The Allen Toussaint Collection (1991)

While the importance of ubiquitous songwriter-producer-pianist-singer Allen Toussaint to the rollicking soul of New Orleans pop over the last three decades can hardly be overstated, he is virtually unknown everywhere else. Providing an enticing introduction to a superb craftsman, The Allen Toussaint Collection boils down four solo albums from the '70s. Ranging from mellow romance to frisky political funk, Toussaint makes his songs -- including the original ''Southern Night,'' a 1977 hit for Glen Campbell under the name ''Southern Nights'' -- as warm and satisfying as down-home cooking.

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