I was saddened yesterday to learn of the death of Sam Butera, ace saxophone sideman to the great Louis Prima for 21 years. Together with Prima and Keely Smith, Butera made magic in Sin City's heyday. The unique musical antics and interplay between he and Prima were a gas, and they were one of the few acts who seemed to be able (thank heavens) to capture the joyful spirit of their live act on record.

I am hopeful that a few hours this evening spent listening to the legacy of music he left will help to ease the sadness. It's hard to listen to his songs without feeling ebullient, and I reckon that Sam would be pleased to be remembered for that.