Bman's Blues Report

I just received the newest release (May 13, 2014), A Special Life , from John Mayall and in keeping with tradition, Mayall gives us another new view at his take on the blues. Opening with Why Did You Go Last Night , a Jimmy Reed like track, features Mayall on piano and CJ Chenier on accordion and lead vocal. Sonny Landreth's Speak Of the Devil has a strong bottom thanks to Jay Davenport (drums) and Greg Rzab (bass). Rocky Athas rips a nice guitar solo on this track as Mayall fills out the body on organ. James Lane's That's All Right has a strong R&B blues feel and features Mayall not only on vocal but also on harp. Nice! World Gone Crazy has a cool Doors like feel with Mayall on vocal, harp and keys but it's all about the bass on this track. Albert King's Floodin' In California still has the funky R&B style but with a definite Mayall twist. Easy going guitar work from Mayall on this track complimented by his own organ work leaves a nice open path...

Forty Below Records Signs the Legendary Godfather of British Blues, John Mayall, and Will Release His First New Studio Album in Five Years, A Special Life , on May 13 Latest CD, Which Features Special Guest C. J. Chenier, Is One of John Mayall’s Finest and Most Personal Albums to Date LOS ANGELES, CA – Forty Below Records announces the signing of the legendary “Godfather of British Blues,” John Mayall, and a May 13 release date for his first studio album in five years, A Special Life , distributed by Sony/RED. The new album was recorded in November, 2013, at Entourage Studios in North Hollywood and was produced by Mayall, with co-production, engineering and mixing by Eric Corne. A Special Life also boasts original cover art and design created by John Mayall. The aptly-titled A Special Life serves as further testament to John Mayall’s boundless talent, vitality and ever-dynamic personality. Along with his accomplished band, he goes back to his roots ...