Paul Kossoff - Back Street Crawler (Remastered, Deluxe Edition) (1973/2008)

The tragic life of Free guitarist Paul Kossoff (who was 17 when Free formed and died at 26) can be heard in earnest on this debut solo set. Recorded in 1973 after Free’s breakup, it shows Kossoff’s mastery of musical restraint and ringing sustains, as well as his love of blues (the title song) and soul (“I’m Ready,” “Moulton Gold,” which features lead vocals by ex-bandmate Paul Rodgers). But it’s the heart in Kossoff's playing (especially on the long, unshackled “Tuesday Morning”) that’s the essential attraction here. This carefully conceived deluxe set collects the original album plus enlightening alternate mixes and outtakes.