Lightnin’ Slim – Bell Ringer (1965)

 

 

 

 

 Lightnin’ Slim – Bell Ringer (1965) | Swamp Blues Classic Album Review

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excello records 1965– LP-8004

 

 notes:

Bell Ringer (1965) is one of the most essential collections of recordings
 by Lightnin’ Slim, a defining figure of Louisiana swamp blues. Known 
for his raw guitar tone, hypnotic rhythms, and stripped-down arrangements, 
Lightnin’ Slim helped shape a sound that remains influential decades later.
This album brings together some of his most powerful tracks, offering a 
deep dive into the gritty and atmospheric world of 1960s swamp blues.
Released in 1965, Bell Ringer compiles key recordings from Lightnin’ Slim’s
 most productive years. Backed by tight, minimal instrumentation and often 
featuring Lazy Lester on harmonica, the album captures 
the essence of Excello Records’ signature sound.
Rather than polished studio production, the album thrives on its raw, almost
 hypnotic feel—where repetition, groove, and mood take center stage.

credits:

Lead artist
Lightnin' Slim – vocals, electric guitar
Frequent accompanists on these sessions
Because Bell Ringer compiles multiple singles, personnel vary slightly
 track to track, but the core backing style is extremely minimal, 
often just guitar + harmonica + light rhythm.
Lazy Lester – harmonica (on many tracks; a defining collaborator)
Slim Harpo – occasional harmonica/guitar association within the same Excello circle
Possible / occasional rhythm section (not always credited)
Unnamed or loosely documented bass and drums, sometimes absent entirely
Sessions often used ad-hoc local musicians from Baton Rouge/Crowley scene
Producer / engineer: J. D. 'Jay' Miller
Studio: Miller’s studio in Crowley, Louisiana 

(often referred to as Feature/Excello studio)
Label: Excello Records
Recording period: mainly spring 1954 onward through late 1950s
These sessions are among the earliest fully formed examples 

of Louisiana swamp blues.

tracklist:

All tracks are credited to Lightnin’ Slim (Otis Verries Hicks) 

in Excello’s publishing system.

tracklist:

A1        Love Me Mama    2:30
A2        She's My Crazy Little Baby    2:38
A3        Have Mercy On Me Baby    2:16
A4        Wintertime Blues    2:37
A5        If You Ever Need Me    3:04
A6        Mean Ole Lonesome Train    2:57
B1        Baby Please Come Back    2:29
B2        Love Is Just A Gamble    2:45
B3        Somebody Knockin'    3:02
B4        You Give Me The Blues    2:42
B5        Don't Start Me Talkin'    2:40
B6        You Move Me Baby    2:29

 

 

 

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