Howlin' Wolf – All Night Boogie

Howlin' Wolf – All Night Boogie

A powerful collection of electric Chicago blues from one of the most commanding and influential voices in blues history, All Night Boogie showcases the raw intensity, unmistakable growl and driving rhythms that made Howlin' Wolf a true giant of American music.

Born Chester Arthur Burnett in Mississippi, Howlin' Wolf developed his distinctive musical identity from the foundations of Delta blues before becoming one of the defining artists of the Chicago blues scene. His imposing vocal delivery, visceral harmonica playing and uncompromising approach to the blues helped shape the sound of post-war electric blues and influenced generations of musicians, from blues-rock pioneers to British Invasion bands.

This ten-track collection brings together a selection of Wolf's celebrated recordings, including some of the most enduring compositions associated with his catalogue. 'Killing Floor' is a particularly important highlight, its relentless rhythm and fierce guitar work making it one of the essential recordings in the history of electric blues. 'The Red Rooster', written by legendary blues songwriter Willie Dixon, demonstrates Wolf's ability to transform a relatively stripped-back blues arrangement into something utterly compelling, while 'Wang Dang Doodle' delivers the infectious, party-ready energy that became one of his trademarks.

Elsewhere, 'Built For Comfort', 'Commit A Crime' and 'Do The Do' showcase the earthy grooves, muscular arrangements and commanding performances that define his Chicago sound. 'Highway 49' and 'Poor Boy' add further depth to a selection that moves between hard-driving blues, traditional forms and the looser, groove-led side of Wolf's music.

Howlin' Wolf's recordings occupy a crucial place in the development of modern blues. His work for Chess Records in Chicago helped establish a powerful electric blues vocabulary that would go on to influence artists including The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton and countless blues-rock musicians. His music remains compelling for its combination of raw emotion, rhythmic force and extraordinary personality.

An excellent introduction to the music of a blues legend, All Night Boogie is an appealing collection for fans of classic Chicago blues, electric blues, blues-rock and vintage Chess-era recordings. Essential listening for anyone drawn to the roots of modern rock and the unmistakable sound of Howlin' Wolf.

Tracklist

A1. Cause Of It All (2:45)
A2. Killing Floor (3:25)
A3. Red Rooster (5:20)
A4. Built For Comfort (2:20)
A5. Commit A Crime (4:10)

B1. Do The Do (3:17)
B2. Highway 49 (2:58)
B3. Worried About You (2:48)
B4. Poor Boy (4:10)
B5. Wang Dang Doodle (4:55)