The Iceman at Mount Fuji - Albert Collins Review

To say that Albert Collins had a unique style would likely be the understatement of the blues century.

I just got this disc in, and I've listened to it about 10 times. It is far and away the best live blues cd I've ever heard.

If you've never listened to Albert Collins, trust me, this is the disc to break the ice with. The horns alone would make this disc worth the listen, but add in the blistering guitar solos by Albert Collins, and Pete Thoennes, and you've got a real blues breaker.

There are 2 versions of Same Old Thing on the disc, also 2 versions of Iceman. The extended jams, and sax and trumpet solos are hot. The Frosty wrap up is the icing on the cake. The only thing that could top this set would be having it on video.

Albert Collins was steeped in soul. His rhythms and intensity made his act one of the most gratifying to hear, and with Albert, you are always left wanting more.

The Master of the Telecaster may well be passed on, but sets such as this one will keep his beat alive for all time.

This disc is available from Fuel Records.

Rating out of 5: * * * * *