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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZREY, Alvino(b Alvin McBurney, 1 July '11, Oakland CA; d 23 Feb. 2004) Guitarist, bandleader. Began as sideman with Phil Spitalny (b 7 Nov. 1890, Odessa, Russia; d 11 Oct. '70; best known for all-girl band '30s-40s), then with Russ Morgan and Freddy Martin. He came to prominence with Horace Heidt '34-9, changed his name and formed his own band '39, took King Sisters vocal group from Heidt (including Rey's wife Louise). The band worked on a West Coast radio station as the house unit and Rey gained respect for his guitar work, often playing Hawaiian steel guitar in a non-corny manner; his opening theme 'Blue Rey' was unique for a multiple-voice gimmick. He played one-night gigs across USA; big hit at Hotel Biltmore NYC; at Rustic Cabin, scene of a fire in which Rey's contract was burned up, and at Meadowbrook '42. He formed an excellent band that year using arrangements by Ray Conniff, Johnny Mandel, Billy May, Neal Hefti, but ran into the recording ban (musicians' union strike). The band had ten brass; six saxes at one time including Al Cohn, Zoot Sims, Herbie Steward (later 3/4 of Woody Herman's famous 'Four Brothers'); musical chairs behind the drum kit employed Don Lamond, Nick Fatool, Mel Lewis, Dave Tough etc: one of the most interesting white bands of the era. Made films Sing Your Worries Away '42, Larceny With Music '43; Rey was seen without the band in Syncopation '42. He worked in an aircraft factory '43, ran a band in own time (mainly broadcasts); joined US Navy '44, formed service band, resumed civilian bandleading '46. Recorded for RCA Bluebird (top ten '42: 'Deep In The Heart Of Texas', 'I Said No', 'Strip Polka'); then on Capitol ('Cement Mixer' '46, 'Near You' '47). Had smaller lineup early '50s but carried on to mid-'60s with King Family Show on TV; later sporadic reunions, TV shows; he took up classical guitar. By Request '46 with King Sisters and a great lineup on Hindsight CD. |