Ultrasonic Studios Long Island October 15th 1974

Recorded live at Ultrasonic Studios in Hempstead, New York, on October 15, 1974, this session captures Taj Mahal at a creative crossroads. Having already established himself as a blues purist who refused to be confined by the genre, this set showcases his unique 'World Blues' fusion. The tracklist is a definitive cross-section of his mid-70s repertoire, featuring his signature blend of country blues, folk, and his pioneering interest in reggae (notably the Slickers cover 'Johnny Too Bad'). The recording was originally intended for radio broadcast on WLIR-FM, which explains the high fidelity and the relaxed, conversational energy of the performance. Unlike his more polished studio albums of the era, this session highlights the improvisational chemistry of his band, particularly on the ten-minute 'Why Did You Have To Desert Me.' It stands as a vital historical document of Taj Mahal's ability to reclaim instruments like the banjo for the blues while simultaneously looking forward to the global sounds that would define his later career.