Blues Down South by Eric Silk And His Southern Jazz Band – A UK Jazz Gem from 2002
If you’re a fan of jazz that feels like it’s been plucked straight outta some smoky, dimly lit club in the early 1900s, then Blues Down South is your jam. Released in 2002 on Lake Records, this album by Eric Silk And His Southern Jazz Band brings all the charm and swagger of classic jazz but with a vibe that’s unmistakably British. Yeah, you heard me right—British jazz. And honestly? It works.
The tracklist itself reads like a love letter to trad jazz fans. You’ve got bangers like “The Onions,” which kicks things off with this cheeky, toe-tapping energy that just makes you wanna grab a drink and nod along. Then there’s “Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me,” which… well, let’s just say it sticks in your head for reasons beyond its catchy melody. (That title tho—what even IS that?!)
I gotta shout out “London Blues” too—it’s one of those tracks where everything clicks perfectly. The clarinet dances around while the rhythm section keeps things tight, giving off major vibes of wandering through rainy London streets at night. Like, I don’t know about you, but when I hear this tune, I can almost smell the damp cobblestones and see my breath in the cold air. It’s haunting yet comforting, ya know?
And how could I forget “Tiger Rag”? This one’s wild—like, circus-carnival-meets-jazz-club wild. It’s fast, chaotic, and totally unpredictable, but in the best way possible. Every time it comes on, I half expect someone to bust out a tap dance routine or start juggling flaming torches. Honestly, if this track doesn’t get your blood pumping, check your pulse.
What really stands out about Blues Down South is how authentic it feels. There’s no overproduced nonsense here; it’s raw, real, and packed with personality. You can tell these guys weren’t just playing notes—they were having fun. That kind of joy bleeds through every second of the record, making it impossible not to smile as you listen.
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re into jazz with character—or if you just wanna hear something different for once. Oh, and here’s a random thought: isn’t it kinda cool how music like this proves that good vibes never go outta style? Like, sure, we’re talking about tunes made decades ago, but they still slap today. Maybe that’s why Eric Silk named the band after himself—he knew he was onto something special. Or maybe he was just really into branding. Who knows? Either way, props to him.
