Album Info Hide Show Artist: Taj Mahal Album: Taj Mahal Released: Europe, 3 Feb 2017 Tracklist: A1 Leaving trunk 4:51 Bass – James Thomas Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Drums – Sanford Konikoff Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Ryland P. Cooder A2 Statesboro Blues 2:59 Arranged By – Taj Mahal Bass – James Thomas Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Drums – Sanford Konikoff Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Ryland P. Cooder A3 Checkin’ Up On My Baby 4:55 Piano, Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis A4 Everybody’s Got To Change Sometime 2:57 Bass – James Thomas Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Drums – Sanford Konikoff Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Ryland P. Cooder B1 E Z Rider 3:04 Arranged By – Taj Mahal Bass – James Thomas Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Drums – Sanford Konikoff Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Ryland P. Cooder B2 Dust My Broom 2:39 Bass – Gary Gilmore Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Drums – Charles Blackwell Lead Guitar, Piano – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Bill Boatman B3 Diving Duck Blues 2:42 Bass – Gary Gilmore Drums – Charles Blackwell Lead Guitar – Jessie Edwin Davis Rhythm Guitar – Bill Boatman B4 The Celebrated Walkin’ Blues 8:52 Arranged By – Taj Mahal Mandolin – Ryland P. Cooder Slide Guitar, Blues Harp [Harp] – Taj Mahal Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store We are a small independent record store located at 211 High St, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir) We buy and sell new and used vinyl records – if you have a collection you’d like to sell please click here . We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post. Free Shipping for orders $150 and over. You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout. 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If the record arrives damaged or doesn’t arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record. If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store. You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at [email protected] Happy Listening! Description Hide Show Taj Mahal – Taj Mahal: A Foundation Stone of Modern Blues Released in 1968, “Taj Mahal” is the debut album of American blues musician Taj Mahal, born Henry Saint Clair Fredericks. This album is a vibrant testament to the enduring power and evolving nature of the blues, blending traditional acoustic blues with elements of folk, country, and world music. Taj Mahal’s deep reverence for the blues tradition, combined with his innovative approach to music-making, makes this album a cornerstone in the development of contemporary blues music. The album kicks off with “Leaving Trunk,” a spirited rendition of the Sleepy John Estes classic. Right from the start, Taj Mahal’s powerful voice and masterful slide guitar work set the tone for an album that is deeply rooted in the blues yet fresh and accessible. The track’s energetic arrangement and Taj Mahal’s charismatic delivery make it an instant classic. “Statesboro Blues,” a cover of the Blind Willie McTell song that would later be famously reinterpreted by The Allman Brothers Band, showcases Taj Mahal’s ability to honor the original while infusing it with his own distinctive style. His gritty vocal performance and dynamic guitar work breathe new life into this blues standard, highlighting his deep connection to the music’s roots and his talent as an interpreter. “EZ Rider,” an original composition by Taj Mahal, is another highlight of the album. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy melody exemplify Taj Mahal’s skill in crafting songs that are both respectful of the blues tradition and appealing to a wider audience. The incorporation of electric guitar and a more rock-oriented sound on this track hints at the directions Taj Mahal’s music would take in the future. “Dust My Broom,” another classic blues number famously associated with Robert Johnson and Elmore James, receives a compelling treatment on this album. Taj Mahal’s slide guitar work and impassioned vocals capture the raw emotion and energy of the original while adding a modern sensibility that makes the song resonate with contemporary listeners. The production of “Taj Mahal,” handled by David Rubinson, plays a significant role in the album’s impact. The recording captures the clarity and warmth of Taj Mahal’s voice and instruments, allowing the subtleties of his performances to shine through. The mix balances the traditional acoustic elements with the more modern, electrified sounds, creating a sonic landscape that is both authentic and innovative. “Taj Mahal” is more than just an album; it’s a musical journey that takes listeners through the heart of the blues and beyond. Taj Mahal’s deep understanding and appreciation of the genre are evident in every note, from the soulful renditions of classic tracks to his own original compositions. The album serves as a bridge between the past and the future of the blues, honoring its traditions while paving the way for new expressions and interpretations. In conclusion, “Taj Mahal” by Taj Mahal stands as a landmark debut that has left an indelible mark on the blues genre. Through his unique blend of musical styles and his respect for the roots of the blues, Taj Mahal has created an album that is both a tribute to the greats who came before him and a statement of his own artistic vision. “Taj Mahal” is not just a collection of songs; it’s a celebration of the blues as a living, evolving art form, making it essential listening for anyone with a love for music that speaks to the soul. Product Reviews Hide Show Write a Review