Johnny Winter – Johnny Winter – 1969 Alongside ZZ Top, Johnny Winter was one of the leading exponents of Texas blues rock. The opening number of his second studio release, “I’m Yours And I’m Hers” features a groove that wouldn’t have been out of place on Led Zeppelin II. In stark contrast, the second track, “Be … continue reading »
Buddy Guy – Live At The Checkerboard Lounge – 1979 With a career spanning almost 70 years, living legend Buddy Guy is one of the most influential guitarists in the history of the blues. It’s a well known fact that alongside Albert King, Jimi Hendrix and Albert Collins, Buddy was one of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s heroes. … continue reading »
B.B. King – Live In Cook County Jail – 1971 Ask a roomful of blues fans to name their favourite live B.B. King album, or, indeed their favourite live blues album and most votes would swing towards Live At The Regal. While King’s 1964 recording is an undisputed classic, 1971’s Live In Cook County Jail is … continue reading »
Magic Sam – Black Magic – 1968 When discussing sons of the Chicago Blues scene, Magic Sam is often criminally overlooked. Black Magic is the second studio record by the guitarist and singer, released just a year before his untimely death in 1969. From the opening track “I Just Want A Little Bit” to the sublime … continue reading »
Albert King – Blues At Sunset (Live At Wattstax and Montreux) – 1973 There’s Albert King on record and then there’s Albert King playing in his natural habitat: Live! 1973’s Blues At Sunset is one of the greatest live blues records of all time. Not only does it showcase King’s signature licks and mean guitar tone, … continue reading »
The Allman Brothers Band – At Fillmore East – 1971 What can I write about this classic record that hasn’t already been written? The definitive 70s live record by the true sons of southern blues-rock, recorded at one New York City’s most legendary venues. Featuring “Statesboro Blues”, extended jams of “Stormy Monday” and “Whipping Post” and … continue reading »
The late 60s and early 70s were a prolific era for big Freddie. With so many great studio records released over such a short time period, it’s difficult to pick a favourite. However, there’s something about the feel of Getting Ready that really stands out. There are so many classic tracks on this album: “Five Long … continue reading »