One of the gems of the collection: A pristine copy of “Black Snake Blues” – one of my favorite sides by Clarence Williams’ Blue Five.
You know I love a good Cyrus St. Clair baritone solo – and this tune starts right out with a window rattler! Ed Allen chimes in with a feisty cornet solo answered by clarinetists Arville Harris and Ben Whittet. Trombonist Charlie Irvis takes a vibrant swing at the stars during his twelve bars, followed by Ed Allen, who gives us a good talking to on the way out before Cyrus reminds us one more time why he is king of the baritone brass.
Recorded in New York on April 14, 1927 for Okeh – the day after a session by Sylvester Weaver and right before a session by the Goofus Five. Can you imagine the Okeh studios at that time?!
Released as Okeh 8465.
Credits
Ed Allen – cornet
Charlie Irvis – trombone
Ben Whittet – clarinet, alto sax
Arville Harris – clarinet, alto sax or tenor sax
Clarence Williams – piano
Leroy Harris – banjo
Cyrus St. Clair – baritone brass (tuba)
Floyd Casey – drums