Clarence Williams’ distinctive tune “Cushion Foot Stomp” was recorded a number of times in March and April of 1927 by various incarnations of Williams groups – but this appears to be the first recording – and features an unidentified performer who has kept discographers guessing for many years.
The lyrics are quick witty observations and rejoinders in reference to a dance called the “Cushion Foot Stomp”.
“Blue note to note, Weird chords: Lord, Lord!”
The ensemble playing here is excellent – following a 12-bar blues extended to 24 bars. The cornet, clarinet, and alto saxophone effortlessly exchange roles within the harmony, melodic lines, and fills to develop an exuberantly lively dance tune that certainly is worthy of the name.
“Hot Stuff! No Bluff! Red Hot! Sure, Pop!”
This take is one of two recorded on March 8 as matrix E-21786. The second take, matrix E-21787, was released as Brunswick 7000 and on the dubbed U.K. Vocalion reissue V.1034.
Tom Lord makes the case that the vocalist here is the same vocalist known as Shufflin’ Sam who recorded “Cushion Foot Stomp” with Williams and his “Dixie Washboard Band” on a Columbia session on March 10. As viewer @MikeThomas78 noted in the comments, Brian Rust identified Clarence Lee as the vocalist on this session and as the true identity of Shufflin’ Sam.
The clarinetist and alto saxophonist has been identified as Bennie Moten, Ben Waters, and Carmelo Jari.
Recorded in New York City on March 8, 1927.
Released as Vocalion 1088 in the U.S. and Oriole 1012 in the U.K.
Credits:
Clarence Williams – piano
Ed Allen – cornet
Floyd Casey – washboard
Unknown Artist – clarinet, alto saxophone
Unknown Artist – vocals
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