Louis Armstrong: Satch Blows The Blues

Beginning with “West End Blues” and proceeding in chronological order from that 1928 Hot Five session to “Yellow Dog Blues” in a 1955 session with all-star lineup, Satch Blows The Blues features an arbitrary selection of songs in which Louis Armstrong sings and plays the blues. The period 1932-54 and beyond is omitted in favor of a unified format in which many of Armstrong’s finest recordings appear together. These are memorable occasions. Emotion pours from every corner, and Armstrong always seems to have fun. Both his raspy voice and clarion trumpet are featured on each track. Various instrumental partners make significant contributions; among them are Don Redman, Earl Hines, J.C. Higginbotham, Trummy Young and Barney Bigard. Lionel Hampton plays the vibraphone on a 1930 recording of “Memories of You.” Undoubtedly among Armstrong’s best bands, they’re perfect partners for the seminal jazz pioneer. The leader’s spirited enthusiasm shines through like headlights in the gloomy night. If that makes us feel like deer crossing the highway, so be it.