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Music review: John Mayall – ëƵA Special LifeëƵ

By Clint Rhodes for The 2 min read
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Music review: John Mayall - ëƵA Special LifeëƵ
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Rhodes

Looking back at the extensive recording career of John Mayall, itëƵs clear the British blues-rock icon has truly lived a special life. The veteran artist and bandleader continues his prolific and influential journey with a deeply rich collection of songs blending traces of blues, rock and Americana.

At its core, ëƵA Special LifeëƵ serves as a vibrant example of MayallëƵs genius and vision. Initially honing his musical skills while backing blues greats like John Lee Hooker, T-Bone Walker and Sonny Boy Williamson during their first English club tours, the multi-talented artist first made his indelible mark on the music industry with the release of his 1966 album with Eric Clapton.

Considered by many critics as the best album by John MayallëƵs Bluesbreakers, I fondly remember the undeniable sound of songs like ëƵAll Your Love,ëƵ ëƵHideawayëƵ and ëƵSteppinëƵ Out,ëƵ fueled by a young ClaptonëƵs spirited guitar riffs.

Always possessing a keen ear for rising talent, MayallëƵs band has featured accomplished musicians such as Peter Green, John McVie, Mick Fleetwood, Mick Taylor, Jack Bruce, Andy Fraser and Aynsley Dunbar. On his first studio album in five years, MayallëƵs current lineup boasts guitarist Rocky Athas, bassist Greg Rzab and drummer Jay Davenport.

Additionally, singer and accordion player C.J. Chenier makes a guest appearance on several of the well-executed numbers.

The new album features four new arrangements and a collection of noteworthy covers.

The opening track, ëƵWhy Did You Go Last Night,ëƵ offers up an infectious slice of zydeco and blues with ChenierëƵs lively accordion playing.

Other covers include Jimmy RogersëƵ ëƵThatëƵs All Right,ëƵ Albert KingëƵs ëƵFloodinëƵ in California,ëƵ Sonny LandrethëƵs ëƵSpeak of the Devil,ëƵ Jimmy McCracklinëƵs ëƵI Just Got to KnowëƵ and Eddie TaylorëƵs ëƵBig Town Playboy.ëƵ

ëƵA Special LifeëƵ is a gratifying listen as it punctuates the 80-year old artistëƵs achievements in impressive style.

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