Transcription Page:     The Blues

C&A:

This unreleased blues is referred to on the “America in Swingtime” radio program simply as The Blues by M.C. Ralph Berton and Benny Goodman.  It was broadcast as part of the American Music Festival which was held between the 12th and 22nd of February in 1941.

Charlie Christian’s solo is one of the very best blues that he ever recorded with the sextet.  There are unexpected phrases here and there throughout the solo, but it is the startling rhythmic placement on virtually every measure that amazes and provides even greater fascination.  Interestingly, he seems to treat the solo as a 24-bar chorus rather than two choruses.  An excellent blues-drenched solo.

☊   LISTEN   Guitar Solo:

Charles seems to have been in particularly good form on this date.  The Blues is followed by The Sheik of Araby on which he gets no solo but next, on Gone with “What” Wind, he plays the best solo that he recorded on that tune.  CC is very active on the theme to Stompin’ at the Savoy during the sign-off, playing some really incredible stuff while everybody else is just coasting on out.