Billy Boy Arnold, John Primer, Billy Branch and Lurrie Bell Entertainment " Chicago Blues: A Living History" (Raisin Music) Released April 21, 2009

The only way to properly represent that state of mind is to pay tribute to the past, to embrace it. That is why the newly released and Grammy nominated “Chicago Blues: A Living History” works so well. Separated onto two discs the album encompasses the best of Chicago blues 1940 to present.

Interestingly the album doesn’t go for pop favorites. Out of the 21 tracks represented only two or three of them are still heavily played. That actually works in favor of the album and says a lot about those producing the compilation. If you are going for a crowd favorite than you go for the well-known material. But if you are trying to educate, entertain and make a statement you grab a shovel and dig up the past.

The album really shines on the first disc. Opening up with the “My Little Machine” from 1940. Considered the first blues recording to use drums it started a style that would later be picked up by the legends of the genre. The Billy Boy Arnold classic sets the bar for the rest of the album and sets it high.

Once the album gets off and running you really start to feel the soul of the blues genre. Moody and gritty the songs highlight some truly fantastic songs from artists that might not get the respect they deserve. Without a doubt the standout track on the first disc comes from Maceo Merriweather’s “Chicago Breakdown.” The only instrumental on the compilation the track hints at a wild and rambunctious piano style that would eventually become a trademark of greats like Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis.

From there it merges right into McKinley Morganfield’s “Feel Like Going Home” a raw and edgy track from 1948 that will take you to the grittier side of the blues. Disc one closes with Walter Jacob’s “Hate To See You Go” from 1955, a track steeped in a sound that would soon be known as purely Chicago blues.

Disc two wastes no time in getting down to business. Mel London’s “Sugar Sweet” from 1955 is a prime example of the newly emerging rock n’ roll. This is never clearer than in Billy Boy Arnold’s “I Wish You Would” from the same year. With heavy harmonica and a stead rhythm and blues beat the track is an obvious influence for future artists like the Rolling Stones and Aerosmith.

The entire album is a masterpiece of music. By combining the work of past legends with a talented modern band the compilation manages to enter new territory. It is no surprise that the album was nominate for a Grammy and, as a critic, I wish it the best of luck. Whether you are new to the blues and looking to learn more about the genre or you have lived it all your life this album is for you.

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