Artist: Canned Heat Album: Living the Blues

Year: 1968
Duration: 1:26:37

A Critical Review of Canned Heat's Living the Blues: A Look at the Best Songs, Innovative Parts, and Overall Critics

Welcome, music lovers! Today, we'll take a dive into the bluesy world of Canned Heat and their album, Living the Blues. This iconic blues-rock album takes us back to the late '60s, where the counter-culture movement was in full swing, and blues music was at its peak. Canned Heat, a blues-rock band formed in 1965, led by Bob Hite, Alan Wilson, and Henry Vestine, was praised for their unique blend of delta blues, boogie, and rock n' roll. Living the Blues was their second double album that featured 20 songs, released in 1968, and has been hailed as one of their greatest creations. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the blues scene, let's take a deep dive into this classic album with a critical lens.

First off, before we start discussing the individual songs, we must acknowledge the innovative parts of this album. Living the Blues stands out for its experimentation with both acoustic and electric sets, incorporation of vocals and instrumentals, and bold use of sound effects. The album's opener, Pony Blues, for instance, creates an immersive experience. From the first strum of the acoustic guitar to the harmonica solos, this song takes the listener through the bluesy landscapes of the past. The sound quality is pristine, and the use of natural sound effects such as a coyote howling in the background only adds to the experience. Similarly, the album's electric pieces, such as Help Me and I'm Her Man, display the band's talent for riff-heavy rock tunes, which are both energetic and dynamic.

Now, onto the best songs of the album. The first standout track has to be Going Up The Country, which topped the charts in 1968. The song is so famous that it has become synonymous with the hippie generation and was even used in the opening sequence of the Woodstock documentary in 1970. It is a definitive example of Canned Heat's boogie style and Alan Wilson's talent for slide guitar. The song's iconic flute riff also adds to its charm. Another track that stands out is On The Road Again, which features Henry Vestine's deliciously distorted guitar tone. The song is a perfect blend of stripped-down, laid-back boogie with a dash of blues, making it an essential part of the album.

While there are some strong tracks on Living the Blues, there are also some weak spots. Bear Wires and Walkin' By Myself are both tracks that feel like filler and add nothing to the album's overall sound. They tread common blues themes without bringing anything fresh to the table, making them forgettable compared to their more prominent counterparts.

In conclusion, Living the Blues is a classic album that captures the essence of the blues-rock genre. Although there are a few weak spots here and there, the album's innovative aspects, outstanding tracks, and distinct sound make it a worthy inclusion in any music enthusiast's collection. If you're a newcomer to the blues-rock scene, this album is the perfect starting point for you. And even for long-term fans, Living the Blues remains a timeless work of art and a significant contribution to the genre. So, turn up your speakers, let the blues flow through your veins, and enjoy the ride that is Canned Heat's Living the Blues.