Howlin’ Wolf’s first album, released in 1959, was a compilation, gathering singles and other tracks recorded as far back as 1951. It includes many of his best-known songs, including “Smokestack Lightnin’,” “How Many More Years,” and “Evil” (written by Willie Dixon, but the Wolf’s version is the definitive one). Howlin’ Wolf was a giant of a man, at least 6’3” and possibly as tall as 6’6” and weighing close to 300 pounds, and his voice was astonishing — a rasping cry with impossible depth, that could rise to an eerie whistling howl. And yet, he was somehow not terrifying, but seductive; the Wolf’s persona was that of a ladies’ man, wronged but still in the hunt. The music, played by guitarist Hubert Sumlin, pianist Otis Spann, and various others, matches the power of his voice, hammering the repetitive blues riffs home with almost physical impact. 

– Phil Freeman