Great Original Performances (1923-1929)

Dodds could not only be proud of his work with such New Orleans and Chicago giants as Kid Ory, King Oliver, Louis Armstrong, and Jelly Roll Morton, but he could also boast of one the better bodies of solo work from the 1920s. Cut for several labels, including Victor, Columbia, Gennet, Brunswick, and Vocalion, the 22 selections here cover the years 1923-'29. Featuring excellent remastering by sound engineer Robert Parker (one of several top-notch early jazz collections he has put out), the disc includes standout work from both Dodd's New Orleans Wanderers ("Too Tight," "Papa Dip") and New Orleans Bootblacks ("Flat Foot," "Mad Dog"). There are also several enjoyable sides by his later 1927-'28 outfit, the Chicago Footwarmers (the group featured his brother and irrepressible washboard player Warren "Baby" Dodds). In addition to Dodd's own quality clarinet work, the collection sports plenty of treats from such early jazz stars as Ory, pianist Lil Armstrong, and cornet players George Mitchell and Natty Dominique. A gem. ~ Stephen Cook