Although the duo of
Bobby Blue Bland and
B.B. King was one of the most popular touring acts of the '70s and '80s, their first duet album -- appropriately titled
Together for the First Time ... Live -- doesn't quite live up to expectations. Both musicians are in fine form, but rarely do any sparks fly. Occasionally,
King turns out a good solo and
Bland sings with passion, but usually the vibe of the record is too relaxed to be truly engaging. It's a pleasant record, just not the essential listening that it should have been.