Amos Milburn - Rocks (2009)

The Amos Milburn entry in Bear Family's Jukebox Rocks series is another staple in one of the greatest proto-rhythm & blues, rockabilly, and jump blues on compact disc. Milburn made his name and indeed encapsulated his brief dance with fame on the mighty Aladdin label, run by Eddie Mesner. His finest Aladdin material, recorded between 1949 and 1956 is here, along with one completely unissued side ("We Teenagers Know What We Want" -- an obvious nod to the newly emergent rock & roll). From "Chicken Shack Boogie," and "One, Two, Three Everybody," to "Good Good Whiskey," "Juice Juice Juice," and "Birmingham Bounce," they're all here. Obviously, fans of Milburn will have most of the this material but there are numerous reasons to pick this collection anyway: mainly, it is the finest single-disc collection of his music anywhere; secondly, Bear Family's presentation, which includes detailed liners and a comprehensive historical essay by Bill Dahl, excellent photos, and truly remarkable sound. While much of Milburn's work was issued in the '90s, the 21st century hasn't been nearly so kind. For fans of excellent boogie-woogie, jump blues, and killer historic R&B, this is a collection that cannot be ignored for either the seasoned consumer of this music or the novice looking for an entryway. --Steve Leggett, AllMusicGuide