Search - Memphis Slim :: Raining the Blues

Blues for a Rainy Day

Michael Z. Jody | NYC & East Hampton, NY United States | 12/13/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Memphis Slim (aka John Len Chatman) died nearly twenty years ago at the age of 72. He was truly one of the greats of blues piano and recorded nearly twenty albums during his nearly fifty year career. "Raining the Blues" is a consolidation of two of his best albums: "Just Blues," and "No Strain," both recorded in 1960. There is a purity and simplicity to the music, mostly just Slim on the piano, but occasionally supplemented by "Harpie" Brown's lively harmonica, Lafayette Thomas on guitar, and Wendell Marshall on bass. Much of the music here verges on pure jazz (if it isn't completely jazz). Listen to the completely instrumental trio of guitar, bass and piano on the tune "No Strain" for a wonderful example. When Slim sings his fine voice is perfect accompaniment for his fine piano. This is a big album (23 songs in all) and if you don't know Slim this one is an excellent introduction. It is truly a blues album for a grey and rainy day. Raining the Blues"