There would have been little possibility of providing a negative review for a volume mostly dedicated to transcriptions from this late New Orleans legend. But, Joshua Paxton's appreciation of not just the notes being played and his very perceptive introduction of breaking down the various grooves of Booker's makes this a step above most books comprised of transcriptions. As a lot of jazz/blues players realize, simply commiting to memory a solo or complete interpretation of a tune can be pointless and sometimes injurious to one's development. But here, you have the very important breakdown at the beginning of Booker's approaches to ballads, boogie, and rock grooves that can actually proove to be useful in understanding an enigmatic artist. Then to throw in a contradiction, I find his playing perfectly suited to transcriptions as he belonged to the school of player where technique was essential and although he may have not realized it (or possibly was very conscious of it) some of what many have heard to be rambling exercises in brilliance stand up with great impromtus of the past. A background in classical form is ideal for understanding the execution of these pieces as is a good background in New Orleans piano traditions that are sometimes only hinted at but effectively and subtly woven throughout.
Always obtain the original recordings to grasp the meaning behind the curtain. And many kudos to Joshua Paxton for his efforts.