Most of this 26-song compilation is devoted to two sessions from the 1980s. The first eleven tracks are from 1982, with a band including
Michael and David Doucet. It's spirited Cajun music with a relaxed and happy feel, with guitarist Preston Manuel taking most of the vocals, and no, it's not the kind of stuff that will stop you in your tracks and compel you to bring out your wallet. It's just representative, well-played Cajun music, and get s more interesting on the eight selections from 1987, mostly because Papa Cairo's steel guitar (and occasional weathered vocal) adds texture and personality. The final six cuts date from 1949-50, and have a little more of a Western swing and honky-tonk feel than the modern material; Cairo's steel guitar soloing is outstanding on "Chere Petite." ~ Richie Unterberger