Another 2002 presentation of Old Time Records. This disc features the work of the Deep River Boys for Cy Langois and Ralph Wentworth on their Lang-Worth Transcriptions label.
The Deep River Boys were one of the most popular 1940s vocal groups in the tradition of the Delta Rhythm Boys, Charioteers, Ink Spots and Mills Brothers. Like many of these groups they started singing together in college, Virginia's Hampton Institute, during the 1930s. Original members were Harry Douglas (baritone), Vernon Gardner (first tenor), Edward Ware (bass) and George Lawson (second tenor). They had a successful radio and recording career in the US and in Europe, recording for Victor, Bluebird, Majestic, Beacon and Jay-Dee. Starting out singing gospel music and later adding popular music to their repertoire they became skillful stage performers.
In 1941, Leroy Wayman replaced Douglas as baritone. Around 1943, Wayman was superseded by Rhett Butler, and Douglas returned again in 1946. George Lawson retired in 1950, and Jimmy Lundy took over as second tenor for about a year, only to be replaced by Carter Wilson. Wilson remained until 1965, when Bill Jones took his place. Vernon Gardner retired in 1956, and the group became a trio. Ed Ware also retired in 1956, and was replaced by Al Bishop until around 1965, when Richard Sparks took over at bass. The picture on the CD insert dates from around 1951, showing Harry Douglas, Carter Wilson, Edward Ware and Vernon Gardner, along with their pianist.
This collection is compilled from several Lang-Worth Transcriptions discs of approximately 1940s vintage, which were orignially available exclusively to radio stations. It contains a good mix of spiritual and popular music. The harmony is good and tight, easy on the ears.
Worth a listen!
Track listing:
1. I Wish I Could Shimmy Like My Sister Kate (Lang-Worth #ASS 61-221 A)
2. I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time (Lang-Worth #ASS 61-221 A)
3. From A To Z In Novelty (Lang-Worth #LW 921)
4. Who'll Jine De Union (Lang-Worth #LW 921)
5. Joshua Fit De Battle Of Jericho (Lang-Worth #LW 921)
6. Lament For Love (Lang-Worth #ASS 60-871 B)
7. Bad Penny (Lang-Worth #ASS 60-871 B)
8. Little David (Lang-Worth #LW 921)
9. Heads You Win (Lang-Worth #ASS 60-871 B)
10. Talkin' To De Lord (Lang-Worth #LW 699)
11. I'm Troubled In Mind (Lang-Worth #LW 699)
12. Welcome Sweet Springtime (Lang-Worth #LW 708)
13. My Heart At Thy Sweet Voice (Lang-Worth #LW 708)
14. Kerry Dance (Lang-Worth #LW 708)
15. You Talk Too Much (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
16. A Zoot Suit (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
17. Grandfathers Clock (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
18. The Shrimp Man (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
19. I'll Wait For You (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
20. Cousin Jedidiah (Lang-Worth #LW 768)
21. Oh Susanna (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
22. My Old Kentucky Home (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
23. Honey, Honey, Honey (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
24. I'll Be Around (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
25. When Your Love Forgets (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
26. I'm Tryin (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
27. Keep Me In Mind (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
28. I Need Somebody To Love (Lang-Worth # unidentified)
