Rockabilly & Early Rock & Roll Vol 108 - Let The Good Times Roll (1955-2024)

01. Gene Wyatt & Dawn Glass - Let The Good Times Roll (1974)

02. Ernest Tubb - Thirty Days (1955)

03. Bill Haley & His Comets - Rip It Up (1956)

04. Elvis Presley - Tutti Frutti (1957)

05. Roy Orbison - It's Too Late (1957)

06. Roy Orbison - Mean Woman Blues (1963)

07. Carl Dean - Little Queeny (1974)

08. Johnny Bell - Flip Flop And Fly (1958)

09. Jeff Allen - That'll Be The Day (1957)

10. Jerry Lee Lewis - Goodnight Irene (1965)

11. Jimmy Gilmer & The Fireballs - Suzie Q (1963)

12. Jimmy Gilmer - Oh Boy (1965)

13. Carl Mann - Some Enchanted Evening (1960)

14. Craig Douglas - Only Sixteen (1959)

15. The Everly Brothers - Lucille (1960)

16. Sonny Burgess - My Bucket's Got A Hole In It (1957)

17. David Hill - Living Doll (1959)

18. Frances Faye - Ain't That A Shame (1958)

19. Frances Faye - I'm Walkin' (1958)

20. Linda Gail Lewis - Train Kept A-Rollin' (2024)

https://pixeldrain.com/u/fzqhipeh

 Blues, R&B, Soul & Gospel Records Vol 194 (1957-2023)

01. Flash Terry - One Thing We Know (1958) 

02. Fillmore Slim - Fast Gun Annie (1962) 

03. Rufus Thomas - Funkiest Man Alive (1973) 

04. Al Green - Take Me To The River (1974) 

05. Ella Fitzgerald & Duke Ellington Orchestra - I Ain't Got Nothin' But The Blues (1957)

06. Esther Phillips - I've Only Known A Stranger (1973) 

07. Millie Jackson - If You're Not Back In Love By Monday (1977) 

08. Aretha Franklin - Baby, I Love You (1967) 

09. Arlen Roth & Jerry Jemmott - Down Home Girl (2023) 

10. Arlen Roth & Jerry Jemmott - Memphis Soul Stew (2023) 

11. Tony Joe White - Mississippi Delta (2006) 

12. Johnny Guitar Watson - Funk Beyond The Call Of Duty (1977) 

13. James Brown - Talkin' Loud And Sayin' Nothin (1970) 

14. Larry Davis - Something About You Baby (1970) 

15. King Solomon - New Figure (1966) 

16. King Solomon - Mr Bad Luck (1966) 

17. Dorian & Nayanna Holley - People Get Ready (2023) 

18. Joe Louis Walker - Is It A Matter Of Time (2023) 

19. Eddie Taylor Jr. - Big Town Playboy (2015) 

20. Eddie Taylor Jr. & Larry Taylor - Blues In The Rain (2015) 

21. Larry Taylor - I Paid My Dues (2017)

https://pixeldrain.com/u/1uNYLGZe

 Hillbilly & Country Vol 145 - Knee Deep In The Blues Vol 03

The Blues Keep Gettin' Bluer (1931-2021)

01. Johnny Cash - The Blues Keep Gettin' Bluer (1981) 

02. Bill Monroe & His Blue Grass Boys - Mule Skinner Blues (1940) 

03. Bill Keith - Farewell Blues (1976) 

04. Hank Williams - Weary Blues From Waitin' (1951) 

05. Harry & Jeanie West - Coal Miner's Blues (1963) 

06. Evelyn Harlene - I've Got The Blues (1957) 

07. Gillian Welch - Elvis Presley Blues (2001) 

08. Leann Rimes - Blue (1996) 

09. Loy Clingman & The Arizona Hayriders - Those Ole Uranium Blues (1955) 

10. Merrill Moore - Bartender's Blues (1953) 

11. George Jones - Color Of The Blues (1958) 

12. The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers - Honky Tonk Blues (1953) 

13. Uncle Dave Macon - All In Down And Out Blues (1937) 

14. The Delmore Brothers - Brown's Ferry Blues (1931) 

15. Wade Jackson - Mr. Blues (1960) 

16. Randy King - Blue And Lonesome (1957) 

17. Tiny Wellman - Nothing Left To Lose (1987) 

19. The Earls Of Leicester - Steel Guitar Blues (2016) 

19. Wynn Stewart - Come On Home And Sing The Blues To Daddy (1969) 

20. Bob Davoli & Kathleen Parks - Miss Peggy Lee Sings The Blues (2021) 

https://pixeldrain.com/u/57cP6RkS

 Blues, R&B, Soul & Gospel Records Vol 193 (1948-2019)

01. John Lee Hooker - Hug And Squeeze (1955) 

02. John Lee Hooker - I'm Ready (1955) 

03. Betty Wilson - Keep On Holding My Baby's Hand (1969) 

04. Betty Wilson - All Over Again (1969) 

05. Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown - My Time Is Expensive (1950) 

06. Rosie Flores - Simple Case Of The Blues (2019) 

07. Esther Phillips - Black-Eyed Blues (1973) 

08. Millie Jackson - If You're Not Back In Love By Monday (1977) 

09. Spencer Wiggins - Best Thing I Ever Had (1973) 

10. Spencer Wiggins - Take Time To Love Your Woman (1973) 

11. Lightnin' Hopkins - Shining Moon (1948) 

12. The Rolling Stones - I'm A King Bee (1964) 

13. Slim Harpo - Baby Scratch My Back (1965) 

14. The Jackson Southernaires - Lord You've Been Good To Me (1975) 

15. Johnny Adams - Roadblock (1969) 

16. Little Walter - Roller Coaster (1955) 

17. Lowell Fulsom - The Letter (1968) 

18. Willie Cobbs - I'll Love Only You (1969) 

19. The Minits - Still A Part Of Me (1972) 

20. Aaron Neville - Be Your Man (2016) 

21. Eddie Daye - We Are Together (1968)

https://pixeldrain.com/u/hdXvoZSA

 AUSSIE BLUES

I have quite a few albums by Australian blues singers and blues bands, which I think will be of interest to many followers of this blog, especially those who live in UK, Europe, Canada, US and elsewhere and may not have ever heard these artists. So I will periodically post some CDs of Aussie Blues.

First up is an old friend of mine, Ivan Zar with his 1996 CD "Track Me Down". As mentioned in the brief bio on Ivan below, he started his first blues band in Perth in 1969 called "King Biscuit Company".

I was one of the guitarists in King Biscuit Company, so I knew Ivan well and for a time in 1970 we shared a house in South Perth. 

Here's a photo of myself and Ivan Zar playing in a Perth nightclub in 1970.

Ivan Zar - Track Me Down (1996)

Born in Alexandria, Egypt and migrated to Perth in 1963, Ivan Zar was drawn to the Blues at an early age and taught himself the harmonica and Delta Blues style Guitar. In 1969, he formed his first band "King Biscuit Company". After playing in several bands, Ivan formed The Elks in 1975, which was to introduce the Chicago style of Blues to the mainstream. The band toured the South West and across to major cities in the Eastern States. They had the opportunity to support B.B King, Rory Gallagher, Joe Cocker and Ike and Tina Turner, and recorded an album Refer to Drawer, which is now a sought after Australian Blues album by blues aficionados. In 1981, Ivan recorded some of the material that he had written and worked in a duo with Brian Fitzgerald called The Deltatones. They worked in cafe's, folk festivals, small bars and supported John Mayall, Mick Jagger, John Hammond and Leo Kottke. In 1983, they recorded Me and the Devil as well as a cassette Harp of the West, which featured some of WA's most prominent harmonica players. Both of these recordings are also sought after blues fans alike. Going solo again, Ivan had the opportunity to play with such acts as The Black Sorrows, Paul Kelly, Bondi Cigars and Cold Chisel. From 1992-1995, he opened The Bindoon Rock Festival and has been a part of Blues at Bridgetown since it's inception in 1993. 

Tracklist:

01. Bring Me A Pillow 02:54

02. Sail On 04:27

03. Take A Walk 03:01

04. Junco Partner 03:25

05. Rolling Stone Blues 04:36

06. Kimberley Sunset 02:09

07. Howlin' For My Darlin' 03:14

08. Can't Be Satisfied 03:15

09. '79 Blues 02:50

10. Police Dog Blues 02:32

11. Rollin' And Tumblin' 04:03

12. Track Me Down (Song For Keef) 02:46

13. Lonesome Cell  02:36

14. Kentucky Trail 01:24

https://pixeldrain.com/u/XxJm6Jar

 Country, Pre-War & Acoustic Blues Vol 94

The Ladies Sing The Blues Vol 06 - My Daddy Rocks Me (1926-2023)

01. Trixie Smith - My Daddy Rocks Me (1938) 

02. Victoria Spivey - Blood Thirsty Blues (1928) 

03. Odetta - Another Man Done Gone (1957) 

04. Judy Roderick - Rock Me Baby (1965) 

05. Sippie Thomas - I'm A Mighty Tight Woman (1929) 

06. Una Mae Carlisle - Blitzkrieg Baby (1941) 

07. Sister Rosetta Tharpe - Trouble In Mind (1941) 

08. Memphis Minnie & The Memphis Jug Band - Meningitis Blues (1930) 

09. Memphis Minnie & Black Bob - If You See My Rooster Please Run Him Home (1936)

10. Lil Johnson - My Stove's In Good Condition (1929) 

11. Bessie Smith - Young Woman's Blues (1926) 

12. Eleanor Ellis - Wonder Where My Easy Rider's Gone (2007) 

13. Fiona Boyes - She Could Play That Thing (2000) 

14. Gail Ceasar - Guitar Woman Blues (2023) 

15. Lil Green - Romance In The Dark (1940) 

16. Lil Green - Why Don't You Do Right (1941) 

17. Hattie Hart - I Let My Daddy Do That (1934) 

18. Trixie Butler - Just A Good Woman Through With The Blues (1936) 

19. Alberta Hunter - My Castle's Rockin' (1940) 

20. Alberta Hunter - I Got Myself A Workin' Man (1978) 

https://pixeldrain.com/u/8gFzemX7

 Blues, R&B, Soul & Gospel Records Vol 192 (1955-2023)

01. D.K. Harrell - Honey Ain't So Sweet (2023) 

02. D.K. Harrell - You're A Queen (2023) 

03. Roy Ayers Ubiquity - Ain't No Sunshine (1973) 

04. Little Joe Blue - Can't Have Your Cake And Eat It Too (1964) 

05. King Solomon - Let Me Be Your Eagle Baby (1966) 

06. King Solomon - Almost Midnight (1966) 

07. Eddie Daye - Why I've Got To Know (1967) 

08. Fillmore Slim - Go Ahead (1962) 

09. Flash Terry - On My Way Back Home (1958) 

10. Ottilie Patterson & Sonny Boy Williamson II - Baby Please Don't Go (1964)

11. Ike & Tina Turner - Never Been To Spain (1977) 

12. Betty Everett - Your Love Is Important To Me (1962) 

13. Betty Everett - Too Hot To Hold (1965) 

14. Ellen Whyte & Reflex Blue - I Can Tell (1998) 

15. Mose Allison - Cabaret Card (1993) 

16. Sam Cooke - Little Red Rooster (1963) 

17. Aaron Neville - Cry Me A River (1986) 

18. The Orioles - Please Sing My Blues Tonight (1955) 

19. The Orioles - Bring The Money Home (1956) 

20. The Orioles - Shimmy Time (1959) 

21. Little Milton - Lonely No More (1961) 

https://pixeldrain.com/u/25Fkn6qE

 ALBUMS THAT DESERVE ANOTHER LISTEN

Nina Simone - To Love Somebody (1969)

Tracklist:

01. Suzanne

02. Turn! Turn! Turn! 

03. Revolution (Part 1) 

04. Revolution (Part 2) 

05. To Love Somebody

06. I Shall Be Released 

07. I Can't See Nobody

08. Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues

09. The Times They Are-A-Changing 

Personnel:

Nina Simone - vocals

Al Schackman - guitar

Weldon J. Irvine Jr. - organ

Gene A. Perla - Fender bass

Charles D. Alias - drums

Doris Willingham & Virdia Crawford - backing vocals

Recording session: New York City, RCA Studios 1967-1969

Label: RCA, 1969

Catalog number: LSP-4152

Nina Simone's album "To Love Somebody" was released in 1969, and it stands as a significant piece in her discography, showcasing her unique blend of jazz, blues, and soul. This album is particularly notable not just for its musicality but also for the emotional depth and social commentary that Simone is known for. It captures a moment in time when Simone was deeply engaged with the civil rights movement, and her music often reflected the struggles and aspirations of that era.

The title track, "To Love Somebody," is a cover of the Bee Gees' song, and Simone's rendition is nothing short of breathtaking. She infuses the song with her signature soulful style, transforming it into a powerful ballad that speaks to the heart. The way she interprets the lyrics, with her rich, emotive voice, makes it feel like a personal confession rather than just a cover. This track, along with others on the album, showcases her ability to take existing songs and make them her own, imbuing them with new meaning and emotional weight.

Critically, "To Love Somebody" received positive reviews upon its release. Major publications praised Simone's vocal prowess and her ability to convey complex emotions. The album is often cited in discussions about Simone's best work, and it has been included in various lists of essential albums. While it may not have garnered the same level of commercial success as some of her other albums, its artistic merit is widely recognized.

Historically, this album is significant as it was released during a tumultuous time in American history. Simone was not just a musician; she was an activist who used her platform to speak out against racial injustice. Her music became a voice for the civil rights movement, and songs from this album reflect her commitment to social change. Listening to her music today, one can still feel the urgency and passion that she brought to her art.

Interestingly, Simone's life and career were marked by both triumph and struggle. She faced numerous challenges, including mental health issues and the pressures of fame, but she continued to create music that resonated with many. Her story is one of resilience, and her music remains a testament to her strength and artistry.

In conclusion, "To Love Somebody" is more than just an album; it's a powerful expression of love, struggle, and resilience. Nina Simone's ability to convey deep emotion through her music makes this album a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of music and social justice. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of music to inspire and uplift, even in the face of adversity.

https://pixeldrain.com/u/Er6bsNdx

 Best Of Jazz Vol 106 - A Handful Of Jazz Guitar Players Vol 10

The Kicker (1953-2023)

01. Jocelyn Gould - The Kicker (2023) 

02. Jocelyn Gould - Jessica's Birthday (2023) 

03. Bucky Pizzarelli - Smoke Gets In Your Eyes (2005) 

04. Russell Malone - St. Louis Blues (1991) 

05. Thornel Schwartz - Soul Cookin' (1962) 

06. Victor Rydström - This I Dig Of You (2021) 

07. Randy Johnston - The Cooker (1999) 

08. Rick Zunigar - You Don't Know What Love Is (1995) 

09. Yoshiaki Masuo - Stoned Soul Picnic (1969) 

10. Yoshiaki Masuo - One For Wes (1969) 

11. Laurindo Almeida & The Bossa Nova All Stars - Misirlou (1963) 

12. Paul Bollenback & Art Hirahara - Shambolic (2023) 

13. Amancio D'Silva & Joe Harriott - N.N.N.T. (1969) 

14. Pat Martino - On The Stairs (1975) 

15. Mimi Fox - East Coast Attitude (2004) 

16. Marcel Bianchi - Homiday's Guitar (1953) 

17. Grant Green - Hey Western Union Man (1970) 

18. Jimmy Ponder - Blues Bag (1975) 

19. Gabor Szabo - Sophisticated Wheels (1971) 

20. Larry Coryell - Elementary Guitar Solo #5 (1969) 

https://pixeldrain.com/u/YaGV9ETA

 Blues, R&B, Soul & Gospel Records Vol 191 (1952-1996)

01. Curtis Lawson & The Unforgettables - Too Much Trouble (1974)

02. Doc Cheatham & Nicholas Payton - I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues (1996)

03. J.B. Lenoir - I Want My Baby (1952)

04. J.B. Lenoir - Man Watch Your Woman (1955)

05. Boogaloo Joe Jones - St. James Infirmary (1968)

06. B.B. King - Crying Won't Help You Now (1956)

07. B.B. King - Don't Look Now But I've Got The Blues (1958)

08. Jean Knight - Rudy Blue (1976)

09. Eddie & Ernie - Indication (1971)

10. Eddie & Ernie - It's A Beautiful World (1971)

11. Big Jay McNeely - Blues In G Minor (1968)

12. T-Bone Walker - Love Will Lead You Right (1964)

13. Eddie Daye - I Can Fix It (1969)

14. Eddie Daye - Which One (1985)

15. King Solomon - Please Mr. President (1966)

16. Little Joe Blue - Dirty Work Going On (1964)

17. Willis Gator Jackson - Cool Grits (1959)

18. Willis Gator Jackson - Good To The Bone (1959)

19. Stacy Johnson - Consider Yourself (1965)

20. T.N.T. Tribble Band - Just Talking To Myself (1985)

21. Roy Ayers Ubiquity - Rhythms Of Your Mind (1973)

https://pixeldrain.com/u/14JXLHoc