Music review: The Rolling Stones 鈥� 鈥楤lue & Lonesome鈥�
A funny thing happened in the studio as the Rolling Stones began to start work on a new rock album. As the Stones started to jam while warming up for the sessions, the legendary band rediscovered its early blues roots and became inspired to replace rock with a stiff shot of the blues.
Recorded in only three days, “Blue & Lonesome” is the band’s first studio album in more than a decade and includes covers of classic blues tracks from artists like Jimmy Reed, Little Walter, Eddie Taylor and Howlin’ Wolf.
“I’ve got the blues and I can’t stay here no more,” sings Mick Jagger on the blues burner “I Gotta Go.” As usual, Jagger’s voice fuels the rest of the group’s superb playing through 12 numbers that smolder and shine.
The unexpected new blues release goes on to prove and solidify a few things about the Stones labeled as the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band. It proves that Jagger is still a charismatic frontman and fabulous harmonica player as witnessed on the new material, Keith Richards indeed has the blues deep in his soul, Ronnie Wood is the ultimate sideman and Charlie Watts will always be one of the coolest and smoothest drummers ever.
As if the Stones would ever need a little extra help in the guitar area, Richards and Wood are joined by another guitar icon. Eric Clapton, who was recording at the same studio as the Stones, plays guitar on “Everybody Knows About My Good Thing” and “I Can’t Quit You Baby.”
Standout tracks such as “Just Your Fool,” “Little Rain” and “Commit a Crime” bring back memories of my first exposure to the Stones sound after listening to my oldest brother’s copy of “Aftermath.” This gem from 1966 introduced me to “Paint It Black” and “Under My Thumb” and served as the catalyst for my future fondness of the Stones.
Since the band’s debut performance at London’s Marquee Club in back in 1962, the Stones continue to make music history.
It’s taken the Stones over 50 years of playing together to finally release an entire album dedicated to blues arrangements. It was well worth the wait.
Clint Rhodes is the 蘑菇视频 music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.