Little Richard’s debut album is an A-bomb blast of jump blues and New Orleans R&B sped up and cranked into the red, in the process creating rock ’n’ roll. His pounding, anarchic yet precise piano playing and passionate vocals, rising from a hoarse cry to a high-pitched “whoo!”, are present from first note to last, establishing an electrifying persona. His backing band, including drummer Earl Palmer and tenor saxophonist Lee Allen, are crucial to the whole operation; these were tightly arranged songs, performed with keen oversight from producer Bumps Blackwell and Specialty Records owner Art Rupe. Several of Richard’s major early hits — “Tutti Frutti,” “Slippin’ and Slidin’” and “Long Tall Sally” — are here, but even more traditionally bluesy tracks like “True Fine Mama,” “Can’t Believe You Wanna Leave,” and “Miss Ann” are delivered with style and emotional power. Less than a half hour long, this album delivers on every level.