| These recordings made in 1957 by Erwin Helfer are an important and essential collection of blues and boogie woogie piano. Included are performances by Speckled Red a renowned master from St. Louis, Doug Suggs (Chicago), James Robinson, and the first pianist at Preservation Hall in New Orleans; the great Billie Pierce. Originally issued as an LP for Helfer's "Tone" records in 1957, this collection includes seven newly discovered tracks and an interview with Doug Suggs by Helfer. “The esteemed boogie woogie and blues veteran, who hasn’t been captured on record nearly enough, delivers a glowing collection of solo performances and duets with saxophonist John Brumbach. Ranging far and wide – the classics include Percy Mayfield’s “Please Send Me Someone To Love” and Duke Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood”, the Helfer originals “Homage to Pete Johnson” and the memorably titled “Pooch Piddle” – the album luxuriates in tradition without giving an inch to it.” Lloyd Sachs, Entertainment Critic, Chicago Sun-Times January 6, 2002 |