Live at the Regal
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 July, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Heralded as one of the greatest live blues albums ever recorded, this set catches the singer-guitarist as his star was in ascent: in 1964 playing Chicago's answer to Harlem's Apollo Theater--the Regal. King's performance is visceral. He sings so hard that gravel flies even in his clearest high notes. And his trademark single-note guitar lines are sharp and steely, matching his voice with trembling vigor. He offers early hits like "How Blue Can You Get," "Worry, Worry," and "You Upset Me Baby" to what's essentially his adopted hometown crowd (by his own account, King had already played the theater hundreds of times). They give him a hero's welcome. In fact, the audience's screaming enthusiasm is distracting. But rarely has a love-fest of this magnitude between a performer and fans been documented. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Features

• Live

Reviews (35)

A classic, blues or otherwise
Anyone who dismisses blues music as being sad and depressing and whiny should listen to this album. Sure, B.B. King sings about heartbreak and lost love in many of the songs, but he does so in such a way that it is uplifting, maybe just because you can relate to it and say "oh, that cat knows what I'm feeling". That, right there, is why this record is timeless. All of the songs, with the possible exception of "Help the Poor", are knockouts. This being a live album of course, the audience is absolutely IN LOVE with B.B. and the band, and people often shout out things like "Play it all night!" and "Tell it, B.B.!" If this were a studio album, it would not be nearly as good. The advantage of hearing blues live is that you get to hear a whole different atmosphere- people screaming, clapping, going wild for the sweet sound of Lucille. Which reminds me, not only is the guitar on this album fantastic, but also B.B.'s vocals are downright amazing! They range from a deep gravely tone to a sweet falsetto, and are some of the best blues vocals ever put to tape. If you do not own this, get it, just to hear classics like "Sweet Little Angel", "Worry Worry", "How Blue Can You Get", and "You Upset Me Baby". An absolute must-have.

Great performance - the one live B. B. to get
The sound of Lucile on this record is stunning and B. B.'s vocals are great too (especially on the slower numbers like Sweet little angel, It's my own fault or how blue can you get. I'm not a big fan of all the tracks, but still just the once I mentioned together with Worry worry and Baby you done lost your good thing now are worth five stars - each of them.
If you don't want to buy all of his numerous live albums (he cut 5 just in the sixties) -this is the one to get.

Some Great Live Blues from B.B. King,4 and 1/4 stars.
I've read some incredible reviews for this album and don't get me wrong this album is fantastic. But there's a little to much singing and not enough classic b.b. guitar work, espically on the second half of the album. The first half of the album cranks out some great classics and the second half has some moments but the first five songs are the best. If you love more jazzy blues (like some of b.b.'s stuff) this album is your nirvana. Although I do like b.b.'s style like that, with a little touch of jazz, I expected some more incredible blues pouring from lucille. This album still remains fantastic and has some incredible music. Best songs: "Everyday I Have the Blues", "Sweet Little Angel", "It's My Own Fault" and "How Blue Can You Get?" ... Read more

Asin: B000002P72
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Pop   

Deluxe Edition
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 January, 2002)
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Editorial Review

Koko Taylor's something of a deluxe edition herself. With a Cadillac of a voice that rumbles the earth and rattles the glassware, she reigns as the undisputed empress of the blues. Deluxe Edition, a retrospective of her 15 years with Alligator Records, may not include such classics as "I Got What It Takes" and the Willie Dixon-penned"Twenty-Nine Ways," but it does have "I'm a Woman," Taylor's answer to Muddy Waters, just to kick things off. Other highlights include "Born Under a Bad Sign"--a duet with Buddy Guy, of course. Much of Taylor's work in the 1970s included such duets, and here can also be found Carey Bell (on "Mother Nature"), Pinetop Perkins (on"Hey Bartender"), and B.B. King (on "Blues Hotel"). Everything on Deluxe Edition brims with Taylor's trademark attitude, the sass and toughness for which she's well known. Yet Taylor is capable of astonishing tenderness as well, as is borne out by "I'd Rather Go Blind" and "Time Will Tell." Though this collection boasts only one obligatory previously unreleased track, it's a doozy: "Man Size Job," simply put, kicks ass. Looks like Taylor's reign is in no danger whatsoever.--Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (6)

SING IT KOKO
This is her very best. I have been collecting her records for about a year now and when i listened to this record I think it sums up all of what Koko is about. She doesn't play and is very rough. No one in this universe can replicate her voice.Her growls are scary as a wolfs.When she sings with other blues singers the song just can't get any better. This is a collectors Item. This is a good CD to listen in the car or in the house or a gift to someone. If you have never heard Koko sing well by this record because it will show you what she is all about.

Nice collection of tracks from Taylor's Alligator years
Koko Taylor's recordings for Chess Records in the 60s remains her best, and newcomers should definitely start with her self-titled debut album which contains the finest of her Chess singles.

But once you have that one, pick up this fine compilation as well. It's not perfect, and there are one or two mediocrities among the 15 songs..."I'm A Woman" is a forgettable rip-off of Muddy Waters' "Mannish Boy", and a couple of numbers are just too polished for their own good.
But most of what is here is top-notch. Koko Taylor has a deep, powerful voice which was simply meant to sing the blues, and she excels on tough, swaggering grooves like "Come To Mama" and "Beer Bottle Boogie". The previously unreleased "Man Size Job" is one of the highligts of this set, and Taylor is equally convincing on soulful R&B numbers, dirty mid-tempo blues grinds, and a smouldering rendition of "I'd Rather Go Blind". It's just too bad that one of the best songs of her career, "Find A Fool, Bump Her Head", is missing.

Still, this is a really fine purchase if you don't want to spring for Koko Taylor's original Alligator albums. Casual fans should go for this one right away...if you want a little more, start with the Chess stuff, then get "I Got What It Takes" from 1975 and work your way upwards from there!

Burnt My Fingers Putting On The Disc
This is one HOT album. There is a lot of stuff on this album, and it is smokin'. She has some guests you may have heard of like Buddy Guy, B. B. King, Carrey Bell, Pinetop Perkins, and Mighty Joe Young. I would recommend this album to anyone that doesn't have her previous albums (she's been with Alligator for over 26 years), or just wants a package with all her best in one healthy portion. For the price I paid, I definately got my money's worth. But with that voice, & those riffs, I'm surprised that Amazon got the package to me without catching fire. This is one HOT album. ... Read more

Asin: B00005UF1W
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Electric Chicago Blues    3. Modern Electric Chicago Blues    4. Pop    5. R&B   

Blue Streak
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 September, 1995)
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Editorial Review

Soul Fixin' Man was the first Luther Allison album recorded on American soil in 18 years, and it reminded the stateside blues community why this Paris-based expatriate was once considered one of the very best of Chicago's second blues generation. He builds upon that reputation with Blue Streak, a follow-up which is even bluesier and more guitar-oriented than its predecessor. If the previous disc emphasized Allison's Wilson Pickett-like singing, this new one focuses on his Albert Collins-like picking. --Geoffrey Himes ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Soulful vocals and Icy crisp guitar Blues!
When this cd came out in 1995 it was one of the top albums on Guitar World's magazine year end list and for good reason! Excellent production, deep stirring vocals, Icy guitar playing and an excellent band added to a great cd! A favorite on The Crazy Coyote Blues Power Show 1490 KOTY AM (1490koty.com) Yakima Nation Radio in south central Washington state.

This will be one of your favorite CD's
Luther Allison's Blue Streak is simply one of the best blues albums around.There is not a disappointing track on the entire CD.From the infectious wood-block beat of "What have I Done Wrong" to theheart-wrenching "Cherry Red Wine", Allison poured his heart andsoul into every cut. The combination of Allison's powerful vocals andvirtuoso guitar playing blend perfectly; neither takes the back seat to theother.If you have never heard Luther Allison, give this CD a listen.Then, like me, you'll be a fan and want to have all of his CD's. Rest inpeace, Luther.

In your face and about time!
Buy this album! Luther Allison is the real deal. As an avid blues lover, I can put this album in the "essentials" category of modern blues. Kind of like one of those "If I were stranded on a desert island"kind of records. You will not be disappointed. Luther sings with grit,determination, and a been-there attitude. Plus, his guitar will kill you!Not much more to say except: BUY IT!!!! ... Read more

Asin: B000000A10
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Pop   

The Birth Of Soul : The Complete Atlantic Rhythm & Blues Recordings, 1952-1959
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 October, 1991)
list price: $39.98
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Editorial Review

Though this is not the most recent Ray Charles box set collection, it may be the best. That's because it focuses on Ray's great growth in the 1950s, particularly his days with Atlantic Records. The set opens with Ray still in a Charles Brown, smooth-voice, mellow-piano mode, but in short order, he discovers his own identity. From the good time of "It Should Have Been Me" on disc one, though the orgiastic "What'd I Say, Parts 1 & 2" on disc three, the man they call "The Genius" rocks, rolls, raises the rafters, and sinks way down low with the blues. This box also features an excellent essay by the late music historian, Robert Palmer. --Robert Gordon ... Read more

Features

• Box set

Reviews (17)

This is the best box set ever made!
I have owned this box set for over 10 years now.I listen to all the time.I still get goosebumps everytime I hear the R&B that Ray defined.It covers the Atlantic time period where Ray finds his own and sets the goal for anyone and everyone to follow.You will never regret buying this set.I am buying another box set because I just know that I will burn the bits right off these. Can't live with out it!

Who Was Listening?
I was.I was just a kid, but there was a radio station, black-owned and black-operated, that played these songs.It was exciting and a little scary for me but not to be ignored.The mainstream stations played Sammy Kaye, Guy Lombardo, some Sinatra.The country stations, well, they played country music, some good and memorable, a lot not good.Times have changed several times over since then, but I can recall most of the songs on this great package.I can recite all of the best ones, but I invite you to buy it for yourself and listen.This is the essence of Ray Charles before he went exploring virtually every corner of the world of music which started in earnest after, well, "What'd I Say?". How great it must have been sitting in some fried chicken shack and listening to these tunes.It was a whole different time. But, darn, I was just a kid.

A Landmark in American Music
A lot of people like Ray Charles for a lot of reasons. This collection is why I love him. It finds Ray defining Rhythm and Blues in the 1950s.

The recordings here represent what I consider his golden period with Atlantic. It is prior to his move to other record labels and his experiments with country and pop standards. This is good old R&B. As I said before, it defines the genre in the 1950s as far as I'm concerned. There are few instrumentals; most tracks include vocals, and Ray's voice is in incredible form throughout, rasping, moaning, groaning, and all. A mention must also be made of the distinctive tenor sax work throughout of long time sideman, David "Fathead" Newman.

The music and Ray's voice here have a visceral quality and richness which waned, in my opinion, after Ray's Atlantic years. Later, although Ray remained one of America's greatest musicians, he became increasingly glossy. This is before the gloss. This music has real soul and lots of it.

I have enjoyed this set more than any music I own. If you would like a serious set of goose bumps and hours of enjoyment, I cannot recommend this set highly enough. I own about 25 Ray Charles CDs. I recommend this set hands down above all others.
... Read more

Asin: B000002IRW
Subjects:  1. Jazz Blues    2. Piano    3. Piano Blues    4. Pop    5. R&B    6. Soul    7. United States of America    8. Urban Blues    9. Vocals   

The Heart of a Woman
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 June, 1999)
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Editorial Review

There's no doubting the power and passion of Etta James's voice. That alone is enough for her to give Aretha Franklin a run for her money, and on Heart of a Woman she gives that voice free rein. Something of a companion to 1998's Life, Love & the Blues, Heart of a Woman takes what feels like a deliberately feminine approach, from the selection of the material to its arrangement. If there's a weakness to the result, it's that James's voice often overpowers the music, leaving the mood-setting piano and gentle guitar in the dust. The strongest moments occur when the music rises to match James's singing, as with the sax solo on "My Old Flame," the smoky piano on "I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good," and the overall building of intensity toward the end of "You Go to My Head." Another highlight is a reworked version of James's classic "At Last." --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Just can't find anything better than this . . .

I'm a long-time fan of Miss Etta James.AT LAST was my parents' favorite song, so I knew about Etta long before I found out about the Beatles.

Etta revisits some classics here . . . Her GOOD MORNING HEARTACHE is every bit as good, and more mellow that Billie Holliday's.MY OLD FLAME is given a new coat of paint and it's good.YOU GO TO MY HEAD and SUNDAY KIND OF LOVE are just downright fabulous.I'd never heard ONLY WOMEN BLEED, but it's good, in a gospel-kind of way.

If you're into vocalists who put heart and soul into their work, you won't go wrong by purchasing this CD.

Enjoy!

Gut Wrenching!
This CD grabbed my heart.This is a must for any woman who is in love or has ever been in love (isn't that all of us?).Also works if you need a good cry.:-)

Just... bad.
Etta James' voice remains superb, but the arrangements of this CD are poor and bad.Hammond B-3 organ, modern bass and drums give us the strange impression of being listening to an Etta James' imitator. The album is dedicated to Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn and Carmen McRae. Unfortunately, it's a bad hommage. Just listen to the samples and decide. ... Read more

Asin: B00000JG4H
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Pop    3. R&B    4. Soul-Blues   

His Best (Chess 50th Anniversary Collection)
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (08 April, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Chester Burnett's ferocious growl was a staple of Chicago's electric-blues heyday. This 20-song compilation ranges from his 1951 debut "Moanin' at Midnight" with Willie Johnson on guitar to 1964's "Killing Floor" with Buddy Guy on guitar. His scratchy, sawed-off vocal approach and his energetic harmonica grace original classics such as "How Many More Years" and "Smokestack Lightnin'." By 1960, he became, along with Muddy Waters, the foremost interpreter of Willie Dixon's songs, lending his coarse voice to legendary Dixon cuts such as "Wang Dang Doodle," "Back Door Man," "Spoonful," "The Red Rooster," and "I Ain't Superstitious." Wolf's style was based on primal raw power, and he ranks among the genre's most distinctive performers. --Marc Greilsamer ... Read more

Reviews (34)

SOME GREAT CLASSIC BLUES
Howlin' Wolf has the got one of the most incredible voices ever. This is a great single disc comptilation of his work. He was obviously highly inspiring too many of the english guitarists and musicians. He (like muddy waters) has an all star band with some of the greatest bluesman ever. Track Listing-
1. Moanin' At Midnight- 10/10
2. How Many More Years- 10/10
3. Evil- 10/10
4. Forty-Four 10/10
5. Smokestack Lightnin'- 10/10
6. I Asked For Water- 8.5/10
7. Who's Been Talkin'- 10/10
8. Sitting On Top of the World- 10/10
9. Howlin' For My Darling- 9/10
10. Wang Dang Doodle- 10/10
11. Back Door Man- 9.5/10
12. Spoonful- 10/10
13. Shake For Me- 10/10
14. The Red Rooster- 10/10
15. I Ain't Superstitious- 10/10
16. Goin' Down Slow- 10/10
17. Three Hunder Pounds of Joy- 10/10
18. Hidden Charms- 10/10
19. Built for Comfort- 10/10
20. Killing Floor- 10/10

This album is phenomenal. Some of the greatest blues you will ever hear, buy it!

20 classics from the Wolf!
Opening with "Moanin' at Midnight", Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) uses a low hum filled with overtones that distorts the microphone for eight seconds until the guitar and drums enter. The Wolf then does a distorting howl and then goes on the harmonica and the tempo gradually increases to become the instant Delta blues classic that it is. It is one of the strangest yet one of the neatest sounds that was ever part of a song. When you hear it, don't worry because your speakers aren't broken. The song sounds pretty good from something from 1951. That song and its B-side "How Many More Years" were recorded for Sam Phillips in Memphis. The masters were sold to Chess when the Wolf was signed to Chess, too. The 18 other songs are pure, raw blues. The Chess musicians were a fine group of musicians and really knew how to crank out the blues especially with people like Howlin' Wolf. "Smokestack Lightning", "I Asked for Water", "Hidden Charms", and "Killing Floor" have hot guitar licks. Listen for "Spoonful"; yeah! That's another hot one. The entire song is flawless and there's a neat rhythm and a drive to it. My favorite! I've suddenly taken an interest in blues music and this is indeed a sheer example of what the blues was all about. I was more into the rock'n'roll of those days and not necessarily straight and pure blues. Man, they had some real good stuff then. If you're just discovering Howlin' Wolf, this is the one to really lend an ear to. You'll be glad you did. WOO-OO!

epitomized the blues for me
and why not? more than any other blues singer, Howlin Wolf has had a major influence on a lot of very important bands.I recognized songs covered by Cream, The Doors, and the Steve Miller Band, among others on this disc.These are blues standards for one reason; Wolf speaks directly and has few pretensions.The hooks are also really good, just listen to the bone crunching bass line on "backdoor man" to see why it is so much better than the Doors version.Classic song after classic song is included here, for all to enjoy.You need this in your collection to have a complete blues collection.It might even be the best introduction to the blues that there is! ... Read more

Asin: B000005KQM
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Chicago Blues    3. Electric Blues    4. Electric Chicago Blues    5. Pop   

The Chess Box
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (13 October, 1989)
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Editorial Review

For the completist, this three-CD, 72-song box remains the definitive collection of one of the leading lights of Chicago blues. The collection spans 25 years, beginning with rare early recordings with pianist Sunnyland Slim and moving through Waters's peak '50s period, which offered the legendary support of Jimmy Rogers, Little Walter, and Otis Spann. Luminaries including Pat Hare, James Cotton, Earl Hooker, Buddy Guy, and Pinetop Perkins all make valuable contributions to his '60s work. Along with his original hits and his noteworthy Willie Dixon interpretations, Chess wisely includes his lesser-known covers of Big Bill Broonzy, Howlin' Wolf, Guitar Slim, Jimmy Reed, John Lee Hooker, and Sonny Boy Williamson. --Marc Greilsamer ... Read more

Features

• Box set

Reviews (15)

The most complete overview of Muddy Waters' Chess sides
More casual fans will probably be better served by MCA/Chess's much cheaper (but very good) two-disc compilation "The Anthology: 1947-1972". But if you're looking for the best and currently most thorough available overview of Muddy's recordings for Aristocrat and Chess, this is it.
It is not the final word on Muddy Waters - his excellent latter-day recordings with Johnny Winter as producer aren't here, and you'll need some of his live stuff as well - but these 72 tracks do include the vast majority of his best songs from 1947 and twenty-five years on.

Disc one spans 1947-1954, and most of the 24 tracks feature just Muddy Waters on slide guitar and bassist Ernest "Big" Crawford backing him, although the great Sunnyland Slim rolls the ivories on a few songs, like the delightful 1947 single "Gypsy Woman".
Muddy's arsenal of slide guitar riffs may seem limited, but his playing on the 1948 hit "I Can't Be Satisfied" and the mellow "Train Fare Home" is really great, demonstrating what a fine guitarist he actually was.

Percussion doesn't show up until two-thirds of the way through the disc, when the "classic" Muddy Waters band begins to take shape: Little Walter Jacobs on harmonica, Jimmy Rogers on second guitar, drummer Elgin Evans, and Otis Spann playing the piano.
Along with the songs already mentioned, the lean, mean "I Feel Like Going Home" and "Rollin' And Tumblin'" are among the highlights on disc 1, which ends with the tough, swinging "Blow Wind Blow" and the classic "Hoochie Coochie Man". Big Walter Horton plays superb harmonica on "Blow Wind Blow".

Disc 2 includes the majority of Muddy's classic 50s singles, from "I'm Ready" and the thumping "I Just Want To Make Love To You" to "Got My Mojo Working", the Bo Diddley-ripoff "Mannish Boy", and the superbly swinging "I Love The Life I Live, I Live The Life I Love". Harpist James Cotton appears for the first time on "I Love The Life I Live", blowing a truly inspired harmonica riff.
And there are several lesser-known songs here as well, including previously unreleased takes and singles which make their LP/CD debut on this album. Most of them are good, although not quite great, with the exception of a very fine rendition of Jimmy Oden's "Take The Bitter With The Sweet".

Disc 3 covers 1960-1972, and includes a few live recordings, as well as two alternates from the sublime "Fathers And Sons" sessions. Opening with the great live "I Feel So Good" from the Newport album, it is highlighted by Muddy's version of Eddie Boyd's "Twenty-Four Hours", the mid-60s hit singles "The Same Thing" and "You Can't Lose What You Ain't Never Had", and a hornless version of "Who's Gonna Be Your Sweet Man When I'm Gone", one of the few good cuts from the otherwise forgettable "London Sessions" album.

There is nothing here from the misguided and completely superflous "Electric Mud", or from Muddy's last Chess-effort, "The Woodstock Album", but that detracts nothing from the greatness of this compilation, the finest overview of Muddy Waters' Chess sides available.

Great place to start.............
For those of you who like the old blues,then I suggest that you get this one.It may not have everything he ever did and there may not be very many rare tracks,but why quibble? Great playing,soulful singing and memorable melodies......Listen to this legendary bluesman who inspired The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton,among others....BUY IT!!!

Incomplete
Attempting to capture the complexity and diversity of this artist in one box set is both troublesome and incomplete. Muddy Waters displays his command of the Blues in songs such as "I Can't Be Satisfied" and "Long Distance Call". Rarities like "Mean Red Spider" are pleasing to find. Overall, the collection is a good start for someone who just wants to hear his laments and joys in one fell swoop. Die-hard fans should avoid this and stick to the released LP/CD. ... Read more

Asin: B000002Q40
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Blues Revival    3. Box Sets (Audio Only)    4. Chicago Blues    5. Delta Blues    6. Electric Blues    7. Electric Chicago Blues    8. Pop    9. Slide Guitar Blues    10. United States of America   

Deluxe Edition
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (23 February, 1999)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $16.98
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Features

• Extra tracks
• Original recording remastered

Reviews (3)

Deluxe Edition [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED] [EXTRA TRACKS
The unmistakable sexy, sultry voice of Katie Webster makes this CD a favorite.Webster is a true Queen of the Blue...and her piano is phenomenal on this CD.A nice sampling of her music from other CDs...this one makes you want to go out and get them all. I particularly liked the biographical clips that are included on the sleeve. The woman was a powerhouse of creative blues...continuing to play and belt it out even after a stroke left her partially paralyzed.

blues in heaven
i was very touched by the passing of the original swamp boogie queen katiewebster. the deluxe edition is a testament to her love for live and theblues. before her passing katie suffered a stroke that partially paralazedher hand,but she continue to play with her one good hand. from the upbeatof "whos making love" to the beautiful "sea of love"and tenderness this is a great reminder of katies talents and love for theblues

Katie's nice!
I discovered K. Webster last Fall when I have bought a compilation with "Misty Blue". It was in Stockholm, and Stockholm will always be for me just a city I have heard "Misty blue" first. You,Americans, should be proud to have such a nice artist.

P.S. Please, sendme a lyrics of "Misty blue". ... Read more

Asin: B00000I02P
Sales Rank: 110699
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Louisiana Blues    3. New Orleans Blues    4. Pop    5. Swamp Blues   

Official Live Bootleg 2000
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (18 December, 2001)
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Features

• Live

Reviews (1)

Great Concert Album
Great album - mostly Animals songs but DEFINITELY not "the same old thing" Made me think (wish !!) I was back at the concert. The "New Animals" are a great band and this album is absolutely well worth the purchase !! ... Read more

Asin: B00005Y9UP
Sales Rank: 91054
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Talking To Strangers
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (17 September, 2002)
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Editorial Review

Shemekia Copeland has already scored numerous awards and accolades, but this is the young singer's real artistic breakthrough. While Copeland's first two CDs were at times marred by ham-fisted musical support and subpar songwriting, she is now free to unfurl the subtle, soulful side of her big voice. "Don't Whisper" sounds like a lost Memphis classic--the kind of tearjerker Ann Peebles might have cut. Copeland pours her vocals like warmed honey over the song's sad lyrics and an arrangement that balances producer Dr. John's delicate piano with edgy, tremoloed guitars. She turns soft and breathy on the lovely, jazz-inflected ballad "Happy Valentine's Day," evoking a worldly, relaxed beauty that belies her 23 years. There's plenty of full-tilt belting, too. "Sholanda's," a tongue-in-cheek trip to a beauty parlor, balances her power with graceful New Orleans-flavored drums and slide. And "The Push I Need" is a playful duet with Dr. John that's sprightly and smart enough to sidestep clichés. Overall, there's a sense of poised musicianship at work, which makes Talking to Strangers emotionally tempered and rewarding. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (3)

AMAZING LIVE PERFORMER
Shemekia can perform like nobody's business. Saw her in an outdoor gig in NYC on 7/11/03, and she brought the house down. Incredible voice, particularly given her young age. Fantastic stage presence. Great band. Just a jaw-dropping hard-core blues experience. Don't miss her, and BUY THIS CD. We got all three, and had them signed at the show.

Wow!
Shemekia Copeland just may be the most exciting female singer we've seen since Aretha Franklin, and with this CD, she truly reaches her stride. There is not many times when you have 15 tracks and ALL of them are good, but this is one of those rare disks. Her big, soulful voice adds a new dimension to the blues, superbly produced by old pro Dr. John (who plays keyboards on some of the tracks). She comes across as real in all her tunes here, ranging from the playful ("Livin' on Love"), the mournful ("Happy Valentine's Day", a beautiful slow ballad; "Talking to Strangers", "Should Have Come Home"); the vengeful ("Ka-ching"), the introspective ("The Push I Need", a duet with Dr John) and even her offbeat ode to the owner of a beauty salon ("Sholanda's"). I guarantee you will hear much more about this young singer in the years to come, so enjoy her now. Very highly recommended.

No Stranger To The Blues
Opening with Arthur Neilson's slide guitar, "LIVIN' ON LOVE" kick starts the highly anticipated TALKING TO STRANGERS, Shemekia Copeland's new CD that's chock full of hot cuts. "TWO'S A CROWD" is a rocking blues number that shows off Shemekia's powerful pipes.

Copeland gives it to the dogs out there with "WHEN A WOMAN'S HAD ENOUGH". During "SHOULD HAVE COME HOME", Shemekia repents for the women who have made mistakes in their relationships. The driving rhythm of this song will stay on your mind. The emotional feelings that Copeland conveys on the songs "DON'T WHISPER" and "TALKING TO STRANGERS" shows just what the teeny bopper superstars are missing.

Producer Dr. John turns performer with his piano solo on "TOO CLOSE", which helps bring out the smoldering side of Shemekia. "KA-CHING" tells of the lighter side of life. Even having fun, her voice rings true. Dr. John then brings out the soulful side of Shemekia on their duet, "THE PUSH I NEED". She then burns a hole through your heart on "HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY", with all the pain in her voice.

Ending her CD with "PIE IN THE SKY", a song by her late father blues great Johnny Clyde Copeland, Shemekia shows that though she may be daddy's little girl, her great big voice makes her so much more than that. Certainly, she is no stranger to the blues.

Don Brown Sr. writes for Caught Live Too! and Las Vegas Blues --BLUES.LVJAZZ.COM ... Read more

Asin: B00006ISD3
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Modern Electric Blues    3. Pop    4. Soul-Blues   

Never Been Rocked Enough
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 May, 1992)
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Reviews (14)

I Listen to it over and over and never get bored.
The only luke warm review on this album says it wasn't enough straight up blues.Gee, Delbert showed some versitility. My how awful!

Well, this album is straight up good. The pacing from one song to another is excellent.

How refreshing to listen to an album all the way through without getting bored.It's a winner. If you like your blues with a little downhome twist, you'll love this album.Missed my one opportunity to see him here in Nashville this year, and boy do I regret it.

Not Enough Straight-Up Blues
This CD is a good CD, but, depending on the cut, a little (or a lot) too R&B, reggae, cross-over pop, or rock sounding for my taste.I was looking for a good, solid blues album by McClinton.After a couple of listens, I don't consider this to be it, despite other customer reviews by blues afficionados who apparently do (and whose reviews influenced my decision to give it a whirl).Of the 11 tracks, I count 3, or maybe 4, tops, that have a true blues sound, and, even then, 2 of them are really "blues light."Of the 3 or 4, "Blues as Blues Can Get" is really enjoyable -- with Paul Shaffer playing Wurlitzer.Again, it's a good CD, and McClinton's lyrics are often clever and playful, but if you're looking for what I was looking for, I'd skip this one.

Have a little faith in Delbert...
I agree with an earlier user review - Delbert Mcclinton is a seriously overlooked and underappreciated talent.

I'd rate this CD very highly just for the great version of "Have a little faith in me,"but the entire disc is just plain supurb.

Just the right mix of Blues, Rock and Country provides a disc that is worth every penny of the asking price.

"Everytime I roll the dice" is a rollicking blues tune, and starts this disc out right."I used to worry" is a great tune, and just confirms that Delbert isn't worried 'about things like that.' "Miss you fever" is the typical 'sad you are gone (and I probably chased you away)' song, but from there you've got "Why Me" to pick up your spirits and start you rocking.

My personal favorite is "Have a little faith in me," a song that I think of when I hear "If I should fall behind" (performed very well by Springsteen and the E Street-ers and by the exquisite Faith Hill).

"Never been rocked enough" follows that and continues this great disc toward several more great tunes.

Well worth the asking price, and an excellent addition to any CD collection. ... Read more

Asin: B000000D2K
Sales Rank: 23370
Subjects:  1. Blues-Rock    2. Country-Rock    3. Modern Electric Blues    4. Pop    5. Rock   

Big, Bad & Blue : The Big Joe Turner Anthology
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 February, 1994)
list price: $39.98
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Editorial Review

Joe Turner had one of the great 50-year careers. Beginning as a blues shouter in the '30s with his partner, pianist Pete Johnson, in Kansas City bars, he recorded often in a variety of contexts: as a duo with Johnson, with honking jump-blues bands, in front of small combos in the rock & roll era, with jazz and blues groups until close to his death in 1985. Capable of handling a huge range of material from 12-bar hollers to pop ballads, Turner easily fills this three-CD set with his vast depth and humor. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Features

• Box set

Reviews (4)

The Boss of the Blues
This impressive, three-disc anthology, which includes a superb fifty-page booklet with pictures, an essay, and extensive recording information, is by far the best and most comprehensive Joe Turner-compilation going.

Joseph Vernon Turner was the premier blues shouter of the 30s and 40s, and he was equally adept at singing blues, R&B, jazz, swing, and even proto-rock n' roll.
He enjoyed a lengthy coorporation with highly esteemed piano player Kermit "Pete" Johnson, who appears on Turner's late-30s recordings, and the reappears on some of his late-40s waxings, and again in the mid-50s.

In fact, Big Joe Turner's music very often features the piano as the main instrument, and his upbeat jump blues is quite different from the gritty electric Chicago variety of men like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and Elmore James (although James actually plays slide guitar on one of Turner's singles, the excellent "TV Mama").
This is urban, often jazz-flavoured blues, and "Big, Bad & Blue" gathers (almost) every Joe Turner-song of note, including the lusty "Tell Me Pretty Baby (Howdy 'Ya Want Your Rollin' Done)", "My Gal's A Jockey", "Hide And Seek", and "Chicken And The Hawk", as well as slower, moodier pieces like "Chains Of Love", "Still In The Dark", "In The Evening (When The Sun Goes Down)", "Sweet Sixteen", and a superb, soulful take on "Honeydripper".

Big Joe Turner was the first to record "Shake, Rattle & Roll", which was written by Atlantic records staff producer Jesse Stone (under the name Charles Calhoun) for a Turner session. It's a shame that this song is mostly remembered for Bill Haley's corny, whitewashed version...listen to the powerful, swinging original, and you'll forget about Haley's bland pop rendition, as well as Elvis Presley's early rockabilly recording.

These three discs are filled with tough boogie romps like "Honey Hush", swinging, classic blues tunes like "Midnight Cannonball", and slow, jazz-styled shuffles like the dirty "Don't You Make Me High", showing how Joe Turner, without really ever changing his style, moved from strict Kansas City swing to pioneering rock & roll and back to basic jazzy blues.
Highly recommended.

the man can sing
With impeccable phasing and a swinging band behind him, Big Joe belts out chorus upon chorus of down home and down town blues. Occasionally a lyric is reused under a different song title. No matter. This CD collection is a fascinating journey through pre-rock'n'roll swing, morphing in and out of rhythm and blues. West Coast Swing dancers will find this to be a great party set. The man and his music are well documented in the included booklet. However, I would have preferred three separate jewel cases to the Rube Goldberg packaging provided.

Jump Blues gem
This is an absolutely fabulous Jump Blues collection, and, as a 3 disc set with extensive liner notes, probably gives a good overview of Big Joe Turner's long career. A few tracks stand out: "She's Drivin' MeCrazy" on disc three really Swings. Shake, Rattle and Roll is aclassic and was later covered by Bill Haley and the Comets. ... Read more

Asin: B000003361
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Jazz    3. Jump Blues    4. Pop    5. R&B    6. Rock & Roll    7. Swing    8. Urban Blues   

A Long Time Comin'
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Reviews (19)

San Francisco's answer to Blood, Sweat & Tears
When this album first appeared in early 1968, underground freeform FM radio was in its heyday and the songs on "A Long Time Comin'" were a mainstay on underground radio. AM radio didn't know what to make of a band that combined blues, folk, jazz, rock and -- at times -- even classical modes in a sound that was astounding. This was the Bay Area's answer to New York's Blood, Sweat & Tears and it was an incredibly worthy answer indeed. Al Kooper built the original BS&T from the ashes of the little-known Blues Project, while The Electric Flag's Mike Bloomfield came from even headier stuff -- namely, Paul Butterfield Blues Band, where Bloomfield proved that a Jewish kid can have the blues -- real blues. To cover what other musicians in this band made this such an incredible group would take pages as there are so many of them. Buddy Miles handled the drums (who'd later launch his own Buddy Miles Express before joining Hendrix in the Band of Gypsies). Barry Goldberg added keys that were exquisite before leaving to form Barry Goldberg's Reunion. The horns in the Flag were more brash and bluesy than the classically-trained jazz musings of their New York contemporaries, BS&T. These guys could cook and when they turned up the heat, no audience I ever saw them perform to was able to withstand the spell they created live. The songs on this album are a remarkable testament to the precision, eloquence and power of the Electric Flag. Wow. Even the memory of these guys live is powerful. This album is their greatest recorded legacy.

The Flag WAS Electric
While I love this album, I must agree with "a music fan" regarding the mix. At first I assured myself that albums back in 1968 DID sound thin sometimes, but then I read "a music fan's review" and realized my first impression was correct. It's too bad that this mix is what it is, especially regarding the bass and drums. Still, I urge everyone who likes "american" music to purchase it.

Obligatory For 60s Blues Fans
We think of a lot of great bands and musicians when we think of the music that defined a generation and the music that still influences songwriters today. The obvious candidates aside, most musically-inclined folks my age can reel off a string of names of bands from that era that still resonate with them today: John Mayall, Steve Miller, Cream, Paul Butterfield, the Faces, Elvin Bishop, and a host of others. Yet there is one band whose life was short and influence great that many of my generation have forgotten and that band is the Electric Flag.
This is it. Though other groupings of musicians have called themselves the Electric Flag, this CD showcases the incarnation of the band whose members are the real deal.
Like a shooting star, EF appeared on the scene then was gone before anyone realized it. This CD is obligatory for fans of the late sixties honky blues. The legendary Mike Bloomfield was near his peak and Buddy Miles was coming on to his own as an innovative drummer. Combine those two with the voice of Nick Gravenites, add some other quality musicians, and you have the makings for a distinctive sound.
A Long Time Coming starts strong, but finishes weak. However, it is the strength of the great songs which give it a four star rating. The first six tracks would be enough to give the Flag blues immortality and are reason enough to own this recording. Killing Floor is nothing short of sensational and Wine will have you on your feet.
Most of the rest of the CD is rather mediocre with the exception of Another Country and a bonus track, Goin' Down Slow. But focus on the best, and you can ignore the rest. ... Read more

Asin: B0000024TY
Sales Rank: 3843
Subjects:  1. Blues-Rock    2. Pop    3. Rock   

Blue House
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 August, 1994)
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Reviews (5)

More blues and less rock on this one
Marcia is a fine singer who writes many of her own songs, though she is never afraid to record covers where they are suitable. Her albums can be almost relentlessly upbeat, as with Hot tamale baby, but this is generally a much sadder album - more like one would expect from a blues singer.

Marcia still demonstrates her Jerry Lee-ish piano playing here, on the opening Red beans, the third track Down the road and particularly on her cover of Joe Ely's Fingernails, but those are not typical of this particular album.

More typical is the title track, in which Marcia painted her house blue after her man left for good, or St Gabriel, about being sent to prison and later being released with nowhere to go.

This is a fine album that demonstrates Marcia's ability to sing a variety of different types of song.

Marcia Ball is just awesome
I found this one by accident, but it turned out to be a great find.I was in a used CD store and picked up a CD by Luther Allison. It had been repackaged and shrink wrapped.When I popped it into the CD player, out came this very vibrant female voice singing a song that I would later find out is called Red Beans.It caught my attention and in what seemed like no time at all, I was through the entire CD.I played it twice more before I finally managed to find out who this was and print out a list of tracks.

Every track is great and my favorite of the bunch is Fingernails.Since then, I have gotten more Marcia Ball CDs (on purpose!!) and can't say anything negative about her.

PS:I HAVE purchased this CD and I love it even more than I
thought I'd would from hearing her interview and excerpts at the House of Blues."St. Gabriel" still sings to me, but there is not one bad track on this CD, and will play them all over and over.Not all CDs past that test.Sometimes I'll buy a CD and only like one or two tracks.

Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. ... Read more

Asin: B000000366
Sales Rank: 44205
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Electric Texas Blues    3. Louisiana Blues    4. Modern Electric Blues    5. Piano Blues    6. Pop    7. Swamp Blues   

The 'Spoon Concerts
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (11 July, 1989)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $18.98
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Features

• Live

Reviews (1)

Jimmy's Fusion
I went on a 6 month trip with only a few tapes to listen to and this was one of them.And man did I listen!I probably played this album 100 times, and never got sick of it.This album is one of, if not the best fusions of blues and jazz that I've heard.If you're at all interested, then buy this one.It moves from slow to fast seamlessly and old Jimmy's even got a song dedicated to his mother in the audience.Its a good 'un. ... Read more

Asin: B000000XEY
Sales Rank: 175230
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Jazz Blues    3. Jump Blues/Piano Blues    4. Pop    5. Urban Blues   

Hoodoo Man Blues
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 June, 1993)
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Editorial Review

This 1965 album is where vocalist and harmonica player Junior Wells comes into his own. An early collaboration with Buddy Guy, the two of them sum up the 1960s funk-rock-blues that lay ahead. Hoodoo Man Blues inspired Paul Butterfield, Eric Clapton, and a host of other musician-fans. Wells and Guy don't shy from creating James Brown-funkified blues, or from putting a rock edge to their blues; but neither do they shy from traditional blues. Their version of "Good Morning Little School Girl" is a proper update--still menacing, with less of a country blues feel. Also not to be missed is the instrumental workout "Chitlin Con Carne."--Robert Gordon ... Read more

Reviews (27)

The epitome of Chicago Blues.
This is an incredible CD!Junior Wells with Buddy Guy backing him up on guitar.Not only was Junior one of the most charismatic singers in the golden age of Chicago Blues but one of the two or three best harmonica players (see Sonny Boy Williamson and Little Walter)."Snatch It Back" starts the CD off and kicks."Ships on the Ocean" is a classic slower blues as is "Early In the Morning".There is also "Good Morning LIttle School Girl" which has been recorded by umpteen artists but this is probably my favorite version.It sounds really edgy and dangersous.Excellent CD.

One of the three best blues albums ever made
In my opinion, this is one of the three best blues albums ever made. The other two are: Magic Sam's "The Essential Magic Sam: The Cobra and Chief Recordings 1957-1961", and Paul Butterfield album "Paul Butterfield Blues Band". Another good one by Junior Wells is: "Southside Blues Jam"

Buddy Guy and the Hoodoo Harp Man of Blues!!!
I grew up a blues fan. By that I mean I grew up a fan of Mississipi Delta/Southside Chicago Blues such as Howlin' Wolf, Willie Dixon, and the unmatched King of the Delta BLues, Muddy Waters, whose seminal seventies album, Hard Again, was my first "pure" (as opposed to "blues rock"--how I hate these categories!) blues purchase in my late teens. Well, of late, inspired by Little Walter's edgy vocals and postmodern harmonica sounds, I've been moseying over (in a matter of speaking) to the West side of town to check out the action there. Such giants as Magic Sam, Freddie King (by way of Texas), and Otis Rush feature spare, clean guitar lines and a more urban, funkefied feel to their down-home music. But the best, the absolute giants of the West side scene were none other than Buddy Guy and his harp partner, the late, great Junior Wells. Buddy's fat/fabulous lead/rhythm lines have lately made him a superstar in his own right, but it must never be forgotten that he was once a sideman to the great Junior Wells before he became full partner, and, much later, out on his own. Buddy's unmistakeable presence is felt here, but more subtle, bubbling under the surface in the cauldron of the blues stew. His driving work propels "You Don't Love Me" (later a memorable cut on The Allman Brothers Live at the Fillmore East), "Chitlin's Con Carne", "Ships on the Ocean" and, most memorably, "Snatch it Back and Hold It" with superfunky rhythm lines straignt out of James Brown. For his part, Wells fills out "Snatch it" with boss vocals and a great solo, and similarly works his magic on "Good Morning, Little School Girl", "Early in the Morning", and the marvelous title track, where "somebody done hoodooed the hoodoo man"!The driving beat and super instrumental work are sure to put you in funky blues heaven! So don't delay, get Hoodoo Man today! Walk over to the West side of town and get funked up right away!!! ... Read more

Asin: B000004BI9
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Chicago Blues    3. Electric Chicago Blues    4. Electric Harmonica Blues    5. Harmonica Blues    6. Pop   

Little Milton - Greatest Hits
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 September, 1995)
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Reviews (1)

Great
Little Milton hits the Bull on the Behind here.His Music Sounds Great&his Voice is very strong.He Puts alot into his Music you feel the force&it is strong all the way thru.A Must Have by this Great Talent. ... Read more

Asin: B000001L22
Sales Rank: 21853
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Electric Blues    3. Modern Electric Blues    4. Pop    5. R&B    6. Retro-Soul    7. Soul-Blues   

Down the Road
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 May, 2002)
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Editorial Review

Van Morrison's childhood was steeped in American music, in part because he grew up the son of a rabid collector of classic jazz and R&B records. Morrison's infatuation with the music understandably led to the raucous, blues-rooted performances of Them and his early solo records, but it also inspired his long, oft-misunderstood journey to find music more spiritually and geocentrically rooted. This inviting, if typically restive, collection brings the singer full circle, suggesting you can indeed go home again--and that your life's journey just might make you appreciate it with new eyes. Thirteen of these tracks are Morrison originals, though they have a warm, almost subliminal familiarity. Good-natured shuffles like the title track, "Choppin' Wood," and "Hey Mr. DJ" have a nostalgic edge that sharpens considerably on the jaunty "Whatever Happened to PJ Proby?," where Morrison grouses, "Nothin' much to relate to anymore / 'less you wanna be mediocre." But there's considerably more than simple blues redux on Morrison's agenda, as his graceful ballad "Steal My Heart Away" and sublime covers of Hoagy Carmichael's "Georgia" and Acker Bilk's "Evening Shadows" (originally an instrumental but now with lyrics by Morrison and an evocative, signature clarinet solo from Bilk himself) prove. A return to the classic Morrison sound, perhaps, but one gratifyingly informed by three decades of musical and spiritual pondering.--Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (71)

good cd
This is a great cd. I like Down the road and hey mr dj the best.

Best since "Avalon Sunset," best in the last 15 years
I haven't been a big fan of Van Morrison's albums in the last 15 years. "A Night In San Francisco" is a nice live CD, but the studio albums, from 1990's "Enlightenment" to the present, have never appealed to me that much. They usually have one, maybe a few tracks that I really like, but that's it.

"Down The Road" was a surprise. I got it after reading a little bit of Clinton Heylin's recent Van Morrison biography. Clinton savaged most of Van Morrison's 90's output, but he had kind words to say about this (though he did add that the 'original' 10-track version, featuring Linda Gail Lewis and titled "Choppin' Wood," would've been much better). So I got it.

First of all, I got this in a U.S. store. NOT an import, but it's got 15 tracks, not 13 like it says here on Amazon.com. Maybe there was a change after the original U.S. pressing, but my copy has the additional tracks, 'Fast Train' and 'Evening Shadows.'

Most of the album is really good. Some tracks may be slight, but they're really fun and enjoyable. The title track opens thing off nicely, and is every bit as engaging as 'Meet Me In The Indian Summer,' and 'Hey Mr. DJ,' all VERY catchy. They could all be Top 40 singles. 'Choppin' Wood' is a tribute to Van's departed Dad, but it's such an upbeat tribute, it could be a single as well. 'Beauty of Days Gone By' and 'Fast Train' are beautiful songs, darker in mood and tone but still gorgeous. 'Man Has To Struggle' is another great track, defiant and strong without ever getting sour or bitter, like 'Talk Is Cheap,' one of the few duds on this CD. 'Georgia On My Mind' is a nice cover of the Hoagy Carmichael standard made even more famous by Ray Charles's hit recording from the 1960's. Again, there are a few duds, but overall, it's still a fine album. The SOUND is also very nice. It's pretty compressed, but it isn't overly sharp or bright like past Van Morrison CD's. A nice big, warm sound.

If you've been disappointed with Van's albums in the past 15 years, give this one a try. It may win you over like it won me over.

dreams, memories, reflections.
I listen to this album, or indeed Van's latest, What's Wrong With This Picture, most days. I love the joyful articulation of the ups and downs of ordinary life. The highways and byways of consciousness. The sheer celebratory quality evident in each and every song. It is great to be able to participate in one man's journey down the neverending road towards peace, harmony and integration. Sheer joie de vivre. ... Read more

Asin: B0000646UW
Subjects:  1. Bass    2. Blue-Eyed Soul    3. Celtic Rock    4. Drums    5. Folk-Rock    6. Guitar (Acoustic)    7. Guitar (Electric)    8. Pop    9. R&B    10. Retro-Soul    11. Rock    12. Rock & Roll    13. Rock/Pop    14. Singer/Songwriter    15. Soft Rock    16. Soul    17. Strings    18. Vocals   

Hide Away: Best of
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 November, 1993)
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Editorial Review

Freddie King is a legend for some very good reasons. First, his clean single-string solos virtually define the modern Texas blues sound (although King himself honed his chops in Chicago). His playing was electric and country, skillful yet simple. Second, he had an uncanny knack for melodic invention. You can listen to a Freddie King solo once and whistle it the rest of the day. Last but not least, he was a remarkably expressive singer, soaring to a falsetto even more powerful than that of B.B. King. All this brilliance is here in one tidy package. You'll get the impassioned soul of "Have You Ever Loved a Woman." You'll get rumbling classics like "I'm Tore Down" and "Going Down." And best of all, you'll take your baby steps toward arena blues stardom listening to instrumentals like "San-Ho-Zay," "The Stumble," and "In the Open"--the songs that made Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan bequeath their souls to the unholy guitar. But bear in mind, if all those guitar heroes were so influenced by Freddie King, why is it that they don't sound anywhere near as great as him? Find out for yourself. And remember, the highest pitched string is the one closest to the floor. --Ken Hohman ... Read more

Reviews (15)

EC Instrumental In King's Royal Success!!!
Do yourself a favor. When you first listen to Hide Away: The Best of Freddy King, skip over the rather annoying first track. "Country Boy" is a little too, well, country sounding for most serious blues fans, and it's easy to see why it was unreleased until this compiliation. (For a much better example of how the Nashville and Chicago sounds can be mixed, listen to "Remington Ride," a wonderful tune cut with C & W steel guitar legend Herb Remington.) Also, on some of the early releases, King had not attained full command of his marvelous voice; most of his outstanding vocal tracks, such as "Someday After Awhile," "Palace of the King," and his towering signature number "Going Down" (covered splendidly by Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughan) were recorded later in his career. Besides, as good as the vocal tracks sound, it's hard not to be carried away by his brilliant instrumentals, including "High Rise," "My Feeling For the Blues," and that early Eric Clapton showcase "Hideaway." These vocal-less tracks, with their clean lead lines and supple rhythm sections, still sound as fresh and contemporary today as when they were first recorded almost thirty years ago. Speaking of EC, the British bluesmeister has done much to keep Freddie's name and recorded legacy alive with his riveting covers of "Have You Ever Loved a Woman" (recorded while he was playing with the Dominos) and "I'm Tore Down," from the masterful From The Cradle disc released in '94. In short, whether your preference is vocal or instrumental King (or both: why limit yourself?), you should get Hide Away today. Trust me, it will be a very instrumental part of your blues collection. EC should know!!

Another fine Rhino collection
Rhino Records usually know what they are doing when they assemble compilation albums and anthologies, and this Freddie King-retrospective is no exception.

A few of these songs are perhaps generic, but there are some real classics here as well, most notably the superbly catchy, oft-copied instrumentals "Hide Away", "Remington Ride" and "San-Ho-Zay" (about a third of the twenty tracks are instrumentals), the powerful, rocking blues of "I'm Tore Down" and "Going Down", and the slow, anguished "Someday, After A While" and "It's Too Bad Things Are Going So Tough".

Also, the smouldering "Have You Ever Loved A Woman" became a concert staple for Eric Clapton, who was a great admirerer of Freddie King, and cut a very good "I'm Tore Down" for his "From The Cradle" album.

King was a strong, soulful vocalist and a magnificent, versatile guitarist. His music, like that of the other "Kings", can't macth Muddy Waters or Howlin' Wolf for pure grit, but it's easy to see why men like Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan did so admire Freddie King.
This is an excellent overview of his too-brief career.

Drink,Smoke& Listen
Freddie king is an amazing talent. This album is the start of modern blues as we know it. This has horn riffs along with the knock you out texas guitar playin you want to hear. Im sure king
was an influence on many blues men. he even dwells into a little funk. ... Read more

Asin: B000003356
Subjects:  1. Blues    2. Pop