From The Vaults Of Ric & Ron Records (Rare And Unreleased Recordings 1958-1962)

Released in 2012 by Ace Records, this compilation serves as a meticulously curated anthology of the Ric and Ron labels, two influential independent imprints based in New Orleans. The collection captures a pivotal four-year window from 1958 to 1962, a period during which producers Joe Ruffino and Harold Battiste helped shape the foundation of the city's unique rhythm and blues sound, blending Creole influences with the emerging soul and rock and roll movements.

The box set was designed to document the output of studio sessions that were often shelved or relegated to limited local distribution at the time. It highlights the work of foundational New Orleans musicians and vocalists, providing insight into the collaborative environment fostered by the AFO (All For One) label collective. Critically, the release was received as an essential archival effort, praised by music historians for its remastering quality and its role in preserving the legacy of an era that might have otherwise faded from the commercial record.