Big Bill Broonzy : Big Bill Bronzy Vol.10 1940

Length: 72:37

  Big Bill Broonzy - Guitar, Vocals
  Blind John Davis - Piano
  Fred Williams - Drums
  Joshua Altheimer - Piano
  Memphis Slim - Piano
  Ransom Knowling - Bass
  Washboard Sam - Washboard

The tenth of 11 Document CDs covering all of Big Bill Broonzy's prewar sessions as a leader has three dates (resulting in 14 songs) in which Broonzy is joined by the reliable pianist Joshua Altheimer and either drummer Fred Williams or Washboard Sam on washboard. Altheimer died unexpectedly later that summer; the other two sets included on this CD have either Blind John Davis or Memphis Slim in Altheimer's place, and the trio is rounded off by either drummer Williams or bassist Ransom Knowling. Although Big Bill did not evolve much during 1940, he was near the peak of his popularity and very much in prime form. Among the high points of the 26 selections (including three previously unreleased alternate takes) in this collection are 'Jivin' Mr. Fuller Blues,' 'Leap Year Blues,' 'What Is That She Got,' 'Lonesome Road Blues' and 'I'll Never Dream Again.' Recommended to Broonzy's many fans. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide