Search - Freddie King :: Getting Ready

What a comeback!

bigpull | So Cal | 05/09/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mention the name Freddie King to any Blues guitarist and he'll be referred to in the highest regard. His playing was as influential on the guitarists of the Blues genre that followed as anyone.

Leon Russell, who was coming off his commercial pinnacle as bandleader for Joe Cocker and his burgeoning solo career, took some of his fortune and formed Shelter records with partner Denny Cordell. One of the first things on his to do list was to sign Freddie King. At the time, King's career was at an all time low.The man who had cut many hit Blues albums and singles was living in Texas without a recording contract and only performing part time. The sessions were recorded at the famed Chess studios in Chicago with Russell producing, playing piano and providing direction. The results are sheer delight.This record has a much more rockin' feel than Freddie's previous efforts but his passionate vocals and blistering guitar playing are intact. I consider myself a true lover of straight ahead blues but unlike some purists who don't rate this record above 3 stars, I think it's a fine, fine record. Highlights include the rockin' GOIN' DOWN (which received significant airplay when the record came out), a reworking of the Blues staple KEY TO THE HIGHWAY which is a total triumph and also a rerecording of Freddie's old hit, TORE DOWN, which completely tops his earlier version or anyone else's for that matter. I saw Freddie open for Albert King at the Fillmore West on tour in '71, right after this record came out and it was one of the most riveting shows I've ever seen. He upstaged one of his idols on that evening. Unfortunately, even though this record marked a resurgence in his career, Freddie King died 5 years later at the young age of 42. One can only wonder how much more great music he could have produced in the years since his untimely death......"

King's Best album - a convergence of regional sounds

Dave T. Perek | Chicago, IL USA | 11/23/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The most striking thing about this wonderful album to me is the convergence of so many regional styles of music. Freddie's hybrid sound of Texas and Chicago blues is further amplified by being recorded at Chicago's Chess studios. Leon Russell adds his Oklahoma/gospel hybrid sound in his masterful production of the album. Throw in the Memphis sound of Don Nix evident in "Going Down" and you have a perfect blend of contrasting styles."

Best of the shelter recordings

noah s meltzer | staten island, new york United States | 03/06/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Great stuff, good crossover into more of a rockin' sound without losing the Texas and Chicago blues influences. Original recording is of poor quality and can use a remastering but the blues of Freddie King comes through."