The Rolling Stones have announced an expanded reissue of their 1976 album, Black and Blue. This comprehensive collection will be available to fans starting November 14. The release aims to offer a deeper look into the album's creation and the band's activities during that period.
The reissue comes in two main formats: a 5-LP vinyl box set and a 4-CD box set. Both versions include a Blu-ray disc, a hardback book, and a replica tour poster. This release provides a significant amount of previously unreleased material, offering new insights for enthusiasts and collectors.
Key Takeaways
- The Rolling Stones' 1976 album, Black and Blue, will be reissued on November 14.
- The reissue includes both 5-LP vinyl and 4-CD box sets.
- Both sets feature a Blu-ray disc, hardback book, and replica tour poster.
- Previously unreleased studio sessions with Jeff Beck, Harvey Mandel, and Billy Preston are included.
- The Blu-ray features a 1976 Paris concert and Dolby Atmos mixes of the studio album and an Earls Court concert.
Details of the Expanded Reissue
The core of the new collection is a remastered version of the original Black and Blue album. This ensures high-quality audio for the classic tracks. Beyond the original album, the sets feature unreleased studio sessions. These sessions highlight collaborations with notable musicians such as Jeff Beck, Harvey Mandel, and Billy Preston. Their contributions provide a unique glimpse into the band's creative process during that era.
The Blu-ray disc is a significant component of both box sets. It contains a television broadcast of the band's 1976 performance at Les Abattoirs in Paris. This concert footage offers a visual record of the Rolling Stones in their prime. Additionally, the Blu-ray includes Dolby Atmos surround sound mixes. These mixes apply to both the studio album and the band's 1976 Earls Court concert, enhancing the listening experience.
Release Highlights
- Release Date: November 14
- Formats: 5-LP Vinyl Box Set, 4-CD Box Set
- Included: Remastered original album, unreleased studio sessions, Blu-ray disc, hardback book, replica tour poster.
- Blu-ray Content: 1976 Paris concert broadcast, Dolby Atmos mixes of studio album and Earls Court concert.
Track Listing Overview
The super deluxe 4CD + Blu-Ray set includes an extensive track list. Disc 1 features the Steven Wilson Remix 2025 of the original album. This remix offers a fresh perspective on songs like "Hot Stuff," "Hand Of Fate," and "Fool To Cry."
Disc 2, titled "Outtakes and Jams," provides rare recordings. These include "I Love Ladies," the single "Shame, Shame, Shame," and various jam sessions. These jams feature guest musicians like Harvey Mandel and Jeff Beck, showcasing their improvisational skills with the band.
Discs 3 and 4 capture the band's live energy. They present the 1976 Earls Court concert, featuring classics such as "Honky Tonk Women," "Midnight Rambler," and "Brown Sugar." This live recording allows fans to experience the raw power of a Rolling Stones performance from that period.
Historical Context: Black and Blue (1976)
Black and Blue was a significant album for The Rolling Stones. It was their first studio album released after the departure of guitarist Mick Taylor. During its recording, the band auditioned several guitarists, including Harvey Mandel, Wayne Perkins, and Ronnie Wood, who eventually joined as a full member. This period of transition influenced the album's diverse sound, incorporating elements of funk, reggae, and jazz alongside their signature rock and blues.
The album is often seen as a reflection of the band's experimental phase in the mid-1970s. It features songs like the reggae-infused "Cherry Oh Baby" and the jazzy "Melody," which was a duet with Billy Preston. While some critics found the album less cohesive than previous works, it contained several memorable tracks and demonstrated the band's willingness to explore new musical directions.
The Rolling Stones' Future Plans
Currently, The Rolling Stones do not have any scheduled concerts. However, recent statements suggest this could change. Marlon Richards, son of Keith Richards, indicated potential touring plans in a May interview with Record Collector.
"I think they're planning a tour of Europe," Marlon Richards stated, as reported by NME. This suggests the band may return to live performances in the near future.
Beyond touring, there is also news regarding new music. Both Marlon Richards and Andrew Watt, who produced the band's recent album Hackney Diamonds, have mentioned that the band is working on new material. The exact form of this new music remains undisclosed, maintaining an air of mystery around their creative process.
Recent Developments
- Concerts: No current scheduled dates.
- Touring Plans: Possible European tour in discussion, according to Keith Richards' son.
- New Music: Actively working on new material, confirmed by Marlon Richards and producer Andrew Watt.
Producer Andrew Watt's Comments
Andrew Watt, a key figure in the band's recent studio efforts, spoke about working with The Rolling Stones. He compared the experience to working with a secretive entity, emphasizing the band's private nature regarding new projects.
Watt recently told Rolling Stone, "I've said it before, but it's like working for Batman. When the tongue is up in the air, you just go...I can say we did some recording together, but that's all I can say." This quote highlights the discretion surrounding their new music projects.
This secrecy is typical for the band, adding to the anticipation for any future announcements. Fans are eager to hear what new sounds might emerge from these sessions, especially following the success of Hackney Diamonds, their first album of new material in 18 years.
The Legacy of Black and Blue
Black and Blue holds a distinct place in The Rolling Stones' discography. It showcased their adaptability and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. Released in 1976, it followed the departure of Mick Taylor and preceded the full integration of Ronnie Wood.
The album is remembered for its diverse tracks, from the energetic "Hot Stuff" to the soulful ballad "Fool to Cry." The inclusion of guest musicians like Billy Preston significantly influenced the album's sound, adding layers of funk and R&B. While it received mixed reviews upon its initial release, its significance in the band's evolution is undeniable.
The reissue provides an opportunity to re-evaluate Black and Blue with the added context of unreleased material and enhanced audio. It allows both long-time fans and new listeners to appreciate the album's unique qualities and its role in shaping the band's trajectory through the 1970s.
Evolution of The Rolling Stones' Sound
The Rolling Stones have continuously evolved their sound over decades. Albums like Black and Blue represent periods of significant change and experimentation. From their early blues and R&B roots to their ventures into psychedelic rock, country, and disco, the band has consistently pushed boundaries.
Their ability to incorporate new influences while maintaining their core identity is a hallmark of their enduring career. The upcoming reissue of Black and Blue serves as a testament to this musical journey, offering a detailed look at a pivotal moment in their history.
The band's recent activities, including Hackney Diamonds and the hints of new music, demonstrate their ongoing commitment to creating and performing. This longevity is a key factor in their status as one of the most influential rock bands of all time. The expanded reissue provides a bridge between their rich past and their active present.
The Black and Blue box set is now available for preordering. This allows fans to secure their copy before the official release date on November 14. The comprehensive nature of the collection, with its rare tracks and historical content, makes it a valuable addition for any Rolling Stones enthusiast.