Hello, and welcome back to the Vintage Media Millennial blog. Apologies for the absence; life and work have demanded much attention. Earlier this week, I experienced a setback when I had to shut down The Quo-Cast podcast website due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, the podcast’s audio and video content production continues, with a selection of the archive now available on this site. It’s a work in progress, but it’s a step towards strengthening the Old Time Review website with more content.
In addition, I’m still writing a large number of articles and reviews for Old Time Review, with our list of regular contacts growing all the time. If you’d like us to be added to your vintage-themed press list for films, TV shows, music or books, please use the email Jamie@OldTimeReview.co.uk.
Anyway, let’s get on with the blog. Here are some pieces of vintage media that myself and Jane Grandle have been consuming in the past week
A Television Observation
I love Lucy, but Desi Really Swings!
Written by Jamie Dyer
I have had the box set of I Love Lucy sitting on my DVD shelf for quite a while. My wife and I have occasionally got out a disc or two of the first season of this 1950s sitcom to watch, but have rarely made an effort to delve any deeper. Then the other day, I decided to start watching more regularly.
Despite the age, this show stands up surprisingly well. There is the odd quip or remark that would not fly today, but most of it is fairly harmless. Each episode, of the first season at least, seems to have a loose structure that works pretty well for it. A single narrative runs throughout the episode, which, usually climaxes in a single skit at the end. This is an opportunity for Lucille Ball to do what she does best, a massive amount of physical clowning that is still impressive to watch today.
When I previously watched this show, I was taken by the three more experienced performers in the cast. Lucy alongside Ethel and Fred (played by Vivian Vance and William Fawley respectively) were a comedic force that gelled well together. This time, I found myself more drawn to Desi Arnaz, the stylish Cuban-American actor, musician, producer, and bandleader, who plays Ricky Ricardo.
There is no doubt that Desi was a talented musician and singer. The Latin rhythms brought to the show from his band, plus the odd musical number, must’ve felt different to American audiences: I think it helped rise above the competition of the time. I usually find random songs in the middle of sitcoms a turn-off, but there is a great deal of excitement when Desi bursts into Cuban Pete or Babalu. Desi, in addition to his skills, seems to have been an outstanding comedic actor. He interacts with his co-stars effortlessly; despite possibly being the least experienced, he still manages to stand out.
I am about halfway through season 1 at present. I’m sure the show develops as it goes on, something I look forward to discovering. What is your favourite episode of I Love Lucy?
Music Review
On The Dance Floor with Jack Hammer – Bear Family Records
Review by Jane Grandle
The next instalment in Bear Family Records’ On the Dancefloor With… series, sees a 32-track release on Jack Hammer. A prolific songwriter, Hammer also had a dynamic and attractive vocal style which translated well to recording in a smooth Rhythm & Blues style. 32 such recordings are showcased here, including some tracks recorded under aliases, such as Tommy Hawke.
On the Dance Floor with Jack Hammer contains many energetic tracks which are hard to choose between. I cannot pick out a favourite, as each has its own interest. As a collection, it feels like a very cohesive listening experience. The booklet included contains a 26-page biography by Bill Dahl which adds welcome context to the music. This feels like it would be a lovely, comprehensive introduction to someone who is curious about Jack Hammer’s work.
