Search - Screamin Jay Hawkins :: What That Is

The Philips Vinyl Version

J. W. fonte | san diego california | 06/03/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Nobody could pull off what Jalcy did in the late 60's.
The album cover and back depicts him in a coffin, ready for the send off. The liner notes are hand done in what appear to be the style of the Psychedelic...The only reference to recording/relase dates on this vinyl record is a blurb that goes
,"This album was recorded at the Club Amigo in North Hollywood on June 23rd and 24th, Nineteen Hundred and Yesterday, and is dedicated to President Nixon..."
The music within the grooves is what preceeded all the pop-outs and "tributes" that have turned up (like red head stepchildren) ever since. This is THE Screamin' Jay that virtually stormed to Blues and Soul scenes back then.
Liner notes list Grahme Bond, Herb Ellis, Sal Valentino, as well as his basic band of the time.
One has to listen to this record FIRST, before going off and buying any later compilations.
I believe Screaming Jay's place in the Pantheon of Originals will be celebrated in Grand Fashion once the players and Pundits within the Industry wake up and pay the man his due."