Albert King with Stevie Ray Vaughan – In Session (1999) [Reissue 2003] [SACD / Stax – SXSA-7501-6]

Albert King with Stevie Ray Vaughan - In Session (1999) [Reissue 2003]

Title: Albert King with Stevie Ray Vaughan – In Session (1999) [Reissue 2003]
Genre: Blues
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Recorded in December 1983, In Session captures a live jam between blues legends Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Vaughan, fresh off his debut Texas Flood and work on David Bowie’s Let’s Dance, was the year’s breakout guitarist. King, backed by a world-class band, was at the peak of his performance powers. The concert, filmed for a Canadian TV special, delivers fiery, exciting blues. Vaughan, heavily influenced by King, incorporates his idol’s licks but avoids turning the session into a competition. Instead, both guitarists inspire each other to greater heights, creating a dynamic interplay. King’s distinctive style, a cornerstone of Vaughan’s playing, blends with Vaughan’s Hendrix-inspired flourishes. The mutual respect between the two results in a collaborative, not confrontational, performance. King’s powerful vocals add depth, making the album essential for blues fans. Enhanced by Super Audio CD sound, In Session remains thrilling with every listen.

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1 min read

Albert King – I’ll Play the Blues For You (1972) [Reissue 2004] [SACD / Stax – SXSA-3009-6]

Albert King - I’ll Play the Blues For You (1972) [Reissue 2004]

Title: Albert King – I’ll Play the Blues For You (1972) [Reissue 2004]
Genre: Funk, Soul, Blues
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Albert King’s I’ll Play the Blues for You is a phenomenal blues album from his classic Stax Records era. Signed to Stax in 1966, King gained a larger audience as the label attracted rock fans. His earlier Stax hits included “Crosscut Saw,” “Laundromat Blues,” and Born Under a Bad Sign with Booker T. & the MG’s. For this 1972 album, King collaborated with members of the Bar-Kays, the Isaac Hayes Movement, and the Memphis Horns. The result is a tight, funk-infused blues sound that showcases King’s renowned guitar work. King’s strength lies in his soloing rather than his vocals, which sometimes lack intensity here. Tracks like the title song and “Breaking Up Somebody’s Home” exceed seven minutes, highlighting his expressive guitar. “I’ll Be Doggone” and “Don’t Burn Down the Bridge” feature extended, dynamic performances. Bassist James Alexander’s strutting lines anchor King’s tough yet soulful playing. I’ll Play the Blues for You stands among King’s finest Stax recordings.

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2 min read