A wonderful collection of the best of the Chicken Shack with Stan Webb and Christine Perfect during the period 1968-1970. This rare album is NOT available on CD . The "Chicken Shack" was a British blues band that gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. The band was known for its energetic live performances and blues-inspired rock music.
Released in 1988, "The Collection with Stan Webb" is a compilation album that encapsulates the essence of Chicken Shack's blues-rock sound. Spanning the band's peak years, this collection serves as a time capsule, transporting listeners back to a vibrant era of musical exploration.
Historical Context
Emerging in the late 1960s, Chicken Shack was part of the British blues boom, a movement that saw a resurgence of interest in traditional blues music. This wave of British bands, including the likes of Cream and Fleetwood Mac, reinterpreted the blues for a new generation, infusing it with rock elements and a youthful energy.
Musical Exploration
Chicken Shack's music was deeply rooted in the blues, yet they weren't afraid to experiment. "The Collection with Stan Webb" showcases their diverse range, from soulful ballads to raucous blues-rock anthems. The band's sound was characterized by Stan Webb's powerful vocals and blistering guitar work, complemented by a tight rhythm section.
Genre
Chicken Shack's music is firmly planted in the blues-rock genre. Their songs often featured extended jams, showcasing their instrumental prowess. While the blues remained at the core of their sound, they incorporated elements of rock, soul, and even psychedelia, creating a unique blend that resonated with audiences.
Controversies
Chicken Shack's career was not without its controversies. Internal conflicts and lineup changes led to a revolving door of members, with Stan Webb being the sole constant. These upheavals undoubtedly impacted the band's trajectory, but their music endured, leaving a lasting impression on the blues-rock scene.
Production Team and Recording Studio
"The Collection with Stan Webb" compiles tracks recorded at various studios throughout Chicken Shack's career. The production team varied depending on the individual songs, but the album's cohesive sound reflects the band's unwavering commitment to their blues-rock roots.
Music Genre: Blues Rock |
Record Label & Catalognr: The Collector Series CCSLP 179 |
Album Packaging: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design. |
Media Format: 12" Double LP |
Year & Country: 1988 Made in England |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"The Collection" Record Label Details: The Collector Series CCSLP 179, Made in England ©
Emerging from the vibrant British blues scene of the late 1960s, Chicken Shack, led by the charismatic guitarist Stan Webb and featuring the soulful vocals of Christine Perfect, carved a unique path in the blues-rock genre. While their lineup experienced fluctuations, their dedication to authentic blues expression remained unwavering. Two albums from this era, "The Collection with Stan Webb" (1988) and "On Air rare bbc recordings" (release year unknown), offer contrasting yet complementary perspectives on their musical journey.
The Collection with Stan Webb
This double LP compilation, released in 1988, serves as a comprehensive overview of Chicken Shack's peak years. It highlights their ability to seamlessly blend traditional blues with rock elements, showcasing both Webb's fiery guitar solos and Perfect's powerful vocals. Tracks like "I'd Rather Go Blind" and "When the Train Comes Back" demonstrate their mastery of emotional depth and raw energy. While this collection primarily focuses on studio recordings, it captures the essence of their electrifying live performances.
On Air rare bbc recordings
This album, featuring rare BBC recordings, offers a glimpse into the band's live dynamism. Stripped down to their core, Chicken Shack's performances are raw, spontaneous, and brimming with passion. The absence of studio polish allows their individual talents to shine through, particularly Webb's improvisational skills and Perfect's emotive delivery. This album serves as a valuable document of their live sound, capturing the energy and excitement of their concerts.
Chicken Shack's Legacy
Despite facing lineup changes and the departure of Christine Perfect (who later joined Fleetwood Mac as Christine McVie), Chicken Shack's influence on the British blues scene remains undeniable. Their dedication to the blues, combined with their willingness to experiment with different sounds, resulted in a unique musical identity. These two albums, "The Collection with Stan Webb" and "On Air rare bbc recordings," provide a testament to their enduring legacy, capturing the spirit of a band that pushed the boundaries of blues-rock and left an indelible mark on music history.
Stan Webb, a name synonymous with British blues-rock, is an iconic figure whose musical journey spans over five decades. Born in London in 1946, Webb's passion for the blues ignited at a young age, fueling a career that would see him become one of the genre's most respected guitarists and vocalists.
Webb's rise to prominence began in the late 1960s as the frontman and lead guitarist of Chicken Shack. Alongside Christine Perfect (later known as Christine McVie), the band quickly gained recognition for their raw, emotive sound and Webb's electrifying guitar solos. Their hit single "I'd Rather Go Blind" became a blues-rock anthem, solidifying their place in music history.
Despite lineup changes and the departure of Perfect, Webb remained the driving force behind Chicken Shack, guiding the band through various iterations and musical explorations. His distinctive guitar style, characterized by a blend of soulful melodies and powerful riffs, continued to captivate audiences.
Beyond Chicken Shack, Webb embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums that further showcased his musical versatility. His solo work delved deeper into the blues, exploring various styles and influences. He also collaborated with other notable musicians, cementing his reputation as a sought-after collaborator and a respected figure in the blues community.
Webb's dedication to the blues remained unwavering throughout his career. He toured extensively, both as a solo artist and with Chicken Shack, sharing his passion with audiences around the world. His live performances were legendary, characterized by his raw energy, soulful vocals, and mesmerizing guitar solos.
Even as the music landscape shifted and evolved, Webb's commitment to the blues remained steadfast. He continued to record and perform, inspiring new generations of musicians and ensuring the blues' legacy lived on.
Stan Webb's impact on the blues-rock genre is immeasurable. His soulful voice, electrifying guitar playing, and unwavering dedication to the blues have earned him a place among the greats. His music continues to resonate with listeners, a testament to his enduring legacy as a true bluesman.
Christine Perfect, later known as Christine McVie, is a musical icon whose career has spanned diverse genres and eras. Born in 1943 in Birmingham, England, her musical journey began in the British blues scene of the 1960s, where her soulful vocals and keyboard skills quickly gained recognition.
Perfect's initial foray into the music world was with Chicken Shack , where she served as a keyboardist and vocalist. Her talent shone through, particularly on their hit "I'd Rather Go Blind," which showcased her powerful vocals and emotional depth.
However, her career truly blossomed when she joined Fleetwood Mac in 1970, initially as a session musician and later as a full-fledged member. Her songwriting and vocal talents became integral to the band's success, contributing hits like "Don't Stop," "You Make Loving Fun," and "Little Lies."
McVie's songwriting often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating with audiences worldwide. Her melodic piano lines and warm, expressive vocals became synonymous with Fleetwood Mac's sound, contributing to their massive commercial success throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
After a brief hiatus from Fleetwood Mac in the 1990s, McVie returned to the band in 2014, much to the delight of fans. Her presence revitalized the group, and she continued to contribute her songwriting and vocal talents to their later albums and tours.
Throughout her career, McVie has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Her impact on the music industry is undeniable, and her songs continue to inspire and resonate with listeners worldwide.
Christine McVie's legacy as a musician is one of versatility, talent, and enduring appeal. Her journey from blues pioneer to pop icon is a testament to her musical prowess and her ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Released in 1988, "The Collection with Stan Webb" is a compilation album that encapsulates the essence of Chicken Shack's blues-rock sound. Spanning the band's peak years, this collection serves as a time capsule, transporting listeners back to a vibrant era of musical exploration.
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The "On Air - Rare BBC Recordings" album features twelve tracks recorded between 1968 and 1970. The album showcases the band's tight musicianship and the powerful vocals of lead singer Christine Perfect (later known as Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac).
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