Founded in 1971 by Bruce Iglauer, the Chicago-based Alligator Records has nearly 300 releases to date. It's the world's largest independent blues label, working with countless musicians large and small. Over the years it has racked up many accolades, including more than 100 Blues Music Awards and several GRAMMY™ awards. On this 15-track collection, we get a slew of rollicking numbers courtesy of assorted bluesmen (and women) from Chicago and beyond. Contributors include the late, great Koko Taylor ("Bad Rooster"), Magic Slim ("Stranded on the Highway"), Eddie "The Chief" Clearwater ("Hypnotized"), and A.C. Reid ("Moving Out of the Ghetto"). Whether you're a dyed-in-the-wool blues aficionado or a casual fan who enjoys vivid storytelling, raw guitar chops, and wailing harmonicas, this truly has something for everyone, showcasing plenty of obscure but highly talented artists who fly way under the Clear Channel radar. Highly recommended.