Roosevelt Sykes – Rock It – Wolf CD-WBJ 004 

The 18 cuts on this Roosevelt Sykes collection represent a nine-year prolific period of the blues piano master’s output, all of which further enlighten upon the magnificence of his blues readings. 

Amassing Sykes’ vital recording days from the post-World War II period of 1946 to 1954, these peak selections find Sykes in numerous partnerships with Dave Bartholomew, “Sax” Mallard, and Johnny Morton, plus their individual ensembles.  Sykes was proficient in blending layered chord structures and meticulous treble work, occasionally fringing on jazz outlines.  It is fascinating to hear him work in group settings.  As is known, Sykes was also a high-output solo blues artiste as well; however, this assortment of his blues visions is an impressive first glimpse into his talents for the uninitiated.  And for those more familiar with Sykes’ broad blues skill set, it cements his station as one of the blues’ principal piano giants.

Highly-essential work, indeed!

Below are the running sone titles on this breathtaking CD.

Song Titles

• Until The Cows Come Home
• Drivin’ Wheel
• Living In A Different World
• Wintertime Blues
• Stop Her Poppa
• Blues ’N’ Boogie
• My Baby Is Gone
• That’s My Gal
• Rock It
• Candy Man Blues
• Why Should I Cry
• Green Onion Top
• Sweet Old Chicago
• You Can’t Be Lucky All The Time
• Hush Oh Hush
• Crazy Fox
• Little Sam
• Anytime Is The Right Time