7 / 8
7
is clearly modelling himself on Chuck Berry but supported with a pungent solo
from King Curtis. The song was later used by Johnny Watson whom Roy had
also seen as a guitar hero.
All My Life
was recorded at the same session which
seems to have had its problems since all the musicians received overtime
payments, not surprisingly, when it took eight takes and
Right Now
five.
The Du Droppers had a third of Volume 1, but are found here with an unissued
title,
Drink Up.
At least three takes survive of this title, first recorded on 16th
December, 1953. As is the case with other Du Dropper titles, this master was
rejected and was remade on 30th December with different musicians. The
selected master on this later date, featured here, is a faster, smoother version,
more in the doo-wop idiom whereas the earlier date produced a more earthy,
jumping rhythm and blues. We will feature that take and seventeen other jewels
on a Du Droppers album soon to be released.
Buddy Lucas was a popular band leader in the late Forties and early Fifties
with many records to his credit on small New York labels. He played tenor
sax and harmonica (not simultaneously) but only sings on the raucous
High
Low Jack.
Which leaves good old Mr. Bear, now completely reissued by Detour. Real
name Theodore ‘Teddy’ McRae and born in Philadelphia on January 22, 1908,
he still lives in New York. An arranger and key figure in big bands during the