Here Comes The Man With The Jive

So much to share, so little time. Today's offering follows up on a question about a side that I used in my Prohibition set (I also have some Jazz Archive cds with a handful of Stuff Smith sides). Smith was one of the top violinists of the era, and the band that he led at the Onyx Club was one of the best swing units around. This Classics set includes the first 24 sides recorded under Smith's leadership, including most of his pre-war sides. All of his Onyx Club Boys material is included, except for four songs from 1940 (they're on CC1054, 1939-1944). Musicians include Jonah Jones, Cozy Cole, and Buster Bailey. As Allmusic.com says, "Smith's hard-swinging violin, his enthusiastic vocals, and his interplay with Jones made this a particularly hot unit." The sides here are pretty clean, and one listen confirms the above opinion. This band really could swing, and they're a lot of fun. Along with Wingy Manone, this is an energetic band that I wish I could have enjoyed in person. Enjoy. +

Tracks

01. I'se A Muggin'
02. I'se A Muggin' (alternate take)
03. I Hope Gabriel Likes My Music
04. I'm Putting All My Eggs In One Basket
05. I Don't Want To Make History
06. Tain't No Use
07. After You've Gone
08. You'se A Viper
09. Robins And Roses
10. I've Got A Heavy Date
11. It Ain't Right
12. Old Joe's Hittin' The Jug
13. Serenade For A Wealthy Widow
14. Knock, Knock, Who's There
15. Bye Bye Baby
16. Here Comes The Man With The Jive
17. Twilight In Turkey
18. Where Is The Sun
19. Upstairs
20. Onyx Club Spree
21. Sam The Vegetable Man
22. My Thoughts
23. My Blue Heaven
24. When Pa Was Courtin' Ma