As much as Orin Keepnews' career is celebrated, in the grand scheme of things, I'm not sure he gets the credit he deserves. This album is a perfect example of his contribution to the recorded history of jazz.Snowden was brought out of relative obscurity to record what would become his calling card. The art of jazz banjo was all but lost, so the beauty of this album is hearing a classic style in a modern recording.
This a a wildly fun and upbeat side, guaranteed to entertain. It's presented here in VBR mp3, which while not ideal, does infact sound great. The Crypt will be looking closely at some of Keepnews' lesser known sides from his Riverside imprint... enjoy!!!
Banjoist Elmer Snowden only led two albums in the LP era, and his OJC CD reissue is his best showcase. Snowden, who is joined by pianist Cliff Jackson, bassist Tommy Bryant, and drummer Jimmy Crawford, is the lead voice throughout the dozen standards, all of which date from the 1920s or '30s. Snowden's banjo style is a lost art, and this is his definitive recording. - Scott Yanow/AMG
Riverside RLP 9348
1960
Elmer Snowden - banjo; Cliff Jackson - piano; Tommy Bryant - bass; Jimmy Crawford - drums.
