Talkin’ Blues

Albert King

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This classic and energetic performance was delivered in Chicago on February 10, 1978. King, who kept on playing the blues until his death in 1992, is in top form for this date, backed by a powerful rhythm combo and a stellar horn section which adds a funky, in-the-pocket flare to Albert's unique brand of bluesmanship. King, who recorded for the legendary Stax Records during that label's heyday, was a fully self-taught guitarist. As a lefty, he learned to play by simply flipping over a right-handed guitar, never restringing the instrument. The result is a one-of-a-kind style that is featured front and center in the mix of this performance. King's voice positively drips blues. Here the concert recording is interspersed with excerpts from an exclusive interview King gave, also from 1978. The interview was conducted by Thirsty Ear's very own label head, Peter Gordon. Few could talk blues with more authority than Albert King, and the anecdotes and musings heard here are true relics of a tradition that has informed so many aspects of American life, not to mention music all around the globe. Not only does this recording capture the essence of Albert's power at its rawest and raunchiest, it is also a must-have collector's item, a rare document of the intimate side of a truly legendary musician.

a special mixture of hope, sensuality, rye dignity - downbeat