Customer Reviews

Mojo Boogie: An Essential Collection

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

this recording was a real disappointment. Poor sound quality in the recording, with some pretty bland backup. I don't care if these guys are supposed to be the cream of Chicago for that era.....they just don't add much to the mix. If this was the only way to experience J. B., then I'd say go with it.....but just hearing him with his guitar like on the L+R recordings (Vietnam Blues) now that's the real deal! J. B. was so musical, if you need to add anything to his voice and guitar, it sure wasn't much.

50s blues was a great time for music. I have always enjoyed Lenoir's work along with people like Sonny Boy Williamson and Big Bill Broonzy. Listening to songs like "Let's Roll" and "The Mojo" in cd quality really bring out the best in my love for the artist. I dont see why anyone wouldn't at least like the music. The sad thing is taht J.B. died at the age of 38 in 1967 and I knew there would have been more hits. Check it out!

The two takes of "I Sing Um The Way I Feel" on this cd are worth the price of admission!!! They show the "African Hunch Rhythm" which would blossom on "Vietnam Blues," a work of sheer artistic genius! On these two takes J.B. is accompanied only by a bongo player named "Peeples" whose hypnotically eerie syncopation sets the stage for the staccato guitar riffs. The overall effect, when the trademark high-pitched vocals are added to this mix, are nothing short of astounding. There is nothing in the blues gendre remotely similar to this unique creation! These two tracks and "Vietnam Blues" are a MUST HEAR!!! Nuf said!

J.B. Lenor's high pitched voice is amazing on this record. Big Bill Broonzy was the man who helped J.B break into the chicago blues scene during the 1950s. His lyrics are very real and appealing to the knowledgable blues listener. Anyone who is a true blues fan should should do themselves a favor and go out and buy this record. Long live the blues!