The Complete "Jazz Information" Recordings

by Bunk Johnson

Overview

Bunk Johnson was discovered living near New Orleans in 1940, without a trumpet and needing new teeth. By 1942 he had both and, through constant practicing, had regained his old form. Not counting a few talking and solo records, he first recorded on June 11, 1942. The music on this CD comes from his next session. Johnson utilized a band of local New Orleans players, of whom clarinetist George Lewis was destined for fame. There are spots where the ensembles slip slightly out of tune, but in general this is a well-played date, particularly "Big Chief Battle Axe," "Franklin Street Blues," and "Sobbin' Blues." Due to the inclusion of three alternate takes, this is the complete session, one of many easily recommended Bunk Johnson CDs reissued by the American Music label. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	02/22/2005
Label:	GHB JAZZ FOUNDATION
UPC:	0762247111924

Tracks

1. Big Chief Battle Axe
2. Big Chief Battle Axe
3. Dusty Rag
4. Franklin Street Blues
5. Franklin Street Blues
6. Thriller Rag
7. Sobbin' Blues
8. Sobbin' Blues
9. When I Leave the World Behind
10. Sometimes My Burden Is So Hard to Bear
11. Blue Bells Goodbye
12. Shine
13. Yaaka Hula Hickey Dula
14. Weary Blues

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Bunk Johnson   Primary Artist,Trumpet
Walter Decou   Piano
Albert Warner   Trombone
George Lewis and His Ragtime Band   Clarinet
Chester Zardis   Bass
Laurence Marrero   Banjo

Technical Credits

Gene Williams   Audio Production