BOZ SCAGGS Vinyl & CDs

Review: Boz Scaggs' 1969 album, blending Southern rock, blues and r&b, wasn't a commercial success but it set the stage for his future successes. Recorded at Muscle Shoals with co-producer Jann Wenner, the album captures the raw energy and magic of a remarkable collaboration. Scaggs' smooth, mellow vocals blend seamlessly with the legendary Muscle Shoals rhythm section, led by Duane Allman's iconic guitar work. The album spans multiple genresifrom country-tinged 'Waiting for a Train' to the sultry blues of 'Loan Me a Dime'. The latter, in particular, became a standout, with its extended, fiery guitar solos and a signature groove that captured the imagination of FM rock stations. The album's charm lies in its organic, unpretentious feel, as Scaggs and the musicians create something truly magical over six days of spontaneous recording. It's a celebration of Southern soul with a West Coast twist and it remains a fascinating glimpse into an artist finding his voice in the heart of Muscle Shoals.

Review: Originally released in 1974, Slow Dancer precedes his commercial breakthrough with Silk Degrees and highlights Scaggs' knack for catchy tunes. Produced by Johnny Bristol, the album blends urban soul with pop-rock, delivering an exciting and vibrant sound.Tracks like 'You Make It So Hard (To Say No)' and the title track 'Slow Dancer' feature Scaggs' smooth vocals and soulful style. Other gems include 'Angel Lady (Come Just in Time)' and 'Hercules.' The album's urban soul ambiance, combined with the yellow vinyl and included insert, make this a collector's delight. This luxurious reissue as a 50th anniversary edition is limited to 750 individually numbered copies on yellow 180-gram audiophile vinyl.