Jazz 1913-1926: Some Beginnings is a stunning collection of the earliest recordings in the history of jazz. Featuring a diverse range of artists including King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, and Bessie Smith, this album showcases the roots of a genre that would go on to revolutionize music.
The album opens with King Oliver's "Dippermouth Blues," a track that sets the tone for what's to come. The raw energy and improvisation that define jazz are immediately evident, as Oliver's trumpet leads a band through a lively and infectious performance.
Other standout tracks include Jelly Roll Morton's "Black Bottom Stomp," which features intricate rhythms and a driving beat that would later become hallmarks of jazz music. Bessie Smith's "Downhearted Blues" is another highlight, with Smith's powerful vocals conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics.