No other jazz musicians have captured the hearts and imagination of musicians and jazz fans around the world as those of the Bunk Johnson and George Lewis bands. In the late 1940's, throughout the 50's and up until the present day, aspiring musicians have tried to emulate the playing of these men. Also,as jazz fans, we were all in awe of the classic jazz masters such as Oliver, Morton, Armstrong, Bechet et al, and of of we still are. In my case and for many others, when I first heard that tone and soaring clarinet of George Lewis, together with Big Jim Robinson's gutsy and rhythmic trombone, my life changed forever. It was not about the technique or flashy embellishment of an instrument, but the SOUND and feeling of collective improvisation that came out of their horns. Their music, was in fact, very primitive and archaic sounding, but once you heard it you were hooked. Of course, the one common denominator of all these New Orleans bands was George. His beautiful tone still sends shivers down my spine.
Kid Howard had the technique and was often described as an Armstrong imitator, but when it came to building a climax on the last chorus he was your man. He was exciting to listen to and he generated a lot of fire in those ensemble improvisations. Big Jim also provided the punch and excitement that we all love to hear. Together with my favourite rhythm section, viz; Marrero, Slow Drag, Watkins and Alton Purnell, I am in my musical heaven.
These three tracks are not the best of George, but typical of the period and I was able to fit them into my 10 minute allocation for a video. The picture do not necessarily match the tracks, but are representative of the New Orleans musicians around at that time. Because of the number of takes( recordings) for each tune by the band, it is tough to not make a mistake in dates and personnel. I know I screwed up here and I apologize, but at my age I don't care. It's the music that counts, so sit back and listen to some great music. Enjoy !!
Jazzbobill