This gorgeous “Vocalion Red” record features a great early side by Fletcher Henderson and his Orchestra: “Chicago Blues”. The tune begins with an ensemble theme led by violinist Allie Ross.
After an insistent train whistle reminds us the ride is about to begin, we hear Elmer Chambers take the first solo at the 0:40 mark supported by Henderson’s strideful playing as accompaniment.
While Howard Scott was known as the band’s “primary hot soloist” in this incarnation of the band, Chambers does take a number of solos on record that Hendersonia author Walter C. Allen characterizes as recognizable due to his buzz tone. Scott’s tone was more often muted with growling vocal effects.
Chambers is followed by a fine Don Redman alto sax solo. Percussionist Kaiser Marshall even gets a moment to shine with a brief breakdown featuring a “sandpaper effect” that is perhaps the first “scratch DJ” sound in recorded history. Howard Scott takes us out with a solo, which is recognizable by his characteristic muted tone and use of growling and talking effects. Train whistles and chimes indicate the ride is over and our stop has arrived.
Recorded in New York City on March 25, 1924.
Released in the U.S. as Vocalion 14788 and in the U.K. as Homochord H-670.
Later reissued as Silvertone 3023.
Credits:
Fletcher Henderson – piano, director, arranger
Elmer Chambers – cornet
Howard Scott – cornet
Coleman Hawkins – clarinet, tenor sax
Teddy Nixon – trombone
Don Redman – clarinet, alto sax, chimes
Lonnie Brown – alto sax
Allie Ross – violin
Charlie Dixon – banjo
Ralph Escudero – baritone brass (tuba)
Kaiser Marshall – drums
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