The death of Allen Toussaint on November 15th 2015 probably brings to a close the greatest period of musical history in New Orleans. For over 50 years he produced, played on and wrote the greatest volume of classic R&B you could imagine. This collection covers less than five years of his remarkable career, beginning with his first solo recordings in 1958 under the name Al Tousan and includes his 1958 album The Wild Sound Of New Orleans Piano whilst tracks 21-32 concentrate on his work as a session musician. Professor Longhair was one of New Orleans most influential pianists of the era and certainly the most important influence on Allen Toussaint. Listen to the opening track "Whirlaway" and it's B side "Happy Times" and you won't fail to hear Professor Longhair's influence. This is just a small but important collection of some of his earliest work which, just like his later and more famous songs and productions stand as testament to his genius. A superb collection.