AFS, it's been ages since I read it but I think Jones other music book "Blues People" might be a bit more to your taste. "Black Music" covers a lot more avant garde and free jazz, which I get the impression not many on here are fond of. I like it all. As I recall, BM takes a dig at Bobby Timmons, who I enjoy listening to.
Blues All Around Me: The Autobiography of B.B. King is pretty good. Even if you're not a fan I'd recommend it. Not the complete story of course, but very interesting.
I've read loads of books about music over the years but a long time ago. I read Sweet Soul Music when I was 16 or 17 and it blew my mind. Lots of interesting stories.
Thanks, slimmm. I'll look into that. Anyone keen on that curious picture book 'Rock Dreams'?
Here's a special treat for you - Cal Tjader Quintet at the Playboy Mansion in 1959 (peak Latin jazz ivy):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haXEadVNXKk
The band includes Mongo and Willie Bobo.
Anyone know anything about jug bands? I remember an old tape I once had. Gus Cannon?
I've just worked out that I must have been listening to that cassette in 1987, the year I received a Charlie Parker and 'Africa/Brass' for Christmas. Also Son House on LP - 'Death Letter'. Very difficult to get. My first wife tried and tried and finally tracked it down in Birmingham. No Internet then of course - just letters and 'phone calls. Not a bad kid, young Selina.
I'm currently revisiting the Italian Jazz sounds of Schema records from about 15 -20 years ago. It's a mix of hard bop and latin jazz but with a contemporary dance beat.
Starting with Nicola Conte's Other Directions that was also issued on Blue Note and taking in Gerardo Fresina, Five Corner Quintet, Rejazz and many more.
Anyone looking for a starter try the three compilations entitled Freedom Jazz Dance Book 1-3.
I also recommend the Saint Germain des Pres Cafe compilations. Again from a few years back.