George Lewis And His Ragtime Band In Concert

The Crypt will be doing a mini feature on the legendary clarinetist George Lewis...

George Lewis - one of New Orleans favorite and most beloved sons.  A legend of jazz and the clarinet, he dedicated his life to N'awlins music, never leaving or selling out his hometown.  His hardened belief in the music paid off during the revivalist movement, and kept on reaping rewards globally as the world discovered his incredible band.

During the 50's and 60's, Lewis' band enjoyed great success overseas in Europe and Japan.  They knew he was the real deal and couldn't get enough.  One great thing about G.L. was his dedication and loyalty.  He stayed a resident of New Orleans while most of his contemporaries were headed to Chicago and New York.  The other impressive point was his use of the same musicians to form his group.  Of course, some members would come and go occasionaly, but even the stand ins were from the same pool of players.  At the core and present for virtually all of his recordings and gigs were Avery 'Kid' Howard, Alcide 'Slow Drag' Pauageau and Jim Robinson.

This group helped to keep the small group torch lit, while big bands ruled the day.  They also kept the original New Orleans music alive and well, inspiring younger players and tastemakers of the day.  Everyone is on point and delivers that real N'awlins vibe.  The real deal my friends... an album recorded for radio.  The group are at the heights of their powers and play their asses off!!

Excellent fidelity, taken from a sealed copy.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC... enjoy!!

Storyville SLP-4022
1960

Recorded in Springfield, CA May 28, 1954

George Lewis - cl;  Kid Howard - tp, voc;  Jim Robinson - tb;  Alton Purnell - p;  Lawrence Marrero - bjo;
Slow Drag Pauageau - b;  Joe Watkins - d