[Dixielandjazz] Jack Sheldon documentary reviewed

[Robert Ringwald]

Jack Sheldon Is Already 'Good'
by Deborah Dearth
Palm Springs Desert Sun, April 16, 2010
Sometimes the best do not realize how good they are.
Jazz trumpeter Jack Sheldon believes he receives validation every time he plays on
stages and feels everything else is just rehearsal. Sometimes the best are also overshadowed
by showier celebrities, and first-time directors Doug McIntyre and Penny Peyser want
to bring Sheldon into the spotlight with their documentary, "Trying to Get Good:
The Jazz Odyssey of Jack Sheldon."
The unsung virtuoso will be immediately familiar to Gen-Xers as the singing voice
of "Schoolhouse Rock!" (and spoofing his work on "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy").
Older generations will recognize him as Merv Griffin's trumpet-slinging band leader.
However, Sheldon has played with his share of impressive musicians -- Benny Goodman,
Stan Kenton and Chet Baker, for example -- and held his own.
Sheldon's career is not all rosy, as the jazz player maintained a rock 'n' roll lifestyle.
Divorce, drugs and alcohol affected his profession and helped to label him as a renegade
player. However, his commitment to his craft guided him to focus on his skills and
find his highs on stage, even when tragedy struck his family.
As a frequent movie music contributor, his paths have crossed with the likes of Clint
Eastwood and Billy Crystal, who not only appreciate his musical talents but his crude
humor.
Beyond the lifestyle and jokes, on stage one thing remains certain: This is a man
with skills. At 75, Sheldon maintains remarkable dexterity and articulation. His
work ethic is startling, to the point of playing in the streets even as he was employed
by Griffin. As entertaining as Sheldon is as a person, he has proven to be even more
enchanting as a musician.
"Trying to Get Good" is a straightforward mix of interviews, archival footage and
performances. It stands as a simple dedication to a musician who may not be a household
name like his peers but deserves recognition.


--Bob Ringwald
Amateur (ham) Radio call sign K6YBV
www.ringwald.com
Fulton Street Jazz Band
916/806-9551

Doesn't "expecting the unexpected" make the unexpected expected?