The Rolling Stones' 1976 album, 'Black and Blue,' often overshadowed by its tumultuous creation and the band's search for a new guitarist, is receiving a fresh look through its recently released super deluxe box set. This comprehensive collection, featuring bonus tracks and a meticulously remixed version by Steven Wilson, invites listeners to re-evaluate an album once dismissed but now recognized for its nuanced musicality and historical significance within the Stones' extensive catalog. It provides a unique window into a pivotal era for the iconic rock band, showcasing their experimental spirit and the journey that ultimately led to Ron Wood joining their ranks.
During the mid-1970s, following Mick Taylor's departure, The Rolling Stones embarked on a quest for a new lead guitarist, transforming the recording sessions for 'Black and Blue' into a series of auditions. Among the notable musicians who contributed was the legendary Jeff Beck. His contributions, particularly the unreleased 'Blues Jam' and an instrumental rendition of 'Freeway Jam,' stand out in the box set. Beck's innovative guitar work, characterized by its improvisational brilliance and unique sound manipulation, proved to be both a highlight and a point of divergence. While his talent was undeniable, his style was perhaps too singular for the collective identity of the Stones, leading to the band's decision not to recruit him permanently. This period underscores the band's openness to diverse musical influences, even as they sought to maintain their signature sound.
'Black and Blue' itself was met with mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some critics labeling the band as overly professional and mature. However, a re-examination reveals an album rich in musical exploration, blending rock, reggae, and balladry. Tracks like the soulful 'Fool to Cry' and the disco-inflected 'Hot Stuff' demonstrated the band's willingness to experiment with contemporary sounds, while 'Hand of Fate' and 'Crazy Mama' offered the raw energy expected from the Stones. The album's subdued cover art and less aggressive single choices further contributed to its initial misinterpretation, yet the underlying musical craftsmanship and thematic depth were always present, hinting at a band evolving beyond their earlier, more rebellious image.
Steven Wilson's recent remix of 'Black and Blue' plays a crucial role in this re-evaluation. Known for his subtle yet impactful touch, Wilson enhanced the original recordings without altering their essence. His work brought new clarity to the album's ballads, making elements like Billy Preston's piano and Keith Richards' backing vocals more prominent. While the disco and reggae tracks, intentionally claustrophobic in their original 70s production, were slightly broadened in their audio spectrum, the remix generally maintains the album's authentic feel. This careful approach highlights the album's sonic qualities, reinforcing the notion that 'Black and Blue' was, as some suggest, one of the best-sounding Stones records of its decade.
The box set also offers previously unreleased tracks such as 'I Love Ladies' and a cover of 'Shame, Shame, Shame,' which provide a glimpse into the band's creative process during this transitional phase. These tracks, though enjoyable, hint at musical directions that ultimately diverged from the final album's cohesive sound. The inclusion of live recordings from their 1976 Earls Court residency further solidifies Ron Wood's integral role. His chemistry with Richards, and his seamless integration into the band's live performances, demonstrated why he was the ideal choice to fill the void left by Taylor. Wood's ability to embody the existing material while contributing his own distinct charisma was evident, marking a new chapter for The Rolling Stones.
Ultimately, this deluxe reissue reframes 'Black and Blue' not merely as a placeholder between eras, but as a vital and underrated chapter in The Rolling Stones' history. It showcases their resilience, adaptability, and enduring commitment to musical innovation during a period of significant change. The re-release challenges previous perceptions, revealing an album whose songs deserve renewed appreciation and solidifying its place as a testament to the band's continuous evolution and their mastery of diverse musical forms.