I usually stick to collecting jazz records but when this Blind Blake record was offered for sale recently at a price I couldn’t believe, I had to buy it!
The reason it was so inexpensive was that it has a crack from edge to label. However, it had been repaired by “record whisperer” Jim Cooprider, who is reputed to have the ability to bring records back from the dead using arcane methods. I was more than a little curious to see how good the repair was.
The crack was completely fused back together – using what alien technology I have no idea. It does sound – but not a sharp tic but more of a muffled and very slight thump as the needle skates over a thin layer of some magic substance that was used to fill and repair the crack. After de-clicking it’s hardly noticeable at all. Well done, Jim!
The record was graded at V- and it does have a rough start – but cleans up pretty well and is a very enjoyable listen.
This fun tune was from Blake’s second session with Paramount early in his career – and some copies are labeled simply as “Messin’ Around”.
I’ve always found Arthur Blake’s fingerpicking to be quite masterful. His firm clean tone and inventiveness is infectious and a pleasure to listen to.
Enjoy!
Recorded in Chicago, Illinois in October 1926.
Released as Paramount 12413.
Credits:
Arthur Blake – guitar and vocals
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