AMG Review of Complete Recorded Works, Vol. 7 (1941-1944)

Thom Owens
All Music Guide

Roosevelt Sykes, one of the best prewar blues pianists, is heard on this chronological Document compilation from a nearly four-year period of his career. With support from drummer Big Sid Catlett, bassist Alfred Elkins, and guitarist Ted Summit, Sykes enthuses over a host of his original songs, along with a sprightly version of Fats Waller's "Honeysuckle Rose." Fans of piano blues will love this edition in Document's lengthy series of reissues, though beginners are advised to head first for the Roosevelt Sykes (1929-1941) compilation on Story of the Blues.