Traditional West Indies folk, jazz and calypso from their foremost export
Here’s a little history lesson for you. Blind Blake, born Alphonso Blake Higgs, was the leader/singer of the band at the Royal Victoria Hotel in Nassau, Bahamas from the thirties to the sixties. Having lost his eyesight at age sixteen didn’t deter Blake from becoming the Bahamas’ major musical export and representative, excelling in ukelele, banjo guitar and piano. This collection represents the first CD available of his music, recorded in the fifties, and previously only found on a privately owned heavy (now broken) vinyl LP. It’s a remarkable set of recordings, whether you listen out of a genuine love of good and unusual music, or for the kitsch value.
The songs here include traditional Bahamian songs such as the anthem ‘Peas and Rice’ and the harmonised ballad ‘John B. Sail’ (recorded as ‘Sloop John B’ by the Beach Boys). There are Goombay songs such as ‘J.P. Morgan’ and ‘Jones (Oh Jones), through to calypso, jazz and folk. All recorded with a knowing sense of humour and passion for the music, such as the cheeky swing of ‘Yes, Yes, Yes’ and ‘Never Interfere with Man and Wife’, as well as the slower ‘Bahamian Lullaby’ and bluesy ‘Delia Gone’.
The temptation is to listen to it as a novelty, but the infectious rhythms and irresistible enthusiasm that made Blake popular with US tourists to the West Indies really takes over. It’s a great collection if you’re in a retro mood and want something to relax to, like you’re in a classic Hollywood movie. Especially Blake’s major hit, ‘Love, Love Alone’ which captured the mood of an era when King Edward VIII abdicated in favour of marrying Wallis Simpson.
Over his career the band toured the US and was praised by famous names such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. He was also the inspiration for many US folk revivalists such as Johnny Cash and Pete Seeger.
Blake’s band featured Dudley Butter (guitar, maracas), Chatfield Ward (guitar), Freddie Lewis (lead guitar), George Wilson (bass fiddle), and occasionally trumpeter Lou Adams.
Despite Blake’s passing in 1985, this recording ensures that his music and his passion live on for a new generation to appreciate.