RCA
1965
Take This Hammer
About This Album
Although the gimmicky subtitle of this release is "The Secret History of Rock & Roll Vol. 5," this music stands apart from merely being an influence on rockers 20 years later. The valuable release has all of the music recorded by folk/blues singer-guitarist Leadbelly during two sessions he cut for Victor in 1940. Thirteen of the 26 selections have Leadbelly joined by the Golden Gate Jubilee Quartet and these were originally released as Midnight Special, a set of work songs including "Pick a Bale of Cotton," the famous "Rock Island Line," "Didn't Ol' John Cross the Water" and "Take This Hammer." The other 13 numbers are solo vehicles for Leadbelly that range from traditional story-telling to blues; highlights include the classic "Good Morning Blues," "TB Blues," "Sail On Little Girl, Sail On" and "Alberta." Although a few of the numbers are a bit primitive, this set is an excellent introduction to the historic and wide-ranging music of Leadbelly. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
Track List (try tracks 12,13,14,16,17 and 19)

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