Booker T. and the M.G.’s – Melting Pot (1971)

One of the greatest instrumental bands of all time.

“Green Onions” already featured in an earlier post (here) and “Time is Tight” will have to get an airing in the near future.

But “Melting Pot” is right up there with the best of Booker T.’s output.

Much sampled over the years, everything about this record is perfect; the bass is unbelievably laid back, Booker T.’s organ stabs and then soothes (as it were) and Steve Cropper’s guitar is simply sublime. One of my all time favourite guitarists at the top of his form – almost Nile Rodgers-esque in places – there is no higher praise!

The studio version from the 1971 LP and then a wonderful live version of more recent vintage.