Not to be mixed up with the author of novels such as From Here to Eternity, vocalist and guitarist James Jones was a member of a country and rockabilly combo called the Rhythm Kings who recorded in the early '60s for the Brooke label. An instrumental entitled "Boppin' Guitar" is one of several tracks by this group that has been chosen for inclusion on compilations such as Ultra Rare Rockin' and Boppin' on the Chief label.
This particular track is performed in the key of B flat, a sign of the swing and bebop influence that is an essential part of the rockabilly sound -- or simply an indication that the band was tuned a full tone below scale or the studio tape recorders were running too slow. Jones was active in the group, which also included lead guitarist Ed Elliot for several years. In 1961 the group was augmented by an additional guitarist, Jerry Kerlee of the Royal Rhythms.
