Top Five Records

G.P. Bennett - Vulnerable Things

G.P. is the big voiced frontman of emerging London blues heroes Vulnerable Things. They're new school blues musicians and this selection reflects that - two of these records 'aint even 5 years old! Catch the Vulnerables regularly at venues across London


This is one of those questions that can have different answers depending on what month, week or day it is so I have decided to list my Top 5 at this precise Moment... No.1 could change before I even finish writing...

1. Live at The Café Au Go-Go - John Lee Hooker

As John Lee himself put's it "That's real Blues, real Blues". This Album makes you realise why these great Blues artists became known as 'Legends'. The music wasn't 'played', it just seemed to happen! Hookers voice is a spine rattler and works it's way down to your toes.

This is what the Blues is ALL about, this changed my whole concept of what can be done live with a Blues Band , for me it's the bench mark for all other Blues Albums!

2. ThickFreakness - The Black Keys

Who would have thought that two little white nerds from Akron Ohio could produce an album with such believable dirt and soul. This band were one of the finds of my life, and I have since been preaching to anyone who will listen!

From the blistering openers Thickfreakness and Hard Row to the gentle and understated closing of Cry Alone, they give you hope that the blues is still alive and deserves a place at the top of popular music today.

3. Blues - Jimi Hendrix

A cliché maybe, but Jimi Hendrix is by far the greatest guitarist of all time. This album is awash with soul, grit and that little bit of humour which makes a great Blues album.

Roaring lead which is never overplayed (Red House, Hear My Train Coming). Inspired covers which take on a whole new concept (Catfish Blues, Born Under a Bad Sign) and the unique live feel that Hendrix seemed to capture in lots of his recordings (Voodoo Chile Blues). The general consensus is that Hendrix was a 'Rock' player! This album proves that to be wrong. Essential Listening

4. Meat and Potatoes - Ian Siegal

Ok, I admit that in a few years this album will probably not even be in my top ten of all time greats. But as I said above, this is what I'm into most at the moment and Ian Siegal's second album has been on constant loop in my house since it's purchase a year ago. A special talent who is making the British Blues Scene 'cool' again, despite the number of laboured acts still around.

This man could be the new messiah... Well the new John Mayall anyway!

5. Muddy 'Mississippi' Waters Live (remastered)

Recorded over two shows when Mr Morganfield was getting on a bit, backed by some fine musicians and supported by a constantly enthusiastic audience. This Double Live album is a must have for any Blues fan and especially any Muddy Waters fans. It's amazing how his stage presence comes through just from his subtle ramblings and mumbled introductions. The track listing isn't important as this album is all about the feel and performance, but classics such as Manish Boy, She's 19 Years Old (stand out track for me) and Baby please don't go litter this Epic Live Recording... and for the aesthetic enthusiasts it has some beautiful artwork in the extensive booklet.

I can't believe I haven't got a Howlin Wolf mention in there!!

Buy 'em here (we get a small commission, at no extra cost to you):