“Futuristic Jungleism” – Mills Blue Rhythm Band (1931)

While this label may credit “Earl Jackson and his Orchestra”, this a later U.K. reissue of a deep depression cut from the Mills Blue Rhythm Band.

Irving Mills began managing the band in 1931 and as a result, they played at the Cotton Club in Harlem where Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway’s bands played (who Mills also managed).

Many jazz greats played in the Mills Blue Rhythm Band at one time or another throughout their eight year run, including Henry Red Allen, Buster Bailey, Carroll Dickerson, Lucky Millinder, Wilbur de Paris, and Charlie Shavers.

Let’s admit it, “Futuristic Jungleism” is a super cool name for a song from 1931. Sounds more like a 12″ out of Bristol from 1997 than a 10″ from 1931.

I’m not completely satisfied with this transfer – while it is supposed to be a master pressing it sounds a little thin and the horns can blare a bit at times. I really had to wrestle with the EQ on this one – and not sure I completely dialed it in. But then again – maybe I’m just suffering from ear fatigue. Let me know how it sounds to you.

Recorded in New York, May 12, 1931.
Originally released in the U.S. as Banner 32240, Oriole 2318, Perfect 15505, and Romeo 1690.
Released in the U.K. as Decca F.2728.

Credits:
George Morton – vocals
Wardell Jones, Shelton Hemphill, Ed Anderson – trumpet
Harry White, Henry Hicks – trombone
Charlie Holmes – clarinet, alto sax
Ted McCord, Castor McCord – clarinet, tenor sax
Edgar Hayes – piano
Benny James – banjo
Hayes Alvis – string bass
WiIlie Lynch – drums