Various Boppin' By The Bayou - More Dynamite (CD)

(Ace Records)  28 Louisana killer dillers (18 unreleased) with 16 page booklet.

Another package of explosive rockers from the vaults of South Louisiana’s record men: J.D. Miller, Eddie Shuler, Carol Rachou and Charles “Dago” Redlich.

J.D. Miller’s tape vaults in Crowley continue to yield previously undetected classics in all the forms of music he recorded. He was a perfectionist in his work and taped artists repeatedly to get the very best from them; he also built and rebuilt a number of recording studios in his relentless search for the ultimate sound.

In Lake Charles, Eddie Shuler’s studios and sound were far more basic. The music he recorded is all about “feel” and, for all of us that love South Louisiana music, these primitive Goldband sessions are a delight.

Carol Rachou’s tape vaults in Lafayette are a new venture for us, and our first foray is more than promising. His studios were held in high regard, used by artists and label owners who lacked facilities of their own. The La Louisianne studio is structurally and acoustically as it ever was, and still as popular, but it is now operated by his son, David, with updated recording equipment.

Charles “Dago” Redlich operated his Viking label in the early 60s from his record shop in Crowley with the South Louisiana swamp pop sound to the fore. His recording sessions took place primarily at brother-in-law J.D. Miller’s studio. His biggest successes came with his Johnnie Allan discs, featured on the Ace CD “Promised Land” (CDCHD 380).

(Ian Saddler)