AMG Review of Complete Recorded Works, Vol. 6 (1939-1941)

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Pianist/singer Roosevelt Sykes is heard at his prime throughout these 25 selections, all of which are duets with drummer Big Sid Catlett. Sykes was always an expressive singer and a powerful pianist, at times sounding like two different performers who were nevertheless very much attuned to each other. With Catlett offering tasteful and swinging support, Sykes is particularly effective on "44 Blues," "New Mistake in Life," "I've Made a Change," "Unlucky 13 Blues," "Knock Me Out," and "47th Street Jive." Fans of 1930s/'40s blues will want all of the Roosevelt Sykes discs in Document's valuable series.