Richard M. Jones - 1923-1927 {The Chronological Classics, 826}

Richard M. Jones was more important as a talent scout and an organizer of bands than as a pianist. This Classics CD features Jones as a soloist on two numbers from 1923 ("Jazzin' Babies Blues" and "12th Street Rag"); with the Chicago Hottentots backing the mediocre singer Lillie Delk Christian; playing with Nelson's Paramount Serenaders and Hightower's Night Hawks; and leading his own Jazz Wizards. Among the other players are clarinetist Albert Nicholas, banjoist Johnny St. Cyr, cornetist Shirley Clay, and trombonist Preston Jackson. Although the music is generally not all that classic, this formerly rare material has its strong moments and gives one a good example of middle-of-the-road Chicago jazz of the mid-'20s.

Tracks:

01. Jazzin' Babies Blues (2:44)
02. 12th Street Rag (2:53)
03. New Orleans Shags (3:21)
04. Spanish Shawl (3:25)
05. 29th and Dearborn (2:52)
06. Wonderful Dream (2:47)
07. All Night Shags (2:49)
08. Put Me in the Alley Blues (2:53)
09. Kin to Kant Blues (3:13)
10. Mushmouth Blues (2:43)
11. Baby O'Mine (3:08)
12. Dusty Bottom Blues (3:13)
13. Scagmore Green (3:09)
14. It All Depends on You (3:10)
15. Ain't She Sweet? (2:53)
16. Hollywood Shuffle (2:59)
17. Dark Alley (3:02)
18. Smoked Meat Blues (2:48)
19. Good Stuff (3:26)
20. Phillips Street Stomp (2:41)
21. Nelson Blues (2:34)
22. Boar Hog Blues (2:50)
23. Squeeze Me (2:25)