CD Reviews INDIE Blues

Forrest McDonald, a veteran musician originally from Texas, has released his sixteenth album, “Songs From My Soul,” after a five-year hiatus. The album features predominantly original songs, showcasing his guitar skills and heartfelt lyrics. McDonald’s rich career includes collaborations with notable artists and numerous awards, reinforcing his significance in blues music.

Dyer Davis, an emerging American singer-songwriter known for his Southern blues-rock style, releases his follow-up album “Kiss The Ring.” Featuring songs like “I Ain’t Lyin'” and “Damned,” Davis explores themes of life and struggle. He aims to deepen his impact in the blues scene after his acclaimed debut, “Dog Bites Back.”

Larry McCray’s “Heartbreak City” showcases his soulful blues mastery through ten new tracks. Opening with “Try to Be a Good Man,” McCray addresses values while reflecting on his upbringing. The album, supported by producers Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, features a strong band and heartfelt themes, establishing McCray as a prominent figure in soul-blues-rock.

Mercedes Nicole, a Blues singer from a strict Baptist background, gained recognition after her debut at the Westport Blues Festival. Her 2020 album “Constellation” includes original works and covers, showcasing her musical evolution. The album highlights her passion for Blues, receiving international airplay and featuring talented musicians, capturing the essence of her artistry.

Joanne Shaw Taylor’s latest album, “Black & Gold,” showcases her evolution as a British blues-rock artist. Partnering with Joe Bonamassa and producer Kevin Shirley, she explores pop-infused, radio-friendly songs while maintaining her signature guitar style. The album features confessional lyrics and collaborations, highlighting her growth as a songwriter across eleven tracks.

North Mississippi Allstars’ twelfth album, “Still Shakin’,” showcases their evolving sound while honoring their roots. Featuring collaborations from various artists, the album blends their signature Hill Country sound with punk and psychedelic elements. It delivers an eclectic collection of tracks, emphasizing the band’s dynamic live performances and diverse musical influences.

Gregg Allman’s concert on May 15, 1984, at a D.C. club showcased his unique blend of emotional blues and R&B. Supported by a talented band, Allman delivered powerful performances of both solo and Allman Brothers songs. This archival release highlights his enduring legacy and exceptional musicality, marking a significant chapter in his career.

Eric Wilson Adams, a musician from South Dakota, began his career in a rock band at fourteen. His latest album, “Losing Ground,” features a blend of rock, country, and blues, with tracks reflecting on love, loneliness, and life experiences. Inducted into the South Dakota Rock Hall of Fame, he continues to inspire listeners.

The Alexis P. Suter Band’s album “Just Stay High,” produced by Byron Isaacs and featuring original songs and covers, showcases their growth since Suter’s early performances. The collection, arising from collaborative songwriting, reflects on life and love, emphasizing deep connections within the band and resonating messages of resilience and unity.

Willie Buck and Bob Corritore, ambassadors of classic Chicago blues, release their collaborative album “Oh Yeah.” Buck, influenced by Muddy Waters, has a rich history in blues music. Corritore, a skilled harmonica player, opened The Rhythm Room in Phoenix. The album features original tracks and blues classics, showcasing their musical synergy and talent.

Rusty Ends, influenced by blues and country music, began his musical journey in Kentucky. He fronted various bands and focused solely on blues in 1992. His latest album “The Last of the Boogiemen” features a mix of original tracks and covers, highlighting his roots and the rich blend of musical styles.

The Jay Willie Blues Band, led by Jay Willie and featuring Bobby T. Torello, releases their seventh album “Still Raisin’ Cane” with Zoho Music. This album includes traditional and contemporary blues covers, highlighted by the original title track. It pays tribute to blues legends and showcases an enduring musical legacy.

V&BT, a Norwegian band formed in 2016, aims to create an engaging live experience. Their debut album, “Diamonds at the Rainbow’s End,” features original songs blending blues, blues-rock, and pop. With strong vocals and authentic instrumentation, the album showcases themes of longing and hope, and is poised to expand their fanbase.

Lisa Mann, a blues artist inspired by icons like Etta James, has a remarkable career, with numerous albums and awards, including Blues Music Awards for Best Instrumentalist. Terrie Odabi, a powerful soul blues vocalist, contributes to Mann’s latest album, “The Great Women In Blues,” showcasing classic tracks and strong musical collaboration.

Blues musician Alan Arena, known for his two top 10 albums in New England, recorded a new album titled “Deceived” at The Music Room in Cape Cod with producer Paul Nelson. The album features an impressive lineup of musicians and includes seven original tracks along with a cover of “Mother Earth,” celebrating caregivers and musical influences.

Roy Head, a Texas music legend born in 1941, co-founded “Roy Head and The Traits” in 1957. Known for blue-eyed soul, his hit “Treat Her Right” gained fame. The posthumous album “Last Time Around,” completed after his 2020 death, showcases his versatility through emotional tracks, celebrating his impactful musical legacy.

Emma Wilson, a British Rhythm & Blues artist, released her third EP, “A Spoonful Of Willie Dixon,” on Select-O-Hits Records. The six-song collection features classic blues tracks by Willie Dixon, showcasing Emma’s vocal talent alongside skilled musicians. Inspired by her visits to Memphis, this live-recorded EP highlights her deep respect for blues music.

Jeffrey Broussard, a prominent zydeco musician from Louisiana, honors Creole traditions through his music, mastering multiple instruments from a young age. He co-founded Zydeco Force and later formed Jeffrey Broussard and the Creole Cowboys, blending traditional sounds with modern influences. His latest work, “Boots and Boujee,” showcases his talent and dedication.

Brad “Guitar” Wilson, an acclaimed California-based guitarist-singer-songwriter, showcases his talent in his new album, “Buckle Up!”. Featuring eight originals and six covers, the album highlights his soulful sound and impressive performances. With a history of collaborating with renowned artists, Brad’s music resonates through captivating tracks and vibrant performances across California.

Dave Specter, a Chicago-born guitarist, began his music career at 18, influenced by blues legends. He has released numerous albums, including “Live At Space,” featuring original tracks and covers. This new work showcases contemporary Chicago blues while honoring tradition, highlighting his artistry as both a guitarist and vocalist over the decades.

David M’ore, an Argentine-born musician, discovered his passion for guitar at a young age, influenced by rock and blues legends. His third album, “Holy Sinners & Sinful Saints,” showcases his aggressive guitar style and raspy vocals. The album blends traditional blues with rock elements, appealing to fans of powerful guitar performances.

Carolyn Wonderland, a Houston-born musician, began her musical journey at a young age, developing a unique fingerpicking style. Her career includes collaborations with notable artists and significant achievements like her 2021 album “Truth Is,” produced by Dave Alvin. Wonderland’s work reflects emotional depth, highlighting social issues and personal experiences.

Brody Buster, a talented harmonica player from Kansas, rose to fame at a young age, performing with legends. After battling addiction, he found redemption through music. His album “Redemption” features nine original blues songs that reflect his journey and new lease on life, showcasing his powerful vocals and harmonica skills.

Kim Field and The Perfect Gentlemen is a Portland-based blues and roots music band featuring talented musicians who have performed widely in the U.S. and Europe. Their debut album “Don’t Need But One” showcases original songs by Field and Dodson, highlighting emotional themes and musical prowess, establishing them as a premier R n’ B act in the Pacific Northwest.

Kerry Kearney, a skilled slide guitarist with a career spanning over 45 years, gained early recognition touring with Marty Balin. He has released multiple albums and received awards, including “Bluesman of the Year.” His latest album features collaborations and covers, showcasing his original artistry and emotional performances in the blues genre.

Charlie Musselwhite, at 83, showcases his enduring talent in his 43rd album, Look Out Highway. Blending raw, electrified blues with personal themes, he delivers heartfelt songs that highlight his rich experience. Collaborating with a skilled band, Musselwhite’s masterful harmonica playing and singing affirm his iconic status in contemporary blues music.

Akarsha “Aki” Kumar, an Indian-born harmonica player and vocalist, blends Hindi melodies with American blues, creating “Bollywood blues.” Following a layoff from Adobe, he pursued music, recording his tenth album with The Little Village Foundation. The album features covers and original tracks that reflect both tradition and innovation in blues music.

All Things Swamp is a collective of nine California musicians who celebrate New Orleans music in their leisure time. Their album “Dressed” features diverse tracks, showcasing each member’s talents, including Grammy winner Aaron Lington. The music evokes the vibrant culture of New Orleans, blending funk, rhythm, and rich harmonious influences.

Tad Robinson, a Brooklyn-born harmonica player and blue-eyed soul singer, has recently released his eighth studio album, “Soul In Blue,” on Delmark Records. Featuring collaborations with renowned musicians, the album reflects his rich musical journey, including themes of love and societal issues. Robinson’s work has garnered numerous Blues Music Award nominations.

Vince Santoro, a talented drummer and singer, began his music journey in the 1960s. He has collaborated with numerous renowned artists and bands, forming lasting connections in Nashville. In early 2024, he worked with guitarist George Marinelli on his debut album “Exposed,” showcasing his distinctive style through diverse lyrics and engaging melodies.

Reverend Freakchild’s 19th album, “A Bluesman of Sorts,” features a two-CD collection of covers performed on a National resonator guitar. Collaborating with various musicians, the Reverend draws on classic blues songs while blending narratives and personal reflections. He promotes music as his religion, aiming for transcendence through song.

Terry Hanck, a Chicago-born saxophonist and singer, has been influential in the blues and jazz scene since moving to California in 1967. Notable for his work with Elvin Bishop, Hanck’s discography features nine albums, showcasing original songs and jazzed-up covers. His latest release includes seven originals and highlights his exceptional talent.

Johnny Iguana, a renowned Chicago blues pianist, showcases his talent in “Chicago – Style Solo Piano.” The album features five originals and seven covers, recorded in one take on a vintage Kingsbury piano, highlighting his unique style. Released by Delmark Records, it offers a fresh blend of classic blues and innovative originals.

Christopher Wyze’s live album “Live In Clarksdale,” recorded at The Shack Up Inn, follows his debut “Stuck In The Mud.” Showcasing his songwriting prowess, it features blues-infused tracks like “Three Hours from Memphis” and covers classics. Accompanied by two videos, this album is essential for Wyze fans and blues enthusiasts.

Southern Avenue, a Memphis-based band featuring sisters Tierinii, Tikyra, and Ava Jackson, blends gospel, blues, and soul music. Their journey began in a religious household, evolving into professional acclaim with multiple nominations and a Grammy. Their fourth album, “Family,” showcases their emotional sound and commitment to uplifting music.

The Backtrack Blues Band, founded by Sonny Charles in 1980, celebrates over four decades of Chicago-style blues. After a hiatus, they resumed in 2012, winning multiple awards. Their latest live album, “A Day By The Bay,” features original songs and showcases their signature sound, recorded at the Tampa Bay Blues Festival.

The Love Dogs, celebrating 20 years in music, blend jump blues, New Orleans R n’ B, and early rock ‘n’ roll. Their album “Get Off My Lawn!” features original tracks by Eddie Scheer and covers. Renowned for their energetic performances, they aim to bring joy, as declared by audience accolades and critical praise.

Bernard Allison, a talented blues artist and son of Luther Allison, has evolved his musical style with his breakthrough album “Chills & Thrills”. This album features a blend of blues, funk, rock, and R&B, showcasing original songs and covers. It highlights Bernard’s growth and creativity, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Brandon Santini, a North Carolina native and blues musician, launched his latest album “Which Way Do We Go?” in 2024, recording in Memphis. Featuring personal tracks written during the pandemic, the album showcases the band’s raw energy and calls for love and compassion. Santini’s evolution as an artist continues with this release.

Matt Andersen’s sixteenth album, “The Hammer & The Rose,” showcases his powerful voice and songwriting talent. Released in 2023, it features co-written tracks with several artists, blending heartfelt lyrics with a soulful sound. Andersen, a celebrated Canadian musician, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his emotive performances and extensive touring history.

Ginger St. James, a Canadian performer, showcases her powerful voice in her third album “Told Ya,” blending rockabilly, country, and blues. Recorded in Ontario, the album features lively tracks filled with humor and emotion. Ginger’s storytelling captures life’s ups and downs, making it a recommended listening experience for music lovers.

Tony Holiday, formerly of Tony Holiday and the Velvetones, now leads The Tony Holiday Band, known for their blend of blues and Memphis soul. Their new album “Keep Your Head Up,” recorded in multiple studios, showcases Holiday’s songwriting and includes collaborations with notable musicians. The band continues to tour extensively while evolving their sound.

Tim Gartland’s sixth album, “Right Amount of Funky,” showcases his deep blues roots and exceptional harmonica skills with a blend of influences from Chicago to Nashville. The eight tracks feature engaging stories and tight band performances, highlighting songs like “A Better Life” and “Walk Away.” This album promises to resonate with blues enthusiasts.

Alfonso “John” Primer, born in Mississippi in 1945, is a significant figure in blues music. His latest album, “Grown in Mississippi,” features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing his talent as a guitarist and vocalist. Primer’s contributions to the genre continue to earn him multiple Grammy nominations, affirming his legacy.

Johnny Hoy and The Bluefish, formed in 1991 on Martha’s Vineyard, draw inspiration from blues legends. Their live album, recorded at The Fallout Shelter, features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing Hoy’s harmonica skills and vocal range. The band continues to perform regularly, enriching their local music scene.

The collaboration “Audience with the Queen” showcases Irma Thomas, the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” alongside the jam band Galactic. This anticipated album blends contemporary and classic influences, highlighting Thomas’s powerful vocals across nine tracks. Themes of joy, social justice, and love are interwoven, asserting her continuous reign in the music world.

Dudley Taft, a Cincinnati-based singer-songwriter and guitarist, has released his ninth studio album, “The Speed of Life”. Celebrated for his guitar skills and songwriting, Taft’s music blends electric guitar with poignant lyrics. The album features a mix of rock and blues, showcasing Taft’s evolution and creativity as an artist.