The Meade Lux Lewis Collection 1927-61

Meade Lux Lewis was one of the leading exponents of boogie-woogie piano during the heyday of the sub-genre during the ‘30s and ‘40s, sitting alongside the likes of Albert Ammons and Pete Johnson, with whom he performed and recorded on a regular basis for a few years. He is best-known for his landmark composition “Honky Tonk Train Blues”, which he recorded several times over the thirty years and more covered by this collection, but his skill and technique ranged beyond the relatively narrow realms of pure boogie-woogie into other styles of blues and jazz, and this collection delves into some of those related strands. This great value 39-track collection, which includes a number of extended performances, draws on many of the sessions and live radio shows he recorded performing on solo piano or celeste, but also provides many examples of his work in a variety of different ensembles, ranging from piano duet and trio performances with Ammons and Johnson, through small groups with top players and leaders like Frankie Newton, Sidney Bechet, Edmond Hall and Teddy Bunn, to sessions accompanying vocalists like Big Joe Turner, and in his later career in duos and trios with Louie Bellson, Red Callender and Jo Jones. It’s a highly entertaining showcase for a unique talent. Includes comprehensive booklet notes, with complete recording session and personnel details.