Description

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band – The Paul Butterfield Blues Band – Compact Disc

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band is the debut album by the American blues rock band of the same name, released in 1965 on Elektra Records. The album is widely regarded as a landmark in the blues genre, bridging the gap between traditional blues and the burgeoning rock scene of the 1960s. It showcases the powerful harmonica playing and gritty vocals of Paul Butterfield, along with the innovative guitar work of Mike Bloomfield and Elvin Bishop, and the tight rhythm section featuring Jerome Arnold on bass and Sam Lay on drums.

The album features a mix of electric blues and blues rock, characterized by Butterfield’s harmonica playing and the dual guitar attack of Bloomfield and Bishop. The sound is raw and energetic, capturing the essence of live blues performances with a modern rock twist. It includes a mix of original compositions and blues standards, reinterpreted with a fresh, dynamic approach.

The album’s lyrics and music explore themes typical of the blues genre, such as love, hardship, and resilience. The authenticity of the band’s sound and their respect for the blues tradition are evident throughout the album.

With a style honed in the gritty blues bars of Chicago’s south side, the Butterfield Blues Band was instrumental in bringing the sound of authentic Chicago blues to a young white audience in the mid-’60s, and although the band wasn’t a particularly huge commercial success, its influence has been enduring and pervasive. The band was formed when singer and harmonica player Paul Butterfield met guitarist and fellow University of Chicago student Elvin Bishop in the early ’60s.

Bonding over a love of the blues, the pair managed to hijack Howlin’ Wolf’s rhythm section (bassist Jerome Arnold and drummer Sam Lay) and began gigging in the city’s blues houses, where they were spotted in 1964 by producer Paul Rothchild, who quickly had them signed to Elektra Records. Guitar whiz Mike Bloomfield joined the band just before they entered the studio to record their debut album (and in time to be on-stage with the group when they backed up Bob Dylan at his infamous electric set at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival).

Notable Tracks

‘Born in Chicago’ – An energetic opening track written by Nick Gravenites, showcasing Butterfield’s powerful vocals and harmonica skills.
‘Shake Your Moneymaker’ – A high-energy cover of Elmore James’ classic, featuring blistering slide guitar work.
‘Blues with a Feeling’ – A slower, more soulful track, highlighting Butterfield’s expressive harmonica playing and vocal delivery.
‘I Got My Mojo Working’ – A lively rendition of the Muddy Waters classic, demonstrating the band’s ability to blend traditional blues with a contemporary edge.

The album was critically acclaimed upon its release and continues to be highly regarded by music historians and critics. It is praised for its instrumental prowess, innovative arrangements, and its role in popularizing electric blues among a broader rock audience. Fans of blues and rock music have embraced the album for its raw energy and authentic blues feel. The band’s ability to capture the spirit of Chicago blues while adding their unique flair has garnered a loyal following.

The album is considered a milestone in the blues genre, influencing countless blues and rock musicians. It played a crucial role in bringing blues music to a younger, predominantly white audience, helping to bridge racial and cultural gaps in the music industry.

The album’s blend of traditional blues with rock elements paved the way for future blues-rock bands and artists. Musicians such as Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the members of the Rolling Stones have cited the Paul Butterfield Blues Band as a significant influence on their music.

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band remains a pivotal album in the history of blues and rock music, celebrated for its passionate performances and groundbreaking approach to the genre.

Elektra Records

Track Listing
1. Born In Chicago
2. Shake Your Moneymaker
3. Blues With A Feeling
4. Thank You Mr. Poobah
5. I Got My Mojo Working
6. Mellow Down Easy
7. Screamin’
8. Our Love Is Drifting
9. Mystery Train
10. Last Night
11. Look Over Yonders Wall