For several years, Long John Baldry had been a singer with famous blues outfits, notably making his first appearance on record with Alexis Korner's Blue Incorporated. Having paid his dues he was recognised as a great singer and given the chanc to record in his own right. His first two albums for the UA label, `Long John's Blues' and `Looking at Long John' are presented here, along with various singles, mono versions, alternate takes, and the piece de resistance, three tracks recorded in a session with Ottilie Patterson, Britain's finest blues/jazz singer, often regarded as our very own Bessie Smith.
The repertoire is mainly blues/soul standards, with a hint of gospel thrown into the mix. The tracks have been well chosen, and suit Baldry's distinctive voice perfectly. The standard here is excellent, it s just a joy to hear this supreme master making the most of well known favourites.
The bonus tracks are pretty good, and add to the album, especially those with Patterson. They clearly got along famously at the recording session and had a lot of fun. Even more of a bonus, Rod Stewart also appears in the session.
The sound quality is excellent, and the liner notes contain an interesting and extensive essay.
Sadly these releases never achieved the success they deserved, and Baldry would soon go down the pop route in search of a chart hit, which he found with `let the heartaches begin'. Later he would come back to the blues fold with his critically acclaimed `It Ain't Easy' album. But the recordings presented here are among some of his best.
5 stars for an excellent presentation of two great albums.