T Bone Walker - Blues & Rhythm Series Classics 5033: The Chronological T-Bone Walker 1947 (2002)

Volume two in the complete recordings of T-Bone Walker as reissued on the Classics Chronological Series is loaded up with two dozen fine West Coast blues recordings cut for the Black & White, Capitol, and Comet labels over the span of exactly two months' time, from September 13 to November 13, 1947. Billed only as "T-Bone Walker & His Guitar," the group responsible for the fine music captured on this compilation consisted of various session men from all over the musical map. Teddy Buckner, George Orendorff, and Bumps Myers were all seasoned jazz players whose professional careers had taproots reaching back to the '20s and '30s. Oscar Lee Bradley was one of the most sought-after drummers in the business. The band provides excellent backing for T-Bone's smoky voice and irresistible electric guitar. The general sensation throughout is one of relaxed dignity and poignant truthfulness. Listeners are advised to beware of T-Bone Walker. Exercise caution! This man's music might grow on you. A full-blown dependence may develop, requiring the purchase of every volume in the complete chronological recordings of T-Bone Walker. ~arwulf arwulf