VARIOUS ARTISTS

Delmark 55 Years of Blues

CD/DVD

Delmark (DE 915)

By Tim Holek

Delmark Records and its founder, former cinematographer Bob Koester, have done wonders for the Chicago blues scene. In this disc’s liner notes, noted producer Dick Shurman accurately summarizes the significance of Koester. “The role that Koester, his label, and his Jazz Record Mart have played since relocating some fifty years ago from St. Louis in nurturing and furthering the Chicago blues scene have broadened its horizons and benefited virtually everyone involved in some way. Koester initiated Living Blues magazine, served as an early advisor for the Chicago Blues Festival, employed [many] musicians, and was a mentor and role model for the proprietors of labels including Alligator, Rooster Blues, and Earwig.” Delmark essentially represents the Chicago blues of today even though, sadly, many of the label’s artists have passed away.

            Koester is responsible for recording many classic and contemporary Chicago blues artists. You get to sample 26 of them on this two-disc collection. One CD and one DVD, along with an enlightening 10-page booklet, comprise this package. Many magical moments were captured in the studio on these 17 memorable tracks. The audio recordings were made between 1951 and 2004. To their credit, Delmark did not simply choose selections from their most recent CDs.

The label’s laudable legacy is depicted via a friendly and neighborly atmosphere of a 1970s Chicago ghetto blues club being held at the helm by its commander, Junior Wells. Sleepy John Estes performs with an all-star Chicago blues band. In fact, the same could be said about any of the recordings on the CD. Estes’ high-pitched vocals sound frail and Sunnyland Slim’s piano sounds bold. Detroit Jr. plays his best known song, “Call My Job.” Ironically he doesn’t play a lot of thumping piano on it. Listen to Willie Kent’s signature voice, robust rhythms, and steadfast band and you’ll understand why he ruled Chicagoland’s clubs throughout the ’90s. Hearing Otis Rush perform “Please Love Me” is awe-striking. Speckled Red’s shrill vocals remind you of those old time records recorded on Maxwell Street during its heyday. No one pushes, pulls, and bends guitar strings like Jimmy Dawkins. His execution of “Feel So Bad” is breathtaking. Blues isn’t all you’ll hear on the 66-minute audio disc. Experience for yourself why Syl Johnson is considered one of Chicago’s greatest contributions to soul music. The jazzy side of the blues (and of Delmark) is represented via Floyd McDaniel and Roosevelt Sykes.        

            In an effort to bring deeper appreciation for its artists, Delmark has started releasing live music videos on DVD.  55 Years of Blues is extra special thanks to the included DVD, which allows you to see real deal Chicago blues artists performing live in the city’s clubs. The 60-minute DVD features ten performances, including Zora Young from the yet-unreleased 55th anniversary bash at Buddy Guy’s Legends, compiled from their seven blues concert videos. Tail Dragger’s two pieces showcase some of the most authentic blues culture ever captured on film. The camaraderie between Carey and Lurrie Bell is eerie. They seem to sense what the other will do next, e.g., with a single glance at his father, Lurrie relinquishes control of a song into his father’s hands. Byther Smith looks as mean as his tough blues sound.

            Put simply, this collection reflects the historical heritage Koester has created via his prolific blues recordings. After you listen to and view this vital compilation, you’ll express your gratitude by either purchasing Delmark releases from their back catalogue or digging out your old Delmark LPs and giving them a spin.          

###