Rather than just shoot off a list of titles; I’ve decided to dig deeper into the albums that I really think deserve to be in surround and make a case for a remix. I realize most of these will never see a surround remix, but it also puts a spotlight on them for people who may never have heard these albums or may even be unfamiliar with the artist. I also know that music is very personal and heard subjectively, so some of this is just an outlet for my own frustration for the overall lack of public surround acceptance. (I’m hoping to be helped out with this when the new “INVOLVE SURROUND MASTER” hits.)
First up is Taj Mahal’s album “
Señor Blues.” This album won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album in 1997. Normally I don’t pay much attention to Grammy awards; but I believe this one is well deserved.
This album was produced by John Porter, who is one of my favorite producers.
Here’s the discogs page of his impressive production credits:
https://www.discogs.com/artist/150899-John-Porter?filter_anv=0&subtype=Production&type=Credits
Another great album that is produced and (I believe) mixed by John Porter is Keb’ Mo’s “Just Like You” SACD (which is a surround disc) and is one of my favorites to listen to, and I feel is demo quality. Ultimately if “Señor Blues” was produced in surround similar to “Just Like You” it would be another stunner.
https://www.discogs.com/Keb-Mo-Just-Like-You/release/8022523
Some notable artists contributing to this album are: Jon Cleary (tickling the ivory) and The Texicalli Horns of Darrell Leonard & Joe Sublett (hornin’ Taj.) Taj’s singing reminds me of a smoother version of Howlin’ Wolf with some of that grittiness, but smoother with more dynamic finesse.
The main criteria for me to like an album is how it makes me feel, its got to invoke some kind of real emotion from me. Weather it makes me joyful, sad, introspective, randy… it’s gotta have that “it” factor and “Señor Blues” definitely has it. I’ve spent years with the CD in my car and have a blast, because it’s a hearty sing-along album which I never seem to tire from.
Song highlights for me are:
Queen Bee – Mainly an acoustic piece that has a “World Music” feel to it, which Taj is also considered a master at. This song is much more complex than what you may hear from a first casual listen, with various instruments joining in later.
Señor Blues – A juiced up version of the latin blues tune by Horace Silver; very fun with Taj’s gravelly vocals.
Oh Lord Things Are Gettin’ Crazy Up In Here – A Jon Cleary gospel and jump blues inspired song that simply sizzles and gets – well “Crazy.” I feel that Taj makes it his own with this recording. Wonderful impassioned background vocals on this one also.
You Rascal You – Anchored with a walking bass line and lots of horns, this one just makes me smile.
21st Century Gypsy Singin’ Lover Man – I consider this one to be a blues anthem and arguably one of the best sing-along songs of all time.
“Señor Blues” always sounds fresh to me which is the sign of a truly great album.
I’d recommend listening on headphones (for your personal surround sound visualization!)
Taj Mahal is an American Treasure.
