LOUIS JORDAN AND HIS TYMPANY FIVE – 1940-1941 | The Chronogical Classics – 663 (1992) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The second in the Classics label's CD series that reissues all of Louis Jordan's early recordings features the masterful entertainer with his Tympani Five in the period that directly preceded his great commercial successes. Although most of these 26 selections (including "Somebody Done Hoodooed the Hoodoo Man," "After School Swing Session," "Saxa-Woogie" and "De Laff's On You") are quite obscure, the playing by the group is quite infectious and enjoyable. Singers Daisy Winchester and Mabel Robinson are heard on the Mar. 13, 1940 session for a song apiece, but otherwise, the focus is on Jordan and his fine band, which features tenor saxophonist Kenneth Hollon and several trumpeters, including (on one date) Freddy Webster. Recommended to listeners who want to hear more Louis Jordan than just his hit records. Scott Yanow  
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LOUIS JORDAN AND HIS TYMPANY FIVE – 1941-1943 | The Chronogical Classics – 741 (1994) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

During the era covered by this Classics CD (the third in their "complete" Louis Jordan series), Jordan and his Tympani Five became major successes. Among the 24 selections are such hits as "Knock Me a Kiss," "I'm Gonna Move to the Outskirts of Town," "Five Guys Named Moe" and "Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby." In addition to the regular Decca recordings, the set includes four numbers originally rejected, plus six Jordan V-Disc performances. Louis Jordan's music (featuring his alto and vocals, plus hot backup work from trumpeter Eddie Roane and a swinging rhythm section) acted as a bridge between small-group swing and early R&B. Highly recommended. Scott Yanow  
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