Mamzelle Zizi

"Mamzelle Zizi" has been on my mind a lot today. The Creole folk songs of Louisiana are quite beautiful and full of so much history. Orchestre Bourbon has recorded a more "authentic" version of the song lacking jazz touches while Paul Cargnello adds rock elements. Just for fun, here's a more formal version of the piece in concert style. Gottschalk's "La Savane" is also based on this tune.

Odetta's Take This Hammer

Legendary folk singer Odetta was part of the American folk revival in the 1950s before the white boys, and is accompanied on this beautiful song by Spike Lee's father, Bill Lee, on bass. Odetta has classical training which imbues her interpretation of American folk, blues, gospel and spirituals, as well as an interesting, self-taught approach to the acoustic guitar. Bill Lee would go on to write music for Spike Lee's early films and be active in the jazz scene. Indeed, if I remember correctly, New York Times covered some story about how the long-established tradition of Lee holding jam sessions in his home has been challenged by some neighbors claiming he is too loud! Anyway, it's quite beautiful to hear the wonderful interaction between Lee and Odetta, particularly since his bass on rhythm frees her guitar to play a secondary effect with her mesmerizing vocals. "Take This Hammer" is astounding with this treatment. Likewise, "Timber" sounds phenomenal with the soaring melismas of Odetta and a solid foundation from Lee and her guitar. "Timber, timber..."