“Slow Death” – Douglas Williams (1928)

Memphis clarinetist Douglas Williams’ first Victor session. The first of many records of original compositions that he would make with Victor from 1928-1930 before fading into complete obscurity thereafter.

The first time I heard this side, the plaintive bleating of his gaspipe clarinet starting around 0:45 hit me hard – so expressively mournful!

Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee on January 31, 1928
Released as Victor 21269 and reissued as Bluebird BB B-6151

Credits
Douglas Williams – clarinet
Blaine Elliott – piano
Sam Sims – drums