Dave Goddess, a musician rooted in rock and Americana, releases his new EP, Kitty Hawk, on May 30th. Inspired by a trip to North Carolina, the six tracks delve into themes of perseverance and love. With a commitment to authenticity, Goddess aims to connect through storytelling, garnering praise for his sincere and soul-resonant music.
Erja Lyytinen, acclaimed blues-rock guitarist and “Finnish slide goddess,” has released twelve albums since her debut in 2003. Her career celebrated in the live album “20 Years of Blues Rock!” includes critical acclaim for “Waiting for the Daylight.” With a new album slated for March 2025, she continues to electrify audiences worldwide.
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.
Mondo Cortez, frontman of the Chicago Blues Angels, epitomizes roots blues and rockabilly music. His impressive collaborations with blues legends and high-energy performances across the country showcase his authenticity and dedication. By connecting with local musicians while touring, Mondo revives and supports blues scenes, delivering soulful, passionate performances without pretense.
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.
Little Feat’s album “Strike Up the Band” showcases the band’s evolution over six years with lead singer Scott Sharrard. Featuring 13 original songs that blend various musical influences, the album reflects both passion and creativity. It stands alongside their best work, highlighting impressive performances and innovative sound within contemporary rock.
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.
Making a Scene features an interview with Rex Lyons from The Ripcords, a band rooted in Central New York’s music scene. Formed nearly twenty years ago, they blend high-energy roots music and have performed at numerous significant events. The lineup includes notable musicians and has shared stages with various music legends.
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.
Tony Kamel, former frontman of “Wood & Wire,” releases “We’re All Gonna Live,” his third studio album on Blue Corn Music. The album showcases his storytelling, instrumental prowess, and unique clawhammer banjo style. With standout tracks addressing life and loss, it reflects Kamel’s exceptional bluegrass artistry and emotional depth.
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.
Tony Holiday, a key figure in Memphis’s soul blues revival, blends community and music since relocating in 2017. His latest release, “Keep Your Head Up,” embodies resilience. Following his album “Motel Mississippi,” which features collaborations and a mix of styles, Tony is redefining modern blues while honoring its roots.
Vicki Peterson, a founding member of The Bangles, and John Cowsill, from The Cowsills, have released an album titled “Long After The Fire.” Their collaboration features heartfelt vocal duets with a twangy sound reminiscent of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison, highlighting their musical chemistry and rich harmonies across diverse themes.
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.
Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band has earned international acclaim for their dynamic performances and genuine love for music. Recognized as one of the top blues bands, they’ve topped charts and received multiple awards. Their latest album, “Dance Songs For Hard Times,” showcases their vibrant energy and commitment to roots music with critical praise.
Sari Schorr, a Blues-Rock artist recognized for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, emerged with her debut album “A Force of Nature.” Her music reflects personal struggles and global issues, emphasizing unity and compassion. Beyond music, she engages in humanitarian work and advocates for various social causes, embodying resilience and activism.
Eva Rose Schultz and David Pippin present a rich musical collaboration, drawing on blues, R&B, and indie folk. Their EP, Black Water Blues, explores heartache and resilience. Following this, their live album captures their dynamic stage presence, showcasing their blend of traditional and contemporary influences, engaging audiences through heartfelt storytelling.
Jennifer Lyn & The Groove Revival released their debut EP “Nothing Holding Me Down” in 2021, reaching #4 on the Billboard Blues chart. Their latest project, “Retrograde,” features ten original songs blending rock and blues influences, showcasing powerful vocals and instruments. The band continues to gain acclaim with multiple award nominations.
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.
Dave Goddess formed the Dave Goddess Group in 2012, debuting with “Something New.” Over the years, he released several EPs and albums, including “Back in Business,” which gained international attention. The new album “Kitty Hawk” features themes of love, dreams, and modern disinformation, showcasing Goddess’ unique musical style influenced by classic rock legends.
Janiva Magness, a seven-time Blues Music Awards recipient and Grammy nominee, releases her memoir “Weeds Like Us” alongside her new album “Hard to Kill.” The memoir explores her traumatic past, influencing her music. Magness emphasizes the connection between truth and creativity, emerging from a dark pandemic phase to produce new, personal songs.
Niamh Strong, an acclaimed Irish vocalist, is celebrated for her soulful interpretations of blues, jazz, and contemporary soul. The daughter of iconic soul singer Rob Strong, she captivates audiences worldwide with her dynamic presence and rich voice. Niamh blends classic influences with modern sounds and continues to collaborate with various artists.
Ally Marie Venable, a 25-year-old blues rock guitarist and vocalist, has gained recognition for her talent, winning multiple awards. Her latest album, “Money & Power,” features collaborative songwriting and highlights themes of female empowerment. Recorded in Nashville, it showcases Venable’s ambitious style and musical strengths, further solidifying her status in the blues genre.
Hughes Taylor, a guitarist and singer-songwriter, began his musical journey at thirteen, developing his skills and performing widely. His sixth album, “Roasted,” features eleven tracks showcasing his emotive voice and vibrant guitar work. Supported by his band, Taylor delivers a blend of powerful riffs and lyrical depth, making this album highly recommended.
Murray Kinsley & Wicked Grin, an award-winning trio from Ottawa, Canada, deliver innovative blues in their fifth recording, “Eye Of The Storm.” With distinctive vocals, backed by a funky rhythm section and special guest harmonica player Steve Marriner, the band explores themes of love, women’s rights, and sorrow through six engaging tracks, lasting over thirty minutes.
Will Wilde is a renowned harmonica player celebrated for his unique style that blends blues and rock influences. Gaining fame through YouTube and collaborations with artists like Walter Trout, he has released multiple albums showcasing his evolution from traditional blues to a more intense sound. Wilde is nominated for “Instrumentalist of the Year” for 2025.
Janiva Magness’ album “Back For Me” marks her 17th release, showcasing a diverse collection of lesser-known tracks by established artists. Produced by Dave Darling, it reflects her emotional journey, connecting to her past struggles. Magness emphasizes her happiness amidst bittersweet memories, reaffirming her role as an interpreter of powerful songs.
Shari Puorto, originally from Connecticut, has made significant strides in music since moving to California in the late 1990s. Her latest album, “Hold On,” showcases her powerful vocals supported by talented musicians. Puorto’s style reflects rock and blues influences, and she continues to earn accolades for her engaging music.
Allison August’s album “August Moon” showcases her musical journey influenced by legends like the Beatles and Etta James. Produced by Grammy winner Tony Braunagel, the album features diverse themes from love and city life to personal loss, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to late collaborators. August’s talent shines throughout the project.