ROY BUCHANAN - Second Album 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Roy Buchanan’s Second Album: Where Blues Meets Virtuosity, Crafted Through Strings and Soul

In the pantheon of guitar heroes, Roy Buchanan stands alone, a bluesman rooted in tradition yet eternally pushing the envelope. His Second Album, released in 1973, is a raw, electrifying showcase of his singular talent, capturing the essence of a man grappling with his inner turmoil and channeling it through six strings.

Buchanan's journey to this point was anything but easy. A child prodigy, he was playing professionally by his teens, but his volatile personality and struggles with addiction often eclipsed his musical brilliance. He'd already earned a reputation in the late 60s with his scorching guitar work on the Washington, D.C. blues scene, but his self-titled debut album in 1972 failed to capture the full intensity of his live performances.

Second Album aimed to rectify that. Recorded at the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, with the production team of Jerry Wexler and Tom Dowd at the helm, the album sought to bottle the lightning of Buchanan's live shows. The result is a raw, unfiltered portrait of a guitarist at the height of his powers.

From the opening notes of "Sweet Dreams," Buchanan's Telecaster sings with a mournful intensity. His playing is a maelstrom of blues, rock, and country influences, blending lightning-fast runs with achingly beautiful bends. It's a sound that's both technically awe-inspiring and emotionally devastating, and this track has become a cornerstone of his legacy.

The album showcases Buchanan's versatility, from the driving blues-rock of "I'm a Ram" to the haunting balladry of "The Messiah Will Come Again." The latter, a showcase for Buchanan's emotive playing and use of volume swells, has become a fan favorite and a demonstration of his ability to wring every ounce of feeling from his instrument.

Second Album wasn't without its controversies. Some critics felt that the production was too polished, that it stripped Buchanan's playing of its raw edge. Others took issue with the album's eclectic mix of genres, feeling that it lacked focus. But for those who connected with Buchanan's music, Second Album was a revelation, a demonstration of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and create something truly beautiful. The album's blend of blues, rock, and even hints of jazz, along with Buchanan's virtuosic playing and raw emotion, resonated with listeners and solidified his reputation as a guitar legend.

In the end, Roy Buchanan's Second Album is a snapshot of a singular talent at a pivotal moment in his career. It's an album that's both exhilarating and heartbreaking, a reminder that the greatest music often springs from the deepest pain. Tracks like "Sweet Dreams" and "The Messiah Will Come Again" continue to resonate with listeners, showcasing Buchanan's ability to transcend genre and touch the soul with his guitar.

Roy Buchanan's Second Album stands as a testament to his raw talent and emotional depth. Each track on this album offers a unique glimpse into the mind and soul of a guitar virtuoso who wasn't afraid to push boundaries.

Side One

1. Filthy Teddy: The album kicks off with a gritty, blues-rock number that showcases Buchanan's fiery guitar work. The song's raw energy and driving rhythm perfectly capture the essence of a late-night jam session.

2. After Hours: This instrumental track is a masterclass in guitar playing. Buchanan's Telecaster sings with a mournful, almost human voice, as he weaves intricate melodies and bends notes with a passion that's both exhilarating and heartbreaking.

3. Five String Blues: A tribute to the traditional blues sound, this track features Buchanan's signature slide guitar playing. His raw, emotive vocals add an extra layer of depth to the song's melancholic atmosphere.

4. Thank You Lord: A gospel-infused blues number that showcases Buchanan's spiritual side. His heartfelt vocals and soaring guitar solos create a sense of uplifting joy and gratitude.

Side Two

1. Treat Her Right: A classic blues shuffle with a catchy melody and infectious groove. Buchanan's playful vocals and stinging guitar licks make this track an instant crowd-pleaser.

2. I Won't Tell You Lies: A heartfelt ballad that showcases Buchanan's vulnerability. His soulful vocals and delicate guitar playing create an atmosphere of intimacy and honesty.

3. Tribute to Elmore James: A blistering instrumental tribute to one of Buchanan's biggest influences. His slide guitar work is nothing short of virtuosic, as he pays homage to the blues legend with passion and reverence.

4. She Once Lived Here: The album closes with a haunting ballad that showcases Buchanan's ability to convey deep emotion through his guitar. His delicate playing and use of space create a sense of longing and loss that lingers long after the song ends.

Roy Buchanan's Second Album is a masterpiece of blues and rock music. Each track offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of a true guitar legend. From the raw energy of "Filthy Teddy" to the haunting beauty of "She Once Lived Here," this album is a journey through a range of emotions and musical styles, all anchored by Buchanan's unparalleled guitar playing and soulful vocals.