Albert Lee Albums (10)
'Live at the New Morning'
Release Date 11/26/2007
Tracks 22
Label Heroic
See Album Tracklist and Review
'In Between the Cracks'
Release Date 2/26/2007
Tracks 14
Label Heroic
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
If Albert Lee fans have grown used to his commitment to a handful of good songs and extraordinary guitar work, then Road Runner will not disappoint. Lee and his band kick off with the title track, an easy-rolling rocker with a little vocal help from Buddy Miller. Lee follows with a solid set list that includes selections from John Hiatt, Leo Kottke, and Richard Thompson. These songs all receive tasteful renditions, but the real fun comes with uptempo fare like Billy Burnette and Tony Colton's "Didn't Start Livin'," and Delbert McClinton/Benmont Tench/Gary Nicholson's "Livin' It Down." It doesn't hurt that Lee has enlisted the talents of drummer Don Heffington, bassist Bob Glaub, and steel guitarist Buddy Emmons on Road Runner. Guest appearances by co-producer Steve Fishell on "Didn't Start Livin' and "Rock of Your Love," along with guitarist Mark S. Cohen on the latter, also add something extra to these arrangements. One of the coolest exchanges on the album is between Lee and Emmons' guitar and steel for the last minute and a half on "Working on Love." Guitar freaks, of course, will enjoy the album, but so will country music fans looking for tuneful songs that fall somewhere between the rough edges of alternative country and the glitter of Nashville. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Albert Lee has garnered such a good command of American country music it will probably surprise a few listeners that he was born in England. On Heartbreak Hill, he delves into a number of songs associated with Gram Parsons, Rodney Crowell, and former bandmate Emmylou Harris. Lee has a well-deserved rep for his guitar skills, so it makes good sense that he's joined by a top-notch band that includes veteran steel player Buddy Emmons. The band opens strong with the jaunty title cut before sliding into Paul Kennerley's heartbreaking "Heaven Only Knows." Lee's joined on vocals by Patty Loveless on the first cut and Buddy Miller on the latter, adding extra pizzazz to the choruses. The arrangements -- steel, piano, drums, and bass -- achieve a good blend behind the vocals, while Lee's multiple guitar parts add subtle touches in unexpected places. Other enjoyable cuts include Townes Van Zandt's "If I Needed You," Kennerley's "Born to Run," and -- for guitar fans -- an instrumental take on Parsons' "Luxury Liner." Heartbreak Hill never overwhelms the listener with its originality, at least partially because it is so grounded in music associated with other people. But Lee and his bandmates have crafted a solid and likable album that lovingly recalls the best of '70s and '80s country. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
One of the guitar world's best-kept secrets, the former Everly Brothers and Emmylou Harris sideman explores his roots in this instrumental jewel. Albert Lee co-produced this album. Included is a very clean sound, very good cover of "Arkansas Traveler" featuring Lee on guitar, mandolin and piano; Jim Cox, Greg Humphrey, Sterling Biff Ball, and Chad Wackerman. ~ Jeff Tamarkin & Chip Renner, All Music Guide
'In Full Flight: Live at Montreux'
Release Date 10/18/1994
Tracks 13
Label Round Tower
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
The master musician plays unworldly guitar on this acoustic/electric country-, rock-, and traditional-oriented masterpiece. Exquisitely recorded. ~ Jeff Tamarkin, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Disappointing rock effort still features brilliant guitar. ~ Jeff Tamarkin, All Music Guide
