Taj Mahal is one of the most prominent figures in late 20th century blues. He is a self-taught singer-songwriter and film composer who plays the guitar, piano, banjo, and harmonica, among many other instruments. He often incorporates elements of world music into his work and has done much to reshape the definition and scope of blues music over the course of his almost 50-year career by fusing it with non-traditional forms, including sounds from the Caribbean, Africa, and the South Pacific
This album brought to you at mid-price was Taj’s third studio album. Released in 1969 as a double, “Giant Step” is electric, while “De Ole Folks at Home” is acoustic. It was not a massive commercial success, but certainly consolidated his reputation among fans of rootsy music, and also helped raise his profile still further amongst the musician community. Over half a century later, it has a freshness, charm and sprightliness that has worn particularly well.
TRACKS
CD1 - Giant Step
1. Ain't Gwine Whistle Dixie (Anymo')
2. Take A Giant Step (1969 Version)
3. Good Morning Little School Girl
4. You're Gonna Need Somebody On Your Bond
5. Six Days On The Road
6. Farther On Down The Road
7. Keep Your Hands Off Her
8. Bacon Fat
CD2 - De Ole Folks At Home
9. Linin' Track
10. Country Blues #1
11. Wild Ox Moan
12. Light Rain Blues
13. A Little Soulful Tune
14. Candy Man
15. Cluck Old Hen
16. Colored Aristocracy
17. Blind Boy Rag
18. Stagger Lee
19. Cajun Tune
20. Fishin' Blues
21. Annie's Lover