Lightnin’ Slim – Rooster Blues/Bell Ringer – Ace Records CDCHD 517

What a gripping double dose of swamp blues this CD affords!

Ace Records really offered blues fans everywhere a pearl of a disc when they paired Slim’s 1960 Excello Records release Rooster Blues with 1965’s Excello Records Bell Ringer collection.  With all but three of Slim’s tunes each clocking in under three minutes, and those three only slightly eclipsing that threshold, the entirety of the sterling selections here from Ace’s 1994 compilation ideally capture the swamp blues magic of a bluesman whose still-subdued prominence still has not equaled his captivating artistry.

One of Louisiana’s supreme blues masters, his earthy, boggy brand of swamp blues, especially in combination with the harmonica stylings of Lazy Lester were, in this reviewer’s estimation, certain of the finest post-war offerings.  Slim’s blues were unblemished from the influences of the more urban, loud, and brash brand of blues; they were authentic, dripping with feeling, and powerful statements.  Just listen to “Winter Time Blues,” “Rooster Blues,” and “You Move Me Baby.”

Perhaps you’re a fan of Slim Harpo, or Katie Webster, or maybe Lonesome Sundown.  If so, it’s time to add the Lightnin’ Slim swamp blue ammo into your blues cannon.

Essential without qualification!