Rootin' & tootin' : The New Orleans R&B of Smiley Lewis : the complete Imperial singles As & Bs, 1950-1961

"The failure of more of these singles to take off is puzzling given the quality of the compositions that are largely collaborations by [Dave] Bartholomew and Lewis or Pearl (a.k.a. Earl) King, the excellent instrumental backing and Lewis' inimitable vocals ... Lewis' vocals are distinguished by a powerful, booming projection and a slightly nasal tone and call to mind the great blues shouters, like Big Joe Turner and Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson ... There are so many outstanding instrumental solos that punctuate the great vocals delivered by Lewis; however, there are no detailed credits to identify the individual players on each track - information that would enhance a "complete" set like this. Otherwise, Smiley Lewis is, without a doubt, a New Orleans R&B legend who is deserving of wider recognition".