Clarence Edwards – Baton Rouge Downhome Blues: Louisiana Swamp Blues Vol. 9
Wolf Records CD 120.635
16 songs – 71 minutes
In the rich tapestry of blues history, certain gems often remain hidden, waiting for enthusiasts to unearth and celebrate. Clarence Edwards, a Louisiana-born bluesman, is one such hidden treasure.
The latest release, "Baton Rouge Downhome Blues: Louisiana Swamp Blues Vol. 9" from Wolf Records CD 120.635, serves as a resurrection of Edwards' soulful legacy, bringing forth a compilation of tracks recorded shortly before his passing in 1993.
Born in 1933 in Lindsay, Louisiana, as one of 14 children, Edwards' musical journey began in the '50s, evolving from a country-style artist to a contemporary blues player. However, his significant contributions remained obscured until legendary British producer Mike Vernon captured his essence in 1970. Edwards eventually gained national recognition on the blues festival circuit in the late '80s, marking a pinnacle in his career.
This compilation, curated by Steve Coleridge, a blues bassist from the UK, pays homage to Edwards' blues legacy. Coleridge, having rediscovered Edwards in Baton Rouge during the late '80s, took it upon himself to immortalize the artist's work. The result is a collection of 16 songs, spanning 71 minutes, recorded and mixed between 1990 and '93 in various locations, each track a testament to Edwards' enduring impact.
The album kicks off with a rock-steady rendition of Fats Domino's "Every Night About This Time," setting the stage for Edwards' powerful vocals and masterful guitar work. A standout is the unhurried take on "Dealin' from the Bottom of the Deck," showcasing Edwards' electric guitar prowess. An extended cover of the traditional "Crawlin' King Snake" takes an unusual turn with fiddle accompaniment, offering a fresh perspective.
Edwards pays homage to blues classics, delivering a solid rendition of Magic Sam's "All Your Love" and infusing a juke feel into George Jackson's "Down Home Blues." The album takes listeners on a journey through blues history, featuring covers of Guitar Slim, Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, and more.
A highlight is the only original track, "Everybody Has Their Ups and Downs," where Edwards' authenticity shines through. The album concludes with a vibrant trio of blues classics, "The Things That I Used to Do," "It's Love Baby (24 Hours a Day)," and the traditional "Highway 61 Blues," leaving a lasting impression.
Clarence Edwards may have toiled in relative obscurity, but "Baton Rouge Downhome Blues" resurrects his artistry, inviting listeners to savor the old-school Gulf Coast blues that defined his legacy. This compilation is not just an album; it's a revival, ensuring that Edwards' contributions to the blues landscape receive the recognition they deserve. If you cherish the authenticity of Gulf Coast blues, this one's a must-listen, a genuine celebration of Clarence Edwards' enduring impact.
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