"HALLELUJAH " Creager's D.O. & FIVE LOCUST SISTERS Silvertone 25051 V+ JAZZ 78

$

34

DISGUISED AS AN ORDINARY DANCE RECORD, this 1927 Silvertone by "CREAGER'S RHYTHM KINGS" is really a major appearance by THE FIVE LOCUST SISTERS, famed Vaudeville harmonizers. They were known for their deftly-delivered, clever, tight-knit, surprisingly dynamic and beautiful four-part harmonies. And they were something to see - look at their short subjects on YouTube! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrtD0vTpeps

This also is an Original Cast recording, as the sisters appeared in the Vincent Youmans show, "HIT THE DECK." Onstage, they sang their own striking arrangements of both "HALLELUJAH!" and "SOMETIMES I'M HAPPY." Which - luckily for us! -  the Locusts recreated on this rare, contemporary, release.  

Although the Locust Sisters dominate each side of the record, with two intricate, full choruses of each song, they go unaccountably uncredited! The labels read only: "Black Bottom Rhythm, with vocal refrain."  I can't think why these five girls, then stars of a major Broadway musical, were dealt with so abruptly. The parent label, Gennett, also gave the sisters the same anonymous bottom billing. Very troubling! Nevertheless, there they are.  

The rest of each side is a jazzy instrumental by Creager's Rhythm Kings, a tight dance band, who keep it crisp. 

This original 1927 Sears-Roebuck Silvertone 25051, from Electrobeam Gennett masters, is in V+ condition - mostly for light moisture damage to each side. Otherwise, it plays very well. Sturdily modulated, with minimal groove wear.   

PHOTO:  The "Anonymous" Five Locust Sisters, in 1927.  

***** 

These records come from my private collection, which I have been accumulating since 1967, and now am downsizing!  My highest priority in these eBay auctions is to give you the best possible idea of a record’s true condition and aesthetic value.  I always post at least four clear images, showing the record fore and aft, a close-up of the label, and the whole disc, warts and all.  If my purple prose won’t cut it, the pictures will!  Shipping is done with expert care. Your record will brave Media Mail in a stout corregated box, between four sheets of cardboard and a couple of “packers.”  I hope you are amused by these descriptions, and by the quality of service being offered.