Because of the sheer brilliance of Rush’s 1950s and 1960s recordings, I was always disappointed the times I saw him live. (Rush once appeared at Tipitina’s in the late ’80s, opening the set with a 25 minute instrumental walk through of “Soul Serenade,” not including even one vocal and generally playing the role of sideman rather than a blues icon. When I saw him in Chi-Town, he faced the wall for the entire set). Recorded at a North Chicago club in 1976, this set in Rush’s own words proves I might well have “been in the right place, but at the wrong time.” Fronting a small combo, Rush delivers the goods throughout. Despite being taped for a radio broadcast, the mix is perfect with Rush’s big voice and capable guitar way up front. This particular evening, Rush was in a B.B. King mood as five of the 12 tracks here were from King’s repertoire. The most satisfying King cover is the intense “Gambler’s Blues,” where Rush really gets down to the nitty gritty. Of the originals, the title track of course features Rush’s often copied signature guitar riff—but without the tempo shift of the original—and “It Takes Time” gallops along nicely. Sure I would’ve liked to have heard a few more originals — say “Homework” or “Double Trouble” — but what’s on the menu here is pretty tasty. A convincing live performance that blues guitar lovers should especially be on the lookout for.