Jabbo Smith - 1929-1938 {The Chronological Classics, 669} (1992)

Although only 20 years old, trumpeter Jabbo Smith cut virtually all of his finest recordings in 1929, when he was touted as a competitor to Louis Armstrong. Smith's 19 sides with his Rhythm Aces (all of which are on this essential CD) are some of the most exciting recordings of the era. Often teamed in a quintet with Omer Simeon (on clarinet and alto), pianist Cassino Simpson, banjoist Ikey Robinson, and the tuba of Hayes Alvis (subs appear on a few numbers), Jabbo's reckless and explorative trumpet flights are often thrilling. Highlights include "Jazz Battle," "Till Times Get Better," "Ace of Rhythm," and "Band Box Stomp," but all of the performances (including Smith's trombone solo on "Lina Blues" and his occasional and effective vocals) are well worth hearing. The CD concludes with Jabbo Smith's four-song 1938 session, which is disappointingly tame. Strange as it seems, Smith was past his prime by 1930 when he was only 21. Except for some early sideman appearances and forgettable efforts in later years (plus one previously unissued Rhythm Ace side from 1929 that was unearthed in the mid-'90s by the Retrieval label), this CD essentially contains Jabbo Smith's entire legacy, although he would live until 1991.


Tracks:

01. Jazz Battle (Smith) - 2:40
02. Little Willie Blues (Smith) - 3:24
03. Sleepy Time Blues (Smith) - 3:27
04. Take Your Time (Smith) - 2:48
05. Sweet and Low Blues (Smith) - 3:21
06. Take Me to the River (Smith) - 2:51
07. Ace of Rhythm (Smith) - 2:55
08. Let's Get Together (Smith) - 3:30
09. Sau Sha Stomp (Smith) - 3:06
10. Michigander Blues (Smith) - 3:22
11. Decatur Street Tutti (Smith) - 2:48
12. Till Times Get Better (Smith) - 3:09
13. Lina Blues (Smith) - 3:32
14. Weird and Blue - 3:03
15. Croonin' the Blues (Smith) - 3:13
16. I Got the Stinger (Smith) - 3:20
17. Boston Skuffle (Smith) - 2:52
18. Tanguay Blues (Smith) - 2:48
19. Band Box Stomp (Smith) - 3:02
20. Moanful Blues (Smith) - 3:00
21. Rhythm in Spain (Smith) - 2:44
22. Absolutely (Smith, Williams) - 3:00
23. More Rain, More Rest (Smith, Williams) - 2:46
24. How Can Cupid Be So Stupid? (Smith) - 3:10