Search - Frank Stokes :: Memphis Rounder (1928-1929)

Probably Not The Best Stokes CD, But Still Great

D. B Pepper | Plainview, NY United States | 04/14/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a four-star cd which features the music of Memphis bluesman Frank Stokes. Stokes was born on January 1, 1888, which makes him one of the oldest bluesmen to have recorded. He was an excellent guitarist who had a beautifully archaic and gentle tint to his vocals. The major drawbacks of this cd are the nearly horrendous sound quality on two or three of the songs at the end of the cd, and the three versions of "'Tain't Nobody's Business If I Do" which become quite repetitive. Perhaps a better buy would have been Yazoo's Stokes disc, which doesn't have nearly as many songs on it, but does boast much better sound quality. In conclusion, Frank Stokes was an excellent exponent of the Memphis sound; second only to Furry Lewis."

Don't miss Memphis' original blues man!!

D. Roth | Pleasant Hill, Ca | 05/23/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Frank Stokes performed on the streets of Memphis in the mid and late 20's,introducing, according to many, the blues style to 'Blues Town.' He was also a legendarily charismatic character, and could be a convincing ragtime or even vaudville performer at will.Being a street performer, Stokes had a gravelly, booming voice capable of both commanding power and remakably clear diction. Instead of mirroring his words, his guitar drove his songs foreward with rhythmic clarity and perfect timing.Fine transfers, even though some later sides are now only borderline-listenable.I consider this my blues 'find' of the last few years. Try it!"