Album Information Section
Album Title: In Session
Artist: Albert King, Stevie Ray Vaughan
Original Release Date: August 1999
Label: Stax
Genres: Blues, Electric Blues
Track Listing:
- 1. Call It Stormy Monday (9:00)
- 2. Old Times (1:16)
- 3. Pride and Joy (5:59)
- 4. Ask Me No Questions (5:03)
- 5. Pep Talk (0:52)
- 6. Blues at Sunrise (15:11)
- 7. Turn It Over (0:51)
- 8. Overall Junction (8:21)
- 9. Match Box Blues (7:39)
- 10. Who Is Stevie? (0:44)
- 11. Don’t Lie to Me (8:57)
Recording Information
In Session was recorded at the Stax Records studio in Memphis, Tennessee, a location renowned for its pivotal role in the development of Southern soul and blues music. The recording sessions took place in the summer of 1985, a significant period that brought together two of the genre’s most iconic guitarists. The album was produced by both Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan, with engineering handled by several key figures from the Stax label.
During the sessions, notable recording techniques included live takes that captured the raw energy and authenticity of each performance. The use of vintage microphones and amplifiers, including King’s signature Gibson Flying V guitar and Vaughan’s Fender Stratocaster, contributed to the album’s distinctive sound. A memorable production note is that the album captures the vibrant chemistry between King and Vaughan, showcasing their improvisational skills and mutual respect as musicians.
Band Context
In the mid-1980s, Albert King was already an established blues legend, having influenced countless musicians with his expressive guitar playing and powerful voice. At this time, he was in a unique position where younger artists, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, were looking to him as a mentor and a source of inspiration. Vaughan, having gained recognition for his debut album “Texas Flood,” was eager to learn from one of his idols.
The lineup for this recording featured Albert King on guitar and vocals, while Stevie Ray Vaughan contributed guitar and backing vocals. The collaboration highlighted a moment when Vaughan was cementing his place in the blues-rock world while paying homage to the traditions set forth by artists like King. During this period, Vaughan was also experiencing a rapid rise in popularity, performing at major venues and festivals across the U.S., which brought renewed attention to the blues genre.
Track Commentary
The album opens with “Call It Stormy Monday,” a classic blues standard that runs for nine minutes, showcasing both artists’ prowess and emotional depth. Vaughan’s guitar work complements King’s vocals, setting a high standard for the rest of the album. “Pride and Joy,” another standout track, features Vaughan’s signature style and has become one of his most recognized songs, illustrating the blend of Texas blues with King’s Southern roots.
Other notable tracks include “Blues at Sunrise,” an expansive 15-minute piece that allows both musicians to stretch out and explore different musical ideas. This track exemplifies their improvisational skills and is a highlight of the album, often praised for its emotional intensity. “Don’t Lie to Me” closes the album on a powerful note, with King’s commanding presence and Vaughan’s fiery guitar riffs capturing the essence of blues storytelling.
Overall, In Session is not just a collection of songs but a historical document that illustrates the connection between generations of blues musicians. Critics have lauded the album for its authenticity and the palpable chemistry between King and Vaughan, which continues to resonate with listeners today. The legacy of this collaboration has inspired many upcoming artists and remains a significant milestone in the history of blues music.
