Jerry McCain - American Roots: Blues (2002)

No matter how old he is, or how long of a layoff from music he has blues-harmonica master Jerry McCain always manages to put fresh energy and original songs into his music. This CD collects material from McCain's tenure with Ichiban which produced four fine albums. McCain rarely does covers, and there is not a single one on this collection. Many of the songs deal with issues typical with blues singer (women, feelin' bad etc.) but many also deal with subjects not common with blues singers (crack-houses, suing people, being spoiled etc.) which is a pleasant change. McCain's harmonica playing is showcased on all the tracks as well, especially on the six-and-a-half minute instrumental "Tumblin' in the Sea". "Blues Tribute" is a nice tribute to some of McCain's lost heroes and friends in the blues world.
It's a shame Jerry McCain isn't the superstar he should be. His songwriting has always been fantastic and many of his 50's recordings should've been hits, while his harmonica playing ranks with the best in the world. But hey, the music world is an unpredictable and sometimes unfair thing. Hopefully this review may convince a few people to look into this one-of-a-kind blues legend.