AMG Review of Complete Recorded Works, Vol. 9 (1939)

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

During the latter half of 1939, blues guitarist/singer Big Bill Broonzy was near the height of his fame and was recording quite prolifically. For the ninth of 11 Document CDs in the comprehensive Broonzy series, he is joined throughout by pianist Joshua Altheimer and either bassist Ransom Knowling (the first nine numbers) or drummer Fred Williams. The erratic clarinetist Odell Rand (who also plays some alto sax) is on the first session and does not help things much, but Broonzy is so strong that it really does not matter. Among the more notable numbers are "She Never," "Too Many Drivers," "That's All Right Baby" and "Dreamy Eyed Baby," while "Just a Dream No. 2" is a remake/continuation of his hit from earlier in the year.