John Lee Hooker ‎– Never Get Out Of These Blues Alive

John Lee Hooker – Never Get Out Of These Blues Alive

A superb meeting of blues legends and musical generations, Never Get Out Of These Blues Alive finds John Lee Hooker joined by an impressive collection of musicians, including Van Morrison, Elvin Bishop and Charlie Musselwhite. Originally released in 1972 on ABC Records, this compelling album captures the Detroit blues master's raw, hypnotic guitar playing and unmistakable vocal style in a rich, collaborative setting.

By the early seventies, Hooker had already established himself as one of the most influential figures in electric blues. His distinctive approach, built around repetitive guitar rhythms, loose boogie grooves and deeply expressive vocals, had helped shape the development of modern blues and influenced generations of rock musicians. Rather than abandoning his traditional sound, this album places his music alongside a younger generation of American and British performers, creating an exciting meeting of blues, rock and improvisational musicianship.

Recorded at Wally Heider Recording in San Francisco in September 1971 and produced by Ed Michel, the album features a remarkably varied supporting cast. Van Morrison is perhaps the most notable guest, contributing guitar and vocals to the extended title track, where his soulful delivery complements Hooker's earthy blues style. The two musicians share an obvious musical understanding, making the closing track one of the album's defining moments.

Elsewhere, slide guitarist Elvin Bishop adds plenty of character, while Charlie Musselwhite's harmonica brings an authentic Chicago blues flavour. The contributions of pianist Mark Naftalin, organist Robert Hooker and violinist Michael White give the arrangements additional colour, creating a fuller sound without sacrificing the loose, spontaneous feel of Hooker's performances.

The album opens with the infectious Bumble Bee, Bumble Bee, followed by the driving rhythm of Hit The Road and the more expansive Country Boy. Boogie With The Hook is a particularly enjoyable showcase for the group's instrumental interplay, while T.B Sheets offers a fascinating connection with Van Morrison's earlier songwriting. Originally recorded by Morrison for his 1967 debut album Blowin' Your Mind!, the song takes on a different character in Hooker's hands, bringing together two distinctive interpretations of the blues.

The extended title track is the album's centrepiece, developing into an atmospheric, slow-burning blues performance featuring both Hooker and Morrison. Their contrasting voices and guitar styles create a memorable musical conversation that gives the record much of its lasting appeal.

Never Get Out Of These Blues Alive is an excellent example of early-seventies blues at its most collaborative and adventurous. It retains the raw spirit of Hooker's Mississippi-influenced blues while embracing the contributions of musicians from the wider American blues and rock scenes.

An essential album for fans of John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison, electric blues, boogie and classic roots music. Particularly rewarding for collectors interested in blues-rock collaborations and the meeting of traditional blues with the emerging sound of seventies roots music.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Bumble Bee, Bumble Bee

2. Hit The Road

3. Country Boy

4. Boogie With The Hook

5. If You Take Care Of Me, I'll Take Care Of You

6. (I Got) A Good 'Un

Side B

1. T.B Sheets

2. Letter To My Baby

3. Never Get Out Of These Blues Alive

4. Baby, I Love You

5. Lonesome Mood