Scratch 'n Twist

Night Train takes a rare opportunity to showcase rockin' and rollin' Rhythm and Blues with the release of Jimmy Spruill "Scratch 'N Twist." Guitarist Spruill was the possessor of one of the most signature guitar styles of the 50's and early 60's, yet he was only a session man until his explosive solo powered the number one pop hit Wilbur Harrison's "Kansas City" begot a modest career as a leader. Over three years in execution, Night Train has assiduously collected the handful of tracks he did as a leader and combined them with tracks, though recorded as a side man, contain solos so striking and singular, that the sessions might as well have been Spruill's own. Artists he accompanies include The Dan-Dees, Little Danny, Walkin' Willie, Lynn Taylor and the Peachettes, Jim and Bob Harrison, Horace Cooper, Charles Walker, June Bateman and Larry Dale. Although Spruill passed in 1996, Night Train was able to interview family and friends as well as research existing text to come up with an informative set of notes that, alongside the music, offer an unprecedented look into an overlooked talent of unique and impressive proportions.