Clifton Chenier
's mid-'50s singles for Specialty were among his rawest and simplest; they were short ditties with rippling accordion and gritty vocals on top and driving rhythms and surging instrumental accompaniment underneath. That's the formula displayed on this 20-cut presentation of
Chenier
's early work, where he was often backed by guitarists
Phillip Walker
or
Cornelius Green
(
Lonesome Sundown
), with his brother Cleveland handling rubboard duties. This is
in his stylistic infancy, building and nurturing what ultimately became a signature sound. ~ Ron Wynn