Blues Masters, Vol. 16: More Harmonica Classics;

The harmonica's not exactly an imposing instrument; who would guess that a pocket- sized hunk of metal could be capable of so much expression? Volume 16 of Rhino's Blues Masters series shows just how much; the harp can trade leads with the vocals (Jimmy Cotton Blues Quartet, "Cotton Crop Blues," Junior Wells Chicago Blues Band, "Help Me"), lay down a raw edge (Papa Lightfoot, "Jump the Boogie"), or play smooth as you please (William Clarke, "Pawnshop Bound"). As even a cursory examination of the above performers will indicate, the harmonica is well represented in all styles of blues; Jimmy Reed, Sonny Boy Williamson, J. Geils, and Howlin' Wolf appear here as well. As capable as a horn or guitar of carrying the lead, and infinitely more portable, the harmonica may well be one of the most expressive and versatile instruments out there, and More Harmonica Classics offers several excellent examples. --Genevieve Williams