These twenty tracks were re-mastered from the original tapes. The songs were recorded by Chess Producer/Engineer, Norman Dayton, in Chicago in the early 60's: live performances, recorded exactly as they were played. Many cuts were recorded during performances in small clubs around Chicago, others in makeshift studios set up in basements or apartments.

Highlights include Dr. Isiah Ross' 'Chicago Breakdown' and 'V-8 Ford Blues' by James Cotton, joined by Paul Butterfield on harp and Elvin Bishop on National Resonator guitar. This disc documents the blues scene of this time and place uncluttered by the production and commercialization brought about soon after by the big record companies. Liner notes written by Bill Dahl.