Little Feat – “Waiting for Columbus.” Although it is technically not a blues album, it features some breathtaking slide work from the late Lowell George. His sustain, tone and clarity are incredible.

Allman Brothers – “Beginnings.” This is a compilation of their first 2 albums. They were masters even at this early phase of their careers. The passion and intensity of their playing was already apparent.

Roy Buchanan – “Live Stock.” I feel Roy Buchanan is criminally unappreciated. He was a genius. His playing continues to inspire me 30 years later.

Albert King -”Born Under a Bad Sign.” This album is a must for anyone learning to play the blues. He was The Man!

Otis Rush – “Classic Cobra Recordings.” Otis Rush is my favorite overall blues guitarist. He is not the fastest or the flashiest, but he wrings every ounce of emotion possible out of each note he plays. His vibrato is beautiful, almost mournful sounding.

Taj Mahal – “The Natch’l Blues.” This is a brilliant album from beginning to end. Jesse Ed Davis plays great electric style and Taj Mahal shines on the resonator. For some reason this album does not receive much attention. You should check this out.

Ronnie Earl & the Broadcasters – “Blues Guitar Virtuoso Live in Europe.” Ronnie Earl is my second favorite blues player, right behind Otis Rush. His playing is impassioned, with killer tone and vibrato. He is very understated, more interested in supporting the song than overplaying to grab the spotlight. (But make no mistake, he can fly up and down the neck like lightning!) A master of modern blues.

Earl Hooker “Simply the Best.” Earl Hooker, John Lee Hooker’s cousin, played with Muddy Waters and others in a support role. His slide playing is some of the best on record. He plays very clean and in standard tuning. His intonation is flawless. He passed away at a young age and has not gotten the acclaim he deserves.

Thanks…Brian Diller

For Rolling Stones albums featuring stellar slide work, I would also include Brian Jones’ simple but emotive performances on Beggars Banquet (No Expectations, Salt of the Earth, Jigsaw Puzzle, Parachute Woman).

I would also recommend:

Mississippi Fred MacDowell – Steakbone Slide Guitar
Charlie Patton – any of the many collected works albums
Son House – The Legendary Son House: Father of the Folk Blues

Claptons first solo album with Bottle of Red Wine on it.
Mick Taylor and the Stones – Exile on Main Street
Ronnie Earl – Language of the Soul
John Mayall and the Blues Breakers 1967 – A Hard Road-with Peter Green
Freddie King -Just Pickin
Michael Bloomfield -Blues, Gospel and Ragtime Guitar Instrumentals
Paul Butterfield Blues Band ( Michael Bloomfield)
Elmore James – Dust my Broom
Johhny Winter – Second Winter
Ry Cooder- Into the Purple Valley

Best regards

Paul

Mike