About this album
Where they were
Released in 1970, 'Hot Tuna' was the debut album for the folk-blues duo formed by Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, both of whom were members of the Jefferson Airplane. At this point in their career, they sought to explore a more roots-oriented sound compared to their psychedelic rock background, marking the beginning of Hot Tuna as a standalone project.
Why it matters
'Hot Tuna' is significant for its raw acoustic style that helped define the blues revival movement of the early '70s. The album gained critical acclaim, establishing the duo's reputation in the American music scene and influencing countless artists in the blues and jam band genres.
Essential tracks
- "Hesitation Blues" — The opening track showcases Kaukonen's virtuosic fingerpicking and sets a spiritual tone for the album. Its blend of humor and melancholy encapsulates the essence of traditional blues.
- "Death Don't Have No Mercy" — This track delivers an intense emotional experience through its haunting lyrics and powerful guitar solos, highlighting the band's ability to convey depth in blues music.
- "Come Back Baby" — 'Come Back Baby' exemplifies classic call-and-response blues dynamics while featuring impressive vocal harmonies that reflect the duo's musical synergy.
Release Date
January 1, 1970
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Hesitation Blues 5:09
- 2 How Long Blues 3:59
- 3 Uncle Sam Blues 4:57
- 4 Don't You Leave Me Here 3:03
- 5 Death Don't Have No Mercy 6:16
- 6 Know You Rider 4:08
- 7 Oh Lord, Search My Heart 3:53
- 8 Winin' Boy Blues 5:33
- 9 New Song (For the Morning) 5:03
- 10 Mann's Fate 5:29
- 11 Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning 3:50
- 12 Candy Man 3:37
- 13 True Religion 5:24
- 14 Belly Shadow 3:02
- 15 Come Back Baby 6:07
