B.B. King – L.A. Midnight

B.B. King – L.A. Midnight

L.A. Midnight is a powerful 1972 studio album from B.B. King, recorded during a particularly important period in the legendary blues guitarist's career. Released on ABC Records, the album combines King's unmistakable guitar tone and expressive vocals with a loose, adventurous band sound that brings together elements of electric blues, soul-blues and blues rock.

The album opens with I Got Some Help I Don't Need, followed by King's soulful interpretation of Help The Poor and the gritty Can't You Hear Me Talking To You. The extended title track Midnight gives the guitarist an opportunity to stretch out, with guest guitarists Jesse Ed Davis and Joe Walsh joining B.B. King on one of the album's longest performances.

Side B begins with the outstanding Sweet Sixteen, one of the defining performances on the album. The track became a single in 1972, while (I Believe) I've Been Blue Too Long features Taj Mahal on harmonica and guitar. The album closes with the extended Lucille's Granny, another loose guitar showcase featuring King alongside Jesse Ed Davis and Joe Walsh.

Produced by Ed Michel, L.A. Midnight captures B.B. King in a period when his traditional blues foundations were increasingly meeting the broader sounds of contemporary American R&B and rock. The result is an interesting and distinctive entry in King's extensive catalogue, particularly for listeners who enjoy his more expansive studio performances.

For fans of B.B. King, electric blues, blues rock, classic guitar albums and 1970s blues, L.A. Midnight is an essential addition to any collection. With guest appearances from Joe Walsh, Jesse Ed Davis and Taj Mahal, it also offers a fascinating meeting point between established blues tradition and the wider American rock scene.

Tracklist

Side A

1. I Got Some Help I Don't Need
2. Help The Poor
3. Can't You Hear Me Talking To You
4. Midnight

Side B

1. Sweet Sixteen
2. (I Believe) I've Been Blue Too Long
3. Lucille's Granny