Roy Buchanan's
Second Album (1974) was recorded less than six months after completing his self-titled major-label debut,
Roy Buchanan (1972), and sported a slightly amended version of the Snakestretchers -- featuring Ned Davis (drums), Dick Heintze (keyboards), Teddy Irwin (rhythm guitar), Chuck Tilley (vocals/rhythm guitar), and, replacing Pete Van Allen, Don Payne (bass). The vibe is much in keeping with the previous effort, albeit decidedly more blues-based. Likewise, the arguably misplaced countrified cuts have been dispensed with, as the musicians concentrate more specifically on traditional blues and original compositions. Once again, the choice of covers is not only impeccable, but has been significantly personalized by the guitarist's unique sensibilities and inimitable timbre. "Five String Blues" leads the pack, revealing the meticulous craftsmanship that
Buchanan places upon each intonation, as his precision is never obscured within the flurry of unleashed notes. While less technical than emotive,
Buchanan's gift for interpretation is nothing short of spellbinding, as the reading of
Erskine Hawkins' "After Hours" demonstrates. "Tribute to Elmore James" is an R&B-laden rocker with copious nods to
James' slide fretwork as well as
Buchanan's own well-placed emphasis. Yet another facet to this aggregate is the funkier midtempo "I Won't Tell You No Lies." Sadly, the Snakestretchers tenure concludes on this LP. By the time of
Buchanan's follow-up,
That's What I Am Here For (1974), undue influences would recast the guitarist's rhythmic support to an increasingly lessened ensemble effect. ~ Lindsay Planer