By DJ Monk

Artwork for Blues by Rory GallagherIn what would have been the 50th year of Rory Gallagher’s recording career, UMC will release a new compilation, entitled ‘Blues’, on 31 May.

Taken from the vaults of the Gallagher estate’s tape archive, the collection of rare and unreleased recordings features Rory playing his favourite blues material and inclues never heard before tracks, special guest sessions with legendary blues artists such as Muddy Waters and Albert King and lost radio sessions.

‘Blues’ will come in a variety of formats, including a 15 track C /doubleLP version, a limited-edition blue vinyl double LP and a deluxe 36 track three CD version. The latter version will comprise 90 per cent unreleased material and features performances with musical legends such as Muddy Waters, Albert King, Jack Bruce, Lonnie Donegan and Chris Barber. It will also come with an extensive booklet comprising previously unseen pictures if Rory, plus a new essay by award-winning blues/rock writer Jas Obrecht.