Spade Cooley

One of country's greatest fiddle players and bandleaders, Cooley cut many of the best western swing sides of the post-World War II era. Spadella is a treasure trove of hits and rare tracks from 1945 and '46, the years when Cooley went from L.A. phenomenon to national star. Cooley and his band cook, while Tex Williams' vocals are refreshingly laid-back.