Albert King ‎– Born Under A Bad Sign 1982 [Rare Japanese Import w/ OBI] Vinyl/LP

Review Summary: A true classic in the blues genre, that is both an enjoyable and interesting record for experienced listeners, as an accessible and highly recommendable first introduction for newcomers to the genre.

Although part of the so called “Three Kings” of the blues, along with Freddie and B.B., Albert King has always stood a bit in the shadow of the latter, who was arguably the king among kings in terms of general popularity. When it comes down to influence on popular music and the development of electric guitar playing however, Albert King might actually be the more important among the pack. While B.B. king was known for his singing guitar playing, and smooth shimmering vibrato, the Velvet Bulldozer (as Albert was often nicknamed) tortured his strings with fiery and highly aggressive playing, featuring bends of massive proportions that would prove to be a (if not the) prime influence on artists like Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, who are arguably among the most important guitarists in modern popular music. In the words of John Mayer: “Albert King is the reason guitarists break high e-strings!”

Probably the finest record of Kings extensive catalogue is his 2nd studio album, his 1967 debut at soul label Stax Records, “Born Under A Bad Sign”. There is some debate to what degree this record could be classified as a studio album. Albert King already had an extensive touring- and minor recording career behind him, and his Stax debut was meant as somewhat of a compilation of King’s singles and fan favorites, recorded with the backing of the label’s legendary house band, Booker T. and the MG’s. For all practical purposes however, I think this album qualifies as a proper studio album.

- Sputnik Music

Label: Atlantic ‎– SD 7723, Atlantic ‎– P-11261

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue, Stereo

Country: Japan

Released: 1982

Genre: Blues

Style: Delta Blues, Chicago Blues