Jelly Roll Morton: New Orleans Joys: The Earliest Recordings, 1923-1926

Born Ferdinand Joseph LaMothe to Creole parents in New Orleans, Louisiana, pianist Jelly Roll Morton is arguably one of jazz's most influential figures. A groundbreaking composer, arranger, and bandleader, Morton helped move jazz music beyond itself. He expanded jazz's possibilities by bringing greater structure and compositional sophistication to a music rooted in improvisation. Drawing from ragtime, classical, and blues traditions, Morton demonstrated that jazz could be carefully composed and arranged without losing the spontaneity and spirit that made it distinctive.

Morton's influence is evident in Tompkins Square's release of New Orleans Joys: The Earliest Recordings, 1923—26, a collection of music he recorded during the 1920s. More than a collection of historical recordings, the two-disc set brings together over 50 performances by Morton. Among them are some of his most notable compositions, including "Wolverine Blues," "New Orleans Blues," "Frog-I-More Rag," "Mr. Jelly Lord," and "King Porter Stomp." It also includes "Jelly Roll Blues," which Morton published in 1915 and is recognized as one of the earliest published jazz compositions. From solo piano to ensemble performances and vocal accompaniment, New Orleans Joys offers a fuller picture of Morton as an artist.

Musically, Morton's playing throughout the recordings is marked by expressive elegance and vibrancy, taking the lead when the moment calls for it and providing support when needed. He knew how to lead ensembles without dominating them, and when the moment called for it, he was just as comfortable letting old Ferdinand take a back seat and Jelly Roll shine. Drawing on the rich musical traditions of his native New Orleans, Morton demonstrates not only his abilities as a pianist but also his understanding of how to bring a musical arrangement to life. Even when the piano is not at the center of a performance, Morton's presence still drives the music forward.

The two-disc set also includes an 80-page insert featuring several brief articles that offer greater insight into Morton's upbringing, personality, ambitions, and career. The accompanying material traces his recording experiences in Chicago and New York, his relationships with various record labels, and his apparent resistance to mainstream work later in his career. Beyond providing historical context, the articles reveal more about Morton's personality and the convictions that shaped his career. The insert also lists the recordings and their formats, documenting Morton's solo piano performances, vocal accompaniment, and work with various ensembles, including Morton's own groups and a guest appearance by the King of New Orleans jazz, cornetist King Oliver.

Jelly Roll Morton's contributions to jazz deserve greater recognition, and New Orleans Joys offers a compelling reminder of why. His thoughtfulness, creativity, and command of the instrument made him a remarkable musical figure. These recordings bring his musical vision to life, offering listeners a chance to appreciate both his artistry and his contributions to jazz.