The Unique Quartette • Celebrated, 1895-1896 (LP)

Unlike many of the white groups that frequented the recording labs of the 1890s the Unique Quartette was not just a studio group, they had national recognition as a salable act, putting on concerts mostly in the New York City area but also as part of touring theatricals. As the earliest Black quartet to reach a level of fame, and to leave behind recordings that we can enjoy, they have been the subject of quite a bit of research. In 2004 Tim Brook's released what is probably the masterpiece of American music research this century. Lost Sounds: Blacks and the Birth of the Recording Industry 1890-1919 is a massive and seemingly exhaustive survey, and yet it has become the jumping off point for additional research. He covers in eight pages everything then known about the Unique Quartette, and discusses their three known recordings, one of which was too rough to be released. The other two recordings appeared on an accompanying double disc from Archeophone, where they were fan favorites. New research has uncovered five additional recordings from this important group, released here for the first time. The sixth track, “Who Broke the Lock”, has received a much better restoration than was possible in 2004. It is likely sung by Ben Hunn, the brother of the songwriter Charles Hunn, who also wrote "I'm the Father of a Little Black Coon", which was recorded by former Quartette member Ch
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!

The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.

Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.

Already Registered? Log In

If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.

Or look at our Subscription Options.