Louisiana (Bloodshot Revival/Soundies, 2000)

"Lousiana," fifth in a series of classic country collections from Bloodshot's Revival/Soundies imprint, is a magical trip through the esteemed Jimmie Davis' dusty archives. Davis, best-known today for the clean-cut "You Are My Sunshine," was in fact, a veritable rabble-rouser during his recording hey day.

Here, songs such as "Bang, Bang" and "You Won't be Satisfied That Way" illustrate his seamier side. During the '20's and '30's Davis, recording on the Victor and Decca labels, released a collection of sexy, blues-tinged ditties about nymphomaniacs and the hot-headed men who loved them.Davis was not just famous for his music however. He served as Lousiana's governor from 1944-1948; a movie chronicling his political actions "Lousiana," was released in 1947.

The focus here, of course, is the music. Featuring previously unreleased versions (both instrumental and vocal) of various songs including "Sunshine," "Let's Be Sweethearts Again" and "It Makes No Difference Now," this highlights Davis' classic country and western sound. The songs here - even when they explore more sordid topics - are refreshingly gentle and good-natured.