Record Reviews
77 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | JOHNNY ALMOND / MUSIC MACHINE ~ HOLLYWOOD BLUES
VOCALION 8441 (Barcode: 765387844127) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
2nd (and last) album by British multi-instrumentalist / composer Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist recorded under the Johnny Almond Music MachineFind albums by this artist moniker. Although recorded only a few months following the debut “Patent PendingFind albums with this title”, it is a completely different affair, as the album was recorded in the US and all the musicians except Almond come from the US West Coast. The opportunity to record this album arrived, when Almond visited the US to perform at the 1969 edition of the Newport Jazz Festival with John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. Legendary producer Mike VernonFind albums by this artist came up with the idea to record an album with Almond and some local musicians. For the recording session a rhythm section was assembled, which included organist Charles KynardFind albums by this artist, legendary guitarist Joe PassFind albums by this artist, bassist Ray NeapolitanFind albums by this artist and drummers Earl PalmerFind albums by this artist / Joe HarrisFind albums by this artist. On the front line Almond was paired with one of three saxophone players: Hadley CalimanFind albums by this artist, Curtis AmyFind albums by this artist and Vi ReddFind albums by this artist. He plays several instruments (as usual) – tenor and alto saxophone, flutes, organ and vibraphone. Almond wrote most of the music on the album, with just a couple of standards used. The result is a delightful, funky, soulful session with excellent music and some remarkable solos. Almond’s playing bears a distinctive European approach, which when consolidated with the American natural bluesy sound fits just perfectly. The album is much more jazzy that the debut and perhaps less adventurous, but nevertheless and excellent document of the fine music that was happening at the time and cross-pollination of musical ideas. Most warmly recommended!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I think this deserves an "essential" label - certainly an essential part of the soundtrack to my musical and general development; first a pirated reel-to-reel copy back in the early 70s; then eventually a second hand LP when I found one; and now the CD for easy access and road-trip enhancement.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY ALMOND / MUSIC MACHINE ~ PATENT PENDING
VOCALION 8417 (Barcode: 765387841720) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2005
Multi-instrumentalist / composer Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist was one of the most versatile and in-demand players on the British scene in the late 1960s. A member of the Alan Price SetFind albums by this artist, he also led a septet of young up-and-coming musicians called Johnny Almond Music MachineFind albums by this artist, which recorded two albums of which this is the first. Soon after recording this album Almond joined the new version of John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, which recorded the revolutionary The Turning PointFind albums with this title album. In that group he met guitarist Jon MarkFind albums by this artist, with whom he formed one of the best British Jazz-Rock groups – Mark-AlmondFind albums by this artist. Bass player Roger SuttonFind albums by this artist (ex-Brian AugerFind albums by this artist’s TrinityFind albums by this artist), who plays on this album, was also a founding member of Mark-Almond and would later be e member of Riff RaffFind albums by this artist and NucleusFind albums by this artist. Another player, the drummer Alan WhiteFind albums by this artist, would later join the legendary YesFind albums by this artist. This album is a splendid example of early Jazz-Rock, with strong Rhythm And Blues influences. Almond plays tenor, alto and baritone saxophones, flute, alto flute, organ, vibes, mellotron and bass clarinet – surely deserving the “music machine” nickname. His virtuosity (my favorite being his flute playing) is obvious. He also composed all but one of the eight tunes included here. Overall this is an excellent album and a great trip down the memory lane. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAKERLOO ~ BAKERLOO (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2468 (Barcode: 5013929456846) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the only album by the obscure British trio BakerlooFind albums by this artist, which comprised of guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Terry PooleFind albums by this artist and drummer Keith BakerFind albums by this artist. The original album presented seven tunes, five of which were co-written by Clempson and Toole (and Baker on one of them), one was a blues standard and one was an arrangement of a Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist composition (the same composition was also recorded by Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and released as "Bouree" on their second album "Stand UpFind albums with this title"). This remastered and expanded edition adds five bonus tracks, which are a B-side, a couple of alternate tracks and a couple of previously unreleased tracks.
The music is floating somewhere between Blues-Rock and early Progressive Rock, featuring brilliant guitar work by Clempson, who of course was about to join Colosseum soon after Bakerloo disbanded and achieve world fame. The fact that this album was dug up is primarily due to the fact that Clempson plays on it, although with all fairness it is a solid release worth being remembered. The last track on the original album is an extended piece which last for about fifteen minutes, which of course hints as to the Proto-Prog connection of the band and its music.
The British Blues Revival produced hundreds of bands similar to Bakerloo in the late 1960s, most of which tried to copy bands which already achieved fame and acclaim, like CreamFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, Fleetwood MacFind albums by this artist, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Ten Years AfterFind albums by this artist and many others. Many of these bands never managed to make an album at all, many others recorded one album, like Bakerloo, which disappeared into the vaults of record labels, and are now occasionally rediscovered by reissue labels.
Guitar freaks will find this album highly exciting, as Clempson plays much more aggressively and prominently on this album than at any other point of his career, obviously due to the fact that he was the leading voice in this trio and there were no restrictions whatsoever. Some of his neck-breaking / hair-raising solos on this album are completely unrepeatable.
Overall this is a great trip down the memory lane and the remastered music sounds superbly fresh and is highly enjoyable, again emphasizing the fact that those were the most productive years in British (and worldwide) music scene, sadly long gone, albeit not forgotten. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 21/01/2017Posted: 21/01/2017 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ SOLID BOND
COLLECTORS` CHOICE 2000 (Barcode: 617742200027) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1963 - 1966 Released: 2009
If there ever was a quintessential Jazz-Rock album, which practically not only is the first recorded example of the genre, but also defines it unequivocally, this is it! The music herein was initially released as a double LP for the first time in 1970, but it consists of two sessions recorded earlier by the legendary British saxophonist / organist / vocalist Graham BondFind albums by this artist, the earlier one in 1963 and the later in 1966. These two sessions, diametrically different and yet completely unified in spirit, present a miniscule window into the time-space continuum, which enables us to take a peek at the most feverish period in British music, where invention and pioneering breakthrough were happening on a daily basis. The first of these two sessions is not only the first recording of the emerging Jazz-Rock genre but also the recording debut of one of its future heroes, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The Graham Bond Quartet, captured live in London´s legendary Klooks Kleek club consisted of Bond (on sax), McLaughlin, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on acoustic bass and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist on drums. They played a unique brand of modern jazz, which combined the elements of Free Jazz, Swing and Rock (or Rhythm And Blues), basically inventing the Jazz-Rock Fusion on the fly. Although the music is predominantly Jazzy, Baker´s rhythmic approach, Bond´s phrasing and McLaughlin´s scales all included clear Rock innuendos. During the period separating the first session and the second one, Bond formed the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, which recorded a couple of LPs in 1965 ("The Sound Of 65Find albums with this title" and "There`s A Bond Between UsFind albums with this title") and practically fell apart after Bruce and Baker left to form CreamFind albums by this artist. The second recording features another interim quartet with Bond (this time on organ), saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Bruce (who double-gigged between Cream and some Jazz activities) and the young and upcoming drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The music recorded during this session is already full-fledged Fusion, with Jazz being tightly incorporated with Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Rock, similar to the patterns perfected during the Organization days. Some of the material appears on the Organization recordings, other was new, but the overall quality is of course everlasting. Shortly after this recording Heckstall-Smith and Hiseman left Bond to join John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and later formed the mighty ColosseumFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this album, although relatively little known by Jazz-Rock enthusiasts, is a holy grail of the genre and an essential piece of any serious music collection. Unavailable for years, the CD recent reissue is a major contribution to preservation of this superb musical achievement. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BREAKOUT ~ BLUES
MUZA 940 (Barcode: 5907783499401) ~ POLAND ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2005
3rd album by Polish group BreakoutFind albums by this artist is one of the most influential albums, not only in Poland but in the entire Easter European music scene. Separated from the West by the Iron Curtain, Eastern European musicians and fans alike had little opportunity to hear album released "on the other side" and therefore relied primarily on whatever was available to them. Poland led the way in music in the 1960s and 1970s not only in Jazz, which flourished there, but also in Rock and Blues-Rock, as well as early Progressive Rock. Albums by NiemenFind albums by this artist, Poland´s most influential Rock / Prog / Jazz-Rock Fusion figure and later on also this album, served as the "musical bible" for generations of Eastern European musicians to study, copy and be inspired by. Breakout, led by vocalist / guitarist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist, included also lead guitarist Dariusz KozakiewiczFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. The lyrics were written by Polish poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s resident lyricist. This album is a superb example of Blues-Rock, with absolutely stunning guitar work by Kozakiewicz, which resulted in it being referred to as the Polish version of the legendary John MayallFind albums by this artist´s "Bluesbreakers With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title" album, being surely as influential as that seminal release. In retrospect the album lost absolutely nothing of its power and beauty and hopefully some Rock-Blues enthusiasts around the world will discover it eventually. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC CLAPTON ~ ERIC CLAPTON (DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 877849 (Barcode: 602498396070) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2006
I still remember very well holding this album in my hands for the first time. It was 1970 and Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist was God! Clapton’s brilliant career, which developed in the late 1960’s from YardbirdsFind albums by this artist via John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist via CreamFind albums by this artist and finally Blind FaithFind albums by this artist created one of the mightiest Rock legends in all times, namely a Guitar Superstar (rivaled only by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist).
Clapton’s debut album as a solo artist was probably one of the most anticipated albums in the history of Rock. As usual in such cases, when Clapton’s fans (which numbered in many millions around the world) got eventually to hear the album, their consternation had no limits. It is hard to imagine the scale of the metamorphosis that Clapton went through in just a few months (at least in the public eye), which led to this album. He tried to run away from the Guitar Superstar image with all his might and the album includes (almost) no guitar solos, surely nothing even near to his extravagantly long improvisations he used to perform (especially in Cream). Many fans were of course bitterly disappointed and dismissed the album as “Pop”.
The events that led to the album are as follows: During the 1969 Blind Faith US tour Clapton met Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonieFind albums by this artist, who were their act openers. A close musical friendship developed between them and when the Blind Faith tour was over (and the group practically disbanded) Clapton joined the Bramletts’ group and toured with them. A brilliant live album was recorded in 1969 (“On Tour With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title”) and when Clapton started the recording sessions for his first solo album he invited the Bramletts and their excellent band to serve as the backbone of his studio cast. The album was recorded in the late 1969 and early 1970 in the US and UK.
The result was a wonderful (and completely new) mixture of styles and genres, mostly rooted in American music, which included Blues, Gospel, Soul, Rhythm And Blues, Rock and Pop. This strange brew ;) worked exceptionally well and listening to this album without pre-conceptions is really great fun. Clapton delivers a lot of nice guitar licks (mostly in the background) and soulful vocals as well as a bunch of well-crafted songs (most were co-written with Delaney Bramlett). The supporting band is superb all the way and the result is a classic of the era. The new edition brings out a complete new mix of the album done by Delaney Bramlett, which is quite different from the originally released version mixed by the mighty Tom DowdFind albums by this artist, as well as a bunch of previously unreleased tracks. This is a splendid opportunity to find a space on your shelves for another classic.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC CLAPTON ~ NOTHING BUT THE BLUES
REPRISE 093624906452 (Barcode: 093624906452) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1994 Released: 2022
Almost thirty years after the filming the documentary “Nothing But The BluesFind albums with this title” in 1994, which tells the story of British guitar superstar Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and his affiliation with Blues Music, capturing his live performances at the Fillmore West in San Francisco, the soundtrack and the film are finally released on CD, DVD and other formats for us to enjoy.
The CD presents seventeen Blues classics, performed by a band, which includes, in addition to Clapton on guitar and vocals, also guitarist Andy Fairweather LowFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Jerry PortnoyFind albums by this artist, pianist Chris StaintonFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave BronzeFind albums by this artist, drummer Andy NewarkFind albums by this artist and the Kick HornsFind albums by this artist horn section.
There are no surprises herein, which is to be expected. Clapton feels like a fish in the water within the Blues idiom and his deep love of the music is evident all the way through. His vocals are steady and strong and his guitar work is as genuine as they come. Most of the material is close to the Blues tradition, more Blues than Blues-Rock, which finds Clapton reverting almost thirty years back in time to his legendary stint with John MayallFind albums by this artist.
The sound is somewhat a bit too dense for a true Blues experience, and a smaller lineup might have served the purpose more accurately, but let’s be honest, Clapton is a Master of the Trade and his understanding of the Blues is truly astounding, which guarantees complete satisfaction to his many fans and followers.
Overall, this is a feast to Blues and Blues-Rock lovers the world over, with the right man in the right place to make sure everything works like clockwork. A bit too loud for me, but hay, I must be getting old... Enjoy!
| | Updated: 23/12/2022Posted: 23/12/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CLARK-HUTCHINSON ~ A=MH² (EXPANDED EDITION)
SUNBEAM 5048 (Barcode: 5051125504817) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
1st album (well not really but more about this later) by UK duo Clark-HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, or Andy ClarkFind albums by this artist and Mick HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, two multi-instrumentalists and prominent figures on London’s late 1960s Psychedelic and Blues scene. Mick, a superb guitarist, plays also some keyboards and Andy plays anything from drums, percussion, keyboards, flute and saxophone. Listening to this extraordinary album it’s really difficult to believe that two musicians, using rather primitive studio technology available at the time, were able to create such massive and complex sound. But sound aside, the music is what makes this album such an extraordinary experience. Based on modal and Indian music and using the slowly developing raga as a model, they create a most amazing amalgam of Jazz, Psychedelic and World Music, which at the time was revolutionary and pioneering. Hutchinson’s lengthy guitar solos are a prime example of jazzy improvisation and one of the first Jazz-World Fusion attempts, which will be later perfected by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist in ShaktiFind albums by this artist. The overall contemplative nature of the music and the imaginative ornamentation by additional (overdubbed) instruments create a mystical atmosphere, which is seldom found on other album. This expanded edition also includes the real first album by Clark-Hutchinson, recorded just a couple of months earlier, but rejected by their record label, which remained unreleased until now. Although based on Blues as a guiding model (both Andy and Mick loved the Blues), it follows much the same “working model” of the two musicians overdubbing several instruments, although a bass player and a drummer were used on these sessions. The resulting album is at least as good as any other UK Blues album recorded at the time by John MayallFind albums by this artist, Savoy BrownFind albums by this artist, etc., with Mick’s scorching guitar solos providing the icing on the cake. With extensive liner notes and great sound quality this is a well-deserved reissue of one of the most groundbreaking musical projects of the late 1960s. A true blast from the past!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CLIMAX BLUES BAND ~ GOLD PLATED
REPERTOIRE 4142 (Barcode: 4009910414224) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 1991
This is the 9th album by the British Blues-Rock band Climax Blues BandFind albums by this artist, which was one of the many bands that came into existence during the mid to late 1960s British Blues revival, pioneered by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist and John MayallFind albums by this artist. The band plays a great selection of self-penned material, which mixes Blues, Rock and even Soul, brilliantly executed with plenty of heartbreaking guitar and sax solos, as expected. This album includes the band´s greatest commercially successful single "Couldn´t Get It Right" and is considered as one of the classics of the British Blues-Rock releases and lost nothing of its charm in time. A must to every Blues-Rock fan!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CLIMAX BLUES BAND ~ THE CLIMAX CHICAGO BLUES BAND
REPERTOIRE 4078 (Barcode: 4009910407820) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 1990
This is the excellent debut album by the British Blues-Rock band Climax Blues BandFind albums by this artist, which was one of the many bands that came into existence during the mid to late 1960s British Blues revival, pioneered by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist and John MayallFind albums by this artist. The band plays a great selection of classic Blues material and some self-penned material, brilliantly executed with plenty of heartbreaking guitar solos, as expected. This album is considered as one of the classics of the British Blues-Rock releases and lost nothing of its charm in time. A must to every Blues-Rock fan!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM COLLIER ~ DARIUS / MIDNIGHT BLUE / NEW CONDITIONS
BGO 895 (Barcode: 5017261208958) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 - 1976 Released: 2009
Composer / arranger / bandleader / bassist Graham CollierFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of modern British Jazz, and his contribution to the genre as a musician, educator and writer are monumental. Although initially schooled in the US (Collier was the first student from the UK to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee School of Music in Boston in the 1960s), he was in fact one of the pioneers of the European Jazz, accepting the American Jazz tradition as a basis for further development and exploration based on the European cultural heritage. His innovative approach as a composer and arranger were immensely influential not only on the local British scene, but also throughout the entire Europe, especially his usage of irregular meters and time signatures. Over the years Collier composed and recorded a colossal body of work, which includes some of the greatest music of the 20th Century. This album, which is a third installment and a companion to the two previous BGOFind albums on this label reissues of his early recordings, includes the first three recordings by Collier released on his own record label MosaicFind albums on this label Records, one of the first independently owned Jazz labels in Britain. He composed all the music presented here and plays bass (something he was to abandon in the future) and the lineups of the three ensembles include some of the greatest players on the British scene at the time: Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist (trombone), Art ThemenFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Ed SpeightFind albums by this artist (guitar), Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist, Roger DeanFind albums by this artist (piano) and John WebbFind albums by this artist (drums). Many of these players were to become future leaders of course, as Collier’s ensembles served as an excellent breeding ground for young players, similar to what happened on the Blues scene with John MayallFind albums by this artist’s ensembles. Collier of often called the Charles MingusFind albums by this artist of European Jazz, and the parallels are obvious. The music is of course absolutely stunning, from start to finish, and brilliantly performed. Every moment on this album is just right, brilliant and timeless, which makes it not only a perfect document of the era, but also a piece of music that retains its intrinsic values forever. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM COLLIER ~ DEEP DARK BLUE CENTRE / PORTRAITS / THE ALTERNATE MOSAICS
BGO 822 (Barcode: 5017261208224) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1972 Released: 2008
Composer / arranger / bandleader / bassist Graham CollierFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of modern British Jazz, and his contribution to the genre as a musician, educator and writer are monumental. Although initially schooled in the US (Collier was the first student from the UK to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee School of Music in Boston in the 1960s), he was in fact one of the pioneers of the European Jazz, accepting the American Jazz tradition as a basis for further development and exploration based on the European cultural heritage. His innovative approach as a composer and arranger were immensely influential not only on the local British scene, but also throughout the entire Europe, especially his usage of irregular meters and time signatures. Over the years Collier composed and recorded a colossal body of work, which includes some of the greatest music of the 20th Century. This album, which is a companion to the previous BGOFind albums on this label reissue of his early recordings, includes the very first recording by Collier released on DeramFind albums on this label in 1967, his last of the early 1970s recordings released on the tiny SaydiscFind albums by this artist label in 1972, before he established his own records label MosaicFind albums on this label, and a sensational never previously released alternate version of the live material, which produced the original "MosaicsFind albums with this title" album. He composed all the music presented here (except one tune) and plays bass (something he was to abandon in the future) and the lineups of the three ensembles include some of the greatest players on the British scene at the time: Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, Bob SydorFind albums by this artist, Dave AaronFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist (oboe), Ed SpeightFind albums by this artist, Philip LeeFind albums by this artist (guitar), Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist (piano) and John MarshallFind albums by this artist, John WebbFind albums by this artist (drums). Many of these players were to become future leaders of course, as Collier’s ensembles served as an excellent breeding ground for young players, similar to what happened on the Blues scene with John MayallFind albums by this artist’s ensembles. Collier of often called the Charles MingusFind albums by this artist of European Jazz, and the parallels are obvious. The music is of course absolutely stunning, from start to finish, and brilliantly performed. Every moment on this album is just right, brilliant and timeless, which makes it not only a perfect document of the era, but also a piece of music that retains its intrinsic values forever. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM COLLIER ~ DOWN ANOTHER ROAD / SONGS FOR MY FATHER / MOSAICS
BGO 767 (Barcode: 5017261207678) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2007
Composer / arranger / bandleader / bassist Graham CollierFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of modern British Jazz, and his contribution to the genre as a musician, educator and writer are monumental. Although initially schooled in the US (Collier was the first student from the UK to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee School of Music in Boston in the 1960s), he was in fact one of the pioneers of the European Jazz, accepting the American Jazz tradition as a basis for further development and exploration based on the European cultural heritage. His innovative approach as a composer and arranger were immensely influential not only on the local British scene, but also throughout the entire Europe, especially his usage of irregular meters and time signatures. Over the years Collier composed and recorded a colossal body of work, which includes some of the greatest music of the 20th Century. This album collects the three albums Collier recorded for the FontanaFind albums on this label / PhilipsFind albums on this label labels in 1969 / 1970, following his debut recording on DeramFind albums on this label from 1967. He composed all the music presented here (except one tune) and plays bass (something he was to abandon in the future) and the lineups of the three ensembles include some of the greatest players on the British scene at the time: Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, Bob SydorFind albums by this artist, Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist (oboe), Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist (trombone), Philip LeeFind albums by this artist (guitar), John TaylorFind albums by this artist, Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist (piano) and John MarshallFind albums by this artist, John WebbFind albums by this artist (drums). Many of these players were to become future leaders of course, as Collier’s ensembles served as an excellent breeding ground for young players, similar to what happened on the Blues scene with John MayallFind albums by this artist’s ensembles. Collier is often called the Charles MingusFind albums by this artist of European Jazz, and the parallels are obvious. The music is of course absolutely stunning, from start to finish, and brilliantly performed. Every moment on this album is just right, brilliant and timeless, which makes it not only a perfect document of the era, but also a piece of music that retains its intrinsic values forever. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM COLLIER ~ SYMPHONY OF SCORPIONS / THE DAY OF THE DEAD
BGO 1028 (Barcode: 5017261210289) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1978 Released: 2011
Composer / arranger / bandleader / bassist Graham CollierFind albums by this artist, a dear personal friend of mine who died in 2011, is one of the Godfathers of modern British Jazz, and his contribution to the genre as a musician, educator and writer are monumental. Although initially schooled in the US (Collier was the first student from the UK to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee School of Music in Boston in the 1960s), he was in fact one of the pioneers of the European Jazz, accepting the American Jazz tradition as a basis for further development and exploration based on the European cultural heritage. His innovative approach as a composer and arranger were immensely influential not only on the local British scene, but also throughout the entire Europe, especially his usage of irregular meters and time signatures. Over the years Collier composed and recorded a colossal body of work, which includes some of the greatest music of the 20th Century.
This album, which is a fourth installment and a companion to the three previous BGO reissues of his early recordings, includes the last two recordings by Collier released on his own record label MosaicFind albums on this label Records, one of the first independently owned Jazz labels in Britain. He composed all the music presented here and plays bass on the first recordings (something he was to abandon in the future) and the lineups of the three ensembles include some of the greatest players on the British scene at the time: Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist (trombone), Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, Mike PageFind albums by this artist, Art ThemenFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Ed SpeightFind albums by this artist (guitar), Roger DeanFind albums by this artist (piano), Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist (bass) and Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist, John WebbFind albums by this artist (drums). Many of these players were to become future leaders of course, as Collier’s ensembles served as an excellent breeding ground for young players, similar to what happened on the Blues scene with John MayallFind albums by this artist’s ensembles.
Both these releases were inspired by the works of British poet and novelist Malcolm LowryFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative writers of the 20th Century. "The Day Of The DeadFind albums with this title" (originally released as a double LP) includes extended fragments from Lowry´s masterpiece "Under The Volcano" and his other writings, narrated by John CarberyFind albums by this artist on top of the music performed by the band. Both works rank amongst Collier´s greatest achievements and his most adventurous recordings, with a loose composed frame and extensive group improvisations.
Collier is often called the Charles MingusFind albums by this artist of European Jazz, and the parallels are obvious. The music is of course absolutely stunning, from start to finish, and brilliantly performed. Every moment on this album is just right, brilliant and timeless, which makes it not only a perfect document of the era, but also a piece of music that retains its intrinsic values forever. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE (2CD EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2545 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the seminal live album by the legendary British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Blues-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who shared earlier common ground as members of John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist. The final incarnation of the band´s first era, of which this was the last recording, included also vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The original release of this album was a 2LP set and this 2CD edition more than doubles the original album´s playing time, including additional material that was recorded at the same concerts from which the original album was put together.
This reissue is the answer to the question: "How do you take the best possible album and make it better?" The new remaster and the additional material simply turn this iconic album into what is probably the most important recording made at the historic crossroads that produced, after a period of about half a decade of crystallization and construction, two of the tremendous British contributions to music in the 1960s: Blues-Rock Fusion and Jazz-Rock Fusion (the other being Progressive Rock, which also has a few moments on this album).
The complexity and the ingenuity of the music on this album are mind-bugling and in fact it was never matched by any other album of that period. The musicians struggled with the difficulties of playing this music live and compensated for any technical imperfections by the fire and enthusiasm of the performance. In fact the group´s reunion after twenty three years produced other live versions of the same material ("Live Cologne 1994Find albums with this title"), which are technically more perfect than the recordings herein, a fact that can be easily explained by the musical experience acquired during that period of time.
In retrospect this album simply refuses to fade away and still shines like a beacon of musical vitality, sophistication and stylistic crosspollination, which puts most of contemporary music in a miserable and pitiable light. Brainwashed and undereducated listeners of today can´t tell great music from organic waste…
I wonder if we can expect a future 4CD version of this album? After all this has already been reissued three times, so why not again? Still absolutely essential, perhaps even more so than before!
| | Updated: 17/01/2017Posted: 17/01/2017 | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ FRESH CREAM (SUPER DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 602557185515 (Barcode: 602557185515) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2017
This is a reissue / archival Box Set presenting the music recorded by the iconic British Rock / Blues-Rock band CreamFind albums by this artist and released on their debut album “Fresh CreamFind albums with this title”. The Box Set includes three CDs and one Blue-ray and is lavishly packaged with a hardcover book with an essay, song lyrics and many photographs.
CD1 presents mono mixes, which include the album (ten tracks), one outtake, three singles and two EPs with alternate mixes and alternate masters. CD2 presents stereo mixes, which include the album, three session recordings and seven previously unreleased alternate mixes. CD3 presents eleven outtakes, early versions and alternate mixes, all bar one previously unreleased and sixteen BBC recordings (only two previously unreleased), captured at four different sessions. The Blue-ray Disk presents the US mono and stereo versions of the album and the three additional tracks, all in 24/96 High Resolution audio.
Cream, the first supergroup, were obviously a groundbreaking musical step, which combined the Manfred MannFind albums by this artist bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, creating a true one of a kind monster, which was about to change Blues-Rock and Rock like no other group ever did before them. In many respects they still reverberate in every Rock album recorded since 1996, when they recorded the music included herein.
All three Cream members were geniuses in they own right of course, but it was Jack Bruce who wrote all the original material on this album together with the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist (except one tune by Baker, which was mostly a drum solo), with the rest of the material being traditional Blues pieces. The combination of Blues with Rock riffs and heavy sound was of course the cradle of Blues-Rock as we know it.
Overall, this is one of the most revolutionary Rock albums of all time, which opened completely new opportunities of cross-genre pollination and the opened the Golden Decade of music, during which most of the music worth listening to was created. For Cream fanatics this is of course an essential piece of the puzzle, but most veteran Cream followers already have all the material here in one form or another. Nevertheless, this golden classic deserves to be treated with respect, today perhaps more so than ever.
| | Updated: 29/09/2021Posted: 29/09/2021 | 3CD+BD 4 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | AYNSLEY DUNBAR RETALIATION ~ TO MUM FROM AYNSLEY AND THE BOYS / REMAINS TO BE HEARD
BLUE LABEL 97912 (Barcode: 693723979120) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2006
3rd and 4th albums by brilliant UK Blues group Aynsley Dunbar RetaliationFind albums by this artist, led by legendary drummer Aynsley DunbarFind albums by this artist and including some of the greatest musicians of the period, like Victor BroxFind albums by this artist (vocals, guitar & keyboards), Jon MorsheadFind albums by this artist (guitar), Alex DmochowskiFind albums by this artist (bass) and Tommy EyreFind albums by this artist (keyboards). Following the release of the first two albums, the group asked John MayallFind albums by this artist to produce their 3rd release and the resulting album is one of the greatest British Blues masterpieces of all times. The extraordinary vocals by Brox (deep throaty baritone), superb guitar and keyboards solos and fantastic rhythm section, combined with excellent songwriting just all come together to create a stunning album, which strangely enough us relatively unknown to most British Blues fans. Unfortunately by the time the 3rd album was released, the group was already falling apart, with Dunbar moving ahead to create his (also short-lived) "Blue WhaleFind albums with this title" project. The 4th album was a contractual commitment and was recorded partly after Dunbar left, with Brox assuming the leadership for a while. The resulting album is not as strong as its predecessor, but considering the abilities and talent of the musicians involved, it is still (in retrospect) quite good, certainly better that many other efforts recorded at the time. This is essential document of British Blues, an absolute must to any fan of the genre.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICK FLEETWOOD & FRIENDS ~ CELEBRATE THE MUSIC OF PETER GREEN AND THE EARLY YEARS OF FLEETWOOD MAC
BMG 4050538669336 (Barcode: 4050538669336) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This 2CD album, recorded live at the legendary Palladium in London in February 2020, is a document of a special concert organized to pay tribute to one of the greatest Blues guitarists of all time, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist, and his seminal group Fleetwood MacFind albums by this artist. Mick FleetwoodFind albums by this artist (on drums) and Green formed Fleetwood Mac in 1967 and the group included also guitarist Jeremy SpencerFind albums by this artist and bassist John McVieFind albums by this artist, and eventually a third guitarist Danny KirwanFind albums by this artist. That early lineup lasted until May 1970, when Green left, and recorded a number of albums, which are absolute Blues-Rock classics to this very day. Green died a few months after this concert took place.
This concert, three years in planning in making, presents no less than twenty-three songs from the Fleetwood Mac repertoire, about half of them written by Green, including the everlasting icons like “Man Of The World”, “Oh Well”, “The Green Manalishi”, “Albatross” and “Black Magic Woman”. The list of names of the guest musicians appearing on this album reads like a Rock / Blues encyclopedia and includes musicians such as David GilmourFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist, Bill WymanFind albums by this artist, Noel GallagherFind albums by this artist, Christine McVieFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Christine PerfectFind albums by this artist), Jeremy Spencer, Pete TownshendFind albums by this artist and many others. The overall level of performances is simply staggering.
The fact that this concert actually took place, despite the nightmarish logistics involved with bringing so many musicians on one stage, not mentioning the contractual complications, is a symbol of Peter Green’s influence on generation of musicians all over the world. His contribution to the Blues idiom is simply immeasurable and goes way beyond the British Blues Revival of the 1960s, as his music proves to be simply everlasting.
For Blues / Blues-Rock fans this album is an absolute must of course, and hopefully it will also open the eyes / ears of some young listeners to the treasures of days passed, which still glimmer more potently than anything recorded today.
| | Updated: 05/06/2021Posted: 29/05/2021 | CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON SUGARCANE HARRIS ~ CUP FULL OF DREAMS
PROMISING MUSIC 44115 (Barcode: 602527615967) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2011
This is the 4th album on the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label by US virtuoso violinist / composer Don Sugarcane Harris. His stints with John MayallFind albums by this artist and Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist exposed his name to international Blues and Rock audiences, but his association with MPS placed him in the company of other great violinists during the "Violin Summit" projects run by legendary producer Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist and established his well deserved reputation as exceptional player, composer and improviser. Harris composed all the music on this album, which is Blues related, but stretches far beyond the basic Blues structures and displays wonderful melodic qualities. He is supported by a great band, which includes keyboardist Dewey TerryFind albums by this artist, bassists Larry TaylorFind albums by this artist and Victor ConteFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul LagosFind albums by this artist and two superb guitarists: Harvey MendelFind albums by this artist and Randy ResnickFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Richard AplanFind albums by this artist plays on one track. His advanced improvisations take the music beyond the Blues / Blues-Rock settings and turn it into a kind of Blues-Jazz Fusion, completely unique and charming. In retrospect the album lost none of its magic and still sounds fresh and invigorating. Sadly no longer with us, Harris recorded only sporadically after his MPS days, which is a great pity. This is a must to all violin lovers, but every music connoisseur should find something of interest here. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Slipcase Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON SUGARCANE HARRIS ~ SUGAR CANE`S GOT THE BLUES
PROMISING MUSIC 44102 (Barcode: 602517545731) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
American violinist Don Sugarcane HarrisFind albums by this artist was one of the very few great Blues / Rock / Fusion artists playing the fiddle. He came to prominence as a member of the revolutionary John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist group and later as a member of Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist’s groups. This album, recorded live during the Berliner Jazztage Festival, presents Harris both as a leader and a participant in the legendary “Violin Summit” super-group, assembled by producer Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. The solo appearance is in fact an offshoot project of the “Violin Summit”, which was a series of recordings on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label, which celebrated the role of the violin in Jazz, Blues, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Rock and produced probably the most interesting document of music by violinists in the late 1960s / 1970s. The “Violin Summit” projects were based on a concept of a rhythm section and a series of violinist playing solo and in various combinations. The 1971 version of “Violin Summit”, which produced the “New Violin SummitFind albums with this title” double album, included also such great violin players as Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist (France), Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist (Poland) and Nipso BrantnerFind albums by this artist (Germany) – none of them is heard here – and a fantastic rhythm section consisting of the Norwegian guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist, German keyboardist Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, New Zealander (resident in UK at the time) bassist Neville WhiteheadFind albums by this artist and British drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist. On the solo night Rypdal is replaced by German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist. Surrounded by such illustrious musicians, Harris plays his heart out, improvising more daringly than ever before, no doubt inspired by the incredible performances by his European partners, who were musically much more advanced that Harris’ usual American companions. Overall the album presents a great event captured for posterity, with some amazing musical moments documenting the formation of the European Jazz-Rock Fusion, which bridges between such distant genres as the Blues and Free Jazz with elegance and vision. Beautifully remastered and packaged, this album is definitely worth investigation and attentive listening.
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEEF HARTLEY BAND ~ HALFBREED
ESOTERIC 2050 (Barcode: 5013929715028) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
1st album by the excellent Keef Hartley BandFind albums by this artist, one the best Blues / Rock / Jazz ensembles ever, founded by drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist following his stint with John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. The band featured a nucleus consisting of singer / guitarist Miller AndersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Spit JamesFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Peter DinesFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary ThainFind albums by this artist and Hartley on drums. In addition a horn section was added to expand the band´s sound, which on this album consisted of the best horn players in Britain: trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Harry BecketFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Lynn DobsonFind albums by this artist and Chris MercerFind albums by this artist. Together this nine-piece band had a tremendous power and considering the quality of its members it was simply the best "little Big Band" around at the time. Hartley´s sensitive drumming drives the music through a set of fantastically well written and superbly arranged tunes, which are Blues based but extend often into Rock and Jazz. The guitar work is stunning, the brass arrangement just right on the money, in short heaven on earth for any Blues fan, but basically early Jazz-Rock Fusion enthusiasts will find here everything they need to make them happy. Definitely a classic of the genre and an essential piece of music if ever there was one!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEEF HARTLEY BAND ~ LITTLE BIG BAND
ESOTERIC 2051 (Barcode: 5013929715127) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
5th album by the excellent Keef Hartley BandFind albums by this artist, one the best Blues / Rock / Jazz ensembles ever, founded by drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist following his stint with John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. This live recording in London´s legendary Marquee Club is a most ambitious project the band undertook, expanding its personnel to a full scale Big Band of 16 musicians, which included the best Jazz players on the UK scene at the time. The entire project was prompted by an invitation from the BBC to record live and the bandwagon got rolling from there. Alongside the Hartley regulars the additional players include trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist and many more. Although the material is Blues based, in fact the orchestral arrangements and the entire concept is a tribute to great Jazz Big Bands, which were a great source of influence to Hartley. This is not only great music but also a great document of the times, when musical project could be made to come true regardless of their complexity and expense. Just sit back and succumb to the engulfing sound of the band in its full might – satisfaction guaranteed! Superb stuff!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DICK HECKSTALL-SMITH ~ BLUES AND BEYOND
BLUE STORM 004 (Barcode: 5050232500422) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
This is the last album by British saxophonist / composer Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, recorded before his passing in 2004. The album, produced by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, includes an incredible list of British musicians, who played with him during his career: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, drummers Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and vocalists Rab McCulloughFind albums by this artist, Paul JonesFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist. John MayallFind albums by this artist plays piano and several other musicians also take part in the proceedings. The album presents twelve tracks, most of which are originals by Heckstall-Smith and some are Blues standards.
As the list of names and the album’s title suggest, the album is dedicated to Blues and Blues-Rock material, which of course was always a part of Heckstall-Smith’s background in addition to his Jazz-Rock Fusion, Prog and Jazz activities.
The music is absolutely delightful, as expected, and the guests / friends invited to participate do not disappoint. The album is full of great tunes, brilliant guitar soli and evocative vocals, all within the Blues idiom, spiced with Heckstall-Smith’s idiosyncratic saxophone playing. Of course the album brings fond memories of his activities with Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which were icons of the British scene for many years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and sadly little known album by one of the true heroes of the British Blues, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz scenes. It certainly deserves to be heard and if anybody can find a copy of it, it is wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/02/2022Posted: 03/02/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALEXIS KORNER ~ EVERY DAY I HAVE THE BLUES: THE SIXTIES ANTHOLOGY
GRAPEFRUIT 048 (Barcode: 5013929184800) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1961 - 1969 Released: 2018
This is a wonderful Box Set which presents on 3 CDs a retrospective anthology of the recordings made during the 1960s by guitarist / pianist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist, the Godfather of British Blues. Spanning the entire decade, these recordings were made with a plethora of British Blues, Rock and Jazz musicians, reading like a who´s who of the British Blues / Blues-Rock / Rock And Roll / Blues-Jazz and early Jazz-Rock Fusion, comprising of dozens of names, which passed through Korner´s legendary group Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist.
As bizarre as it might appear, Korner was a white Jewish boy, born in Paris, who arrived in the UK in 1940, escaping the Nazi persecution, and who in time almost singlehandedly reanimated the interest in the Blues on the local British scene, leading to a phenomenon called the British Blues Revival, which started by the mid-1950s and literally exploded by the mid-1960s, when it became the British Blues Boom. In retrospect this musical idiom proved to be one of the most fundamental cornerstones of British Rock, later spreading also to the European continent. Korner´s charismatic personality and influence were a decisive factor leading to the formation of such musical icons as Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, FreeFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist and countless others.
The material collected in this Box Set was available over the years on dozens scattered releases: LPs, singles, EPs, collections, etc. many previously never available on CD. Korner´s recorded legacy suffers from inconsistency and neglect and this Box Set is the first of its kind attempt to present the music in a coherent and logical configuration, showing the incredible diversity and the great talent of Korner as a musicians, songwriter and bandleader. The 3 CDs offer altogether sixty nine tracks, which are a comprehensive picture of Korner´s activity during the 1960s. Korner continued his career until his untimely death in 1984.
Overall the Box Set is full of magnificent music, presented in chronological order by date of recording, which in an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. All the recordings were beautifully remastered and offer a first class listening experience. The Box Set includes an extensive booklet written by David WellsFind albums by this artist, which is informative and well researched, a true model for what all releases of this kind should offer those who buy the product.
Absolutely essential to all British Blues connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 16/02/2019Posted: 16/02/2019 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALEXIS KORNER’S BLUES INCORPORATED ~ BBC SESSIONS VOL.1 1962-1965
RHYTHM AND BLUES 097 (Barcode: 5060331753742) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1962 - 1965 Released: 2024
This is an archival album, which presents recordings by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist’s Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist, made in early 1960s by guitarist / pianist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Alexis Korner, the Godfather of British Blues. These recordings were made with a plethora of British Blues, Rock and Jazz musicians, reading like a who´s who of the British Blues / Blues-Rock / Rock And Roll / Jazz and early Jazz-Rock Fusion, comprising of dozens of names, which passed through Korner´s legendary group over time.
As bizarre as it might appear, Korner was a white Jewish boy, born in Paris, who arrived in the UK in 1940, escaping the Nazi persecution, and who in time almost singlehandedly reanimated the interest in the Blues on the local British scene, leading to a phenomenon called the British Blues Revival, which started by the mid-1950s and literally exploded by the mid-1960s, when it became the British Blues Boom. In retrospect this musical idiom proved to be one of the most fundamental cornerstones of British Rock, later spreading also to the European continent. Korner´s charismatic personality and influence were a decisive factor leading to the formation of such musical icons as Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, FreeFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist and countless others. Korner continued his career until his untimely death in 1984.
The material collects recordings from six different sessions, a total of twenty-four tracks. The collective personnel taking part in these recordings includes, alongside Korner, vocalists Cyril DaviesFind albums by this artist, Long John BaldryFind albums by this artist and Herbie GoinsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, Mick PyneFind albums by this artist, Nigel StangerFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Bernie GeorgeFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Dave StevensFind albums by this artist, Johnny ParkerFind albums by this artist and Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, bassists Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummers Charlie WattsFind albums by this artist, Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, Ronnie DunnFind albums by this artist and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist. It does not get any better than this, does it?
Overall, this album is full of magnificent music, presented in chronological order by date of recording, which is an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. Although the sound quality of some of the tracks, especially the early ones, is a bit shaky, the importance of the music sets everything aside. This is an absolutely essential release to all British Blues connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 02/10/2024Posted: 01/10/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HENRY LOWTHER ~ CHILD SONG
VOCALION 8403 (Barcode: 765387840327) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
Trumpeter / violinist / composer Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist was one of the busiest and most sought after musicians on the British scene in the late 1960s and 1970s. His virtuosity and versatility resulted in him being a member in many groups (often simultaneously) and in different musical environments like Rock (Manfred MannFind albums by this artist), Jazz-Rock (Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist), Blues (John MayallFind albums by this artist) and Jazz (Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist) as well as participating in hundreds of recordings as a session musician. This album is his debut recording as a leader of his own quintet, which includes some of the best young and up-coming British Jazz musicians at the time: Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist – sax, Mike McNaughtFind albums by this artist – electric piano, Daryl RunswickFind albums by this artist – bass and Mike TravisFind albums by this artist – drums. Two additional musicians: Jimmy JewellFind albums by this artist – sax and Neil SlavenFind albums by this artist – percussion also take part in the recording. The music, all composed by Lowther, is a splendid example of the European modern Jazz, which is both melodic and adventurous at the same time. The performances are all spotless and the music flows beautifully, leaving the listener wishing for more when the album is over. Overall the album stands the test of time with flying colors and I can wholeheartedly recommend it every Jazz buff, but of course especially to people partial to the British Jazz scene. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HARVEY MANDEL ~ LIVE AT BROADWAY STUDIOS – SAN FRANCISCO
ROCK BEAT 3366 (Barcode: 089353336622) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2018
This is an archival live album by legendary American Blues guitarist / composer Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist, recorded with keyboardist Dave ScottFind albums by this artist, bassist Joe DevitoFind albums by this artist and drummer John UlenFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, all of which are original compositions by Mandel, including many of his signature tunes.
Mandel enjoyed a meteoric career during his early days on the scene, playing with Canned HeatFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and even a brief stint with the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, which was followed by less prominent activity, which still continues to this very day.
Mandel’s guitar sound and phrasing are completely unique and as such are highly admired by many other guitar players. He mixes several techniques he invented and perfected, that put him in his own category of guitar virtuosos. He really deserves to be discovered by the true guitar lovers of all ages, as his relative anonymity is a crying shame.
This live recording offers relatively long explorations, full of brilliant guitar playing, which portrays Mandel’s abilities at their more explosive display, including a fourteen minutes long version of his composition “Wade In The Water”. The sound quality of this album is quite exceptional and offers an unedited document of the performance without any sound manipulation, which makes it very authentic.
Overall, this is an excellent opportunity to get to know or revisit one of the lesser known heroes of the American Blues-Rock scene and hear some highly unusual guitar playing, with certain Jazz influences, which remains as fresh and enticing as it was fifty plus years ago, when he first appeared on the scene.
| | Updated: 08/06/2023Posted: 08/06/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HARVEY MANDEL ~ SNAKE BOX
PURPLE PYRAMID 3014 (Barcode: 889466301421) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1972 Released: 2022
This is a 6CD Box Set by American Blues-Rock guitarist / composer Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist, which collects his first five solo albums and a bonus CD with a previously unreleased 1968 live recording at the Matrix club. The albums are “Cristo RedentorFind albums with this title” (1968), “RighteousFind albums with this title” (1969), “Games Guitars PlayFind albums with this title” (1970), “Baby BatterFind albums with this title” (1971) and “The SnakeFind albums with this title” (1972).
Mandel enjoyed a meteoric career during his early days on the scene, playing with Canned HeatFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and even a brief stint with the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, which was followed by less prominent activity, which still continues to this very day. The musicians who play alongside Mandel on these early albums include many legendary musicians of the period, including keyboardists Graham BondFind albums by this artist and Barry GoldbergFind albums by this artist, bassist Larry TaylorFind albums by this artist and others. Most of the music was composed by Mandel.
Mandel’s guitar sound and phrasing are completely unique and as such highly admired by many other guitar players. He mixes several techniques he invented and perfected, that put him in his own category of guitar virtuosos.
This Box Set is a reprint of the same Box Set released in 2015, offering no bonus tracks and very basic packaging and sketchy liner notes, as usual in such cases, but the music is brilliant from start to finish.
Overall, this is an excellent opportunity to get to know one of the lesser known heroes of the American Blues-Rock scene and hear some highly unusual guitar playing, with certain Jazz influences, which remains as fresh and enticing as it was fifty plus years ago, when it was recorded.
| | Updated: 01/05/2022Posted: 01/05/2022 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HARVEY MANDEL ~ SNAKE PIT
TOMPKINS SQUARE 5296 (Barcode: 856225005296) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is the fifteenth studio album by legendary American Blues-Rock guitarist / composer Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist, recorded with keyboardist Ben BoyeFind albums by this artist, bassist Anton HatwichFind albums by this artist, drummer Ryan JewellFind albums by this artist, guitarist Brian SulpizioFind albums by this artist and conga player Jose NajeraFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Mandel.
Mandel enjoyed a meteoric career during his early days on the scene, playing with Canned HeatFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and even a brief stint with the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, which was followed by less prominent activity, which still continues to this very day.
Mandel’s guitar sound and phrasing are completely unique and as such are highly admired by many other guitar players. He mixes several techniques he invented and perfected, that put him in his own category of guitar virtuosos. He really deserves to be discovered by the true guitar lovers of all ages, as his relative anonymity is a crying shame.
Overall, this is an excellent opportunity to get to know or revisit one of the lesser known heroes of the American Blues-Rock scene and hear some highly unusual guitar playing, with certain Jazz influences, which remains as fresh and enticing as it was fifty plus years ago, when he first appeared on the scene.
| | Updated: 24/02/2023Posted: 24/02/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | HARVEY MANDEL ~ WHO`S CALLING
TOMPKINS SQUARE 5920 (Barcode: 856225005920) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022
This is an album by legendary American Blues guitarist / composer Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with bassist Andy HessFind albums by this artist and drummer Ryan JewellFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Mandel.
Mandel enjoyed a meteoric career during his early days on the scene, playing with Canned HeatFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and even a brief stint with the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, which was followed by less prominent activity, which still continues to this very day.
Mandel’s guitar sound and phrasing are completely unique and as such are highly admired by many other guitar players. He mixes several techniques he invented and perfected, that put him in his own category of guitar virtuosos.
Overall, this is an excellent opportunity to get to know or revisit one of the lesser known heroes of the American Blues-Rock scene and hear some highly unusual guitar playing, with certain Jazz influences, which remains as fresh and enticing as it was fifty plus years ago, when he first appeared on the scene
| | Updated: 21/01/2023Posted: 21/01/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ 70TH BIRTHDAY CONCERT (COLLECTORS` EDITION)
EAGLE VISION 022 (Barcode: 5034504902299) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
This superb DVD documents the special 70th Birthday concert organized as a tribute to one of UK greatest and most important musicians - bandleader and champion of the Blues – John MayallFind albums by this artist. Mayall was a pivotal figure, which shaped the British musical scene since the mid-1960s and was crucial as a precursor of Blues, Blues-Rock, Rock and even Jazz-Rock. Over the years Mayall’s band included the creme de la creme of British players, who later became the heroes and spawned countless famous bands. The list is just too long to be included here, but every music lover surely knows them all. The most sensational event of the concert was the one-time reunion of the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist lineup, which included Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and recorded one of the most influential Blues albums of all times. Another guitar hero – Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist – also joins Mayall on the stage, and the list of legends goes on and on. These are well over two hours of some of the best Blues music one can imagine and I can’t even think of a Blues fan anywhere in the world not having this in their collection. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and DTS, 137 minutes.
| | | CD+DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ A SPECIAL LIFE
FORTY BELOW 006 (Barcode: 888295039918) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is an album by the Godfather of British Blues, vocalist / multi-instrumentalist / composer / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Rocky AthasFind albums by this artist, bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven songs, four of which are Mayall originals, one is by Rzab and the rest are by Blues standards. This is the first album on the Forty BelowFind albums on this label Records label, which is Mayall’s current label, and the first album after almost a five years of recording break following the release of “ToughFind albums with this title” in 2009.
The music is everything Mayall’s fans expect from him, great songs, excellent vocals and superb instrumental performances. Mayall’s stability as an Artist is one of his great assets and he never recorded a bad album, despite his prolific recording career. He has been lucky to work with some of the best instrumentalists over the years, and his recorded legacy is a triumphant evidence that sticking to one’s Artistic truth is the shortest way to success and recognition.
Overall this is “another brick in the wall” of Mayall’s six-decades long career, which puts his love of the Blues idiom at the spotlight and made the life of his devoted followers more interesting over the years. Blues does not get any better that this… A Special Life indeed!
| | Updated: 04/08/2021Posted: 04/08/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BARE WIRES (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 842178 (Barcode: 602498421789) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
8th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, and his most ambitious project by far. The Bluesbreakers’ lineup was extended to a septet and included Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist on guitar, Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist on bass, Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist on drums and a brass section which included Chris MercerFind albums by this artist on tenor and baritone saxes, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano saxes and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist on cornet and violin. The entire first side of the LP was dedicated to an extended blues suite (first of its kind ever), with strong jazz influences, hence this album is often quoted as one of the earliest examples of the Jazz-Rock genre. The quality of the songwriting and the performances on this album are truly astounding and to this day it remains as a classic icon of the era. However soon after the album was recorded Mayall decided to disband the Bluesbreakers and opt for an intimate quartet for his new project, retaining only the services of Mick Taylor. Three of the band members (Reeves, Hiseman and Heckstall-Smith) decided to form the legendary ColosseumFind albums by this artist, joining forces with keyboards player Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and guitarist James LitherlandFind albums by this artist and the rest is history. So now you know that Colosseum was actually a Bluesbreakers offspring. As for the album, it’s an absolute must for every blues fan and for most lovers of the early Jazz-Rock and Prog genres. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUES FOR THE LOST DAYS
MUSIC ON CD 13458 (Barcode: 8718627225424) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of an album by the Godfather of British Blues, vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / harmonica player / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist. “Blues For The Lost DaysFind albums with this title” was the third of the three albums released in the 1990s by the American SilvertoneFind albums on this label label and it finds Mayall accompanied by guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist John PaulusFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Tommy EyreFind albums by this artist plays on five tracks and a brass section on two tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, eight of which are Mayall’s originals and the rest are by other songwriters. Mayall used the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist moniker for the second time between 1982 and 2008 and this album was also released under that moniker.
All the three albums released on Silvertone find Mayall at his very best. Mayall sings splendidly and plays some great harmonica parts as well as other instruments. Whittington is a brilliant guitarist and his works is simply exemplary. The keyboards work by Eyre is absolutely superb as well, as is all his work over time and he remains as one of the greatest secret heroes of British music. Time made absolutely no dent on this music whatsoever and it sounds every bit as fresh and inviting as it did at the time of its release.
One of the amazing qualities of Mayall is his remarkable consistency and level of artistry, which he managed to preserve throughout his career, in spite of his constant metamorphosis and migration into diverse stylistic niches. His recording legacy presents an impressive collection of over fifty albums, without not even one of them being an artistic compromise. Same goes for his songwriting, which against all odds, manages to ignore the limitations of the Blues idiom and create wonderful new material without being derivative.
Overall, this is a most welcome initiative to bring this album back into circulation, as it was getting a bit tough to find on the market. For Blues / Blues-Rock fans this is of course as indispensable as any other Mayall album.
| | Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 29/08/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUES FROM LAUREL CANYON (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 840839 (Barcode: 602498408391) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
9th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist, and his most personal and intimate statement to date. Following the decision to disband the Bare WiresFind albums with this title version of the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist Mayall immediately formed a new quartet, retaining only Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist from the previous group and adding two exceptional young musicians: Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist on bass and Colin AllenFind albums by this artist on drums.
The material for the new album was written during Mayall’s vacation in California, where he stayed in the Laurel Canyon near LA, a favorite living area of many US musicians. During his stay Mayall met and socialized with fellow musicians, such as members of the blues band Canned HeatFind albums by this artist and Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist and his Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist, and even dedicated two of the songs on the album to them.
The entire album was designed as a one continuous flow of music, with one song smoothly leading into another without any breaks. The magic atmosphere is completely unique and the complex and subtle musical themes make it one of the most remarkable albums recorded in the 1960s. In many respects this album was an end of a phase in Mayall’s long musical road.
It was the last album on DeccaFind albums on this label (he would sign with PolydorFind albums on this label next), the last purely UK based album (he would play with many US musicians later on and eventually move to live in the US), the last of the pure blues albums (the next phase would be much more jazz influenced). In retrospect the John Mayall Decca recordings are one of the greatest documents of the 1960s UK music scene and an everlasting, timeless source of musical inspiration. Essential!
| | Updated: 24/10/2021Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUESBREAKERS WITH ERIC CLAPTON (DELUXE EDITION)
DECCA 984180 (Barcode: 602498418017) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2006
2nd album by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his Bluesbreakers, which features Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist as the lead guitarist and sadly the only album they recorded together at the time. Of course this is the definitive white blues album of all times, with an incisive impact not only on Clapton’s stairway to the “Godly” status of Emperor of all guitar players, but also on the entire music scene, basically establishing the electric Blues (and later Blues / Rock) as the natural and legitimate next step from American-born acoustic blues. This album influenced (and still influences) generations of guitar players of all genres and changed the face of music probably more than any single album did beforehand. It is pretty ironic (at least in retrospect) that Clapton left the YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, accusing the band of becoming to “commercial” following the release of the “For Your Love” single (which by the way was quite revolutionary and groundbreaking as it is), to pursue a “pure” blues oriented music with Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, only to leave a few month later to form CreamFind albums by this artist, which became one of the most successful Rock bands in history. Life is full of surprises! Nevertheless during his stint with Mayall, Clapton managed single-handedly to shape the future of Rock, producing some of the most memorable sounds ever. Speaking of sound, Clapton’s US-made Gibson Les Paul combined with the British Marshall amplifiers produced a sound so unique that it was to be imitated by hordes of axe players around the world for decades. Of course Clapton’s feel for the blues is undeniable, and his interpretation of the twelve bar music form, mixed with his rock background, created an embryo of a new musical Hydra. Mayall was of course ecstatic to have Clapton in his band, only to be utterly devastated when Clapton announced his departure soon after this album was recorded. Fortunately Mayall soon recovered and followed suit with another guitar hero – Peter GreenFind albums by this artist. This (long overdue) edition of this groundbreaking album collects virtually absolutely everything Mayall and Clapton managed to record together. The First CD includes both the original mono mix of the album and the stereo mix, which was done only three years later (1969). The second CD includes a plethora of singles, outtakes, BBC sessions and live recordings, many of which see the light of day for the first time. I am not a great fun of the “If you had to select only one single album…” idea, but this one does come as close to the idea as it is humanly possible. If you don’t own this album, this probably is the greatest hole in your collection (not to mention your music education). Hopefully not for long.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ EUROPEAN UNION (LIVE IN THE UK & GERMANY)
LONDON CALLING 5067 (Barcode: 5053792506712) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1966 - 1970 Released: 2020
This an archival album by the Godfather of British Blues vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist presenting three early iconic lineups of his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live and broadcasted on the radio / TV.
The first six tracks originate from 1966 and were performed by perhaps the most recognizable Bluesbreakers lineup featuring guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist John McVieFind albums by this artist and drummer Hughie FlintFind albums by this artist.
The next five tracks originate from 1969 and were performed by the Bluesbreakers featuring guitarist Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, bassist Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Colin AllenFind albums by this artist.
The last track originates from 1970 and was performed by the revolutionary drumless lineup (not called Bluesbreakers), which recorded the “The Turning PointFind albums with this title” album, and two guests, with guitarists Jon MarkFind albums by this artist and Duster BennettFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist and bassists Steve Thompson and Alex DmochowskiFind albums by this artist.
Although the sound quality of these recordings is problematic, especially the 1966 tracks, the quality of the music is excellent and Mayall’s bands at the time were the undeniable pinnacle of the British Blues Rock explosion. For Mayall’s completists, who don’t have this material in their collection, this is of course a must!
| | Updated: 24/10/2021Posted: 24/10/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ FIND A WAY TO CARE
FORTY BELOW 011 (Barcode: 888295265669) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
Despite the fact that British Blues Guru John MayallFind albums by this artist is already in his eighth decade of his life, he continues to release new albums with a Swiss Clock regularity, as if time stood still for him. This album, recorded in a quartet setting, finds Mayall singing and playing a plethora of keyboard instruments, including the Hammond organ. He is supported by guitarist Rocky AthasFind albums by this artist, bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist. Some of the tracks feature brass arrangements. The album presents twelve tracks (two being bonuses on CD only), five of which are Mayall originals and the rest are by other Blues songwriters.
The music is as fresh and sparkling as always and although Mayall has been at it for six decades, his talent to reinvent himself and his music remains unexhausted. Following him on a regular basis, his faithful fans have been exposed to an ever changing panorama of excellent instrumentalists, whom he picks up carefully, always fitting his idiosyncratic style like a glove.
Many musicians reach a point in their lives that clearly indicates a time to retire and pass the torch to the next generation, but in Mayall’s case that time is simply not here yet. Thank you John for all these marvelous years and the Blues, which always was a part of the Soundtrack Of My Life.
| | Updated: 27/05/2021Posted: 27/05/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
DECCA 984466 (Barcode: 602498446652) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1965 - 1975 Released: 2007
As part of the splendid reissue series of the early John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist recordings, this album collects sessions made for the BBC, which are always a revelation and an important document of all UK artists’ output. Thanks to the UK Musicians’ Union agreement with the BBC, a vast number of recordings made on a regular basis documented over the years the development of the musical scene in the UK and many of these recordings are finding their rightful place on recent reissues. The bulk of the material on this album was recorded between 1965 and 1967 and features Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist or Peter GreenFind albums by this artist as the lead guitarist. The last two tracks are from 1975 and were recorded for TV. Mayall was of course the most important protagonist of the UK blues movement and every piece of previously unheard material is an absolute treasure. Clapton’s and Green’s revolutionary guitar styles are a model for countless guitar players to this very day.
A special note to collectors:
Most of these tracks were included as bonus material on the Bluesbreakers With Eric Clapton (Deluxe Edition)Find albums with this title and A Hard Road (Expanded Edition)Find albums with this title reissues. Therefore this album is mostly for people who don’t own these reissues, or hard-core Mayall collectors.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ LIVE IN FRANCE 1967-73
REPERTOIRE 1459 (Barcode: 4009910145920) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion
Recorded: 1967 - 1973 Released: 2023
This is an archival album by the greatest British Blues Artists of all time, the iconic ninety years old Blues legend John MayallFind albums by this artist. The material originates from the French TV archives and presents twenty-two tracks captured during the five most productive years of Mayall’s early career, both on two CDs and a DVD. The list of participants reads like the Who’s Who of the Blues and Jazz-Blues Fusion history of the Golden Decade: guitarists Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, Jon MarkFind albums by this artist, Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist and Freddie RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassists Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Alex DmochowskiFind albums by this artist, Larry TaylorFind albums by this artist and Victor GaskinFind albums by this artist, drummers Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist, Colin AllenFind albums by this artist and Paul LagosFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist and Red HollowayFind albums by this artist, violinist Don Sugarcane HarrisFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist and others.
During those years Mayall’s groups changed constantly, and with the lineup changes also the stylistic direction changed accordingly, moving from classic Blues towards more open, Jazz influenced acoustic Blues and later Brass-Rock Blues. Mayall was constantly searching for new avenues to explore the Blues realm, gradually moving away from the classic traditional Blues songs towards original material.
This compendium of previously unavailable material is of course an incredible historic document of great value. Although the sonic quality is far from perfect at times, but combined with the video footage brings backs fond memories of a time period, when originality and uncompromised creativity was above all. Mayall’s magnificent contribution to music deserves this kind of documentation and Repertoire Records are certainly one of the best activists in that area.
Overall, this is a magnificent addition to Mayall’s recorded history and an absolute must for his many faithful followers. One can only hope for many such archival releases to follow suit. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 30/12/2023Posted: 30/12/2023 | 2CD+DVD 3 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ NOBODY TOLD ME
FORTY BELOW 022 (Barcode: 020286227601) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019
Aged almost 85 at the time this album was recorded, British Blues hero John MayallFind albums by this artist shows no signs of slowing down and this, his last studio album (as of the time of writing) is still better than anything currently recorded by musicians half or less his age. Recorded in a basic trio format it features Mayall on vocals, keyboards and harmonica with bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist, and supported by a brass section on some of the tracks, the concept of this album is to guest a different lead guitarist on each of the tracks. And indeed they answer the call gladly: Joe BonamassaFind albums by this artist, Larry McCrayFind albums by this artist, Alex LifesonFind albums by this artist, Todd RundgrenFind albums by this artist, Steven Van ZandtFind albums by this artist and Carolyn WonderlandFind albums by this artist (who joined his group on a permanent basis), all play heartwrenching solos on this album. The album presents ten tracks, three of which are Mayall originals and seven are Blues standards.
The music is as fresh as if the Blues idiom was just invented and the playing incredibly tight, as usual with Mayall’s albums, due to his particular attention to details. Mayall is able to prove again that despite the intrinsic limitations of the Blues idiom, it is possible to reinvent it over and over again, as he has done for over six decades of continuous music making.
The idea of having a different lead guitarist on each track is of course brilliant, but not lacking a risk, since different players might have proven to be incompatible. But not with Mayall’s vision – everything works like Swiss clockwork and the different guitarists add diversity, interest and spice to the proceedings.
Overall this is a brilliant Blues album and a guitar heaven for the many guitar fans out there – a winner in every respect. I can only pray to see Mayall go on with his work and expend his incredible recorded legacy further, as long as his strength will allow him to do so. You are a blessing, John!
| | Updated: 03/04/2021Posted: 03/04/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ PADLOCK ON THE BLUES
EAR MUSIC 4029759138174 (Barcode: 4029759138174) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999
This is an album by the Godfather of British Blues vocalist / guitarist / pianist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist. He is supported by a basic trio of guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist John PaulusFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist, all seasoned American Blues veterans who played with Mayall for many years. Additionally many guests appear on the album on selected tracks: Blues Legend John Lee HookerFind albums by this artist, guitarists Coco MontoyaFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Ernie WattsFind albums by this artist, organist Tommy EyreFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Darrell LeonardFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Joe SublettFind albums by this artist, percussionist Steve LeshnerFind albums by this artist and banjo / dobro player Mike MartsolfFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen original songs, eleven of which were written by Mayall, one was co-written by him and Maggie MayallFind albums by this artist and one was co-written by Whittington and Yuele.
There is no doubt that Mayall´s music was a major influence on my personal musical identity and the bands he led over the years and the musicians that played in his bands were the branches of an enormous "family tree" that created over the years some of the best music on this planet. His figure of a musical "guru" influenced so many great musicians, that to understand his impact on music since 1960s on, one has to be familiar with thousands of albums representing all Rock sub-genres, but also Jazz-Rock Fusion and other, seemingly unrelated areas.
One of the amazing qualities of Mayall is his remarkable consistency and level of artistry, which he managed to preserve throughout his career, in spite of his constant metamorphosis and migration into diverse stylistic niches. His recording legacy presents an impressive collection of over fifty albums, without not even one of them being an artistic compromise. Same goes for his songwriting, which against all odds, manages to ignore the limitations of the Blues idiom and create wonderful new material without being derivative.
This album, recorder towards the end of the 20th Century, sounds absolutely as fresh and inspired as his classics recorded in the mid to late 1960s, i.e. thirty years earlier. Not surprisingly the same applies to his albums recorded in the 2010s, another twenty years in the future, maintaining a career lasing over six decades.
Overall this is a wonderful album, absolutely perfect as far as Blues is concerned, with great instrumental performances by all the musicians and superb vocals by Mayall, who refuses to stay behind and let his imitators to take over. This is an absolute must have in any serious Blues collection!
| | Updated: 07/07/2020Posted: 07/07/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ PLAYS JOHN MAYALL (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 984177 (Barcode: 602498417799) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1964 - 1965 Released: 2006
1st album by the hero of my youth and to this date one of my very favorite musicians of all times. John MayallFind albums by this artist is the absolute Godfather of British blues. Since the early 1960s he’s led a streak of blues groups, called The BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, which were a breeding ground for entire generations of future blues and rock superstars. If the names of Peter GreenFind albums by this artist, Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Aynsley DunbarFind albums by this artist, John McVieFind albums by this artist and Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist (to mention just a very few of his alumni) mean anything to you than you can understand his importance. But Mayall is far more than a bandleader. He plays many instruments and writes superb melodies, some of which are amongst the best blues songs ever written. And of course he sings the blues like nobody else. Mayall not only deeply loves the blues, but he understands it probably more than anybody else, which made it possible for him to expand the art of blues way beyond its original form. Thank God he keeps doing it now for over 50 years – a truly remarkable man and an unprecedented career. This album is a live recording at the London’s Klooks Kleek club (a famous meeting place for UK blues musicians). Mayall and his Bluesbreakers perform a brilliant set of songs, composed all by Mayall and this is one of the best examples of how the British blues revival crystallized around that period. Although this music was recorded over 40 years ago, it sounds remarkably fresh and up-to-date, losing nothing of its charm and beauty. Every John Mayall album is an absolute must for any blues fan, this one especially so for its added historical value.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ ROAD DOGS
EAR MUSIC 4029759147961 (Barcode: 4029759147961) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
This is a studio album by British Blues Guru John MayallFind albums by this artist and his band The BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, which at the time included guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist Hank Van SickleFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Tom CanningFind albums by this artist guest on all but three tracks and a couple of other guests are featured on two additional tracks. The album presents fifteen original songs composed and written by Mayall except for two co-created by Whittington and Yuele.
The music is all classic Blues-Rock, every bit as original and typical of Mayall´s charismatic presence as all his other albums. Taking a look back at Mayall´s recording legacy he is probably the most consistent recording artist in the last sixty years, and although the Blues seems often as a very limited idiom with strictly defined boundaries, Mayall manages to stay creative and time and again also innovative, completely ignoring the tides of time.
Mayall, as usual, sings and plays the piano, guitar and harmonica, exactly as he did forty years earlier when he started his impressive career. His lyrics remain biting as always, with social issues always clearly on the agenda, emphasizing his ideology of anti-war and justice, he expresses consistently over the years.
I have somehow missed this album when it was originally released fifteen years ago, but listening to it now confirms my complete confidence in his musicality and endless energy, which luckily for us continues to this very day.
For Blues / Blues-Rock connoisseurs this is a no brainer and a must in the extensive but wholly excellent discography of a truly remarkable musician. If you miss it in your collection, now is the time to fill the gap!
| | Updated: 28/10/2020Posted: 28/10/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ ROLLING WITH THE BLUES - LIVE
INDIGO 004 (Barcode: 5036436131228) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1982 Released: 2021
This is a reissue of an archival release by the Godfather of British Blues vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist presenting live recordings captured between 1972 and 1982 by several different lineups of his groups. The 2CD album was initially released in 2003 and also included a DVD with an interview by Mayall, which is omitted on this release. All the music, except for two tracks, which are Jazz / Blues standards, was composed by Mayall.
CD1 presents twelve tracks recorded in Germany in 1972 and 1973, which feature the sextet version of Mayall’s group with trumpeter Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Clifford SolomonFind albums by this artist or Red HollowayFind albums by this artist, guitarist Freddie RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Victor GaskinFind albums by this artist and drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist, which document the period when his groups featured brass instruments, as documented on the live “Jazz Blues FusionFind albums with this title” and “Moving OnFind albums with this title” albums and the “Ten Years Are GoneFind albums with this title” studio album recorded at that time.
CD2 presents four tracks recorded in the US in 1980, which feature the quintet version of his group with saxophonist Red Holloway, guitarist James Quill SmithFind albums by this artist, bassist Kevin McCormickFind albums by this artist and drummer Soko RichardsonFind albums by this artist. These are followed by six tracks recorded in the US in 1982, which feature the classic quartet version of the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, with guitarist Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, bassists John McVieFind albums by this artist or Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Colin AllenFind albums by this artist, as documented later on the “Return Of The BluesbreakersFind albums with this title” album.
The album is a great document of Mayall’s dexterity and diversity, with his music and the lineups of his groups constantly changing, but never leaving the Blues path.
Overall, this is a wonderful glimpse at the continuous life story of one of the greatest musicians to walk the earth, who now, for over six decades, still keeps making great music and laughing at the time passing by. A must to all Mayall many fans, followers and collectors of his recordings.
| | Updated: 05/11/2021Posted: 05/11/2021 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ SPINNING COIN
MUSIC ON CD 13834 (Barcode: 8718627230305) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1994 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of an album by the Godfather of British Blues, vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / harmonica player / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist. “Spinning CoinFind albums with this title” was the second of the three albums released in the 1990s by the American SilvertoneFind albums on this label label and it finds Mayall accompanied by guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick CortesFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Joe SublettFind albums by this artist plays on six tracks. The album presents eleven tracks, five of which are Mayall’s originals and the rest are Blues standards. Mayall used the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist moniker for the second time between 1982 and 2008 and this album was also released as such.
This is one of the most melodic albums by Mayall and Whittington plays some superb acoustic guitar here, including several bloodcurdling solos. Mayall sings splendidly and plays some nasty Hammond organ and his original material is as strong as ever. Time made absolutely no dent on this music whatsoever and it sounds every bit as fresh and inviting as it did at the time of its release.
One of the amazing qualities of Mayall is his remarkable consistency and level of artistry, which he managed to preserve throughout his career, in spite of his constant metamorphosis and migration into diverse stylistic niches. His recording legacy presents an impressive collection of over fifty albums, without not even one of them being an artistic compromise. Same goes for his songwriting, which against all odds, manages to ignore the limitations of the Blues idiom and create wonderful new material without being derivative.
Overall this is a most welcome initiative to bring this album back in circulation, as it was getting a bit tough to find on the market. For Blues / Blues-Rock fans this is of course as indispensable as any other Mayall album.
| | Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 12/07/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ STORIES
EAR MUSIC 4029759148647 (Barcode: 4029759148647) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of an album recorded by the Godfather of British Blues guitarist / keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist, which was his second album in the new Millennium. The lineup of the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist on this album includes seasoned American Blues musicians: guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Tom CanningFind albums by this artist, bassist Hank Van SickleFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Lenny CastroFind albums by this artist guests on several tracks. The album presents fourteen songs, six of which are originals by Mayall and the rest are written by the members of the band or Blues classics.
Mayall stepped boldly into the new Millennium as if time has absolutely no meaning for him and the first two decades saw him releasing nine new studio albums (and a plethora of live albums, mostly archival), which for a person in their seventies, eighties and nineties is quite astounding.
No less amazing is the fact that his music stays as young, vigorous and kicking as it was in the early days of his career. Despite the limitations of the Blues idiom, Mayall seems to be able to reinvent himself on every new album and his superb sense of melody and the Blues of course are simply unparalleled.
On this album the tunes flow smoothly one after another, featuring Mayall´s wonderfully idiosyncratic vocals and superb playing by his band, which are undisputed Blues / Blues-Rock heaven. God bless you John for the sixty years of great music you shared with all of us!
| | Updated: 30/04/2021Posted: 14/01/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ TALK ABOUT THAT
FORTY BELOW 015 (Barcode: 888295485630) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
Despite the fact that British Blues Guru John MayallFind albums by this artist is already in his eighth decade of his life, he continues to release new albums with a Swiss Clock regularity, as if time stood still for him. This album, recorded in a quartet setting, finds Mayall singing and playing a plethora of keyboard instruments, including the Hammond organ, as well as guitar and harmonica. He is supported by guitarist Rocky AthasFind albums by this artist, bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist. Guitar legend Joe WalshFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. Some of the tracks feature brass arrangements. The album presents eleven tracks, eight of which are Mayall originals and the rest are by other Blues songwriters.
The music is as fresh and sparkling as always and although Mayall has been at it for six decades, his talent to reinvent himself and his music remains unexhausted. Following him on a regular basis, his faithful fans have been exposed to an ever changing panorama of excellent instrumentalists, whom he picks up carefully, always fitting his idiosyncratic style like a glove. His awareness of current social / political matters and his honesty about them are another steady feature of his artistic path and he was never shy to criticize the illnesses of our society.
Many musicians reach a point in their lives that clearly indicates a time to retire and pass the torch to the next generation, but in Mayall’s case that time is simply not here yet. Thank you John for all these marvelous years and the Blues, which always was a part of the Soundtrack Of My Life.
| | Updated: 03/06/2021Posted: 03/06/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ TEN YEARS ARE GONE
LEMON 115 (Barcode: 5013929771529) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2009
As the title suggests, this great album commemorates the 10th anniversary of John MayallFind albums by this artist´s career as a recording / performing artist; and what a decade it was. A series of brilliant albums, a stream of super-talented musicians which passed through his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist´ ranks and the creation of renewed interest as well as tremendous development of the Blues, which Mayall accomplished - all these happened in just one decade.
By the early 1970s Mayall left the UK and moved to California, where he lives up to this day. His bands comprised now mostly of US musicians, but for this album Mayall invited his old friend and musical companion, drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist, to take part in the recording. The other players include guitarist Freddie RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Victor GaskinFind albums by this artist and violinist Don Sugarcane HarrisFind albums by this artist as well as two brass players: saxophonist Red HollowayFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist, adding the improvisational Jazzy feel that Mayall always preferred.
The first of the two CDs is a studio recording with a set of new songs written for the occasion, while the second is a live concert recorded in NY, where the musicians get to stretch out and show their chops, as usual in such situations. Mayall´s fans will be surely delighted to get a copy of this one, considering that it was never previously released on CD and unavailable for so many years!
| | Updated: 05/11/2021Posted: | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE BLUES ALONE (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 984180 (Barcode: 602498418055) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2006
5th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist, although it was in fact recorded shortly before CrusadeFind albums with this title (the 4th album) but released later on the DeccaFind albums on this label budget label Ace Of ClubsFind albums on this label. Mayall takes the ever so bold step here to face the music (or rather make it) alone, as well as supplying all the compositions. He sings and plays all the instruments and only some drum tracks are courtesy of Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist. His performance is as brilliant as ever, creating a unique document of the era. Mayall always wanted to record a solo album, but the confusion facing his band after his second lead guitarist left the band following the recording of only one album pushed him to make the album rather sooner that later. Regardless of the circumstances, Mayall manages to create another masterpiece, which is every bit as relevant as it was at the time of the recording. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE DIARY OF A BAND (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 841804 (Barcode: 602498418048) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2007
6th & 7th albums by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, which were actually a double album released on two separate LPs as The Diary Of A Band Vol.1 & Vol.2 (as DeccaFind albums on this label thought that releasing a double album was too bold a step at the time). The material was recorded live during a European tour, which followed the release of CrusadeFind albums with this title and was captured on a simple reel to reel tape machine, which Mayall placed on the stage during all the concerts. Over 60 hours of music were recorded, of which two hours were selected for the release. The Bluesbreakers’ lineup was similar to that which recorded Crusade except for the new brass section man, the fantastic Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano sax (later ColosseumFind albums by this artist) and the bass position, which was occupied by either Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist or Keith TillmanFind albums by this artist. The enclosed music is a superb document of the era and one of the most authentic glimpses at the music scene of the late 1960s, as it includes some spoken word and commentary on the performances, caught right at the time when they happened. Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist plays some amazing guitar licks here, as does Dick Heckstall-Smith, especially when he blows both of his horns simultaneously. The entire album is one great trip down the nostalgia lane and the only pity is that all of it was never captured on video (which did not exist at the time unfortunately). I can’t imagine any blues fan not wanting this in his music library.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE GODFATHER OF BRITISH BLUES / THE TURNING POINT
EAGLE VISION 404 (Barcode: 5034504940475) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1969 - 2003 Released: 2003
This wonderful DVD includes two documentaries of the legendary UK musician, bandleader and champion of the Blues – John MayallFind albums by this artist. The first is a BBC production, which spans the 40 years of Mayall’s career, examining his role as the pivotal figure, which shaped the British musical scene since the mid-1960s and was crucial as a precursor of Blues, Blues-Rock, Rock and even Jazz-Rock. Over the years Mayall’s band included the creme de la creme of British players, who later became the heroes and spawned countless famous bands. The list is just too long to be included here, but every music lover surely knows them all. The documentary includes tons of rare historic footage and interviews with ex-BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, including Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and many others, and was filmed to celebrate Mayall’s 70th Birthday concert. This is an illuminating experience and a must for all serious music fans, which are interested in the history of the UK scene and the roots of the music we all listen to now. The second documentary is a black & white film shot in 1969 around the time Mayall recorded his revolutionary The Turning PointFind albums with this title album. This rare and authentic document sheds light on the new drum-less Jazz oriented quartet Mayall formed to record that album, which was diametrically different from his previous, electric guitar oriented bands. It is a fascinating piece of musical history and a must for Mayall’s fans. 84 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE POWER OF THE BLUES
ENTENTE 57270683 ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1987 Released: 1987
This is a live album by the Godfather of British Blues, the iconic John MayallFind albums by this artist, recorded with his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist quintet comprising of American guitarists Coco MontoyaFind albums by this artist and Walter TroutFind albums by this artist, bassist Bobby HaynesFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, a mixture of Mayall originals and Blues standards. The music was recorded between April 19 and 21, 1987 during a tour in Germany. The second part of recordings from that tour will be released only thirty-seven years later (2024) as “The Power Of The Blues, Pt, IIFind albums with this title”.
Mayall, who died in July 22, 2024, was definitely one of the key figures in the 20th Century music, and left an incredibly rich and extensive recorded legacy. Following his recent death, the market will be most likely flooded by less or more legal live recordings made by him over time, but this album was released “while still hot”. Luckily for music lovers, Mayall never played a bad gig in his life and everything he ever played is worth listening to.
The sound quality of this album and the superb performances, especially the guitar soloing by both guitarists, as well as Mayall’s vocals, are all first class and therefore a worthy addition to his recorded legacy.
Overall, although there is nothing extraordinary herein, other that the superb quality of the music of course, this is definitely a joyful listening experience for the many fans and followers of Mayall’s long career. Definitely worth investigation!
| | Updated: 01/01/2025Posted: 01/01/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE POWER OF THE BLUES, PT. II
MIG 03282 (Barcode: 885513032829) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the Godfather of British Blues, the iconic John MayallFind albums by this artist, recorded with his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist quintet comprising of American guitarists Coco MontoyaFind albums by this artist and Walter TroutFind albums by this artist, bassist Bobby HaynesFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, a mixture of Mayall originals and Blues standards. The music was recorded between April 19 and 21, 1987 during a tour in Germany. The first part of recordings from that tour was released thirty-seven years earlier (1987) as “The Power Of The BluesFind albums with this title”.
Mayall, who died in July 22, 2024, was definitely one of the key figures in the 20th Century music, and left an incredibly rich and extensive recorded legacy. Following his recent death, the market will be most likely flooded by less or more legal live recordings made by him over time, like this one. Luckily for music lovers, Mayall never played a bad gig in his life and everything he ever played is worth listening to.
The sound quality of this album and the superb performances, especially the guitar soloing by both guitarists, as well as Mayall’s vocals, are all first class and therefore a worthy addition to his recorded legacy.
Overall, although there is nothing extraordinary herein, other that the superb quality of the music of course, this is definitely a joyful listening experience for the many fans and followers of Mayall’s long career. Definitely worth investigation!
| | Updated: 03/01/2025Posted: 03/01/2025 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE SUN IS SHINING DOWN
FORTY BELOW 026 (Barcode: 762183630725) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2022
Aged 86 at the time this album was recorded, British Blues hero John MayallFind albums by this artist shows no signs of slowing down and this, his last studio album (as of the time of writing) is still better than anything currently recorded by musicians half or less his age. Recorded in a basic trio format it features Mayall on vocals, keyboards and harmonica with bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist, supported by guitarist Carolyn WonderlandFind albums by this artist, who plays rhythm guitar on most tracks and lead guitar on one track and a brass section on some of the tracks. The concept of this album, same as on its predecessor, is to guest a different guest artist on most of the tracks: Melvin TaylorFind albums by this artist, Marcus KingFind albums by this artist, Buddy MillerFind albums by this artist, Scarlet RiveraFind albums by this artist, Mike CampbellFind albums by this artist and Jake ShimabukuroFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, six of which are Mayall originals and four are Blues standards.
The idea of having a different guest artist on each track is of course brilliant, but not lacking a risk, since different players might have proven to be incompatible. But not with Mayall’s vision – everything works like Swiss clockwork and the different artists add diversity, interest and spice to the proceedings.
The music is as fresh as if the Blues idiom was just invented and the playing incredibly tight, as usual with Mayall’s albums, due to his particular attention to details. Mayall is able to prove again that despite the intrinsic limitations of the Blues idiom, it is possible to reinvent it over and over again, as he has done for over six decades of continuous music making.
Overall, this is a brilliant Blues album and a guitar heaven for the many guitar fans out there – a winner in every respect. I can only pray to see Mayall go on with his work and expend his incredible recorded legacy further, as long as his strength will allow him to do so. You are a blessing, John!
| | Updated: 04/03/2022Posted: 04/03/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THREE FOR THE ROAD
FORTY BELOW 018 (Barcode: 020286225072) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is an album by the Godfather of British Blues vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist presenting live recordings captured during the German tour in 2017. The recordings are by an intimate trio format with bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, two of which are Mayall originals and the rest are Blues standards (and a spoken introduction).
Mayall, aged eighty-three at the time sings, plays keyboards and harmonica and seems to have a time of his life. For the many fans, this is a rare album, which does not feature a lead guitar, and is so far the last live album at the time of writing. Mayall seems not to care about the missing lead guitar and plays as if this was his regular setting. The album is a great document of Mayall’s dexterity and diversity, with his music and the lineups of his groups constantly changing, but never leaving the Blues path.
Overall, this is a wonderful glimpse at the continuous life story of one of the greatest musicians to walk the earth, who now, for over six decades, still keeps making great music and laughing at the time passing by. A must to all Mayall many fans, followers and collectors of his recordings.
| | Updated: 03/12/2021Posted: 03/12/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ TOUGH
EAR MUSIC 4029759148593 (Barcode: 4029759148593) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of an album recorded by the Godfather of British Blues guitarist / keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist, which was his fifth studio album in the new Millennium and his last release on the EagleFind albums on this label label. He is accompanied by a splendid team which includes seasoned American Blues musicians: guitarist Rocky AthasFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Tom CanningFind albums by this artist, bassist Greg RzabFind albums by this artist and drummer Jay DavenportFind albums by this artist. John’s wife Maggie MayallFind albums by this artist sings some background vocals. The album presents eleven songs, three of which are originals by Mayall and the rest are written by various contemporary songwriters.
Mayall stepped boldly into the new Millennium as if time has absolutely no meaning for him and the first two decades saw him releasing nine new studio albums (and a plethora of live albums, mostly archival), which for a person in their seventies, eighties and nineties is quite astounding.
No less amazing is the fact that his music stays as young, vigorous and kicking as it was in the early days of his career. Despite the limitations of the Blues idiom, Mayall seems to be able to reinvent himself on every new album and his superb sense of melody and the Blues of course are simply unparalleled.
On this album the tunes flow smoothly one after another, featuring Mayall´s wonderfully idiosyncratic vocals and superb playing by his band, which are undisputed Blues / Blues-Rock heaven. God bless you John for the sixty years of great music you shared with all of us!
| | Updated: 31/01/2021Posted: 31/01/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL – LIVE IN TEXAS
CLEOPATRA 889466601828 (Barcode: 889466601828) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1998 - 1999 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the Godfather of British Blues, the iconic John MayallFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quartet comprising of American guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist John PaulusFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, a mixture of mostly Mayall originals and Blues standards. The music was recorded about six months apart at two locations, both in Huston, Texas. It covers material released on the “Padlock On The BluesFind albums with this title” album. The bonus DVD offers the same material in video format.
Mayall, who died in July 22, 2024, was definitely one of the key figures in the 20th Century music, and left an incredibly rich and extensive recorded legacy. Following his recent death, the market will be most likely flooded by less or more legal live recordings made by him over time, of with this is a first sign. Luckily for music lovers, Mayall never played a bad gig in his life and everything he ever played is worth listening to.
The sound quality of this album and the superb performances, especially the guitar soloing by Whittington, as well as Mayall’s vocals, are all first class and therefore a worthy addition to his recorded legacy.
Overall, although there is nothing extraordinary herein, other that the superb quality of the music of course, this is definitely a joyful listening experience for the many fans and followers of Mayall’s long career. Definitely worth investigation!
| | Updated: 11/10/2024Posted: 11/10/2024 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ WAKE UP CALL
MUSUC ON CD 13149 (Barcode: 8718627221495) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1992 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of an album by the Godfather of British Blues, vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / harmonica player / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist. “Wake Up CallFind albums with this title” was the first of the three albums released in the 1990s by the American SilvertoneFind albums on this label label and it finds Mayall accompanied by guitarist Coco MontoyaFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick CortesFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Several additional musicians, like saxophonist Joe SublettFind albums by this artist, organist Tom CanningFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Darrell LeonardFind albums by this artist and others play on most tracks, as well as special guests: guitarist / vocalist Buddy GuyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist and vocalist Mavis StaplesFind albums by this artist, who participate on selected tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, four of which are Mayall’s originals and the rest are Blues standards. Mayall used the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist moniker for the second time between 1982 and 2008 and this album was also released as such.
This is one of the strongest albums by Mayall in a while and includes some superb guitar soloing and overall excellent instrumental work by the entire crew. Time made absolutely no dent on this music whatsoever and it sounds every bit as fresh and inviting as it did at the time of its release.
One of the amazing qualities of Mayall is his remarkable consistency and level of artistry, which he managed to preserve throughout his career, in spite of his constant metamorphosis and migration into diverse stylistic niches. His recording legacy presents an impressive collection of over fifty albums, without not even one of them being an artistic compromise. Same goes for his songwriting, which against all odds, manages to ignore the limitations of the Blues idiom and create wonderful new material without being derivative.
Overall this is a most welcome initiative to bring this album back in circulation, as it was getting a bit tough to find on the market. For Blues / Blues-Rock fans this is of course as indispensable as any other Mayall album.
| | Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 17/07/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY MOORE ~ LIVE FROM LONDON
PROVOGUE 7605 (Barcode: 810020501032) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2020
This is an archive album by British guitar virtuoso / vocalist / composer Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, recorded live in December 2009 just over a year before his untimely death in 2011. The album was recorded with keyboardist Vic MartinFind albums by this artist, bassist Peter ReesFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve DixonFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, some being his original compositions, which span his entire career, with an emphasis on Blues, which was always his favorite idiom despite the fact that his career covered a wide range of genres.
The tight band and the incredibly coherent choice of material make this album one of his best ever live recordings. The fire and virtuosity of his soloing fully justify his legendary status as a guitar hero and one of the very best axe man of his generation. The music includes such classic Blues anthems as John MayallFind albums by this artist’s “Have You Heard” and Al KooperFind albums by this artist’s “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know”, which alone are the worth the price of the album in gold.
Overall this album is an instant classic, especially for Blues-Rock enthusiasts and a wonderful reminder of Moore’s genius. Although the market is pretty stuffed with live Moore material, this album is an absolute highlight and an essential part of any decent music collection. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 09/08/2021Posted: 09/08/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | RUDY ROTTA ~ ME, MY MUSIC AND MY LIFE
PEPPER CAKE 2071 (Barcode: 090204625833) ~ ITALY ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011
This is a 2CD album by the great Italian Blues-Rock guitarist / vocalist / composer Rudy RottaFind albums by this artist, recorded with various bands and a host of Blues-Rock luminaries, like guitarist Peter GreenFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Carey BellFind albums by this artist, Godfather of British Blues John MayallFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and guitarist Robben FordFind albums by this artist. The album presents twenty-five tracks, mostly his original and some Blues and Pop standards arranged by him.
Although relatively little known to the international Blues audiences, Rotta played with some of the greatest names of the genre and released a long series of wonderful albums. He was very respected by his peers and his guitar playing is considered as some of the best Blues guitar ever. This album sums up his entire career, which lasted for over four decades, and is untimely death in 2017 robbed the world of an incredible talent.
Overall, this is a great Blues-Rock album by one of the most iconic European representative of the genre, which offers a great set of songs and some superb guitar playing by him and his guests. For Blues-Rock fans, who never heard about Rotta, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with his work. Satisfaction guaranteed!
| | Updated: 19/05/2022Posted: 19/05/2022 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESLIE WEST ~ BLUE ME
PROVOGUE 7191 (Barcode: 8712725719120) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
2nd recent album by legendary guitarist Leslie WestFind albums by this artist, dedicated to the exploration of his blues roots. Similar to its predecessor (Got BloozeFind albums with this title), the album includes a mixture of blues and rock classics brilliantly performed by West and his cohorts, again including drummer Aynsley DunbarFind albums by this artist (see John MayallFind albums by this artist, Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist). West lost none of his magic touch, which made MountainFind albums by this artist one of the most distinctive and pioneering groups of the late 1960s. There are no great discoveries here, no groundbreaking pyrotechnics, just perfect blues-rock performances that sound right time after time. If you love Mountain, you’ll love this. If you love the blues, you’ll love this too. Just listen to West’s version of George GershwinFind albums by this artist’s “Summertime” and bliss will take over. So what else can one ask for?
Visitors' Comments
Dr. Rafael Augusto Lara Palmeros
A superb albumn!!!. Leslie West and a group of excellent musicians – Aynsley Dunbar, Tim Fahey, Kevin Curry, Art Groom, Todd Wolfe and Brian Michell - recorded this marvelous music with covers from Leroy Carr, Ida Cox, The Great Muddy Waters, Sonny Thompson and others. The music is a mixture of Blues-Rock and some Bayou sound (´Green River´). West still sings with a gear-shredding roar and guitar lines sound heavier than thunder on this set of blues-rockers. ´Hit the road Jack´ is relatively sleek and elegant (remember Ray Charles version!!), ´Four day creep´ is a Blues-Rock as old times (West, Bruce and Laing), ´Standing around crying´ is a real good Blues. Gershwin´s ´Summertime´, that closes the albumn is plenity moody, with West´s guitar weeping and a exceptional Brian Mitchell playing piano. A must for a real Blues-Rock fan!!. 4.5 stars.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESLIE WEST ~ GOT BLOOZE
PROVOGUE 7155 (Barcode: 8712725715528) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
Legendary guitarist Leslie WestFind albums by this artist is best known as the leader of MountainFind albums by this artist, America’s answer to the UK power trio CreamFind albums by this artist. Mountain recorded a series of excellent albums in the late 1960s and early 1970s, which were loud and powerful (often being quoted as one of the forefathers of Heavy Rock), but also quite sophisticated. West’s unique tone and approach to the guitar, heavily based in the blues tradition, stays to this very day as one of the icons of the formative years of electric guitar. A famous anecdote tells that if one places West in a room with another 99 guitar players, just one note played by him will be immediately recognizable. Since the mid-1970s West recorded sporadically, with none of the albums leaving any significant impact on the scene, but his 2000s output marks a revival of his powers. West returned to what he does best – playing the blues in his unique manner, which has but a few competitors. West formed an excellent group with two formidable blues / rock veterans: Tim BogertFind albums by this artist (Vanilla FudgeFind albums by this artist, CactusFind albums by this artist, Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist) – one of rock’s most respected bass players and Aynsley DunbarFind albums by this artist (John MayallFind albums by this artist, Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist) – one of blues-rock most respected drummers. Together they storm through a program, which includes many blues standards, but sounds fresh and vital like never before. West also pays tribute to his ex-partner Jack BruceFind albums by this artist by including his superb composition “Politician” on this album. For blues-rock fans this is an absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
|
