“Shoot ‘Em” – Washboard Rhythm Kings (1931)

Deep depression cut from the Washboard Rhythm Kings that is characteristically both delightfully catchy and infectiously joyful.

Dave Page’s trumpet leads us in – and hot washboard and percussion breaks abound. Ben Smith’s alto heralds a quick solo while the band eggs him on. Jimmy Spencer scats a few verses before the gleeful chorus “Shoot ‘Em in the pants! Shoot ’em in the britches!”. Carl Wade and Dave Page trade solos before a wickedly hot banjo solo from Steve Washington makes a surprise appearance. More solos and hot percussion breaks follow – with hoots and hollers of enthusiastic encouragement from the band.

A fun listen!

Recorded in Camden, New Jersey on September 23, 1931.
Released as Victor 22814. Also released on Bluebird, Sunrise, and HMV.

Credits:
Dave Page – trumpet
Ben Smith – alto sax
Carl Wade – tenor sax
Eddie Miles – piano
Steve Washington – banjo, guitar
Jimmy Spencer – drums, washboard, vocals