an exceptional artifact of the 60s
Here's something a little different, a recording from 1967 by English based blues artist Gerry Lockran. Even if you're not into blues I recommend giving this a listen, it's a wonderful product of its time...
I think that such a cultural artifact says far more about its own place and time than the culture that it refers to. Like a "historical"movie, once a few years have past, the time of its production overwhelms the time in which it's set...
This music is no exception; the multicultural sensibility and open sexuality is that of 1960s Britain and it belongs in the UK Folk milieu of the time, with groups like The Incredible String Band.
biography:
Born in India of Irish & Indian parents, his family emigrated to England in 1953, living in South London. His major influences were Josh White, Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Leadbelly, Brownie McGhee and most of all Big Bill Broonzy.
'Blues Vendetta' was his second LP, and featured his powerful fingerpicking style on self -penned compositions like 'Guitar Boogie' and 'Jason's Blues' (written for his three year old son).
During his lifetime Lockran recorded thirteen albums, all of which are now 'deleted'. He continued to write, record and release records up to the end of his career in 1981. While on tour in Belgium and Holland he developed heart problems, culminating in a heart attack and stroke, depriving him of the use of his left hand and sadly ending his career as a professional musician He fought the effects of his stroke, hoping eventually to regain use of his left hand, but sadly this never happened. After six years struggle he suffered a fatal heart attack on 17th November 1987.
Whilst perhaps derivative in style this music is unique in its form; his voice has a richness and depth of tone and the solo guitar playing is delivered with exceptional dexterity and power.
These tracks were restored from a tape made from a very worn and much loved LP.
There is a little distortion but generally the sound is more than acceptable.
One listen and you'll surely recognise a major talent here.
So where are the re-releases?
tracklist:
SIDE ONE
1. Goin Down The Road (Guthrie, Hays, arranged by Lockran)
2. The Riddle Song (Traditional, arranged by Lockran)
3. Jason's Blues (Lockran)
4. You Don't Learn That In School (Traditional, arranged by Lockran)
5. Get Back (Broonzy)
6. Automechanic Blues (McGhee)
7. Trouble In Mind (Jones)
SIDE TWO
1. Summertime (G & I Gershwin, Heyward)
2. Guitar Boogie (Lockran)
3. Cocaine Blues (Arnall, Nicholls)
4. Work Song (Adderley, Brown Jr)
5. Goodmornin' Blues (Lomax, Leadbetter)
6. Careless Love (Traditional, lyrics by Koenig & Williams, arranged by Handy)
Blues Vendetta [160kbps mono]
posted by benito X at 7/15/2007 10:44:00 pm
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