The Centennial Collection

Having cut my teeth on the 1990 Complete Collection, I have to say that is how I remember Robert Johnson's voice. However, with this new collection, you get remarkably improved sound clarity. Johnson's voice feels closer and less like you are listening to his music through a thin wall as in the 1990 release. The downside to the clarity is the record noise is more audible. While audible in the 1990 release, a lot of the noise was absorbed by the muffled sound. All in all, I like this version better. The music sounds fresher and less like you need to replace the needle on your record player (trust me kids, it is a real thing). If given the choice between the two versions, I would go for this one over the later. You can really hear the tenor of Johnson's devil blessed guitar and dynamic range adds to the overall performance.

This is the best music ever recorded by a single individual. I've been listening to RLJ for 20+ years now and never tire of it. This remastered centennial collection is revelatory for its sound quality compared to the "complete recordings."

This isn't just great American music, it is American history. RJ is the grandfather of rock n roll. This man deserves for respect. Delta blues at its finest.

Even if you have the previous release, the sound quality of the Centennial Collection is so greatly improved if you love this music you must get it again. It's that good. It also has improved sequencing and the alterate Traveling Riverside Blues. As for the music, it is fascinating and phenomenal to hear RJ work his vocal, lyrical and guitar playing magic - it is not hyperbole when Keith Richards, Rory Block and Eric Clapton describe RJ as the greatest bluesman ever. It was recorded in 1938 but like all great art it is timeless.