Stevie Ray Vaughan And Double Trouble - The Sky Is Crying (LP)

Stevie Ray Vaughan And Double Trouble - The Sky Is Crying: A Posthumous Blues Revelation

Released posthumously in 1991, "The Sky Is Crying" is a compelling collection of previously unreleased tracks by Stevie Ray Vaughan and his band Double Trouble, compiled from various studio sessions between 1984 and 1989. This album serves not only as a testament to Vaughan's prodigious talent and his profound impact on the blues genre but also as a poignant reminder of the brilliant career cut tragically short by his untimely death in 1990.

From the first notes of the title track, a haunting Elmore James cover, it's evident that this album is a special piece of blues history. Vaughan's mastery of the guitar is on full display, with his emotive playing capturing the raw pain and melancholy inherent in the blues. The slide guitar work on "The Sky Is Crying" is particularly noteworthy, showcasing Vaughan's deep respect for the blues tradition and his ability to inject his unique voice into it.

"Empty Arms," an upbeat track featuring Vaughan's crisp, rapid-fire guitar licks, contrasts sharply with the album's more somber moments. This track, originally intended for the "Soul to Soul" album, highlights the seamless interplay between Vaughan and Double Trouble, consisting of bassist Tommy Shannon and drummer Chris Layton. Their tight, dynamic rhythm section provides the perfect foundation for Vaughan's guitar virtuosity.

"Little Wing," a Jimi Hendrix cover, stands out as one of the album's highlights. Vaughan's interpretation of this classic is both a tribute to his biggest influence and a showcase of his own artistry. His ability to convey emotion through his instrument transforms the song into a deeply personal statement, filled with tenderness and a sense of longing.

"Wham," a high-energy instrumental, offers a different facet of Vaughan's musical personality. Its fast-paced, joyous groove exemplifies Vaughan's love for pure, unadulterated guitar-driven music. This track is a testament to his technical skill and his ability to convey a sense of fun and exuberance through his playing.

The inclusion of "Life by the Drop," an acoustic number, reveals a more introspective side of Vaughan. This song, a reflection on his struggles with substance abuse and his journey to sobriety, is delivered with a raw honesty that is both moving and inspiring. It serves as a fitting closure to the album, encapsulating the personal and musical growth Vaughan experienced throughout his career.

"The Sky Is Crying" is not just a collection of songs; it's a narrative of Stevie Ray Vaughan's musical journey. The album's production, overseen by Vaughan's brother Jimmie Vaughan, ensures that Stevie's guitar work remains the focal point, preserving the integrity and intensity of his live performances. The mix is clean and uncluttered, allowing Vaughan's guitar to sing with clarity and emotion.

In summary, "The Sky Is Crying" is a profound exploration of the blues through the lens of one of its greatest modern interpreters. The album encapsulates the breadth of Vaughan's talent, from his explosive guitar solos to his reflective acoustic work. It serves as both a tribute to Vaughan's legacy and a reminder of the potential he had for further musical innovation. "The Sky Is Crying" is not just an album for Stevie Ray Vaughan fans but a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the deep emotional resonance and technical prowess of blues music.