Oopin' California Blues 1954-1962

Although generally known as GEORGE "HARMONICA" SMITH, our man also recorded under other guises, e.g. Little Walter Jr, Harmonica King and George Allen. He likewise played on sessions for other artists, including Blues heavies like Otis Spann and Champion Jack Dupree. An influential harp maestro, George was one of the first men to amplify his harmonica, using an amplifier he'd salvaged from an old movie projector. He also effectively pioneered the "West Coast" harmonica sound, fusing together Kansas City swing and Chicago Blues. George was an enormous influence on the next generation of harp players, notably Rod Piazza and William Clarke, both of whom he worked with extensively. This compilation anthologises Smith's recording career between 1954 and 1962, juxtaposing his own recordings alongside selected highlights of his session work.