It’s been almost a decade after this scribe last spoke to the great Albert Lee – at least, at some length, before the guitarist graced the stage of Toronto’s “Hugh’s Room” with his own band, because we also exchanged a few words a year later, when the veteran’s returned to the venerated Canadian venue in the company of Peter Asher. Then, when asked how much more music the artist still had in him, Albert laughed and replied, “A lot more I hope. I have five kids and six grandkids: there’s a lot of bills to pay. But to make some good music – that’s the idea.” And the idea was good, as 2024 saw the legendary musician, who turned 81 on December 21st, issue a fresh album, titled "Lay It Down" and featuring both covers and originals, while January 25th, 2025 will find him in “Hugh’s Room” once again.
He might look fragile, but the agility of his fingers is still astounding, and watching him perform creates indelible memories even for those who already know how fantastic his live playing remains after an half-century of playing for people and accompanying stars. However, as one’s experience shows, getting a seat at Albert’s concert at the last moment may be tricky, so it would be wise to not let tickets for an evening with Lee slip away – it would be wise to purchase them beforehand. Given his age, the man behind “Country Boy” can stop touring in the nearest future, so capturing him in front of an audience feels obligatory. Wait for the report on these pages, then.
