In the 1970s jazz saw in some respects a return to its geographical roots, with the re-introduction of elements of African culture by musicians such as Miles Davis and the Art Ensemble of Chicago. Of course jazz and blues are never far removed from their African roots; this track by the Memphis Jug Band demonstrates how elements of African music came to be absorbed into America's growing musical heritage. Traditional African music is characterized by a loose rhythmic feel and off-the-beat syncopations, but with dense textures and interweaving instrumental and vocal parts - all of which can be heard here. Simple instruments and rough timbres were favoured, present on this recording in the buzzing sounds of the jug and kazoo. Other important African elements in this song include the flattened 'blue' notes that went on to inform jazz and blues music, and a reflection of the call-and-response vocal style developed by African slaves. The overall rough, rural feel to the music, as well as the impression that the musicians are enjoying creating it, provides further parallels to jazz and blues' African roots.

Links

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=1969
Further discussion of the African roots of jazz and blues music.

http://redhotjazz.com
This site provides an invaluable resource on early jazz, with extensive biographies, essays and downloadable tracks.

http://www.rootsandrhythm.com/
International US-based mail order record catalogue, specializing in roots music.

http://www.jazznblues.co.uk/
UK-based jazz and blues record specialists.