Albert Collins – The Complete Imperial Recordings

I’ve always had a soft spot for Albert Collins, and it goes without saying that his guitar playing is mesmerizing.

Now, I’m going to get in trouble for saying this, but I generally feel that Alligator Records is where good talent goes to become an imitation of itself. And while I won’t go so far as to say that about Mr. Collins, I will say that Albert Collins the Alligator Entertainer is not my favorite version of Albert Collins.

Which is why this collection is such a delightful revelation, collecting as it does so much of his earlier work, and showcasing as it does just how FUNKY he was.

It’s fine to listen to his Alligator Records. Go right ahead. Just know that you won’t any longer, after you hear these.