This week I would like to focus on a bandleader and orchestra that was not as well known as others but still produced some great music. Andy Kirk led a fantastic band and his band was almost a twin of Jimmie Lunceford's band. Although he was the leader of the band, he did not solo but instead utilized the talent in his band for the spotlight instead. Featured on many of the recordings is the fantastic Mary Lou Williams. We'll also hear Floyd Smith featured on the guitar who was one of the first electric guitar soloists. I hope you enjoy this look at Andy Kirk and his Twelve Clouds of Joy. Please visit this podcast at http://bigbandbashfm.blogspot.com