Originally released as two separate LPs: JAIL (1975), SASSY MAMA (1975) and includes the previously unreleased BIG MAMA SWINGS.
Personnel: Big Mama Thornton (vocals); B. Huston, Steve Wachsman, Ronnie Miller, Cornell Dupree (guitar); George Smith (harmonica); Bill Potter, Buddy Lucas (tenor saxophone); Eric Hayes, J.D. Nichols (piano); Paul Griffin (keyboards); Wilbur Bascomb, Bruce Sieverson (bass); Jimmy Johnson, Todd Nelson (drums).
Includes liner notes by Ed Ward.
All tracks have been digitally remastered.
This wonderful three-disc set brings together everything Willie Mae Thornton recorded for the folk music label in the mid-'70s. It's comprised of her two released albums from 1975, Jail and Sassy Mama, and a complete unreleased album, Big Mama Swings. Thornton was still in good voice on these sessions and while not as powerful as her Peacock sides, the production is solid and these recordings make an excellent addition to her scant discography. ~ Cub Koda
Professional Reviews
Entertainment Weekly (5/19/00, p.75) - "...Includes the previously unreleased BIG MAMA SWINGS, a thrilling, staggering 1975 album that redefines her considerable legend." - Rating: B+
Down Beat (8/00, p.78) - 3 stars out of 5 - "...She performs spiritedly...hitting the mark with revivals of her signature songs....The studio effort is laudable..."
