It was Rock & Roll before it was called Rock & Roll
Matthew J. Solodow | Texas | 08/21/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"WOW....where to begin!!!!! This four CD collection is a must have for anyone who likes their music loud and pounding fast. You cannot get a better deal on both the quality and quantity that this set provides.
I won't review all of the song selections, because there are a ton, but I will say that every song in this set is worth every penny.
At the time of these recordings (1942-1952) this music was commonly called "Jump Blues". It was the forerunner to Rock and Roll. Unlike early R & R music that highlighted white musicians and the guitar, Jump Blues highlighted black musicians and the saxophone (mostly tenor). This was not commonly played in mainstream America, although many of the musicians such as, Illinois Jacquet, were getting some notoriety on the jazz scene.
This was perceived as "devil's" music and white radio, for the most part, wouldn't touch it. Remember, this is almost 15 years before Bill Haley, Alan Freed or Elvis Presley. However, many white musicians would later record these songs and make a commercial success out of them.
I would recommend this box set to young and old alike. Along with the fantastic selection of songs, it comes with an outstanding booklet talking about the music and the artists. This music stills packs the same punch it did over 50 years ago. Take a listen!!!!!"
Bop til you drop!
HardyBoys.us | Long Island USA | 12/06/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
""Big Horn: The History of the Honkin' & Screamin' Saxophone" is one swinging CD set!
Many musical styles are covered here: swing, big band, boogie, bebop, R&B and more.
There's a huge selection of songs and artists and every track is great!
The accompanying booklet is loaded with facts about the music and the musicians.
The sound quality of this set is excellent.
Proper has come up with yet another value-packed box set!"