I love Little Milton. I have since I first heard “Feel So Bad.” Any song that starts with the lines “Feel so bad..like a ball game on a rainy day” is alright with me. That song and 15 others recorded for Chess from 1965 to 1969 are included in this set, which is part of MCA’s anniversary of Chess series.

I’ve always thought part of the recognition problem for Little Milton was his versatility. He handles soul (“We’re Gonna Make It”), funk (“Just a Little Bit”), and the blues with equal skill. His vocals are usually nothing short of brilliant, and his guitar playing, though pushed into the background on most of his Chess work, is excellent, with a strong B.B. King influence.

There’s not a bad cut on this, and in fact, most of them are killers. The supporting cast helps too, featuring the likes of Donny Hathaway, Phil Upchurch, and Maurice White. A great addition to the CDs celebrating the birthday of one of America’s great record labels.