CD Reviews on projects by Indie Blues Artists
Corey Ledet’s “Live in Alaska” celebrates his two-decade Zydeco career, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation. The album, recorded at the Anchorage Folk Festival, features lively performances of original songs and beloved Creole favorites. With heartfelt lyrics and energetic tunes, Ledet reinforces his status as a modern Zydeco icon.
Larin Michaels, a Detroit-born musician, released his debut album “It’s All About Love” under Conch Town Records in 2025, featuring nine self-written and produced songs. Showcasing his multifaceted talent, he plays various instruments and delivers heartfelt lyrics. The album combines soul, rock, and boogie-woogie influences, highlighting his diverse musical journey.
Reckless and Blue’s album “Seven Deadly Gins,” released in 2023, showcases the band’s blend of traditional blues with modern influences. Formed by George Williams in 2017, the lineup features dual lead vocalists Williams and Shaunda Fry, who create emotional depth through their dynamic interplay. The album explores themes of love and loss across a variety of styles, highlighting their strong musicianship and chemistry.
Kim Wilson, renowned harmonica player and vocalist, leads The Fabulous Thunderbirds and has a successful solo career. His latest album, “Slow Burn,” features a mix of original songs and covers recorded live, showcasing various musicians. With seven Blues Music Awards, Wilson is celebrated as one of the greatest harmonica players today.
Sean McDonald’s debut album, “Have Mercy!”, showcases his unique energy in blues and rock. At 23, the Augusta, Georgia native combines passion and skill, leading a talented band through diverse tracks. From soulful covers to original pieces, he revives traditional sounds with a fresh flair, proving himself a distinctive and promising artist.
Robert “Top” Thomas, a Florida blues musician, has evolved from youthful performances to a seasoned solo artist. His latest album, One Morning Soon, showcases a blend of original tracks and classic covers, highlighting his guitar prowess and heartfelt vocals. The work encapsulates the essence of traditional blues while infusing personal spirit and modern influences.
Greg Nagy’s fifth studio album, “Just A Little More Time,” fuses blues, soul, and R&B with emotional depth. Featuring five original tracks and five covers, Nagy’s expressive guitar and heartfelt vocals shine throughout. The album exemplifies his mastery of storytelling, showcasing personal insights and musical authenticity, marking a significant entry in contemporary blues.
Duwayne Burnside’s album “Red Rooster,” featuring Cody and Luther Dickinson and Jimbo Mathus, reflects his deep Mississippi blues roots and musical evolution. The collection maintains the essence of Hill Country influences while integrating modern sounds. Burnside pays homage to his musical heritage and showcases a vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary blues.
Texas-born Steve Howell, a master of early acoustic blues, teams up with versatile multi-instrumentalist Fats Kaplin in their album “Know You From Old.” Their thirteen heartfelt duets blend folk, blues, gospel, and jazz, celebrating the roots of American music while honoring timeless traditions and preserving musical history.
Miss Emily’s album “The Medicine” showcases her powerful blues and soul vocals, blending themes of hope, community, and resilience. Produced by Colin Linden, it features nine tracks, primarily co-written by her. The songs express personal struggles, love, and survival, with an emphasis on unity and overcoming adversity, ultimately delivering an empowering message.
Grant Lyle, a Canadian guitarist and singer-songwriter, blends soulful storytelling with blues influences in his latest album, “And Now.” Featuring eight original songs and a cover, the record showcases Lyle’s emotional honesty and musical evolution. With expressive vocals and intricate guitar work, he delivers heartfelt tracks that resonate with authenticity and gratitude.
Henri Herbert is a renowned pianist and songwriter, blending boogie-woogie, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. His latest album, “Get It While It’s Hot,” features themes of perseverance and self-reliance, with high-energy tracks and covers. A former dockworker turned internet sensation, he tours globally, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances.
Ross Neilsen, a seasoned Canadian blues musician, showcases his journey through his seventh studio album, “Within Tension.” The album features raw emotions and deep lyrics, exploring themes of struggle and identity. Produced in Memphis, it combines blues and soul, highlighting Neilsen’s authenticity and storytelling prowess in his music.
Avi Jacob, born into a Jewish family in Boston, is an emerging folk artist known for his emotional depth and lyrical honesty. His latest album, “Hawk in the Nest,” fuses folk, Americana, and R&B, showcasing his growth as a songwriter. With rich instrumentation and personal themes, it highlights his compelling artistry.
Paul Filipowicz, a Chicago-born blues musician, delivers his twelfth album, “Breakwater,” showcasing seven originals and five covers. Inspired by blues legends, his raw sound and heartfelt lyrics reflect a lifetime of passion. Joined by talented musicians, he combines energetic tracks and soulful ballads, reinforcing his legacy as a true blues torchbearer.
Kyle Rowland, a dynamic young blues artist from Georgia, presents his latest album “Not Holding Back!” with a blend of contemporary and California blues. Co-produced by Rick Estrin, it features eight original tracks and skilled collaborators. Rowland’s harmonica, rich vocals, and diverse influences highlight his mastery and passion in modern blues.
Vermont’s Dave Keller, an acclaimed soul and blues artist, releases his eleventh studio album, La Brea. This collection showcases his lyrical depth and musical prowess, highlighting themes of love, loss, and reflection. With heartfelt melodies and poignant storytelling, Keller’s work stands out in the modern blues scene, affirming his artistic legacy.
Jimmy Burns, an iconic soul-blues guitarist and singer, releases “Full Circle” with the Soul Message Band, blending jazz, funk, and traditional blues. The album revisits Burns’ historical recordings, capturing his musical evolution and honoring American music’s roots. Featuring remastered classics, it serves as a celebration of Chicago blues and Burns’ artistry.
The Lucky Losers, a band led by vocalists Cathy Lemons and Phil Berkowitz, celebrate their sixth studio album “Arrival.” Featuring a blend of blues, soul, and funk, the album includes personal tracks like “I Believe Her (Because I Am Her).” It showcases vibrant harmonies and various musical influences, marking their artistic evolution.
Dave Keyes’ latest album, “Two Trains,” showcases his signature blend of blues, soul, and rock, celebrating resilience amidst personal loss, particularly the death of his wife. Featuring collaborations with notable artists, the album presents original material that emphasizes positivity and life’s choices, urging listeners to embrace joy over sorrow.
James “JB” Barnes, rooted in Mississippi, honors his family’s legacy through music. His album “My Mississippi Roots” features original songs and thoughtful covers, reflecting personal and societal themes. Recognized as a Great Blues Artist in 2016, JB carries the blues forward with his band, connecting past experiences with current struggles and hopes.
Ryan Hartt, a Connecticut-based harmonica player, singer, and songwriter, released “Be About It!” as his first solo album after forming the successful band Ryan Hartt and the Blue Hearts. The album showcases his exceptional harmonica skills and features an array of talented musicians, blending original blues tracks and classic covers with heartfelt vocals.
Mike Bourne has been captivating global audiences with his jump blues and roots music since 1998. His latest album, “Kansas City O’Clock,” features high-energy tracks that celebrate the spirit of Kansas City. Collaborating with top musicians, Bourne’s music blends humor, reflections, and vibrant rhythms, resonating with his signature style.
Luther Dickinson’s “Dead Blues Vol 1.” reinterprets classic blues songs with a unique blend of Memphis funk and jazz, diverging from traditional blues styles. Featuring Datrian Johnson’s jazz-influenced vocals, the album showcases innovative arrangements of tracks by renowned artists, reflecting a creative evolution inspired by influences from the Grateful Dead.
J.T. Lauritsen, a Norwegian musician and accordionist, formed The Buckshot Hunters in 1991. Their latest album, Still Be Friends, celebrates his 30-year career. The collection blends blues, soul, and rock, featuring tracks like “How Come My Bulldog Don’t Bark” and “Still Be Friends,” showcasing collaborations and heartfelt performances by Lauritsen and guest artists.
Erin Harpe’s album “Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me” pays tribute to Mississippi John Hurt, blending her blues roots with original and traditional songs. Harpe’s journey from electro-pop to blues showcases her talents. The album, recorded during the pandemic, features ten tracks celebrating Hurt’s legacy and emotive storytelling intertwined with themes of mortality.
Mark Cameron, a Minnesota-based musician, blends blues with folk-rock influences honed over thirty years. His ninth album, Blues Factory, presents original songs with diverse themes, showcasing a talented ensemble. Tracks range from reflective to humorous, all underscored by Cameron’s strong vocals and engaging melodies, proving the blues can embody modern experiences.
Ana Popovic, a Serbian blues guitarist, began her music journey in 1991, forming bands and releasing successful albums like “Hush” and “Comfort to the Soul.” Her latest release, “Dance to the Rhythm,” showcases her songwriting and personal insights while exploring artistic growth. Ana continues to inspire through her resilient spirit.
Roomful Of Blues, a celebrated blues band formed in 1967, has evolved over the years, shifting to their current lineup with veteran vocalist DD Bastos. Their latest album features classic tracks, showcasing Bastos’ dynamic vocals. The band continues to thrive under guitarist Chris Vachon, contributing to their enduring legacy in blues music.
Kara Grainger, an Australian singer-songwriter, blends blues and Americana in her latest album, “That’s How I Got to Memphis.” Featuring six originals and three covers, the album showcases her vocal talent and guitar skills, supported by an accomplished ensemble. Grainger’s music reflects her influences and personal journey, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Larkin Poe has released “Bloom: An Acoustic Companion Vol. II,” an EP featuring five reimagined songs from their earlier album, “Bloom.” The sisters’ acoustic roots shine through lush arrangements, enhancing lyrical depth. The collection combines elements of folk and bluegrass, celebrating themes of self-discovery, contentment, and optimism, inviting both new and existing fans.
Mississippi MacDonald, an emerging figure in British blues, blends traditional influences with modern artistry in his new album, Slim Pickin’. With original songs and reworked classics, he showcases emotional depth and guitar prowess. The album has quickly topped Roots Music Report’s Acoustic Blues chart, affirming his place in the blues genre’s future.
Randy Lee Riviere’s latest album, Farmhand Blues, intertwines his roles as a musician and wildlife biologist. The record reflects on human impact on nature while showcasing a blend of country and classic rock influences. Featuring themes of labor, resilience, and humor, Riviere’s storytelling shines through powerful instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics.
Jack Town USA showcases nine Mississippi blues and southern soul artists, exploring Jackson’s rich musical history and Grammy accolades. The accompanying CD features tracks from artists like Jacktown Sons, Dexter Allen, and Eddie Cotton, highlighting a diverse blend of styles. The project emphasizes Mississippi’s significance as “The Birthplace of America’s Music.”
The Soul of John Black, created by John Arthur Bigham, blends alternative soul, blues, and rock. Formerly of Fishbone, Bigham has released multiple albums since 2002. His latest, “Soul Salvation,” showcases his unique style and musical influences. Praised by various media, he continues to innovate while honoring traditional sounds.
Pierre Lacocque’s Mississippi Heat releases their 14th album, Don’t Look Back, featuring powerful vocals by Sheryl Youngblood. The album showcases Chicago blues with a mix of emotional depth and energetic performances. The talented ensemble, including guitarists Billy Flynn and Giles Corey, creates a compelling musical experience, marking this as their most accomplished work yet.
Leonard ‘Lowdown’ Brown, raised in a musical environment, transitioned from gospel to blues, establishing himself in Houston’s music scene. His critically acclaimed 2023 debut album, “Blues Is Calling Me,” led to his second album “Street Party,” produced by Jimbo Mathis. Featuring original songs, it highlights Brown’s impactful storytelling through blues.
Bob Corritore, an accomplished blues harmonica player from Chicago, opened The Rhythm Room in Phoenix and has received multiple Blues Music Awards. His new album, featuring tracks by legendary artists, showcases his harmonica skills along with contributions from various musicians. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to classic blues recordings.
Manu Lanvin, a French blues rock artist, has evolved from rock albums to his acclaimed “The Devil Blues.” His latest work, “Man On A Mission,” showcases diverse collaborations and versatile songwriting, reflecting his life experiences. The album combines blues and rock, affirming his status in the music scene while earning multiple accolades.
Jay Hooks, a Houston-born artist, blends Gulf Coast blues with rock influences. His musical journey includes extensive touring and several albums, notably “Hooked Up” and “Tequila And Bullets.” After a hiatus for family, he returned to music in 2018. Hooks’ dynamic performances and engaging songwriting showcase his passion for authentic blues rock.
Warren Haynes, a talented guitarist and prolific songwriter, showcases six of his eleven songs from the album Million Voices Whisper in The Whisper Sessions. Collaborating with Derek Trucks, he delivers heartfelt renditions of original and classic tunes, blending blues, folk, and soul. Haynes’ raw voice and guitar skills are prominently featured throughout.
Robbin Kapsalis’s album “The Blues Is In The House,” produced by Giles Robison, features harmonica riffs and is dedicated to notable figures in blues. The album includes tracks written by renowned artists and showcases Kapsalis’s journey from her previous band Vintage#18, proving her vital role in shaping the blues’ future.
Candice Ivory’s 2023 album, “New Southern Vintage,” follows her tribute to Memphis Minnie. It features original blues songs by her band, The Blue Bloods, alongside traditional pieces. The album showcases Ivory’s vocal prowess and innovative sound, solidifying her stature in blues music, while honoring the genre’s roots.
Frank Hannon’s solo album, Reflections, showcases his guitar skills and emotional depth. Influenced by his late father-in-law, Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers Band, Hannon blends blues, country, and Western styles in 13 instrumentals. The album captures profound emotions, including nostalgia, grief, and love, reflecting Hannon’s personal journey and tribute to Betts.
Tedeschi Trucks Band and Leon Russell present “Mad Dogs & Englishmen Revisited Live at Lockin’,” honoring Joe Cocker’s 1970 tour. Featuring alumni and diverse guest artists, the album celebrates iconic songs with powerful performances, especially Susan Tedeschi’s captivating vocals and Derek Trucks’ dynamic guitar work, providing a spirited homage to musical greatness.
BB & The Bullets, formed by New Zealand guitarist Brian Baker alongside bassist Stu Duncan and drummer Brad McMillan, debut with “High Tide.” The album features original tracks by Baker and covers of classics by various artists. Their live performances have garnered acclaim, showcasing a mix of originals and well-executed covers.
Fred Hostetler, an Indiana-born guitarist and singer-songwriter, presents “Blues Back Pages,” a collection of eleven blues tracks, including eight originals. Known for his work with major artists and acclaimed for his diverse genre style, Hostetler reflects on his journey through autobiographical narratives while addressing themes of love and personal struggle throughout the album.
Bentonia Blues, rooted in Bentonia, Mississippi, features distinctive D minor guitar tuning and explores themes of sorrow and existential struggles. The Blue Front Cafe, a noted juke joint, serves as a historic gathering place. Ryan Lee Crosby’s collaboration with Jimmy “Duck” Holmes blends traditional and new songs, offering a haunting musical experience.
Tom Hambridge, born in 1960, is a renowned drummer, singer, and producer. He has produced numerous albums, including his latest, “Blu Ja Vu.” Hambridge has received numerous awards and accolades, including two Grammys. His recent work, “Down The Hatch,” features collaborations with several musicians, showcasing his exceptional talent in blues music.
Larry “Mud” Morganfield, the son of Muddy Waters, is an American blues singer who began his musical career later in life. His new album “Deep Mud” features original songs and revivals, showcasing his dedication to Chicago blues. Morganfield’s works include tributes to his mother and celebrate authentic blues themes.