Record Review

Freddie King – Live In Nancy, 1975 Vol. 2

Artist Freddie King
Label France's Concert
Catalog # FC 129
Year 1989
Format Vinyl - LP
Blues Texas Blues Chicago Blues

# Freddie King – Live In Nancy, 1975 Vol. 2

Freddie King was one of the most influential electric blues guitarists of the post-war era, bridging Texas blues traditions with Chicago electric styles. By the mid-1970s, King had already established himself as a legendary figure whose innovative guitar work and authoritative vocals shaped the sound of modern blues. This 1989 Concert label release captures King during a 1975 performance in Nancy, France, documenting a crucial period in his career when he remained a vital live performer.

The album showcases King's mastery across both regional blues traditions he helped define. Opening with an extended eight-minute rendition of "Got My Mojo Working," King demonstrates the raw power that made him a concert draw, while "Sweet Home Chicago" proves his deep roots in Chicago's electric blues scene. The Texas blues influence emerges throughout, particularly on "Wee Baby Blues," where his signature guitar tone cuts through with clarity and precision.

The extended playing times here reveal King's live prowess as a bandleader and soloist. "You're The One" stretches nearly eight and a half minutes, allowing King room to explore his improvisational gifts, while "The Danger Zone" provides a tighter showcase of his compositional approach. Slower blues like "Feeling Alright" highlight his emotive vocal delivery and nuanced phrasing.

Though released over a decade after the actual performance, this live document represents an invaluable snapshot of Freddie King performing at the height of his powers, preserving his electrifying stage presence for collectors and blues enthusiasts alike.

Tracklist

Side A
  1. 1 Got My Mojo Working (8:50)
  2. 2 Sweet Home Chicago (6:10)
  3. 3 Wee Baby Blues (6:10)
Side B
  1. 1 The Danger Zone (3:05)
  2. 2 Feeling Alright (5:35)
  3. 3 You're The One (8:15)
  4. 4 Final (1:05)