The legendary blues rock guitarist Jimmie Vaughan sees his life’s work documented here with a five-disc box set that explores his humble beginnings in the ’60s and goes all the way up to his most recent work. The box set even comes with never before seen photos and writings included in the very thick book in the package.
Disc one starts with several tunes from The Fabulous Thunderbirds, a band he founded in 1974, where tracks like “Please Don’t Lie To Me” and “Why Get Up” showcase the raw and rhythmic retro blues rock. By disc towo, we’re treated to powerful duets with heavy hitters like Albert Collins (“Cold Cold Feeling”), Jimmy Rodgers (“You’re Sweet”), and Lou Ann Barton (“Sugar Coated Love”).
Disc three is stacked full of excellent tracks including the highly melodic collaboration with Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Dr. John and Art Neville on “Six Strings Down,” while the frisky and dance floor ready “He’s Got A Key” welcomes Bo Diddley into the bouncy climate.
Further still, “Dirty Girl” displays Vaughan’s inimitable guitar playing alongside the meticulous rhythm section, and on “Let The Good Times Roll,” he’s in the company of Susan Tedeschi for the soulful, festive rocker. There are a few tracks from Vaughan’s early band, Storm, on the last disc, as well as the vocally soaring “Shake Hands” and the closing track, “Baby, Please Come Home,” which brings bright brass to the timeless blues.
The deluxe box set even adds a first issue vinyl copy of Vaughan’s 2001 album Do You Get The Blues?, a pair of 7” singles and an autographed replica of the cover to the five discs, making it essential for the diehard fan.
Now in his seventies, Vaughan is still at it and as relevant as ever. The aptly titled The Jimmie Vaughan Story shows us where it all started, how it progressed, and where it is today, and it captures the true spirit and talent of the artist as well as any box set you’re going to find out there.
