For those insatiable blueshounds who demand a daily dose of their favorite music, the House Of Blues' syndicated radio program provides the perfect prescription. The too brief 10 minute shows, hosted by Blues Brother Dan Akroyd, run an assortment of segments that span the wide, colorful history of their subject.

From obscure archival recordings of influential performers, to the current whereabouts of the genre's favorite artists, the show also devotes space to the rash of headstrong up-and-comers that keep the form alive & kickin'.

Like the diversity of their highly successful radio show, the HOB's "Essential Blues" collections not only cull some of the most influential recordings by the blues' most powerful titans, but also serve as an introduction to the young bloods that still carry the message. Like previous collections in the series, the convoluted mixture of archival recordings, established artists tackling new tunes, and burgeoning artists showcasing their talent, not only presents the blues as viable and cutting edge, but also provides a sort of cyclical zen to music's best work.

So, while most longtime fans of the blues may already own recordings such as Muddy Waters' 1956 version of "Got My Mojo Working" (with the irresistible James Cotton on harmonica) and the '46 session of Lightning Hopkins' "Katie Mae," you may draw the influential traits more easily when coupled with tracks like Luther Allison's cover of The Rolling Stones' "You Can't Always Get What You Want" (his final recording) and Robert Cray's "Change Of Heart, Change Of Mind."

It's that sort of educational juxtaposition and scholastic segue where this compilation shines, bridging artists like John Lee Hooker (with a smoldering '59 session of "I'm In The Mood"), T-Bone Walker (with his signature "Call It Stormy Monday") and Professor Longhair (a '59 version of "Go To The Mardi Gras" with a young Dr. John on guitar), with new breed stalwarts such as Corey Harris and Alvin Youngblood Hart, who are molding the blues for a new generation.

However, "Essential Blues 3" also provides an informal service by featuring tunes from artists deserving a wider audience, turning blues lovers onto players like Ohio legend/Motown session guitarist Robert Ward, as well as exploring the gritty and greasy backwoods blues from Junior Kimbrough and R.L. Burnside. And while purists may own multiple copies of several of these tracks (and whose collection would be complete without Magic Sam's "I Need You So Bad" and Mississippi John Hurt's "Corrina Corrina"?), their inclusion only signifies just how "essential" the House Of Blues' series should be treated: a quintessential, broad-based compendium for older fans and a great introduction for newcomers.