Back to the Roots cover

Back to the Roots

John Mayall · 1971

134 min · 26 tracks · blues rock · electric blues · British blues

A raw and authentic exploration of blues rock, blending traditional roots with contemporary concerns.

Back to the Roots is an album by John Mayall, released in 1971. A raw and authentic exploration of blues rock, blending traditional roots with contemporary concerns. 'Back to the Roots' is significant for its blend of original material and reimagined works, showcasing Mayall's versatility in both songwriting and performance. The album received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of blues themes and solidified his status as a key player in the genre during a transformative time in music history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Back to the Roots sound like?

A raw and authentic exploration of blues rock, blending traditional roots with contemporary concerns. Rooted in blues rock and electric blues.

What makes Back to the Roots by John Mayall notable?

'Back to the Roots' is significant for its blend of original material and reimagined works, showcasing Mayall's versatility in both songwriting and performance. The album received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of blues themes and solidified his status as a key player in the genre during a transformative time in music history. By 1971, John Mayall was already an established figure in the British blues scene, having gained fame as the founder of the influential Bluesbreakers. 'Back to the Roots' came after his successful period in the late 1960s and marked a return to his musical origins, featuring a mix of new compositions and remixes of earlier tracks. This album reflects Mayall's desire to reconnect with his roots while navigating the evolving landscape of rock music.

How many songs are on Back to the Roots?

Back to the Roots has 26 tracks, running approximately 134 minutes.

Tracklist

26 tracks·134:41

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Prisons on the Road Standout 4:18
  • 2 My Children 5:10
  • 3 Accidental Suicide 6:17
  • 4 Groupie Girl 3:53
  • 5 Blue Fox 3:43
  • 6 Home Again 4:56
  • 7 Television Eye Standout 7:32
  • 8 Marriage Madness 3:36
  • 9 Looking at Tomorrow 6:57
  • 10 Accidental Suicide (remix) 6:24
  • 11 Force of Nature (remix) 5:34
  • 12 Boogie Albert (remix) 2:15
  • 13 Television Eye (remix) 6:08

Disc 2

  • 1 Dream With Me 5:21
  • 2 Full Speed Ahead 5:21
  • 3 Mr. Censor Man Standout 4:44
  • 4 Force of Nature 6:34
  • 5 Boogie Albert 2:15
  • 6 Goodbye December 5:24
  • 7 Unanswered Questions 4:42
  • 8 Devil’s Tricks 7:45
  • 9 Travelling 4:42
  • 10 Prisons on the Road (remix) 4:19
  • 11 Home Again (remix) 4:59
  • 12 Mr. Censor Man (remix) 4:44
  • 13 Looking at Tomorrow (remix) 6:56

Release Date

March 1, 1971

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

134 min 41 sec