Little Feat – Sam's Place (Neon Orange LP Vinyl)

Little Feat has always been a band in flux, which remains true today. Even while celebrating the 50th anniversary of their fourth LP, Feats Don't Fail Me Now, the band's current iteration is moving forward with Sam's Place, their first studio release in a dozen years and first all-blues set. There have been a few changes since that last one, Rooster Rag. Most significantly, Paul Barrere, a key member since the early '70s, passed away in 2019. His seat has since been filled by guitarist and vocalist Scott Sharrard, and there's a new drummer since that last effort as well, Tony Leone. Filling out the band are keyboardist Bill Payne, a co-founder of Little Feat, bassist Kenny Gradney and percussionist/ vocalist Sam Clayton—both of whom joined in the early '70s—and guitarist/ vocalist Fred Tackett, who signed on in the late '80s after the band took a long hiatus following the death of founder Lowell George. For Sam's Place, it is, appropriately, Clayton who serves as frontman, belting out all shades of the blues—from raging electric boogie-rock to the more toned-down "Long Distance Love," featuring a guest vocal from Bonnie Raitt and one of a few Muddy Waters classics covered in the set. Willie Dixon also figures prominently in the track list, with three songs emanating from his pen, including "Mellow Down Easy," which some fans may know from the Paul Butterfield Blues Band version. The album's sole original, "Milkman," written by Clayton, Tackett and Sharrard, gets the ball rolling, and things wrap up with a live, sweat-inducing take on the blues anthem "I've Got My Mojo Working." Some of the names may have changed but rest assured, Sam's Place is as much a Little Feat session as those long-ago recordings that are now into their golden years.

— Jeff Tamarkin, Relix

Discover the Unique Sounds of Little Feat's Sam's Place

Pressed on limited-edition neon orange vinyl, Sam's Place marks Little Feat's first studio album in twelve years, and their first all-blues record in fifty-five years of history—a love letter to the genre that has always run through the band's DNA. Most significantly, it features percussionist Sam Clayton on lead vocals throughout, finally putting the resident bluesman in the spotlight after decades of anchoring the band's groove from behind the congas. Recorded at Sam Phillips Studio in Memphis, the album earned a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Blues Album.

Bill Payne conceived the idea after marveling at Clayton's vocal command during performances, recognizing that the man who had driven Little Feat's rhythmic pulse since 1972 deserved a starring role. The setlist balances covers of blues legends—Muddy Waters' Long Distance Call (featuring longtime friend Bonnie Raitt on guest vocals), Can't Be Satisfied, and Willie Dixon's Don't Go No Further—with the original Milkman, co-written by Clayton with Scott Sharrard and Fred Tackett. The album closes with a live take of I've Got My Mojo Working that captures the band's joyful energy.

Sam's Place arrives as Little Feat celebrates over five decades of blending rock, New Orleans funk, and blues into something uniquely American. This neon orange first pressing honors both the band's blues roots and Clayton's long-overdue moment in the sun—proof that Little Feat can still surprise and delight even their most devoted fans.

Neon Orange LP Vinyl: Limited first pressing on 145-gram colored vinyl. Recorded at Sam Phillips Studio, Memphis. Grammy-nominated for Best Traditional Blues Album.

If you are a fan of Little Feat, the Neon Orange LP Vinyl of Sam's Place is an essential addition to your collection. This vibrant record captures the band's unique blend of rock, blues, and jazz, making each play a truly immersive experience. The colorful design not only makes it visually appealing but also signifies its special place in your music library.

Listening to Sam's Place on vinyl brings a richness and depth to the music that digital formats just can't match. The analog warmth enhances every note and lyric, allowing you to fully appreciate the musicianship that Little Feat is known for. Therefore, if you're looking for high-quality sound and engaging tunes, this vinyl record stands out as an excellent choice.

The Neon Orange LP is not just another vinyl; it is a limited edition that signifies rarity and exclusivity. Collectors value records like this because they can become cherished keepsakes over time. This adds to its desirability, so snagging a copy of Sam's Place now ensures you get to enjoy this musical gem for years to come.