Blues singer Alger “ Texas” Alexander (1900-1954) had a big, booming and deep voice, sometimes working with artists like Lonnie Johnson, Blind Lemon Jefferson and Lightnin’ Hopkins (who may have been a cousin). This 3 disc set of 66 songs has just about everything he ever recorded, and it’s an impressive collection of a style of blues that was basic, rural and down home.
One of his most frequent recording partners was famed guitarists Lonnie Johnson, and the two sound like they’re sitting on the front porch on “Range In My Kitchen Blues” and “Corn-Bread Blues.” Eddie Lang comes in to make it a trio for some fantastic sounds on “Work Ox Blues” and the classic “The Risin’ Sun.” King Oliver’s cornet teams wit Lang and pianist Clarence Williams for earthy pieces like “Evil Woman Blues” and “’Frisco Train Blues.” Jazz pianist Eddie Heywood supports Alexander for “Sabine River Blues” and St. Louis Fair Blues.” Some other small group formats have Alexander in a shouting form on “Blues IN My Mind” and “Justice Blues.” There’s a recording gap from 1934 until the final session 17 years later, with Leon Benton/g and Buster Pickens/p giving support on “Crossroads” and Alexander still in excellent voice. He died just a few years later. The booklet enclosed gives a good historic background, and the music takes you to another era and way of life. Lots of rewards for someone who wants to sing like he means it.