Delta Rhythm Boys - Sittin & A Rockin: Hottest Shots 1940-1950 (Uk) [CD]

Like those of their contemporaries the Ink Spots and the Mills Brothers, the 1940s recordings of The Delta Rhythm Boys are at the roots of what first became Doo Wop before evolving into the great Group Soul of the 1960s and 70s - perhaps even more so, as their upbeat, vibrant style was more directly connected to what was to come in the Rock 'n' Roll era. Here for the first time in the UK is a collection of their best work from the first ten years of a career that spanned five decades, "A Sittin' And A Rockin'" puts it's emphasis on their up-tempo recordings, although the Deltas also recorded many fine ballads during this time, of course. Many of the inclusions here were written by the group's nominal leader and longest serving member Otha Lee Gaines - a Delta Rhythm Boy from the late 1930s to the late 1980s - who frequently put lyrics to Jazz standards, usually with the permission and endorsement of the likes of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. A great listen for any fan of 1940s black American music and a history lesson for anyone who would like to know more about where the more modern styles of soul singing originated, this collection shines further light on both, in fine style.