The most obvious musical hallmark of Albert Lee is his taste and precision at high speeds, although he will be the first to tell you with a wide grin that "speed isn't everything, but it helps." As an accompanist, Albert differs significantly from studio multi-stylists who can sound like just about anybody; armed with his Ernie Ball Music Man Signature Model guitar, he can perfectly embellish music as diverse as Emmylou Harris' modern country or Eric Clapton's funky blues (Lee recorded and toured with Clapton for six years), while always managing to sound exactly like himself. As Emmylou says, "Albert is conscious of different styles when he's playing due to his early love of country music, the Louvin Brothers, and the Everly Brothers. His playing is hard and metallic but clear and lyrical, with a rock and roll edge."

With talent recognized by a number of organizations, Albert was voted Guitar Player Magazine's "Best Country Guitar Picker" five times, he received two consecutive nominations for a Grammy Award in the Best Instrumental category, and in October 1995 he received a coveted Gold Badge Award from B.A.S.C.A. (The British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors). In 1997 Albert was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by B.C.M.A. (The British Country Music Association). He has earned the worldwide respect of artists, musicians and fans alike, across many different styles of music. Truly a musician's musician, with an impeccable pedigree achieved over many years' both touring and recording, Albert never ceases to amaze with his unique style and enormous talent. In 2002, Albert won a Grammy Award for 'Foggy Mountain Breakdown' from the CD Earl Scruggs and Friends in the category of Best Country Instrumental Performance.

Albert's reputation as a master guitarist sometimes overshadows his other formidable talents, most notably his piano stylings, his mandolin work, and especially his unique singing style with which he has the ability to switch from a soulful ballad to 'tearing it up' rock 'n' roll style. He is currently a popular member of Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings, thrilling audiences with his playing and singing. He features prominently on the band's CDs and video. In great demand by other artists, he has played on countless sessions not only in Nashville but also all over the world. Albert has fronted his own band Hogan's Heroes (a talented group of musicians in their own right) since the late eighties. Albert has five solo albums to his credit and two albums with Hogan's Heroes in addition to numerous albums with the artistes mentioned above. His latest album, Heartbreak Hill, released on the Sugar Hill label in October 2003 and nominated for a Grammy in 2004, is one not to miss. Contributing to this great album is the cream of the industry, a tribute in itself to the rare talent of a great man.

We hope that you enjoy his contributions to the Killer Tracks library and take full advantage of what this music guru has to offer. We know we do.

You can find some tracks by Albert Lee in albums KT-160 and KT-172

The article was taken from Killer-Tracks magazine "Killer Gram" - March 2005 issue.