Album Review: PointblankCharismas Sampler 1 – The Blues Beyond
Released in 1991 by Charisma Records, PointblankCharismas Sampler 1 – The Blues Beyond is a hidden gem that dives deep into the raw energy of blues-infused rock and soul. Featuring tracks from various artists curated under the guiding hand of legendary guitarist Albert Collins, this album offers a gritty yet polished journey through Blues Rock with just enough funk to keep your head nodding. It’s not perfect, but it doesn’t need to be—it’s real, and sometimes that’s all you want.
One standout track is “I Don’t Mind”, produced by The Kinsey Report. This song grabs you right away with its punchy riffs and relentless groove. You can feel the passion dripping off every note as D. Kinsey, K. Kinsey, and R. Kinsey weave their magic together. What makes this track unforgettable isn’t just the musicianship; it’s how effortlessly it blends swagger and vulnerability. Lyrics like “I don’t mind if you stay or go” hit hard because they’re delivered with such conviction—you believe it, even if you know it might not be true. It’s one of those songs where the guitar solo feels like an argument between heartbreak and defiance, and honestly? That’s kinda beautiful.
Another highlight is “Mr. Collins, Mr. Collins,” written by Albert Collins himself. If there’s one thing Albert knew how to do, it was make his presence felt without saying much at all. This instrumental piece showcases his signature icy tone and razor-sharp licks. Listening to it feels like watching someone sketch a masterpiece on the fly—improvisational yet deliberate. There’s something hypnotic about the way the rhythm section locks in while Collins takes center stage. By the time the track ends, you’re left wanting more, which, let’s face it, is exactly what he intended.
The production quality varies slightly across the album—a result of having multiple producers like Bill Price, Bobby Hankins, and Jim Gaines—but that inconsistency adds character. Tracks like “Image Maker” bring a smoother, almost sultry vibe, courtesy of Curtis Turrentine’s writing, while “One More Lonely Night” leans heavier into classic blues tropes, complete with moody vocals and a slow-burning tempo. These shifts may throw some listeners off, but for fans of genre-blending experimentation, it works.
What strikes me most about The Blues Beyond is how unapologetically human it feels. Sure, the mix could’ve been tighter, and yeah, some transitions are jarring, but none of that matters when the music speaks so directly to the soul. It reminds me of late-night drives down empty highways, windows down, wind messing up your hair—the kind of stuff memories are made of.
And here’s the kicker: despite being over three decades old, this sampler still holds up today. Maybe it’s because we live in an age obsessed with polish and perfection, making albums like this feel refreshingly honest. Or maybe it’s just proof that great music doesn’t age—it evolves. Either way, The Blues Beyond deserves a spot in any serious collector’s library. Just don’t expect it to play nice with your Spotify algorithm.
