early discography and because of the first rate jazz personnel Johnny Dankworth used for the recording...
Ken Wheeler with the John Dankworth Orchestra - March, 1968 (Windmill Tilter - Fontana STL5494)
Kenny Wheeler (flhrn), Derek Watkins, Henry Shaw, Henry Lowther, Les Condon (tp), Chris Pyne, Mike Gibbs (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Ray Swinfield, Tony Robert, Tony Coe (saxes), Alf Reece, Dick Hart (tu), Bob Cornford, Alan Branscombe (p), John McLaughlin (g), Dave Holland (b), John Spooner (d), Tristan Fry (perc).
Titles marked * are by a quintet comprising Wheeler (flhrn), Coe (cl,ts), McLaughlin, Holland and Spooner.

Preamble/Don The Dreamer/Sweet Dulcinea Blue*/Bachelor Sam/Sancho/The Cave Of Montesinos^/Propheticape*/ Altisidora/Don No More.
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)
(BGO CD - Windmill Tilter ...The story of Don Quixote)

Johnny Dankworth Orchestra - c1972 (Full Circle - Philips 6308 122)
Kenny Wheeler, Henry Lowther (tp), Chris Pyne (tb), Johnny Dankworth (as), Stan Sulzman, Duncan Lamont, Roger Calkwell (reeds), John Taylor (p), Alan Branscombe (vib), Joe Moretti (g), Daryl Runswick (el-b), Harold Fisher (d).
Grow Your Own/Schmaltz Waltz/Triple Portrait
Butch Hudson, Henry Shaw, Henry Lowther, Martin Drover, Kenny Wheeler, Eddie Blair (tp), Mike Gibbs, Malcolm Griffiths, David Horler (tb), Dick Hart (tu), Antonio Cooke (frh), Johnny Dankworth, Don Fay, Stan Sulzman, Tony Roberts, Tony Coe, (woodwind), Bruce Graham (p), Martin Kershaw (g), Tony Campo, Daryl Runswick (el-b), John Spooner (d), Ray Cooper (perc).
Eleven Plus/Academy One/The Italian Girl/Earthman/You Are Too Beautiful/Family Joy.

The Dankworth Big Band - February 19th,20th and 21st, 1973 (Lifeline - Philips 6308 169)
Martin Drover, Trevor Barber, Henry Shaw (tp), Henry Lowther (tp,vln), Ken Gibson, Malcolm Griffiths (tb), Johnny Dankworth, Stan Sulzman, Don Rendell, Mike Page, Duncan Lamont (reeds), Tony Hyams (p,el-p), John Girvan (g), Daryl Runswick (b,el-b), Harold Fisher (d) + strings and voices on some tracks.
Fighting The Flab*^/Darlington*/Tomorrow's World*/WRVR*/Lifeline Suite*:(Orinoco/Studio Five/Kite Flight/Defrantisity/Brass Roots^).
(*Vocalion CD - Full Circle / Lifeline)
(^Salvo 4CD Box set - I Hear Music - A Celebration of the Life and Work of Cleo Laine & John Dankworth)

There are a number of compilation LPs and CDs of big band tracks from the 1950s, deleted many years ago, that are worth looking out for. IAJRC39 from the International Association of Jazz Record Collectors, EMI Records "Retrospective Series" EG 260187-1, and various Roulette CD and LP re-issues.

In January, 1990 The Dankworth Big Band was recorded live at Ronnie Scott's club. Richard Deayton has supplied details...

The Dankworth Big Band - January 18th and 19th,1990 ("Live" at Ronnie Scott's - RSCD2015)
Derek Healey, Tony Fisher, Guy Barker, Leon Calvert (tp), Mark Nightingale, Eddie Harvey, Bill Geldard (tb), Dave Powell (tuba), Jamie Talbot (as), Don Rendell, Dave O'Higgins, Jimmy Hasting (ts), Ronnie Ross (bs), John Horler (p), Alec Dankworth (bs, bs-g), Allan Ganley, Tony Kinsey (d), John Dankworth (ldr).
Caravan*/Old blues*/Bye Bye Manuel*/Stompiing At The Savoy*/Starburst*/ Georgia On My Mind*/Take the A Train*.
(*Ronnie Scott's CD - The Dankworth Big Band "Live" at Ronnie Scott's)

John Dankworth and friends - February 18th,1998 (Moon Valley - Dankworth Management)
John Dankworth (cl,sop,as), John Horler (p), Malcolm Creese (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Moon Valley*/Stompin' At The Savoy*/Down The Line*/Son Of Sparky*/Close To You*/Days Of Wine And Roses*/Casa 50*/Spooks*/Autumn In New York*.
(*Audio-B CD - Moon Valley)

John Dankworth Quintet - December 10th, 2002 (JD5 - Dankworth Management)
John Dankworth (cl,as), Mark Nightingale (tb), John Horler (p), Alec Dankworth (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Twelve unknown titles*.
(*Dankworth Management CD - JD5) CD available from www.quarternotes.com/

John Dankworth Quintet - Probably c2002 (In A Mellow Tone - Dankworth Management)
John Dankworth (cl,as), Mark Nightingale (tb), John Horler (p), Alec Dankworth (b), Allan Ganley (d).
Twelve unknown Duke Eellington titles*.
(*Dankworth Management CD - In a mellow tone) CD available from www.quarternotes.com/

Danny Moss - John Dankworth Quintet November 28th, 2006 (About 42 years later - Avid CD)
Danny Moss (ts), John Dankworth (as), Dave Lee / John Horler (p), Allan Ganley (d).
Good Queen Bess*/This Heart Of Mine*/C Jam Blues*/I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face*/Man*/Squatty Roo*/Like Someone In Love*/There Will Never Be Another You*/Jive At Five*/Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams*/Things Ain't What They Used To Be*.
(*Avid CD - About 42 years later)


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