Bluesville Records and Craft Recordings celebrate Black History Month by announcing two significant reissues from legendary blues icons John Lee Hooker and Lightnin’ Hopkins. Arriving April 3, these albums offer an intimate look at the acoustic and personal sides of two artists typically celebrated for their electric contributions. John Lee Hooker is represented by his 1960 LP ‘That’s My Story’ while the 1961 solo masterpiece ‘Blues in My Bottle’ captures the raw essence of Lightnin’ Hopkins. These pressings deliver a staggering level of sonic detail and historical weight.
The John Lee Hooker set finds the King of the Boogie joined by a seasoned jazz rhythm section featuring bassist Sam Jones and drummer Louis Hayes. This 11 track collection includes the swinging “I Need Some Money” alongside deep originals like “Democrat Man” and the title track “That’s My Story.” Orrin Keepnews produced these sessions to highlight the expressive baritone and brooding delivery that influenced generations of rock and blues musicians. The recording provides a compelling window into Hooker’s early 1960s creative peak.
Lightnin’ Hopkins appears alone with his acoustic guitar on ‘Blues in My Bottle’ to deliver 11 tracks of conversational storytelling and poetic blues. Produced by Mack McCormick and Kenneth S. Goldstein, the album features traditional standards like “Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee” and vivid originals such as “DC-7” and “Death Bells.” This solo setting allows his unique guitar technique and unfiltered voice to command the full attention of the listener. It remains one of the most powerful statements in the extensive discography of the Texas blues legend.
Both titles feature meticulous AAA mastering from the original master tapes by engineer Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab. These 180 gram vinyl records come housed in tip-on jackets with new obi strips containing notes by Scott Billington. The manufacturing process at Quality Record Pressings ensures an audiophile grade experience for longtime collectors and new listeners alike. These releases continue the Bluesville mission of connecting foundational American music to the modern era through high quality physical media.