The harmonica may seem to deserve a Most Unassuming Instrument award, but in the highly capable hands of James Cotton, it acquires all the virtuosity of a finely made violin. In addition, the former Muddy Waters harpist deserves recognition for leading one of the longest-running blues bands around, and that's exactly what this album is. From the sweet and tender to the rousing and raucous, 35th Anniversary Jam gathers some of the brightest lights in blues for the celebration. Kenny Neal is here, sounding even throatier than usual as he kicks things off with "Don't Start Me Talking." Bobby Rush does vocal duty on a mellow, lyrical "Fatuation"; and Syl Johnson and Jimmie Vaughan, team up for an old-time rock & roll-styled "Rocket 88." From Koko Taylor to Kim Wilson, this album is a star-studded delight, with Cotton's stellar harmonica woven through it all and one of the tightest backing bands in the business providing support. A special treat is the closing track, "Blues for the Hook," wherein Cotton and Vaughan team up for a moving instrumental tribute. --Genevieve Williams