Rolling Stones Black and Blue Reissue Reveals Epic Guitarist Audition Jams

A new super deluxe reissue of the Rolling Stones’ 1976 album “Black and Blue” has been released. It features never-before-heard jam sessions with guitar legends Jeff Beck and Harvey Mandel. The box set provides a deep look into the band’s search for a new guitarist after Mick Taylor’s departure.

This expanded edition offers a 360-degree view of a crucial turning point for the iconic rock band. It includes rare tracks and live concert recordings from the era, giving fans a fresh perspective on an often-overlooked album.

The Great Guitarist Audition Unpacked

The album’s legacy is deeply tied to its role as an extended audition. The Stones recorded with several top guitarists to find Mick Taylor’s replacement. According to Reuters, these sessions included Canned Heat’s Harvey Mandel, session player Wayne Perkins, and Faces guitarist Ron Wood.

Jeff Beck’s three jam sessions are particularly revealing. He played blues standards and even his own unreleased jazz fusion piece, “Freeway Jam.” His virtuosic style was perhaps too inventive for the band’s needs at the time.

Ultimately, Ron Wood emerged as the victor. His chemistry with Keith Richards and his road-tested experience with the Faces made him the ideal fit. The new box set includes live recordings that showcase Wood seamlessly integrating into the band during their 1976 Earls Court residency.

Reassessing a Musical Turning Point

Beyond the audition narrative, the reissue allows for a reassessment of the album’s musical merit. Steven Wilson’s new mix lets the instrumentation breathe without altering the original songs’ core sound. The ballads like “Fool to Cry” and “Memory Motel” sparkle with newfound clarity.

The album blended rockers, soulful ballads, and even reggae. Tracks like “Hand of Fate” and “Crazy Mama” demonstrated the band could still deliver powerful rock. Their cover of “Cherry Oh Baby” stands as one of the more convincing reggae efforts by a British rock band in that decade.

The bonus tracks, including “I Love Ladies” and “Shame, Shame, Shame,” point toward the disco and funk influences the band would explore more fully on later albums like “Emotional Rescue.” They complete the picture of a band in transition, confidently experimenting with new sounds.

This expanded “Black and Blue” reissue successfully reframes the album from a simple audition tape to a document of a resilient band navigating a pivotal moment. It proves the Rolling Stones were far from down and out, but actively evolving their sound for a new chapter.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the ‘Black and Blue’ reissue?

The new box set is an expanded version of the Rolling Stones’ 1976 album. It includes the original album remastered, plus previously unreleased jam sessions and live recordings from the period.

Who did the Rolling Stones audition for guitarist?

The band held informal auditions by recording with several guitarists. These included Jeff Beck, Harvey Mandel, and Wayne Perkins, before Ron Wood officially joined the band.

Why is ‘Black and Blue’ considered a unique Stones album?

It is often seen as a transitional record made while the band was finding a new permanent member. Its blend of rock, ballads, and reggae also sets it apart in their catalog.

What are the highlights of the new box set?

Highlights include the newly released jam sessions with Jeff Beck and the crisply remastered live performances from 1976. These elements provide a fuller story of the album’s creation.

How does the reissue change the view of this album?

It shifts the focus from the “audition” narrative to the strength and diversity of the music itself. The new mix and bonus material reveal a band confidently exploring new directions.