When viewed as a whole, this compilation gives an accurate overview of the way that the blues developed through the fifties. Take “Goin' Away Baby” for example: it is surely no coincidence that Muddy Waters himself played on this practical demonstration of how the Mississippi country blues sound was updated after the war to provide Chicago, and ultimately the world, with a tough new sound. Moving on to 1952 and “The Last Time”, the addition of Johnny Jones on piano combines with Jimmy's relaxed, confident vocal to give the song an assorted urban feel - this performance also clarifies why the accompanying musicians were occasionally billed on the records as "The Rocking Four".
The later recordings reveal that Jimmy had a fondness for uptempo material, culminating in success on the national R&B charts with the 1956 recording of “Walking By Myself"…
Combining the Vocal talents Of David Raitt (Bonnie's brother) with the explosive guitar of Jimmy Thackery, this is modern Blues/R&B at it's finest. Having know each other since they were kids David Raitt and Jimmy Thackery decided it was time to join forces and see what they could do in the sudio together. These recordings not only feature David's wonderful vocal skills and Jimmy's explosive guitar work but also some fine song writing by both. As a special bonus there is the guest appearance of David's sister Bonnie Raitt helping with vocals on two tracks. Add powerful rhythm and horn sections and, well, "That's it!"
Preservation Hall Jazz Band and its music continue to evolve as they embrace tradition and history while inspiring a new generation. Preservation Hall Jazz Band and My Morning Jacket first met a few years ago and also performed together on tour and in New Orleans. As their support for each other has grown, Jim James (My Morning Jacket) decided to take on the role as co-producer with Ben Jaffe on what is the first release of original music from Preservation Hall Jazz Band. With songs co-written with Dan Wilson, Chris Stapleton and the legendary Paul Williams, these new recordings have a fresh approach but still capture the classic feel of what has kept Preservation Hall Jazz Band relevant over the past 50 years.
His complete recordings for the Bihari brothers’ Kent label, together on one package for the first time, including many making their CD debut.
Booker Ervin, who always had a very unique sound on the tenor, is heard in prime form on his quartet set with pianist Horace Parlan, bassist George Tucker and drummer Al Harewood. In virtually all cases, the jazz and blues musicians who recorded for Candid in 1960-61 (during its original brief existence) were inspired and played more creatively than they did for other labels. That fact is true for Ervin, even if he never made an indifferent record. In addition to "Poinciana" and "Speak Low," Ervin's quartet (which was a regular if short-lived group) performs four of the leader's originals; best known is "Booker's Blues."
Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio—or as it is sometimes referred to, DLO3—specialize in the lost art of “feel good music.” The ingredients of this intoxicating cocktail include a big helping of the 1960s organ jazz stylings of Jimmy Smith and Baby Face Willette; a pinch of the snappy soul strut of Booker T. The M.G.’s and The Meters; and sprinkles Motown, Stax Records, blues, and cosmic Jimi Hendrix-style guitar. It’s a soul-jazz concoction that goes straight to your heart and head makes your body break out in a sweat.