Memphis Slim U.S.A.
Candid, 2025
9/10
John Len Chatman, i.e. Memphis Slim, made over 500 recordings during his lengthy career, and this 1961 album sees the reissue treatment with remastering from the original tapes.
“Born With The Blues” opens with spoken word alongside Slim’s frisky keys, and the playful “Just Let Me Be” follows with Arbee Stidham’s strategic guitar that suits the soulful singing.
Deeper into the 14 songs, “I’d Take Her To Chicago” is a happier moment that pairs the quick keys and swift storytelling with well timed guitar, while “I Just Landed In Your Town” showcases the distinct piano playing and atmospheric guitar amid Slim’s vivid tales.
Close to the end, “Bad Luck And Troubles” is a rhythmic album highlight that captures Slim’s hardships in a timeless blues fashion, and the title track exits with his trademark artistry front and center.
Jazz Gillum’s vocals and harmonica are also present here, and it helps capture the raw and heartfelt song craft of a legend whose presence from the ‘30s to the ‘80s influenced and inspired legions of others.
Travels well with: Nancy Harrow- Wild Women Don’t Have The Blues; Jaki Byard- Blues For Smoke