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JOHN MAYALL ~ CRUSADE (EXPANDED EDITION) DECCA 842175 (Barcode: 602498421758) ~ UK ~ Blues Recorded: 1967Released: 2007 4th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and the 3rd album Mayall recorded in 1967 (with another double live album also recorded later in the year), which positions this appropriately titled release as part of his tireless crusade to spread the blues with all his might. Considering the fact that during the year that preceded the recording Mayall lost two of the greatest blues guitar players (Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and Peter GreenFind albums by this artist) as his front men, his remarkable ability to recreate to group is truly legendary. The new lead guitarist stepping in the footsteps of the departing legends was the young Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, who turned out to be not only an appropriate replacement, but also a true revelation. His extraordinary technique and superb feel for the blues made him an ideal partner for Mayall. Taylor would stay with Mayall for about two years, which turned out to be very productive and result in a series of excellent albums. Later on he’s leave Mayall to join the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist as a replacement for the tragically departed Brian JonesFind albums by this artist. The revamped Bluesbreakers included also the legendary John McVieFind albums by this artist (of Fleetwood MacFind albums by this artist fame), the extremely talented drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist and a brass section consisting of Chris MercerFind albums by this artist (tenor sax) and Rip KantFind albums by this artist (baritone sax). The entire album was recorded in just one day (except for the bonus material), proving how professional and talented these wonderful musicians really were. Mayall wrote the bulk of the material, and a few blues standards are also used. In retrospect this is one of the formative British blues albums and a prime example of the genre. Essential listening material for every blues fan.
