Reading A Chronicle of Norwich’s King of the Blues by Kingsley Harris for the East Anglian Music Archive, and listening to his music, is the perfect way to remember an extraordinary gentleman and musician who entertained East Anglian audiences for 78 years.
Originally released in 2003, this book tells the story of our very own blues man.
The expanded tribute edition of the book about Albert’s life and times by Kingsley Harris for the East Anglian Music Archive (Image: East Anglian Music Archive) The new edition features three additional chapters, many more special memories from family and friends, and no less than 222 photographs and illustrations.
It takes us from his days as a prodigal vocalist with the St John’s Catholic Choir, to becoming one-half of Norwich’s most prolific duos with Black Anna of The Jolly Butchers in the 1950s and 60s.
Albert, with his brother Tony, went on to run the much-loved and popular Jacquard Folk Club at The Mischief Tavern in the city, bringing the vanguard of the folk revival movement to the small club between 1964 and 1968, attracting world-famous artists, from Paul Simon to Ralph McTell.
A great act. Albert’s Blues & Boogie Band (Image: supplied) In 1971, Albert and Tony bought the old White Lion on Magdalen Street and created Norwich’s first independent music venue, also run under the name of The Jacquard, and the book includes an updated diary of the bands that played at both clubs from 1964 through to 1978.
After the success of the clubs, Albert went on to front the much-loved Albert Cooper’s Blue & Boogie Band, who released three albums.
He died last year at the age of 91, but his memory and music live on… the concert will feature music by the blues and boogie band with guests singing his best-loved songs.
A legendary double act. Black Anna and Albert Cooper in the famous Jolly Butchers in Norwich (Image: submitted) Doors open at 7 pm.
Albert Cooper: A Chronicle of Norwich’s King of the Blues by Kingsley Harris is a limited edition of 250 copies at £10. It will be on sale at the Arts Centre on August 7, also in City Books, or from info@musicfromtheeastzone.co.uk.