Alongside Robert Parker's excellent compilations on ABC, this import disc of late-'20s highlights qualifies as one of the best ways to dive into some classic jazz. Giving up a side's worth of material to
Earl Hines and Tiny Parnham, the mix also includes two cuts apiece by
the Missourians,
Charlie Johnson,
Jungle Town Stompers, and
Musical Stevedores. And while the early incarnation of
Hines' big band is impressive, the real highlights come by way of
the Missourians' flag-waver "Ozark Mountain Blues" and
the Stompers' beautifully arranged "African Jungle"; the fine banjo player
Elmer Snowden is featured with both
the Stompers and
Musical Stevedores. A top-notch trip back to the land of the Charleston.
–
Stephen Cook, Rovi