The Kooper Session is the second in a series of Super Session albums by singer-songwriter Al Kooper. Joining Kooper on guitar is 15-year-old Shuggie Otis, son of rhythm and blues pioneer Johnny Otis.

The Kooper Session album is therefore an exciting meeting of the experienced Al Kooper with the then young Shuggie Otis, a collaboration that bridges generations and musical sensibilities and is divided into two parts, “The Songs”, a quartet of arranged gospel and rhythm and blues songs, and “The Blues”, a trio of improvised blues songs.

The recording of the album has a spontaneous, almost “live in the studio” character. This is not a super-productive project; on the contrary, it is based on the chemistry of the two musicians and the natural flow of ideas. Kooper, already established, functions more as a guide and conversationalist than a dominant presence, leaving room for Otis to showcase his extraordinary guitar talent.

Like the Super Session album before it, it was recorded quickly and contained short, concise tracks like “Double Or Nothing,” “One Room Country Shack” as well as fluid, extended jams that showcased the talents of the artists like “12:15 Slow Goonbash Blues” and “Bury My Body.”

Otis, although still a teenager at the time, impresses with his maturity and expressiveness. His blues playing, full of emotion and subtle nuances, is reminiscent of older masters, but at the same time has a freshness that sets him apart. On tracks that move between blues, soul, and rock, his guitar becomes the main narrative tool.

Kooper, on the other hand, contributes with keyboards and vocals, adding depth and a more “earthly” dimension to the sound. The song choices, mostly covers, function as a tribute to the American musical tradition, but through the filter of their personal interpretation.

The album’s strong point is the sense of dialogue. We don’t just hear two musicians, but a real exchange of ideas. There is respect, energy and an unpretentious joy in the creation of music.

Critics and listeners have emphasized Shuggie Otis’ technical prowess, noting that he surpasses even the most experienced professionals at the age of 15.

Although not as commercially successful as Super Session, it is considered, especially by blues fans, to be a crucial introduction to Otis’ talent, capturing the moment when a great talent begins to unfold, under the guidance of an artist who knew how to recognize value. The album was a vital springboard for Shuggie, who then created the excellent album Inspiration Information and also wrote the song “Strawberry Letter 23”.
Although the Kooper Session is not considered as emblematic as later works by Otis, it has special historical value for him.

Overall, this is an album that may not be “perfect” in the conventional sense, but it wins with its authenticity and human dimension, a musical snapshot full of soul.

Through this excellent album I select a cover of the traditional gospel song “Bury My Body”.

Tracklist

The Songs
1. Bury My Body 8:56
2. Double Or Nothing 2:27
3. One Room Country Shack 3:36
4. Lookin’ For A Home 5:48

The Blues
5. 12:15 Slow Goonbash Blues 9:29
6. Shuggie’s Old Time Dee-Di-Lee-Di-Leet-Deet Slide Boogie 4:04
7. Shuggie’s Shuffle 6:24