To call this collection of tunes from blues legend definitive is not a stretch by any means, as it is a cohesive, thoughtful, chronological collection that accurately represents all of his changes and phases through six decades. Overall, it is a mellow compilation that showcases many of 's laid-back songs, several with longtime partner . It's sprinkled with the many all-star bluesmen he has collaborated with over the years, and is tastefully programmed to offer what is essentially cream of the crop blues from one of its enduring legends. Your hear music issued on singles, LPs and CDs recorded from 1958 through 2004 via various recordings done for the , , and labels. It really is a comprehensive overview of 's best known songs, and gives fans or neophytes an accurate big picture of why remains one of the most influential artists in American popular music. The CD starts in slow grind mode with classics like in the style of with all-stars and , the most well-known with pianist ; in his first teaming with from 1960; the downhearted with four horns and on the organ; and the all-time great showtime tune with ' from the LP of the same name from 1966 that has become synonymous with electric Chicago. 's distinctive solo guitar style is front and center on the intro of alongside the immortal pianist , while the sole track from is a toned-down acoustic number with and pianist from that rare recording. A funky R&B number from in 1972 features, , saxophonist , while 's standard, again with live at Montrueux, Switzerland, languishes over its time. Brother joins in a two-guitar tandem for 's eight-minute, low-key slow jam and the rock & roll styled Another two live tracks, the upbeat shuffle of 's featuring 's nine-piece , respectively. The final selection, with is a heavy contemporary stomper that shows a new attitude toward the blues that steers away from authenticity, but more toward a youth oriented audience. This CD is recommended without reservation, a great single CD overview of 's soul and spirit as a true pioneer of the blues. ~ Michael G. Nastos