Release Date: 08 July 2016
Label: JSP
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 0788065300227
Genres: Blues Electric Blues
Description
Otis Grand had hoped to record with Joe Houston - arguably the first and the last of the bootin' saxmen - for years. Now his dream was realised.
After playing in his native Texas, Texas, Joe was recruited to the Chicago band of King Kolax. He stayed "For about three years; they played the hits of the day, they played the Blues too". After this, he played with Ray Charles and toured with Gatemouth Moore before returning to Texas. In 1952 he moved to California, then a mecca for storming sax-led R&B. There he earned such aliases as Mighty Joe Houston and 'The Wildman Of The Tenor Sax'.
Live work continued, but not recording. This CD was Joe's first in sixteen years. Joe sparked off his sidemen: "Otis is a wonderful person, I enjoyed working with him and ...some wonderful British people and one American on drums - he's a good drummer, really helped the record 100%."
Otis singled out another musician for praise: "Ray Gelato was brilliant".
For Ray Gelato, the session had a special significance; the first sax album he bought was by Joe Houston!
Tracklisting
Otis Grand
Various
Judy Garland
James Harman
The Butler Twins
Various Artists
Various
Louisiana Red & Carey Bell
Toronzo Cannon
Patti Parks
Chris O'Leary
Melvin Taylor
Bob Corritore & Friends
Sue Foley
Svante Sjoblom
Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia
