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A magic night (May 11, 1995) on PBS's Austin City Limits translates superbly to disc for this heartfelt and soulful salute from a Hall of Fame crew led by B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton, Robert Cray, Buddy Guy, and Dr. John.Brother Jimmy's elegant "Texas Flood," Raitt's kick-ass "Pride and Joy," and the amiable collective jams on "Six Strings Down" and "SRV Shuffle" are all highlights. --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Tribute Fit For A Guitar King
Before August 27, 1990 I had never really had to cope with death. Although this was not a family member or friend it was still someone I had grown up with, and on. Stevie Ray Vaughan has a special place in my life. His music stays with me until this day.

The amount of friends he had and how they came together was amazing. This was by far the best tribute album as far as talent. There are amazing players on here. It's worth the buy even if you aren't a fan of his, but the blues itself.

Artists include: Bonnie Raitt, Jimmie Lee Vaughan, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, Robert Cray, and Dr. John.

The last three tracks are great and they feature all the players on the album playing in unison. This is a delight for fans of the particular artists to hear such a unique live JAM session. All in all this is a fitting, emotional tribute to a man whose guitar magic still lives on inside my soul.

An All-Star Tribute To Stevie Ray Vaughan
Stevie Ray Vaughan without a doubt is one of the greatest blues guitarist, and song writers that ever lived. I have been a long time Stevie Ray Vaughan fan when the tribute CD came out I was anxious to here people like jimmie vaughan, bonnie rait, bb. king, eric clapton, robert cray, and dr.john. I bought this not too long ago since I have never got around to it. I have been so caught up with newer releases like the Stevie Ray Vaughan Box Set that I forget to buy some of that other stuff. Anyways I thought in all this CD was another great thing that happened to the blues power of steive ray vaughan.

The guitarist's on here are truely great all of them have a different style thats what I really liked about this CD no one copied stevie note for note or tried to be just like him because every guitarist is different from another. The first track on this CD is Bonnie Raitt: Pride And Joy. Her version was way different from Stevie's but it was good to here a new flavor with some slide guitar. The second track is Jimmie Vaughan: Texas Flood. I also loved his texas guitar slinging playing it sounded like he was picking with his hands it was really cool. One of my favorites though is the next song performed by B.B King titled Telephone Song here is the coolest blues jam. The next one is titled Long Way Home by Buddy Guy. My favorite song on this album was Eric Clapton's version of Ain't Gone 'N Give Up On Your Love. Then their was Robert Cray's Love Struck Baby, Dr. John Cold Shot, All of the guitarist for Six String Down, All of the guitarist for Tick Tock, and all of the guitairist for the SRV Shuffle. Dont get me wrong this is one of the best tribute CD's that was ever put together their is great blues guitar playing on here any true fan, or guitarist would want. Highly Recomended!!

sounding to much like Stevie
i think when you do a tribute album you should do the songs in your own way. some people did but for the most part the play it the way he did. eric claptons song sound just like texas flood. dr john what the best becuase he did the song on a paino so it was diffrent. if you like the bkues you will like this album.

Pointless cash in
It may have been a good idea to put on a tribute concert to SRV, and I hope the proceeds (and the proceeds from the sale of this CD, the VHS, the DVD etc. etc.) go to a worthy charity - although, since it isn't mentioned on the tin, I doubt they will - but in any case it doesn't reward the listening.

Each one of the featured artists is great in his or her own right, and if you want to catch some of that greatness, then buy the artist's own CD. Same goes for Stevie Ray Vaughan. But don't buy this.

Just give this record the swerve - if you already own everything else by the artists concerned, by a book or something, and improve yourself.

Great tribute to a great artist!
I recently repurchased this cd & listened to it from start to finish. Funny, but I don't remember it sounding this good when I first owned it. It still amazes me that all this talent could be assembled in one place - it speaks volumes about their love and admiration for Stevie. This is a great primer for someone interested in blues music, but unfamiliar with some of the artists on this disc. Each has a very distinctive style and sound. I'm not a huge fan of Jimmie Vaughan, but I have to admit "Six Strings Down" (about the tragic accident that killed Stevie) touched me more than any other song. All the artists sound in top form - none of them are just going through the motions. Truly a great tribute to a great artist! ... Read more

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Singer Toni Price's two major influences, Nashville and Bonnie Raitt, are more than audible on her fourth album, Lowdown and Up. While Price's voice is also reminiscent of the same vocalists who influenced Raitt, there's little doubt as to where her original inspiration came from. Price mixes her blues with country and folk, a blend that will appeal to some and disenchant others. For those who like it, there's plenty here to like: a strong, but never overwhelming vocal style, and an expressive range that runs from seductive ("Comes Love") to upbeat ("Loserville Blues") to gentle ("Anything"). Price, who moved from Nashville to Austin in 1989, has incorporated a definite Texan flavor into her sound, and she's one of many artists who could rise to prominence as the Austin music scene continues to draw national attention. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (9)

my favorite Toni disc
I read these reviews to get comparative data on which disc to buy if I own few or none of an artist's work. So, from that perspective, I am writing to rate this disc as Toni's best, and that's saying alot because she is one of the most consistent artists around. All the others are tied for second with the exception of "Hey" which is my least favorite. "Comes Love" and "Red River" are particular stand outs. Also for new Toni Fans, Her voice has weathered beautifully over the years. On her first disc "Swim Away" she has a richer, fuller, young blues belter voice, and on her most recent "Born to be Blue" she sounds more like a cross between early Bonnie Raitt and Billie Holiday with a little Sue Foley thrown in. Maybe that's why I like "Low Down", it's right in the middle.

Winnerville
Toni Price sings so well on this 1999 set and makes it seem so effortless that this is a disc to which one can repeatedly return. The opener "Walk Out the Front Door" is a driving country rocker with Larry Fulcher on bass and Frosty Smith on drums combining for a great pulsing track. Toni's is the fourth version of "Comes Love" in my collection, joining Joni Mitchell, Dan Hicks and new jazz sensation Peter Cincotti. Toni's take is positively mournful with Johnny Gimble's fiddle wailing plaintively. Gwil Owen's "Anything" is lovely ballad with a beautiful melody; Toni's understated vocals grace the arrangement. "Loserville Blues" is a fast Texas swing boogie woogie that Toni's excellent performance transforms into "Winnerville." "Feel Like Cryin'" rocks out while the title track bounces along like Leon Redbone coming awake. "Wishing Well" is another lovely track that is a great song. The CD concludes with the moody "Why Is Love Like That?" Toni's set here is filled with blockbuster performances and great tunes. U snoozes U loses! Enjoy!

Great Find!
I don't listen to this kind of music any more, but heard the "Foolin' 'round" cut on our local NPR station and couldn't get it out of my head. After purchasing the disk, it's now one of my desert island goodies.

Blues, Jazz and beyond...
I don't get the comparisons to Bonnie Raitt, really. Toni has her own voice. Thing is, her voice changes radically, from song to song. Sometimes she sounds a little like Sue Foley (on "Out The Front Door" which Bonnie did first), sometimes Ricki Lee Jones ("Remember Me?"), and yeah, I guess at times she gets some of the Bonnie vibe going ("Rusty Old Red River"). But this woman changes from song to song. The more you listen, the more you learn. I really love "Foolin' Round" (mid-tempo jazz) and "Don't You Think I Feel It Too?" (performed as a folksy waltz). Thank the stars for recorded music: Toni does not travel around much. But we can enjoy her music and I want more SOON!

Worked Completely
Listened to Toni Price and her proffessional crew on Austin City Limits which prompted me to run out and buy this Album. The mix and content of the songs were well chosen and extremely well done by all involved. I have listened to the album several times and find myself replaying some of the selections mentally while I am involved in some task or activity.

I have to admit that her interview also sold me as shown on Austin City Limits. She reminds me of a Gal that would sit down and tell you like it is. That seems to be her style of singing as well. A very gifted lady singing and capturing the theme and intent of each song. Don't think I would enjoy one of her down moods. But would love the down to earth attitude. Glad she is now part of my CD collection. ... Read more

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From that seemingly bottomless pit of Austin, Texas-basedguitarist-songwriters, Monte Montgomery's third album is a splendid, if journeyman,affair. Montgomery's voice is strong without being distinguished; his lyricsdon't offer many startling insights into the battle of the sexes and rarelystray from the usual tried-and-tested themes. Still, the material does allow theinstrumental work to grab the listener's attention. With a small coterie oflong-term compadres providing the rhythm, guitars are multi-tracked to greateffect, notably on the brief instrumental, "Bagpipe." Known principally for hisacoustic guitar playing, Montgomery places it at the heart of most of thesesongs with layered bluesy slide or electric solos providing the color. Theeffect is reminiscent of the sound that Lindsey Buckingham producedfor Fleetwood Mac. Thelong ballad "All on Me" gives Montgomery a chance to stretch and his guitarshines on the long fade-out. "Tomorrow Begins with Today" has Montgomerydemonstrating his versatility behind a great piano hook and the closing "RadioGirl" mixes tempos effortlessly, creating memorable power pop in the verses, anda big-ballad anthem for the chorus. --Rob Stewart ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Not the Monte You with Whom You Grew Up
Montiac or not, I simply can't recommend this CD.Gone are his blazing guitar and unique, virtuoso vocals.I truly wanted this CD to be better--I listened to it several times just to make certain I wasn't missing something.Yet, try as I might, I simply couldn't bring myself to appreciate this new (hopefully, brief) departure from the style that sets him apart from all the other mediocre talents in the industry. Bland and boring are the two words that first come to mind.Despite the inflated high scores other reviewers have given this CD, rest assured you will not find many traces of Monte's genius in this effort.Sure, the writing is still there at times; otherwise, I'd rate this effort even lower.I look forward to his next release and pray he returns to his roots.

Awesome Album!
Monte Montgomery is an awesome, and versatile Texas artist. Bagpipe is a beautiful ballad, Sunset Lullaby is touching, Soldier at His Best tells the story of modern-day soldiers at arms. This album touts more of his acoustic style than some of his other albums. Each song has thoughtful, meaningful lyrics and a creative, fresh sound.

Fabulous Guitar Work - Great Songs
Monte's done it again!After listeneing to Wishing Well I'm convinced Monte's work just get's better and better.I'm glad to see this Texas Guitar God put out one more example of his awesome guitar work and "songsmithing".I gave his earlier CD's Five Stars,but if I could I would give this a "Seventh Star"

JUST AWESOME!
The only way to describe THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND, is AWESOME! As Websters dictionary defines-marked by or inspiring awe. If you have ever seen MONTE in action live, you would see that he lives up to this definition! He is a master on guitar! He playsacustic guitar like you have never seen before! WISHING WELL, the bands latest effort, is another page in the wonderfull world of song-wrighting, guitar playing, and dynamic musical- arangement by this band! I mean it just does'nt get much better than this! He displays his guitar-work on "bagpipe" a beautiful instrumental on the record. Other great tracks include "tug of war"-a catchy pop-rock song with great lyrics. the tiltle track "wishing well" my personal favorite, with outstanding arrangement of guitar and drums, by one of the best drummers, in PHIL BASS, a master at his instrument as well! Then you have a beautiful ballad "catch me" that sounds like "know you by heart" from the bands last masterpiece MIRROR. I also enjoyed "sunset lullaby" I can hear a little Jackson Browne in this song. "tomarrow begins with today", is a unique sounding song where MONTE demonstrates his talent on piano, I hear a little Joe Jackson style in this song. This is an awesome masterpiece of a record that everyone can enjoy all the way through. THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND is destined to be a huge success! I am really surprised that the major labels are not fighting over signing them! I mean this is definitely a HOME-RUN for an A&R guy!!! I believe that once they hit nation-wide, THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND will become bigger than THE DAVE MATHEWS BAND!!! And this is coming from a huge DMB fan. I own all 3 of MONTE'S records-1ST AND REPAIR, MIRROR, WISHING WELL, and I truly have not heard this type of talented song-written-music-arrangement type of material ever. So if your a music-lover, you MUST OWN WISHING WELL, and I HIGHLY RECOMEND THE OTHER 2 AS WELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JUST AWESOME!!!
The only way to describe THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND, is AWESOME! As Websters dictionary defines-marked by or inspiring awe. If you have ever seen MONTE in action live, you would see that he lives up to this definition! He is a master on guitar! He plays acustic guitar like you have never seen before! WISHING WELL, the bands latest effort, is another page in the wonderfull world of song-writing, guitar playing, and dynamic musical- arangement by this band! I mean it just does'nt get much better than this! He displays his guitar-work on "bagpipe" a beautiful instrumental on the record. Other great tracks include "tug of war"-a catchy pop-rock song with great lyrics. the tiltle track "wishing well" my personal favorite, with outstanding arrangement of guitar and drums, by one of the best drummers, in PHIL BASS, a master at his instrument as well! Then you have a beautiful ballad "catch me" that sounds like "know you by heart" from the bands last masterpiece MIRROR. I also enjoyed "sunset lullaby" I can hear a little Jackson Browne in this song. "tomarrow begins with today", is a unique sounding song where MONTE demonstrates his talent on piano, I hear a little Joe Jackson style in this song. This is an awesome masterpiece of a record that everyone can enjoy all the way through. THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND is destined to be a huge success! I am really surprised that the major labels are not fighting over signing them! I mean this is definitely a HOME-RUN for an A&R guy!!! I believe that once they hit nation-wide, THE MONTE MONTGOMERY BAND will become bigger than THE DAVE MATHEWS BAND!!! And this is coming from a huge DMB fan. I own all 3 of MONTE'S records-1ST AND REPAIR, MIRROR, WISHING WELL, and I truly have not heard this type of talented song-written-music-arrangement type of material ever. So if your a music-lover, you MUST OWN WISHING WELL, and I HIGHLY RECOMEND THE OTHER 2 AS WELL!!! ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Good Enough
This was the first Johnny Winter record the Doctor ever bought. If you want blistering leads and intense guitar jams, get "Live/And" - but if you want a truly well-recorded collection of blues featuring the greatest white (I make a distinction, however untenable, between the blues masters of African/American descent and their anglo-saxon students and imitators) blues vocalist that there's been, then get this. Don't get me wrong. There are moments of outstanding guitar heroism on this disc. "stray cat blues" is a superb and psychedelic take on this closet classic from the stones. "bad luck situation" is stuttery and funkin'. And the solo in "Hurtin' so bad" is heart-wrenchingly impeccable. As you can tell, I like this recording a lot; I even like the sax solo on "Feedback on Highway 101" courtesy of Johnny's brother Edgar. On a final note, check out the album art on this: Johnny Winter was THE king of GLAM blues.

pure gut wrenching blues
This a must for Johnny Winter fans. It puts you on an emotional roller-coaster that takes you from one extreme to the other. You"ll feel the pain in the growling lyrics of Hurtin So Bad and then placed on the road with the top down without a care in the world to the easy boogie blues of Feedback on Highway 101.A lot of hard core rock-n-roll with Boney Moronie and Riot in Cell Block #9. A blend of soulful passion, guitar wizardry, and a great back-up make this one a classic.

Not bad
This album was released during the peak of the Edgar Winter Group's popularity and was an effort to cash in on it. However, that does not mean it is a bad album, it is pretty good. Stone County was the first single off the album and received some airplay; it is also my favorite song on the album. Their are several solid tracks on this including Thirty Days and Stray Cat Blues. All-in-all worth having, especially if you are a Johnny Winter fan.

Why can't he do rock n' roll?
Johnny Winter has a great feeling for the blues, and he is one of the best white blues musicians you'll ever hear.
So why do almost all of his rock n' roll records end up being so frustratingly predictable and uninspired?

"Saints"' predecessor, "Still Alive And Well", was Winter's highest charting ever, a good blend of blues and rock, but "Saints"' material, which includes a Van Morrison tune, a Stones cover, and predictable versions of 1950s rock & roll oldies by Chuck Berry, Larry Williams, and Leiber and Stoller, ends up being more electic than original. And it's not even _that_ eclectic.

Sure, Johnny Winter's playing is exceedingly competent, but it's never truly excting, and we've all heard this music a thousand times before. This music or something excactly like it.
Don't get me wrong, I like old time rock n' roll, but Winter's too-hectic playing fails to capture whatever it was that made, say, Chuck Berry so great, and almost all of these songs just sort of pass you by, offering nothing new, nothing original, nothing truly exciting, and not even a groove deep enough to plant an appleseed.
It's not bad, really, it's just - generic.

Sound The Fanfare
This might be Johnny Winter's best record!
His playing is superb and Johnny (who was being overshadowed by brother Edgar around the time of this release)shows he can still get a handle on Rock And Roll!!!!!!!
Some songs on here are just winners hands down like Stone County,the E.Winter/Hartman song Rollin 'Cross The Country and an outlandishly good version of Boney Maronie with Winter's fingers flying so fast on the fretboard it will leave you giddy with enjoyment! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

This CD is awesome!
I have had this C.D. for at least 6 years and it is still one of my favorites. I also happen to like the introductions that the other reviewer found annoying...it makes me feel like I am at the show. I bought my CD at the House of Blues in New Orleans and it brings back great memories of my trip. Several of my friends have heard the CD and wanted to buy it.

inane prattle has me crying the blues
While the music here is solid and the packaging first rate, the incredibly annoying voiceover to announce which artist is up next interupts the music's flow and is enough to make one hit the eject button. And that's after the first listen. Trying to get through it again and again is next to impossible. To add insult to injury, because the VO is tacked onto the back of the tracks, RIPing the disc and removing the offending noise isn't a workaround unless you want to start editing audio files.

Gimme music without interruption.

Most excellent.
This set provides the listener with a broad variety of blues sounds, and is perfect for the person who can't decide on just one artist. Two thumbs up, five stars, and all that stuff too. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Strong Medicine
I've had this disc for a couple of years now and can't stop playing it. It's some of the most energised, wildest, hell-raising blues I've ever heard! Forget about those ramshackle mid-70s efforts: Johnny's in the very best company here. Largely self-produced, Johnny's cranked-up, turbo-charged playing is given free reign, with generous doses of his trademark slide, and those machine-gun speed solos that only he can deliver (who else can keep up?). The rhythm section is watertight, and while the rollicking keyboards take a back seat, they don't leave us asking that perennial question ("where's your brother???"). Tasteful horn arrangements are featured on a few tracks, but for me the real suprise of this recording is Johnny's improved vocals (compared to earlier efforts). They're more assured and even soulful at times (even when he's barking!), but typically gravel-toned and raucous. If there's anything missing here, well, it's an acoustic number, but hey, when was the last time a restaurant gave you a sample of everything on the menu? I've long been mystified why blues "desert island" lists never seem to include a Johnny Winter album. Surely there must be at least a few strong candidates! Well, this is my one. This is strong medicine, not the herbal variety, which I recommend unreservedly.

Roaring Blues
I bought this album on cassette when it first came out after seeing Winter play the Austin Opry House back in the mid-80s. Now I've acquired it on CD and like it as much as ever! Winter's guitar and voice come out screaming at their macho best. I like the whole album, but particularly the defiant "It's My Life, Baby", the wailing blues of "Iodine in My Coffee", the howling "Mad Dog" and the anthem "My Soul". Johnny shows a sly sense of humor on "Trick Bag" and on "Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye". I can't imagine any lover of electric blues not liking this album which I consider to be among his all-round best. Throw it in the CD player when you are in the mood to roar and you won't be disappointed.

**This guy is unreal**
This CD jams and if you like blues guitar...buy it! Simple enough? Johnny, please teach Popa Chubby a thing or two about blues...PLEASE!

"ATTACK OF THE BLUES GUITAR"
THIS DISC SMOKES ALL THE WAY THROUGH.A MUST HAVE FOR ANY FAN OF TEXAS BLUES ROCK.IT WILL LEAVE YOU WITH GOOSEBUMPS.10 STARS+++++ ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Capo'd Telecaster Wails Passion & Blues!
Albert Collins was a man of style. His Telecaster seemed to sing, right along with Albert's gritty and passionate vocals. It takes some right talent to make your guitar seemingly speak, and Albert does just that on this album. Gone far before we were ready to lose him, his music lives on. A standard by which other blues artists are measured to as well.

The album starts off with the fun, drinking song "I ain't drunk" where Albert says he isn't drunk he's just drinking, but don't tell his woman! Albert can also take you way down into the blues tunnel of despair with tracks like "Blue Monday Hangover" which is a slow, bottom of the barrel song, and "If Trouble Was Money", which features a wailing Albert Collins as he sings about something we can all relate to. Albert's guitar work remains strong, and scathing. White hot, both the album and the Master of The Telecaster.

I recommend this album because it encompasses all that is Albert Collins. It is definitely the best blues bang for your buck when searching for what Albert Collin's album to purchase. He ain't drunk, he's just drinkin', so sit back relax and have a few rounds with Albert.

MASTER OF THE TELECASTER
WHAT CAN YOU SAY BUT A GREAT COLLECTION OF BLUES BY ALBERT ON ONE CD. FROM "DONT LOSE YOUR COOL" TO "IF YOU LOVE ME LIKE YOU SAY".IS JUST A REMINDER OF THE GREATNESS OF ALBERT COLLINS

...But I Was Cool
With this CD, we'll always be able to say that Albert Collins was (and still is) cool. As a compilation album released after his untimely death in 1993, the tracks on this CD present the listener with Albert's style of cool, from past to present - and there is very little change, if any.

I really can't say what track I like most on this CD because to me, they all rate 5 stars. I love singing along with Albert on every track, and enjoy his little story-songs immensely. You really get the feel of what being "blue" is like, living through the lyrics (or stories in some cases).

Snap this one up quickly before they stop releasing it!

Peace Out.

A Classic Ice Cool Recording
Although this recording lacks the energy of live recordings of collins, it still is a wonderful album. We miss you Mr. Iceman!!

Great Blues
Outstandin ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Strong Showing
Doyle Bramhall is most notably recognized as the author of many of Stevie Ray Vaughan's songs, but as a blues singer and drummer, he proves he can stand on his own with the release of "Bird Nest On the Ground." Roughly more than half of the album is covers and the rest are from his own pen. Bramhall's voice is a classic blues voice, deep and throaty, and fitting to the tunes he sings. He surrounds himself with excellent musicians and the blues spill forth. The tracks from the album were recorded from the early '80s through the early '90s.

For Stevie fans, this album contains the track "Too Sorry" with the axe-master on guitar along with Double Trouble. The cut was recorded in the early '80s before "Texas Flood" album, and makes this release worth having. But even without Stevie, the album is solid. "She's Gone" is a Hound Dog Taylor cover with Bramhall's son of the same name sharing guitar duties with Robin Syler. Traditional blues all the way with buzzing guitars and whisky and cigarette voice. Double-stops abound in the solo. Bramhall's own "Change It" appears here with Robin Syler on guitar. Although the same song Stevie made famous, it has a very different sound under Bramhall's lead. The cover of Johnny Nash's "I Can See Clearly Now" is excellent, and Bramhall's voice is powerful. "(Marie's the Name) His Latest Flame" is another great cover. Some of the best work appears in the instrumental "Take Your Time, Son" with father and son jamming with a little help from long-time friend Jimmie Vaughan. The guitar work is excellent from both axe-men, and each has a unique sound allowing you to tell who is playing. Jimmie appears on the title track as well.

Any fan of the Texas Blues will enjoy this album. There probably isn't a better voice from Texas that Bramhall, and he can get low and dirty, and the guitar work is pretty spectacular in places. And, if you're a fan of Stevie and his older brother, it is pretty much a must have.

Just Plain Fun
Doyle has played with the best and even taught the best. This is the man that shaped SRV's vocal style. This is an impressive collection of music with many great artists. The remake of Hound Dog Taylor's "She's Gone" is a great rendition of an already raw blues jam. "Take Your Time Son" is another great tune. I can't get enough of a great blues shuffle like this one. Doyle and Jimmie Vaughan are having a ton of fun on this track. This cd is more than worth the money. A smart investment for any blues collector.

Ok, but
sort of a bore and nothing really especially moving. I bought this because of his connections with two of my favourites, Indigenous and SRV (the best part of the CD in fact is old stuff with Stevie on it)and I was pretty disappointed.

Austin Gem
You wouldn't think that this album is made up of a collection recordings spanning a decade or so, because it has a continuous, tight feel. Bramhalls powerful voice is ideally suited to the material. Standouts include the driving "She's gone", "Other side of Love", and "Too Sorry". It is well known that young Stevie Ray Vaughn plays on the album, but not as well known is that "Beavis and Butthead" and "King of the Hill" creator Mike Judge plays Bass on number of cuts. What else can you ask for?

You'll wish you lived in Austin
I've owned this album for years and it still is a frequent visitor to my CD player. Everything about is top-notch, and a must have for either a blues aficianado or persons interested in SRV's roots and musical background. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not the best ever...but still darn good
Although the title is totally hyperbole, this is an excellent collection of blues tunes of various eras and styles.

I am a relative newcomer to the blues, so a compilation like this is right up my alley. It lets me get a taste of different aspects of the blues, and to discover artists that I would not have otherwise been exposed to.

Represented here are some of the early delta bluesmen (Lightnin' Hopkins "Abilene", mislabeled as "Shotgun Blues"), the early electric blues (Muddy Waters' "Mannish Boy"), the '60's revival (B. B. King's "3 O'Clock Blues"), the great female blues singers (Koko Taylor's smokin' "Wang Dang Doodle"), the British blues bands (John Mayall's "Spinning Coin"), contemporary American blues rock (Johnny Winter's "Illustrated Man"), and lesser known contemporary artists (Colin James' infectious cover of "No More Doggin'").

Throw in selections by Albert Collins, Elmore James, Howlin' Wolf, Chuck Berry, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, J. J. Cale, and others, and you have a blues compilation CD that may not be "The Greatest in the World", but one that both novices and long time blues fans can enjoy. Highly recommended to anybody with ann interest in the blues.

Classic In Every Way! You will FEEL the Blues!
Calling your album the "best ever" takes balls, but this CD stands the test. From classics like Muddy Waters' 'Mannish Boy' or Little Walter's 'My Babe' to hot female singers like Etta James and the dynamic Koko Taylor to oldies radio station's staples like 'Reeling and Rockin'' by Chuck Berry and classic rock blues like Gary Moore's 'Still Got The Blues', this CD covers a lot of ground.

If you want an introduction to the blues and can only buy one CD, this should be it! If you already love the blues, you'll love hearing these songs again and remember them like your first kiss. Either way, this CD will put sadness in your heart or heat in your loins, sometimes in the same song!

The best ever?
Not even close to the best ever. The actual title should read: "The Best Blues Album For Which We Were Able To Get Rights To The Songs Quickly" or something like that. The fact is this double disc set is just a grab bag of songs with absolutely no thought put into it whatsoever. With a few exceptions, disc one is practically a throw away. Larry McCray, Kinsey Report, Gary Moore, and Terry Evans et. al. are all ok modern blues artists but hardly deserve to be on a blues album titled "The Best Ever" -especially one limited to only two discs.

This is a Virgin release, so poor understanding of the genre is to be expected. However, to boldly exclaim that this is the best ever compilation is a rather ostentatious position -even for the Virgin people. The best ever blues compilation would certainly be a difficult undertaking. However, this set completly ignores the likes of giants like Big Maceo, Tommy Johnson, Sonny Boy Williamson I & II, Robert Johnson, Tampa Red, Lowell Fulson, Big Bill Broonzy, Lonnie Johnson, Roosevelt Sykes, Robert Nighthawk, Jimmy Witherspoon, Floyd Dixon, and so many many more important and entertaining historical blues artists. The most shocking eversight is the absence of T-Bone Walker!

Really, I think this is a waste of your money. Even on its own level the flow is odd especially on disc one. Disc two has a better grouping and flow of great blues artists and songs, but still not worth the price. There has yet to be a true "best of" compilation to be released, so for now I suggest you may want to explore the best attempt to date. It is a four disc box set released on MCA in 1996 called "Mean Old World."

Buy it!
I really enjoyed these CDs. it gives a good mix of old school and new school blues so to speak. From todays best to the acoustic sounds of yesteryear, this CD entertained me for a very long time with some great blues. ... Read more

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Bobby Bland's uptown, brass-and-strings-drenched blues kept him on the charts long after gut-bucket kings such as Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters had dropped from black-radio airwaves. The artistic successes chronicled on this second volume of his greatest hits shouldn't come as a surprise, then, despite the frequent input of ultracommercial producer Steve Barri, who'd crafted AM hits for acts as diverse as the Grass Roots and the post-Motown Four Tops. Even with some accommodations to trends (the disco beat of "The Soul of a Man," chicken-scratching guitars here, there, and everywhere), Bland kept on being Bland, cutting country songs ("Today I Started Loving You Again") and blues standards ("Goin' Down Slow") and investing Dan Penn's "I Hate You" with a unique pungency. This disc performs a valuable service in lifting the veil from an often-overlooked period in the career of one of American music's most important interpretive singers. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

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This relentlessly upbeat album, Marcia Ball's second for Rounder, marks her 1985 graduation from the Louisiana-Texas "crawfish circuit" to the national scene. But it still packs the freewheeling feel of her four-sets-a-night years. These 10 tunes dash through soul ("I'm Gonna Forget About You"), R&B ("Don't You Know I Love You"), blues ("Another Man's Woman"), rock & roll (Ball's own "That's Enough of That Stuff"), and zydeco (the Clifton Chenier-penned title track) with such gleeful abandon they seem to pass in a flash. All the while, Ball--who's joined by her three-piece band and a visiting horn section--makes like a female Jerry Lee Lewis, pounding her piano with bare- knuckled virtuosity as she shouts and swoops through her good-time lyrics. Drummer Doyle Bramhall went on from this recording to write "The House Is Rockin'," "Tightrope," and "Wall of Denial" for Stevie Ray Vaughan. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Upbeat music to rock those blues away
From the opening track, Never like this before (a cover of a sixties soul song), this album rocks. Marcia wrote two of the songs herself (Love's spell and That's enough of that stuff) and draws on a variety of sources for the other songs, including soul, R+B, blues and zydeco - the latter represented by the title track, originally written by Clifton Chenier.

Yet the overall feel of the album is rock'n'roll update for 1985 (when this album was recorded). Comparisons with Jerry Lee Lewis are understandable - Marcia plays the piano in a similar style to Jerry. Not much tinkling of the ivories here - they take a real pounding on some of the tracks.

Although this is a very upbeat album, there are a few slower songs to vary the pace, and Marcia is well capable of singing those as well as the rockers.

This is one of Marcia's earliest albums, but it still sounds fresh and exciting. Rock your blues away with this or any other album by Marcia, who is brilliant at what she does.

Best Rockin' Blues and Dynamite Piano Playin' in the World
Saw Marcia Ball in New Orleans at the Jazz Fest in 1990 and bought this album on tape cassette at the fest. Played it so much, the tape broke within a month. Hard to say which song is the best, they are all excellent rockin' songs. Also,hard to say that this is the best album, Gatorythems & Blue House is also superb. Marcia is just an all around great musician and is the best rockin' bules piano playin' gal out there. Enjoy the album and work on getting the rest of her collection, I just ordered the last album that I did not have, Dreams Come True. Looking forward to hearing all of it. ... Read more

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Nobody plays rockin' blues with more heads-down authority than the current edition of the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Still led by singer-harmonica ace Kim Wilson, whose prowess on the instrument marks him as one of its all-time greats, the band surges through this February 2000 concert at full throttle. Which means the rhythm section keeps a flat-four chug percolating, pianist-organist Gene Taylor makes like Johnny Johnson on steroids, and Kid Ramos dishes out rhythm 'n' leads with reverb-drenched efficiency, while Wilson keeps his pushy baritone thundering above it all.

Ramos dives into the old T-Birds hit "Tuff Enuff" with a solo that punctuates steely riffing with funky chords. Wilson--although unremittingly powerful--sounds best on the slower numbers like Guitar Slim's "The Things That I Used to Do" (another Ramos showpiece) and Jerry McCain's "Tough Enough." The slower tempos allow him to wrap his voice around the lyrics, stretching syllables the same way his singing harp elongates and elaborates notes. The only gripe is that this concert's tight arrangements don't give Wilson enough time to solo. As his guest performances on Ronnie Earl's newRonnie Earl and Friends (Telarc) displays, the more Wilson stretches, the more inventive and melodic his playing becomes. And Wilson's solo return to the studio is overdue.--Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (9)

T-Bird blast
The California Geoseismic Institute must have sworn The Big Quake had hit LA when these guys hit the stage and let loose on "The Things I Used to Do." David "Kid" Ramos romps-there's no better word-on guitar behind the bulldozer drumwork of Steve Hodges, Willie Campbell's relentless bass, and Gene Taylor's cracking piano. However, it's Kim's love of singing that makes him the perfect lead vocalist: he can hold a phrase in his voice like Aretha Franklin until the dials jump on their own (check it out on the aforementioned "Things"), and there's that great baritone barrel chest to support it. Even better, when he grabs the harmonica and starts to pump, it literally buzzes like a giant barber's electric shears. Whooo, you can feel it right down to your shoes! This is what a house party should look and sound like.

Big T-Birds Sound Live!!
In this February 2000 concert disc, the Fabulous Thunderbirds eschew the raw rocking sound that made their early records sound so vital for a full band sound complete with horns and (on the closing number) female background singers. Kim Wilson, like BB King before him, obviously sees that many concertgoers want a fuller sound when listening to their music live and the additional musicians certainly provide that sound. The horns in particular have the effect of taking some of the covers, such as "Wrap It Up" and "Things I Used to Do," away from pure blues and back to the rhythm and blues roots they originated from. Kim Wilson's vocals on these tracks are fabulous, and Kid Ramos plays some stinging guitar as well. Old favorites "Tuff Enuff" and "She's Tuff" sound tougher and finer than ever, while "My Babe" takes on the full-throttle rocking power of a high speed locomotive. Fans of Kim Wilson's harmonica playing may feel a little shortchanged; "Early Every Morning" is the only harp showcase on the album, with Wilson blowing like a maniac. A glorious, if all too brief, moment of solo improvisation. Overall, the band is tight, the numbers are together, and the music features many rockable, danceable moments, even though Live, like most such discs, cannot replicate the excitement of an in-person appearance.

Sorry, but this is disppointing at best
I don't know what album the other reviewers are listening too, but it can't be the one I've got. I'm a HUGE Kim Wilson fan, I just love Kid Ramos to death, and the T-Birds have always been in high rotation in my house. But this? This is "Kim Wilson and the Contractual Commitments featuring Kid Ramos"

Seriously, if you want live Kim Wilson, get "Smoking Joint" if you want live T-Birds, get "Different Tacos" and any of Ramos' solo albums are way better than this. (And if you enjoy hearing Gene Taylor play 8-to-the-bar octaves, there's no hope for you, so buy this...)

I'm giving this 2 stars only because I like Wilson's voice, and Ramos does his usual crack job on most of it.
But T-Birds?!?? No way, man.

a boogie-bomb
I totally agree with the reviews above! This is a great CD, the sound is natural and clear, a sound not common on live-blues Cds.
Ok Kim is great as usual, but the highlight here is Gene Taylor and Dave Mathews on piano and organ, this is master class of boogie and blues keyboards playing! I love that!!!My only criticism is about the "offtune" double-bass!sorry. Anyway this is the blues, and I love it.

T-Birds great newcoming on this stelar "LIVE" performance!!!
This is undoubtedly one of the best "Live" performances released in years!!Scorched set,with clarity sound;Kim Wilson at his best;
Kid Ramos;Campbell;Hodges;and stupendous performance of this genius of barrel-house piano,Gene Taylor!!This is T-Birds as it must be,really the best blues-rock band in activity!!!
Nothing more;Just listen to this sound,and.....OHHHH!!!!!
Great revival, T-Birds,and all of your fans are happierrrrr!!!!
Congratulations to all of this Fabulous Band,specially in the person of Kim Wilson!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Young Austin-based guitarist and singer Nick Curran revs up his jump blues with a strong infusion of rockabilly energy, but it's his inherent feel for vintage R&B that makes his music work. On his third recording, Curran, with the help of honking saxes, jazzy upright bass lines, and propulsive piano from Matt Farrell, conjures a sound that energetically radiates retro authenticity. Jimmie Vaughan provides scintillating second-guitar support on a couple of songs, and harmonica hero Gary Primich also joins in on a couple of tunes, but the singer is the show. Curran, with a cool, confident vocal swagger, is perfectly suited for the music, and he reinforces that affinity with carefully selected material, topping off a half-dozen of his original, in-the-tradition tunes with minor masterpieces from the classic Charles Brown catalog. Curran, who has worked with hard country singer Wayne Hancock, rockabilly rebel Ronnie Dawson, and Kim Lenz and Her Jaguars, also funks up Hank Williams's country standard "Cold Cold Heart" with a Doug Sahm-style vocal and arrangement before closing out the album with the jumping and jiving instrumental "Stompin' at the Fort."--Michael Point ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Not just another old soul
Maybe it takes a musician to really "get" Nick Curran, the Horton brothers ability as producers and immensely talented Nitelife rhythm section. More accurately, maybe it takes a musician who has done his or her homework both on their instrument and on their stereo.

If "Doctor Velvet" was released by any other blues artist it would be considered a master work. Nick has his best years ahead of him so I hesitate to refer to it as such. Not since Jimmie Vaughan strapped it on with the Thunderbirds has there been a guitarist so confident of his ability that he doesn't need to play ridiculously long and pointless solos to validate his place in the blues world.

Like Jimmie, his playing is perfectly appropriate for the arrangement. Tone, vice speed serves as his foundation. Speaking of the arrangement, Nick's skill as a composer, student of many regional styles, and bandleader will most likely be overlooked by the casual listener. Maybe that is his flaw. Who is going to see the originality in his take on the Hank Williams classic "Cold, Cold, Heart" or appreciate the sparse arrangement ala the Otis Rush Cobra sides on "Driving me Crazy?" Who but Gatemouth will be able to appreciate "Midnight Hour" and "Stopmin' at the Fort?" If the arrangements and guitar playing weren't enough, Curran is the single best young blues singer on the scene - his recent Handy Award serves as a testament to that. Nick is clearly the most talented artist on Blind Pig. He is not some poser sporting a baggy suit and clinging to the promise of the immediately unimportant neo-swing movement. He is clearly above that and I hope the label (as Blue Note did with Nora Jones) realizes what they have in him.

Obviously Nick Curran did not originate this music but why is it acceptable for jazz musicians to play straight-ahead but not ok for blues or country players to? Why does the industry and the public want to homogenize every aspect of American music? Give the kid his propers, he really is the best out there right now... and like it or not he will be for a long, long time. Besides, if Kim Wilson, Junior Watson, Jimmie Vaughan, and Preston Hubbard believe in this kid that's enough for me.

He's playing blues people and doing it well!
People who insist on lumping Nick into retro swing circles should consider buying some 1950's sides from T-Bone Walker, B.B. King, Otis Rush, Gatemouth Brown, and Johnny "Guitar" Watson, just to name a few. While you're at it, try some Jimmy Reed and a splash of Magic Sam. (Now I know why Nick pulled the grease out of his hair.) Yes, Nick does jump with the best of them (Wynonie Harris and Jimmy Liggins would be proud, T-bone and Pee Wee Crayton too), but he'll turn around and whack you with a spot on Ike Turner if need be. Seen any retro swing bands pull of a Wynonie Harris vocal lately? How about Little Richard? Jimmy Reed or Otis Rush? Then again, nothing cries retro swing quite like opening a set with Magic Sam's, "Lookin' Good". Hold onto your "Go, Daddy, Go", your purple, tiger striped, bowling shirts, and your vacuous associations and criticism, based solely on CD cover art, and do your homework. Nick has.

It's 2003...
...not 1953. The music is well played and conceived, but I'm tired of these period costume get-ups performers of Nick's ilk
are dressed up in. Pompadours, baggy suits and the like went out with the Eisenhower administration...get with it, cats!

Pure Retro!
Nick Curran is a young musician from Austin Texas. However, unlike most blues rockers out of Austin, Curran is pure 50's retro swing. Complete with pompadour, white shoes and wide lapel double-breasted suits, Nick swings with guests Jimmie Vaughan on two tracks and harp man Gary Primich on two others. The sound is fairly authentic and generally well done. Curran's voice however,is rough, unrefined and at times a little annoying, "Drivin' Me Crazy" for example. While Curran is not bad, others, such as Colin James and his Big Band, seem to do this type of music much better. However, if retro type swing is your thing, you may want to give Curran a try.

fun,fun, fun
Curran might not not be the sweetest sounding singer in the world,(although he may be the prettiest), but he's got a better lock on what made music of the fifties work than almost any of the other retro artists. Without any overt joking around or grandstanding,Curran's performances,(both on vocals and guitar), have the humorously sexy energy that makes the best old blues and rock so much fun. I was worried for a second when he didn't seem to be handling the melody of 'Cold Cold Heart' , but it soon became apparent that he was able to make the tune his own,no longer a tear-jerker, just more of the party.(I don't really think they sound all that similar, but fans of 'Little Charlie and the Nitecats' will -love- Curran.) ... Read more

Reviews (3)

anson & sam still exelent
this is an exelent cd i wish they had a dvd, it is the first time i herd anson sing it makes me wonder why he waited so long he has an exelent voice.the sound quality and song selection are classic anson & sam a w. c. hany choice for sure.

Great Music
Anson, Sam and the Rockets tee it up and hit it straight and long with this CD. I've been listening to it over and over since I bought it at their show the other night. When it finishes, I hit play to start again. Blues at it's best. Top ten reasons to buy this CD:

10) It's the Blues man.
9) It's Texas Blues.
8) Not a bad tune to be found.
7) Good for the calves (can't stop toes from tapping).
6) Track #6.
5) Awesome keyboards.
4) Did I mention it's Texas Blues?
3) Sweet, Sweet Guitar.
2) That over grown kid Sam is as good as ever.
1) Two Words: Anson sings!

And quite well I might add. See them live if you can, but get this CD. You won't be disappointed.

Rocket Powered Blues from the Lonestar State
What a great record! Everything about this recording wreaks of the stuff of a Grammy and W.C. Handy award. Anson Funderburgh is one heck of a guitarist and his licks power most every song on this album. AF is complemented by a bunch of talented musicians and legendary harpist/voclaist Sam Meyers from the Howling Wolf era. The Rockets ignite from the get go keep it up for 13 tracks. There is not a dog song on this recording and if you like contemporary blues at their best, this recording won't disappoint. Happy listening!! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A great collection...
...with plenty of variety.

The 2-CD set will keep you busy listening and studying for hours.

Probably one of the better blues record companies takes at least one track from their most successful albums ( and some unreleased ), and puts it into a collection every five years or so.

Highly recommended.

My fav. track: "T'ain't Nobody's Business"

fantastic compilation!
If you love the blues (and who doesn't, except for those terminally 'mad-at-the-world' types of which I hope you're not one) then this great collection of various flavors of blues is for you! Once again, Alligator Records has put together an irresistable smorgasbord of sound for your listening pleasure. C'mon, dig in! (Just keep in mind that the audio tracks for DISC I vs. DISC II are swapped on the song samples here.)

Bring on the Dog!
I bought this just for the unreleased Houndog Taylor tracks. The rest is very good.

Its a must have. Get the 20th and 30th years also.
Its a must have. Get the 20th and 30th years also.

A great general blues collection
I received this double CD as a gift from someone who knew I liked the blues, but didn't have specific knowledge of many artists. This a a great collection to have for other people like me. Even after many repeat listenings, I can't name even half the artists - all I know is this collection really cooks. Even housecleaning doesn't seem so bad when you're listening to this. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Black Rock & Roll/Rockabilly
There weren't many black rockabilly records, but Linda Lu was one--and it was maybe the best. Doug Sahm, Delbert McClinton and others cite it as a record that turned their heads around. The original version is here together with 27 other rare or unissued sides from 1958 to 1962. Most of these sides were cut in Phoenix by the legendary Lee Hazlewood, and the underground classics in this long overdue rerospective include Oh My Baby's Gone, That's The Way I Feel, Kewpie Doll, TA Blues, Red Sails In The Sunset, Long John, and Justine. Check out one of the great original talents in rock 'n' roll! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

THE TEXAS TIGERMAN IS BACK !
This 1994 CD by the frontman of The Fabulous Thinderbirds is his second solo-release, after "Tigerman" (1993). Kim Wilson ranks among the top of blues harp players of the 1990's, rivalled only by the late William Clarke or by Charlie Musselwhite. Guest musicians on this CD include the likes of Duke Robillard, Ronnie Cuber, Rusty Zinn and Clarence Holliman. Wilson delivers a cooking set of covers like Sonny Boy Williamson's "She's my baby" and Junior Parker's "Pretty Baby", and also includes 3 self-penned originals, of which "Don't bite the hand that feeds you" sounds like something the great Little Walter could have written. A high-energy mix of modern blues and R&B, which anyone should enjoy, as he quite simply comes through a whole lot better than he does with The Fabulous Thunderbirds.

that's life
kim's the best on the harmonica that i've ever heard and his vocals are so very soulful he makes me have the shivers ... Read more

Album Details

Reissue Includes 3 Added Bonus Tracks. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Word Is....Fabulous!!!
On the Fabulous Thunderbirds second CD, Kim Wilson and Co. consolidate the (yes) fabulous sound that made the first CD Girls Go Wild such a classic. "Jumpin' Bad," a high-octane, harmonica-fueled instrumental, was their concert opener for years and gives Kim perhaps his best showcase as a harpist. "You Ain't Nothin' But Fine," another high-speed romp, is indeed so fine that short-lived supergroup Rockpile covered it on their Seconds of Pleasure album. (This was truly high praise; Rockpile included New-Wave luminaries Dave Edmunds and Nick Lowe in it's lineup while the T-Birds were totally unknown at the time.) And if you love great guitar, check out Jimmie Vaughan's hot licks in "Extra Jimmies" and listen to him really tear up the dance floor in "The Crawl". Great solos! "Runnin' Shoes" is actually the retitled blues standard "Meet Me at the Bottom," which was covered by everyone from The Rolling Stones to Savoy Brown; Kim's singing here is at his most funky and authoritative. There are also two bonus songs here (not three; one is merely an introduction to the live cuts) and they cook; Kim especially fine on "Scratch My Back" (a number they would later sing live on CBS This Morning). Finally, "Los Fabulosos Thunderbirds" is a wonderful little band ditty with authentic-sounding Mexican DJ El Mero Guero (really bassist Keith Ferguson) giving a sample of how the T-Birds would sound broadcast over 1960's Mexican radio. Priceless! So, if you want to know What's The Word?.....in a word, fabulous!

The best party music.....
Party music for the ultra-cool.

Three great remasters in a row! Where is #4?
Three hot remasters in a row! Great sound quality. You should snap this one up for that alone. The additional cuts are a bonus. Add this one to your collection and you can't go wrong, great crusing and party music. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

just great
frankie lee didn't get the recognition he deserves he is one of the texas' greatest, he sound a little bit harsh and distorted,but sound down home is what the blues it's all about.take a good listen and you can find the roots of rock and roll.Don't miss it,absolutly worthed ... Read more