Alligator Records Crucial Chicago Blues

Crucial Chicago Blues is a 12-track anthology of the Chicago-based label’s hometown artists. Harp players such as Carey Bell, James Cotton, and Junior Wells share space with guitarists Fenton Robinson, Magic Slim, Son Seals, and Lonnie Brooks, who nearly steals the show with his solo on a live “Cold Lonely Nights.” Muddy Water’s pianist, Pinetop Perkins, is the only keyboard entry and oldest performer. In fact, the album should put “contemporary” in its title, since the classic blues performers most fans associate with Chicago — such as Otis Rush, Muddy Waters, and Howlin’ Wolf — were never Alligator artists and hence are not included.  Tracks: 1. Low Down And Dirty, 2. Ernestine, 3. Somebocy Changed The Lock, 4. Take Five, 5. Cotton Picking Blues, 6. Let Me Stir In Your Pot, 7. Mama, Talk To You Daughter, 8. Cold Lonely Nights, 9. Take It Easy, Baby, 10. My Mind Is Gone, 11. 23 Hours Too Long, 12. I Hear Some Blues Downstairs.

PLEDGE and SUPPORT BLUES!