This 24-song collection undoubtedly overlaps with some of the U.S.-issued Excello material -- including the same alternate takes of "Rooster Blues" and "It's Mighty Crazy" -- but there's just enough that they don't share to make this worth a look, if not a purchase, by owners of the U.S. material. The sound, as is usual with Ace, is excellent, and the stuff is worthy of inclusion with the best of
Slim's work. Among the best tracks here are two outtakes unique to this set at this time, "I'm Leavin' You Baby," on which
Slim steps over into
Howlin' Wolf territory ("Moanin' at Midnight," etc.), and "Sweet Little Woman," where he crosses swords with
Sonny Boy Williamson II.
–
Bruce Eder, Rovi