The Rolling Stones

Mick Taylor exits. Fun times return.

- Stuart Bailie

Black And Blue UMC/POLYDOR

Black And Blue is the sound of an enduring rock'n'roll firm updating the business. The departure of guitarist Mick Taylor in December 1974 was never going to be a showstopper for the Rolling Stones. Rather, they tightened the core membership and trialled a bunch of likely replacements. Established names like Jeff Beck and Rory Gallagher were hardly going to serve under the Jagger-Richards dominion, but there was potential for former Canned Heat player Harvey Mandel, and, even more likely, Wayne Perkins, who had played on albums by Bob Marley and Joni Mitchell. Ultimately, Ronnie Wood's enthusiasm won him the gig, and Keith gained a fresh party accomplice.