Forrest City Joe And Polka Dot Slim – Downhome Delta Harmonica – DeltaCat DC-1003

Forrest City Joe (Joe Bennie Pugh) was a blues singer and harmonica player who hailed from Hughes, Arkansas, and Polka Dot Slim (Willie Monroe Vincent) was likewise a blues vocalist and harmonicist who came from Woodville, Mississippi.  Some may also recall Polka Dot Slim when he recorded under the name “Mr. Calhoun.”

Forrest City Joe’s style was deeply rooted in that of John Lee “Sonny Boy #1” Williamson, while Polka Dot Slim’s had a coarser character; some may say with more in-one’s-face directness.  Nonetheless, the influence of the Delta region comes through loud-and-clear across the expanse of this generous 25-cut collection (17 by Forrest City Joe and eight by Polka Dot Slim).

What makes this stunning collection so interesting is that it summarizes the blues of two very gifted artists who, like many of the genre, did not bask in the glow if stardom despite their broad capabilities.  This is amazing blues work on-par with many who achieved greater acclaim than either of these two ever did.

The blues has always been a very deep well, and one of the great pleasures of being a devoted fan of the music is being continually surprised by otherwise unknown practitioners. 

This one will have true blues fans shaking their heads in disbelief at the level of blues ripe here for consideration.

This CD is considered essential without any hesitation due to its astonishing quality and Delta purity!  It effortlessly rivals so much of what is considered top-shelf post-war blues harmonica-based music.

Seek this collection out!