Various Artists – Masters Of The Delta Blues – The Friends Of Charlie Patton – Yazoo 2002 

There is simply no other way to describe this awe-inspiring collection of Delta blues than this: Here’s the ultimate overview to the Delta blues style.  Assembled for this indispensable collection are 23 exceptional cuts from an absolute “Who’s Who” of Delta blues dating from the era of the mid-1920s to the mid-1930s.  It is uncommon when an anthology summarizes the true core of a particular style and sense of an art form.  Without qualification, such is the case with this CD.  This compendium rightly embodies the strength of Delta blues during its most creative years.

The listener will be indulged in many interpretations of the Delta blues via this assemblage, and even for the most seasoned of blues collectors, having this music available on one disc is a spoiling.  There is such a multitude of classic Delta blues here to savor that choosing highlights is a moot point. 

With one listen, the blues fan will surely count this among their favorite documents of the halcyon days of the Delta blues.

This broad chronicle of the Delta blues’ heyday is essential and to be celebrated. 

Below is the compilation’s running song listing. 

Song Titles

Kid Bailey

• Rowdy Blues

Tommy Johnson

• Big Fat Mama Blues

Bukka White

• I Am In The Heavenly Way

Willie Brown

• Future Blues

Ishmon Bracey

• Brown Mama Blues

Louise Johnson

• On The Wall

Son House

• Walking Blues (unissued test)

Tommy Johnson

• Canned Heat Blues

Bukka White

• Promise True And Grand

Kid Bailey

• Mississippi Bottom Blues

Tommy Johnson

• Maggie Campbell Blues

Son House

• My Black Mama Blues (part 1)
• My Black Mama Blues (part 2)

Bertha Lee

• Yellow Blues

Louise Johnson

• Long Way From Home

Willie Brown

• M & O Blues

Tommy Johnson

• Button Up Shoes (take 1, unissued test)

Bertha Lee

• Mind Reader Blues

Tommy Johnson

• Lonesome Home Blues (take 1, unissued test)

Son House

• Dry Spell Blues (part 1)
• Dry Spell Blues (part 2)
• Preachin’ The Blues (part 1)
• Preachin’ The Blues (part 2)