Excellent copy. A few very light surface marks that don't affect play. Reissue from unknown year.

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https://www.discogs.com/release/2042740-John-Baldry-It-Aint-Easy

John Baldry’s 1971 album, “It Ain’t Easy”, is a timeless classic that showcases the raw talent and soulful vocals of one of the most underrated artists of his time. With a blend of blues, rock, and folk, Baldry’s unique sound and powerful lyrics make this record a must-listen for any music lover.

The album’s title track, “It Ain’t Easy”, sets the tone for the entire record with its hauntingly beautiful melody and melancholic lyrics. Baldry’s deep, gravelly voice draws the listener in and captures their attention from the very first note. The song speaks of the struggles and hardships of life, but also offers a glimmer of hope with the chorus, “It ain’t easy, but it’s worth it in the end”.

Baldry’s cover of the classic blues song, “Morning, Morning”, is a standout track on the album. His soulful rendition of the song, originally written by Tim Hardin, showcases his impressive vocal range and ability to infuse emotion into every word. The addition of a bluesy harmonica solo adds an extra layer of depth to the already powerful song.

One of the most notable tracks on the album is “Don’t Try to Lay No Boogie Woogie on the King of Rock and Roll”. This upbeat, foot-tapping song is a testament to Baldry’s versatility as an artist. With its catchy chorus and lively instrumentation, it’s hard not to sing along and dance along to this track. The song also serves as a tribute to the late Elvis Presley, who Baldry considered a friend and mentor.

Another standout track on the album is “You Can’t Judge a Book by the Cover”. This bluesy number, originally written by Willie Dixon, showcases Baldry’s ability to take a classic song and make it his own. With his soulful vocals and the addition of a horn section, Baldry’s version of this song is a true masterpiece.

The album also includes a cover of Bob Dylan’s “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry”, which showcases Baldry’s folk influences. His stripped-down, acoustic version of the song allows his vocals to shine and highlights the poetic lyrics of Dylan.

“It Ain’t Easy” also features collaborations with other notable artists such as Elton John, who plays piano on the track “Come and Get Your Love”, and Rod Stewart, who provides backing vocals on “Miss You”. These collaborations add an extra layer of depth and diversity to the album, showcasing Baldry’s ability to work with other talented musicians.

Unfortunately, “It Ain’t Easy” did not receive the recognition it deserved upon its release. However, over the years, it has gained a cult following and has been recognized as one of Baldry’s best works. The album’s timeless sound and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today, making it a true testament to Baldry’s talent and musical legacy.

In conclusion, John Baldry’s “It Ain’t Easy” is a record that should not be overlooked. From start to finish, it takes the listener on a journey through different genres and emotions, showcasing Baldry’s versatility and raw talent. It is a record that truly stands the test of time and deserves a place in any music lover’s collection.