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Title: B.B. King – Reflections (2003)
Genre: Blues
Format: MCH SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

At 77, B.B. King released Reflections in 2003, an album of song standards that showcased his reflective mood. Despite his age, King remained prolific, having recorded successful albums like Deuces Wild (1997), Blues on the Bayou (1998), Let the Good Times Roll (1999), Riding With the King with Eric Clapton (2000), and A Christmas Celebration of Hope (2002). For Reflections, he reunited with producer Simon Climie and worked with a stellar session band featuring Joe Sample, Nathan East, and Doyle Bramhall II. The album spans pop standards like “I’ll String Along With You,” blues classics like Lonnie Johnson’s “Tomorrow Night,” and unexpected choices like “Always on My Mind,” alongside remakes of King’s own “Word of Honor” and “Neighborhood Affair.” Horn and string arrangements complement King’s expressive voice while leaving space for his signature blues guitar. The album feels timeless, blending styles that could fit 1953 as well as 2003. While not fully satisfying for blues purists due to its broader scope, it highlights King’s versatile musical taste. His voice remains the centerpiece, supported by polished production. Reflections appeals beyond blues fans, showcasing King’s ability to transcend genre boundaries. It stands as a confident, relaxed addition to his extensive catalog.

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Title: B.B. King – Live At The Regal (1965) [Japanese Limited SHM-SACD 2011]
Genre: Blues
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

The 2011 reissue of Live at the Regal features DSD mastering from the Japanese master, presented in the high-fidelity SHM-SACD format, compatible only with SACD players, not standard CD players, with DSD transfer by Manabu Matsumura. B.B. King shines as a singer, guitarist, and natural-born entertainer, delivering a masterful performance to an enthusiastic Chicago audience. Backed by a razor-sharp band that follows his cues with near-telepathic precision, King performs hits with a voice that seamlessly shifts between falsetto and gritty emphasis. His guitar work, marked by a sophisticated jazz sensibility, ranks among his career’s finest, retaining its raw edge. The album’s climax, “How Blue Can You Get,” electrifies the crowd, showcasing King’s vocal and emotional range. King engages the audience with storytelling and song introductions, proving himself a consummate performer. The tight interplay between King and his band exemplifies live blues at its best. This recording captures a high point in uptown blues, blending polish with passion. Live at the Regal is essential for B.B. King fans and blues enthusiasts alike. Its pristine DSD sound enhances the experience, making it a definitive live blues album.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

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