Charley Patton - Primeval Blues Rags & Gospel Songs (CD)

All Music Guide

This singledisc selection from Yazoo is interesting because it bypasses some of Charley Patton's bestknown sides like "Down the Dirt Road Blues" and "High Sheriff Blues" in favor of presenting a more versatile Patton capable of handling gospel and even pop fare (check out the take here of "Some Summer Day" to hear a relatively softer and gentler Charley Patton). Since Patton's rhythms and overall approach can be repetitive at times, a single disc like Primeval Blues, Rags and Gospel Songs that mixes things up a bit makes a perfect introduction for casual listeners, but Patton's recorded work is both the Big Bang and the epicenter of countryblues, so going a little deeper and springing for one of the several fine box sets available is well worth the time and expense.

- Steve Leggett, All Music Guide