AMG Review of Best of the Vanguard Years

Cub Koda
All Music Guide

This 20-track collection of Musselwhite's early days shows that even back then the man could blow effectively in a variety of settings. In addition to the groundbreaking recordings he made with his own group, this also includes Musselwhite backing John Hammond on two tracks and a duet with Walter Horton from the Chicago, The Blues Today! sessions -- nice additions. Highlights include "Chicken Shack," "Cristo Redemptor," "Cha Cha the Blues," and "I Don't Play." A nice introduction to this blues veteran.