In the history of Chicago blues artists, there are the heavyweights, the second-tier performers, and the unknowns, all deserving of notice. This double-CD collection pays attention to all three strata levels, and though the upper echelon is not strongly emphasized (you do get
Hubert Sumlin,
Jimmy Rogers, and
Little Walter), the second level with
Louisiana Red,
Eddie C. Campbell,
Carey Bell,
Jimmy Dawkins, and
Phil Guy is well documented. The more obscure musicians -- like
Lefty Dizz,
Lucky Lopez Evans,
Doc Evans,
J.T. Burks, Tré, and
John Lee Granderson (any relation to Detroit Tiger outfielder Curtis?) -- make this compilation precious and desirable. Everything is well recorded, punchy, and less likely to be found anywhere else. Kudos to JSP for this one. ~ Michael G. Nastos