Here, we skim off the cream from one of the most remarkable series of duets in the history of recording. The list of partners
Chet Atkins has recorded with is astonishing in its breadth, and this LP only covers the list up to 1976, with not a single weak or even middling selection. Without batting an eye, he can engage in a remarkable country-jazz flavored duet with
Lenny Breau on "Sweet Georgia Brown," exchange some swinging picking and bowing with
Johnny Gimble (and briefly
Charlie McCoy) on "Fiddlin' Around," or sing good-naturedly in front of
Ray Stevens' simulated live show on the goofy novelty tune "Frog Kissin'." Another highlight is the extended fun and games with
Les Paul on "Avalon" (from Chester and Lester), with the hilarious studio chatter left in -- and not to be missed is a sample of
Atkins' successful collaboration with the massive forces of
Arthur Fiedler and the
Boston Pops on "The Battle of New Orleans/Sugarfoot Rag." A few of the tracks are available nowhere else, among them a cooking session with
Boots Randolph ("Terry on the Turnpike"), and a cozy duet with
Dolly Parton on her East Tennessee-flavored tune "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind." In addition, he trades licks with country stars like
Jerry Reed,
Merle Travis,
Hank Snow, and
Danny Davis and the
Nashville Brass. All of which proves that
Chet Atkins is an eclectic musician in the best sense; he fits in virtually everywhere, his curiosity about different kinds of music knows no bounds, and his musicality accompanies him at all times.
–
Richard S. Ginell, Rovi