Living Country Blues USA is a series of albums on L+R Records. The material was collected by German Blues experts Siegfried A. Christmann and Axel Küstner on an extended trip thru the south of the USA in the fall of 1980, in the form of so-called "Field-Recordings". Introducing Bowling Green John & Harmonica Phil Wiggins What is so remarkable about the duo is their intensive commitment to the black Blues and Gospel tradition - without diminishing the quality or spontaneity of their performances. By hearing John Cerpas with his guitar one quickly gets impressed by the power of his playing. Deeply rooted in the so-called "Piedmont" Blues tradition of the East Coast, ragtime influence and complex rhythms produce a strong emphasis on melody - much in contrast to the harsh Mississippi Blues with its hard beat and drive. When recording this album Phil Wiggins was 26 years old and despite his young age he already could be rated as one of the top Blues harp players. Influences include Hammie Nixon, Sonny Boy Williamson, Little Walter and Shakey Hotton. He played alongside Flora Molton, Archie Edwards, Big Chief Ellis, the late Esther Mae "Mother" Scott and John Jackson as well as jamming with such well known Blues veterans as Sunnyland Slim, Johnny Shines and Louisiana Red - shaping his technique to perfection, be it in the Country Blues or with ampli?ed harp in the best Chicago tradition.