Featured in Michael Fremer's Heavy Rotation in the August 2010 Issue of Stereophile!
"Tough" is John's sixth studio album for Eagle Records and is well titled with a harder hitting feel and a real edge that sets it apart from his recent albums. After a long period with a stable line-up of the Bluesbreakers, "Tough" sees Mayall working with a new group of musicians that has clearly revitalized him and acted as a spur to his creativity. Although in his 70s, Mayall shows no sign of slowing down. Affectionately regarded as the "Godfather of British Blues", Mayall's influence on the genre cannot be overestimated in a career stretching back to the mid-sixties that has nurtured the talents of Eric Clapton, Mick Taylor, Peter Green, John McVie, Mick Fleetwood, Coco Montoya, and more! In a genre that has always cherished experience "Tough" proves that John Mayall still has what it takes.
The overall tone of this album is gritty and urban, current and strong; a study in the struggle of the current state of the world, the difficulties with human relationships, the pitfalls of temptations and, finally, the promise of hopebecause the stories in these 11 songs are told from a voice of strength. In the 44 years since his first record release and at almost 76 years old, this is John Mayalls 57th official album. Produced by John Mayall himself, this album is also the debut of his new band lineup, making this is a new start with fresh new blood.
The players make up John Mayalls touring band, consisting of his latest guitar phenomenon from Texas, Rocky Athas; a blues rhythm section from ChicagoGreg Rzab on bass guitar and Jay Davenport on drums; Tom Canning on organ and piano; and, of course, John Mayall on keyboards, organ, harmonica, guitar and vocals.
Pressed on 180g vinyl, "Tough" is packaged in a double gatefold LP sleeve. As an added feature, the vinyl release includes a digital download card, allowing the owner to get a digital copy of the entire album.
Features:
180g Vinyl
Double Gatefold jacket
Digital download of entire album included (Offer expires 5/31/2011)
Selections:
1. Nothing To Do With Love
2. Just What You're Looking For
3. Playing With a Losing Hand
4. An Eye For An Eye
5. How Far Down
6. Train To My Heart
7. Slow Train To Nowhere
8. Numbers Down
9. That Good Old Rockin' Blues
10. Tough Times Ahead
11. The Sum of Something
"Tough" is John's sixth studio album for Eagle Records and is well titled with a harder hitting feel and a real edge that sets it apart from his recent albums. After a long period with a stable line-up of the Bluesbreakers, "Tough" sees Mayall working with a new group of musicians that has clearly revitalized him and acted as a spur to his creativity. Although in his 70s, Mayall shows no sign of slowing down. Affectionately regarded as the "Godfather of British Blues", Mayall's influence on the genre cannot be overestimated in a career stretching back to the mid-sixties that has nurtured the talents of Eric Clapton, Mick Taylor, Peter Green, John McVie, Mick Fleetwood, Coco Montoya, and more! In a genre that has always cherished experience "Tough" proves that John Mayall still has what it takes.
The overall tone of this album is gritty and urban, current and strong; a study in the struggle of the current state of the world, the difficulties with human relationships, the pitfalls of temptations and, finally, the promise of hopebecause the stories in these 11 songs are told from a voice of strength. In the 44 years since his first record release and at almost 76 years old, this is John Mayalls 57th official album. Produced by John Mayall himself, this album is also the debut of his new band lineup, making this is a new start with fresh new blood.
The players make up John Mayalls touring band, consisting of his latest guitar phenomenon from Texas, Rocky Athas; a blues rhythm section from ChicagoGreg Rzab on bass guitar and Jay Davenport on drums; Tom Canning on organ and piano; and, of course, John Mayall on keyboards, organ, harmonica, guitar and vocals.
Pressed on 180g vinyl, "Tough" is packaged in a double gatefold LP sleeve. As an added feature, the vinyl release includes a digital download card, allowing the owner to get a digital copy of the entire album.
Features:
180g Vinyl
Double Gatefold jacket
Digital download of entire album included (Offer expires 5/31/2011)
Selections:
1. Nothing To Do With Love
2. Just What You're Looking For
3. Playing With a Losing Hand
4. An Eye For An Eye
5. How Far Down
6. Train To My Heart
7. Slow Train To Nowhere
8. Numbers Down
9. That Good Old Rockin' Blues
10. Tough Times Ahead
11. The Sum of Something
