JOHN MAYALL
Back to the Roots
Polydor
· More than welcome re-release of classic 1970s blues album.
When the Queen was recently handing out knighthoods to Paul McCartney and Elton John, she might have spared a thought for John Mayall. Unlike the former pair, whose best work lies deep in the past, Mayall has been a consistent quality performer for four decades now, from his time with the Bluesbreakers to his recent solo material. What's more, he lies at the heart of the evolution of British blues, having aided and abetted the careers of countless musicians, and it's hard to overstate his impact on music over the years.
That's why it's great to hear Back to the Roots again. Originally released in 1971 and then remixed in 1988, it's third time out for this showcase of Mayall's talent as a singer, writer, pianist and harmonica player. Joined by the likes of Eric Clapton, Mick Taylor and Johnny Almond, Mayall takes the tried-and-tested format of the blues and takes it to another level altogether. Elements of jazz, funk and even psychedelia find their way into the songs, though without ever overwhelming the essential bluesiness of the material.
Back to the Roots may not be to everyone's taste – the Queen, for one, it would seem – but deserves a wider audience than it will undoubtedly receive. With summer on the way, treat yourself and go wild.
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