Anne - where are you?

Can't believe I was the last one to leave a post here -
The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Blues (2005) by David Evans, who is a Professor of Music at the University of Memphis (he directs an ethnomusicology Ph.D. program there); a well recognized 'expert' in the blues as a teacher, researcher (field work), and performer - can't beat his credentials!

About half way through this book - an excellent & short introduction - best for those wanting an 'introduction' to this music; early chapters on the history & types of blues, followed by 'very short' bios on the performers (again, fine for those not familiar w/ these performers); ending chapters on CD recommendations (again brief and basic); in addition, another chapter on further resources, i.e. books, DVDs, web sites, etc.
For those not familiar w/ this music, Evans' book is a good beginning - short & easily understood; there are plenty of other more 'in depth' & 'biographical' sources; also, recommendations for specific recordings can be started w/ Evans' listings, but more detailed books are available; suggestions: 1)
All Music Guide to the Blues: The Definitive Guide to the Blues (2003) - ready for a new edition!; and 2)
MusicHound Blues: The Essential Album Guide (2002) - not as good w/ mixed reviews. Also, just saw that the
Rough Guide series has come out w/ a blues guide - can't comment but will check it out!

