Scrapper Blackwell - 1928-1939, Vol. 1 (CD)

All Music Guide

Scrapper Blackwell will always be best remembered for playing the guitar on a lengthy set of duets released under the name of pianist/singer Leroy Carr. His own solo recordings from the same era did not make him famous but they are certainly worthy. This CD is the first of two Document discs that have all of Blackwell's dates as a leader from the era. Blackwell is showcased on unaccompanied solos, playing on one song apiece with singer Bertha "Chippie" Hill, Leroy Carr (though this time Blackwell is the vocalist and leader), Robinson's Knights of Rest (a trio also including clarinetist Arnett Nelson), and singer Teddy Moss, plus four songs backing the vocals of Black Bottom McPhail. Highlights include "Penal Farm Blues," "Mr. Scrapper's Blues," the two-part "Trouble Blues," "Be-Da-Da-Bum," "Hard Time Blues," and "Mix That Thing." Excellent music that shows just how underrated Scrapper Blackwell continues to be.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide