Total Cat Mojo

Sonny Rodgers learned guitar from his father and was influenced by B.B. King, Robert Nighthawk and Muddy Waters. After forming his first band at the age of 17, he recorded as accompanist to Forest City Joe Pugh in 1959. Two years later, Rodgers settled in Minneapolis, beginning a long association with Mojo Burford. He also recorded with Lazy Bill Lucas. In the early 70s Rodgers had a spell as guitarist in Muddy Waters’ band, and after some years out of music, he formed his own band in the 80s, winning several music awards in Minnesota. His Blue Moon single ‘Big Leg Woman/Cadillac Blues’ was voted ‘Blues Single Of 1990’ in the international W.C. Handy awards. Rodgers only made one full album, which was highly acclaimed on its release, and tragically coincided with his death on 7 May 1990, just prior to a tour of the UK.

The expansion into and incorporation of jazz in the electronic scene is a concept far from new, but its impact is best felt on a disc like Coco. Parov Stelar approaches the double album from an innovative standpoint, dismissing the habit of ignoring less prominent tracks on an album by creating something of enviable proportions. Jazz and swing shine through on Coco, the bold brass and beautiful arrangements blending with minimal house and electro elements, melancholic piano and sax. With six singers from different genres making appearances, Stelar creates a melodious patchwork of sounds across 26 tracks…

This collection of 8 discs may be the most comprehensive collection of its type. There are a total of 120 songs from almost as many artists. There are a few artists represented more than once, with The Kingston Trio represented by 9 songs, every one memorable. The era represented by these songs spans about ten years. The earliest songs in this collection date back to the late 1950's. The latest songs date to about 1968.