Blues Masters, Vol. 16: More Harmonica Classics
The harmonica's not exactly an imposing instrument; who would guess that a pocket- sized hunk of metal could be capable of so much expression? Volume 16 of Rhino'sBlues  Mastersseries shows just how much; the harp can trade leads with the vocals (Jimmy Cotton  Blues Quartet, "Cotton Crop Blues," Junior Wells Chicago Blues Band, "Help  Me"), lay down a raw edge (Papa Lightfoot, "Jump the Boogie"), or play  smooth as you please (William Clarke, "Pawnshop Bound"). As even a cursory  examination of the above performers will indicate, the harmonica is well represented in all styles  of blues; Jimmy Reed, Sonny Boy Williamson, J. Geils, and Howlin' Wolf appear here as well.  As capable as a horn or guitar of carrying the lead, and infinitely more portable, the harmonica  may well be one of the most expressive and versatile instruments out there, andMore  Harmonica Classicsoffers several excellent examples. --Genevieve Williams