Happy Faces is a disc of previously unheard archival recordings by The Dave Robbins Big Band. Dating from Jazz Workshop broadcasts by Vancouver’s Cave Supper Club (CBC) from 1963 to 1965, these joyous, swinging 12 tracks feature tenor saxophonist Fraser MacPherson, pianist Chris Gage, alto saxophonist Dave Quaren, trumpeter Donnie Clark, and many other exemplary musicians — shining a light for all jazz fans onto the thriving Vancouver scene.

The one and only Dave Robbins — trombonist, bandleader, arranger, composer, educator — was a foundational presence therein. No matter which hat he wore, he made invaluable contributions to the fabric of the music, from his work with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, to his locally popular big band, and beyond. And the swing, command, dexterity, and pervasive joy on display on Happy Faces show this not to be a great Vancouver band, but a great band, period.