Recorded in Los Angeles, probably at the end of 1947. Personnel: Little Willie Jackson (alto and baritone saxes); James Jackson (tenor sax); Joe Liggins (piano and vocal); Frank Pasley (guitar); Red Callender (bass); Peppy Prince (drums).
Exclusive 262 was released in March 1948 and reviewed in Billboard on the 13th of that month. Of "Worried" Billboard said, "Relaxed instrumental for more sophisticated race locations. Jackson Brothers on sax with Pasley's guitar provide smooth blend."
Billboard gave "How Come" higher ratings than "Worried." The review ran thus: "Band jumps with Leon Rene tune. Liggins handles vocal chore capably. Sax work excellent."
I agree with the Billboard review. "How Come" is an infectiously catchy jump tune with a tight arrangement and good sax breaks, especially by tenor man James Jackson. I really like it. "Worried" just doesn't do it for me, but judge for yourselves. This record didn't get into the race music chart. The biggest hit for Joe in 1948 was "Darktown Strutters' Ball." Although Billboard refers to the "Jackson Brothers", Little Willie Jackson and James Jackson were in fact unrelated.
Thanks to El Enmascarado for yet another slice of shellac!
I also prefer 'How Come', but I'm sure couples enjoyed dancing close to 'Worried' at a smoky club after a few drinks. (Frank Pasley really goes Hawaiian on it.)
ReplyDeleteThanks guys!
I've got the Joe Liggins compilation albums from Chronological, so all I had to do was look up the date (which you gave) and I could listen and follow your commentary. Nice arrangements.
ReplyDelete