Roy "Professor Longhair" Byrd was a largely forgotten New Orleans bluesman when this album of his '40s and '50s Atlantic sides appeared in 1972. By decade's end, he was justly celebrated as a thoroughly one-of-a-kind fathe... more »r of rock & roll. These tunes, many initially issued as singles, showcase Longhair's droll vocals and unmatched sense of syncopation. "In the Night," "Tipitina," and "She Walks Right In" are among the hippest things you'll ever hear--no matter what kind of music you like. --Rickey Wright« less
Roy "Professor Longhair" Byrd was a largely forgotten New Orleans bluesman when this album of his '40s and '50s Atlantic sides appeared in 1972. By decade's end, he was justly celebrated as a thoroughly one-of-a-kind father of rock & roll. These tunes, many initially issued as singles, showcase Longhair's droll vocals and unmatched sense of syncopation. "In the Night," "Tipitina," and "She Walks Right In" are among the hippest things you'll ever hear--no matter what kind of music you like. --Rickey Wright
One of the greatest masterpieces of the 20th Century
03/01/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is one of the handful of albums from the 20th century in any or all genres of music which deserves the description "masterpiece". It is simply fantastic, and hugely influential on much music which followed. Many cuts on this album hit like a thunderbolt. Longhair was an original and a genius, and this is his best stuff. I cannot say enough enthusiastic things about this album--words fail me. Plus, it's a whole lot of fun! If this music doesn't make you tap your feet, check your pulse."
Sound quality: rebuttal
Norman Westbrook | Kamloops, British Columbia Canada | 02/20/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"To quibble about the sound quality (as a previous reviewer saw fit to) of these classic tracks is perhaps expecting too much from "modern" sound technology. I can only imagine what opinions would be forthcoming on the Delmark live Magic Sam releases! 6 STARS for the man I would consider to be the father of the New Orleans rock and blues sound !!"
An absolute classic
S J Buck | Kent, UK | 06/30/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"These recordings date from 1949 and 1953 and are essential recordings for lovers of New Orleans music. Professor Longhair is the Godfather of modern New Orleans Piano and here he is on top form.
Playing with him is a star-studded collection of New Orleans players, some of the better known are:
Lee Allen - Tenor Sax
Red Tyler - Baritone Sax
Earl Palmer - Drums
The recordings were produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler, the kingpins of Atlantic records. Of course what counts is the music and in this department you are guarenteed a good time. Fess is steaming on "Ball the Wall" and Lee Allens tenor sax solo is blisteringly good. There are no weak tracks on this album and all of Fess's best known songs on here. Enjoy...
"
BY FAR HIS BEST
Paul Thorne | Gothenburg Sweden | 10/11/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For me these Atlantic tracks are by far his best recordings.I have the LP but felt I must purchase the CD as well.Backed by Dave Bartholomews best musicians and produced by the excellent Atlantic Records team of Jerry Wexler,Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson it can't get any better!!What an excellent mix!!!These Atlantic greats should have made more trips to New Orleans (sorry Cosimo!)"