Blues Essentials [CEMA Special Markets] (1996)

About this title: While longtime blues fans will find little of interest here, listeners new to the music may discover a wealth of classics in this budget-line compilation, a ten-track collection featuring giants like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, T-Bone Walker and Elmore James. Although the fidelity varies wildly from track to track, the overall quality of the performances is fine, and with any luck the cumulative effect will inspire neophytes to investigate the featured artists in much greater detail. Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide

Tracks:

1. Hide Away [King/Thompson]
2. Katie Mae [Hopkins/Hopkins]
3. Moanin' at Midnight [Howlin' Wolf/Taub]
4. Standing at the Crossroads [James/Josea]
5. Mean Old World [Walker]
6. Black Nights [Fulson/Washington]
7. Walkin' Thru the Park [Morganfield/Waters]
8. Come Back Baby [Hooker/Besman]
9. That's All Right [Rogers]
10. How Long [Carr]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.