The Tedeschi Trucks Band’s Mad Dogs & Englishmen Revisited: Live at Lockn’ is more than just a live album—it’s a celebration of one of rock’s greatest musical events, lovingly reimagined for a new generation.
Originally performed and recorded at the Lockn’ Festival in 2015, this tribute to Joe Cocker and Leon Russell’s legendary 1970 Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour has finally been given a full release on vinyl and CD. Ten years on, it feels like an essential document, capturing not only the spirit of the original but also the unmistakable magic of Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, and their incredible band.
I’ve been listening on vinyl, a gorgeous gatefold double album priced around £35 here in the UK (with the CD edition around £13.50). The presentation mirrors the original Joe Cocker release, featuring photos, credits, and a line-up that reads like a “who’s who” of roots, rock, and soul.
Vinyl Pressing Quality
Anyone who follows my reviews knows I can be hyper-critical about new vinyl pressings. I often compare them to CDs and expect the same level of silence between notes. Well, I’m delighted to say that this Fantasy Records pressing is superb. Straight out of the sleeve, no pops, no clicks—just the music. Proof that modern vinyl, when done right, can still deliver.
The Music
What makes this album so powerful is the way Tedeschi Trucks Band has gathered surviving members of the original ensemble, alongside new guests, to re-capture that once-in-a-lifetime energy. The performances are simply breathtaking.
“The Letter” – Susan Tedeschi’s voice here is astonishing: a mixture of Janis Joplin’s raw power, Aretha Franklin’s soul, and gospel fire.
“Darling Be Home Soon” – Piano-led, with Susan and a soaring choir. “Turbocharged” is the only word for how the backing vocals lift this track.
“Sticks and Stones” – Funk-driven with Chris Robinson (Black Crowes) on vocals, drenched in brass and gospel harmonies.
“Girl from the North Country” – Leon Russell at the piano with Claudia Lennear’s stunning vocals, intimate and heartfelt.
“Feelin’ Alright” – Dave Mason returns to his own Traffic classic, joined by Robinson, with Derek Trucks delivering one of his signature whisper-to-thunder solos.
“Bird on a Wire” – Rita Coolidge revisits the Leonard Cohen ballad with devastating beauty, elevated by the choir.
“The Weight” – All the female vocalists shine in this Band classic, heartfelt and uplifting.
“Delta Lady” – John Bell and Chris Robinson lead, with Derek Trucks’ guitar cutting through like an extra voice.
“Space Captain” – Susan and Robinson duet on one of the set’s highlights, a cosmic anthem still as relevant today.
“With a Little Help from My Friends” – This one floored me. Extended, expansive, and spiritual, with Derek’s guitar solo among the best of his career. A personal note: this song was playing on the radio the moment my son was born—so to hear it here in such powerful form was deeply moving.
“Ballad of Mad Dogs & Englishmen” – Leon Russell closes the show with a gentle, poignant farewell.
Why It Matters
Music like this is more than entertainment—it’s medicine. In times when the world feels heavy, albums like Mad Dogs & Englishmen Revisited remind us of the healing power of music. The Tedeschi Trucks Band are one of the few groups who can straddle blues, rock, gospel, funk, and soul while connecting hearts across generations.
For me, this is already one of the albums of the year. Whether you stream it, buy the CD, or—like me—cherish the vinyl, prepare yourself for something truly special.
Verdict: A stunning, spiritual, life-affirming release. Thank you to Derek, Susan, and all involved for giving us this gift.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
