We feel fortunate to have located these rare sides from George Smith, former Muddy Waters band member and father of the 'West Coast meets Chicago' school of harmonica players. A major influence on modern blues harmonica masters like Rod Piazza, Kim Wilson, William Clarke and Paul Delay, this legend was woefully under-recorded.

George is backed on several cuts by Rod Piazza's band, 'The Mighty Flyers'. This is the first time this material has appeared on CD and includes several previously unreleased tracks.

"George Smith was a giant on the harmonica. He was an innovator, one of the unsung, unheralded heroes of the instrument. He was also a hell of a nice guy, a person of generosity and good humor." - Charlie Musselwhite

"If you look at modern blues harp players, you'll find a little George Smith in all of them. His physical appearance and stature were matched only by his presence and attack on harmonica." - Rod Piazza

"George was a great player and a great vocalist. He's really one of the underrated players. You can hear his influence in everything I play. There'll never be anyone like him again!" - Kim Wilson

Tracks

Blowing The Blues (Real Audio sample)
Yes, Baby
Tight Dress (Real Audio sample)
Times Won't Be Hard Always
Good Things (Real Audio sample)
Goin' Down Slow
Last Chance
Boogie'n With George
Bad Start
Astatic Stomp
I Left My Heart In San Francisco
Sunbird (Real Audio sample)
Chicago City (Real Audio sample)
Peg O My Heart