Chronological Dave Bartholomew: 1952-1955 is the third volume of Dave Bartholomew's work in the Chronological Classics series. As such, it is once again packed with R&B smokers, a few of which have become classics in their own right. The most obvious here is "Four Winds Blow," written with Fats Domino. Both versions of the tune are strong but very different. Domino has that smooth delivery even when he is pounding the hell out of the piano, and one thinks that this is a snappy, happy, and relaxed affair. The one by Bartholomew is wild, wooly and crazy, just stompin'. While everything here is terrific, there are some real standouts, such as the pianist's re-interpretation of "Stardust" that's big and bold with killer brass. "Jump Children," the screaming electric guitar in "Another Mule," and "Every Night and Every Day," as well as the humorous "I'm an Old Cowhand From a Blues Band," with its in your face lyrics, boogie-woogie piano and strutting lead guitar lines. Bartholomew's lyrics are simply wonderful, full of wit, sparkle, and sass.. ~ Thom Jurek