Jabbo Smith

The first of two volumes by trumpeter Jabbo Smith in 1929 and 1930 features the trumpeter leading his own groups as well as appearing as a sideman. The sound is amazing on this vintage material, with Smith's powerful trumpet in the forefront, along with tight ensembles made up of various supporting musicians, including Omer Simeon, Charlie Irvis, Benny Waters (near the beginning of his very long career), and Edgar Sampson, to name a few. While Smith never came close to achieving the success of Louis Armstrong and his erratic behavior contributed to the decline of his career, this music is an excellent collection of classic jazz. Even though Smith disavowed being a part of sessions led by either Alex Hill or Lloyd Smith, several of these selections are included since they were previously thought to feature him and previously reissued with his actual work. Chris Albertson's informative liner notes are an added bonus. ~ Ken Dryden

PERSONNEL:

JABBO SMITH, vocals, trumpet, trombone
WILLARD BROWN, alto sax, clarinet
OMER SIMEON, clarinet
BENNY CARTER, reeds
ZINKY COHN, piano
IKEY ROBINSON, banjo
Among others

Recorded in Chicago, Illinois & New York, New York in January 1928 through October 1930.

TRACKS:

01. Jazz Battle
02. Till Times Get Better
03. Croonin' The Blues
04. Charleston Is The Best Dance After All
05. That's My Stuff
06. Dyin' With The Blues
07. Let's Get Together
08. Sau Sha Stomp
09. Little Willie Blues
10. Michigander Blues
11. Lina Blues
12. Ready Hokum
13. St. James' Infirmary
14. Wake Up Sinners
15. Tanguay Blues