Charlie Barath, a Pittsburgh native and harmonica expert, merges blues, roots, and Americana in his music. After EPs in 2021, he released his debut album, “Just Me and My Friends,” followed by the second album, “Issaquena Getaway,” recorded in Mississippi. The album showcases Barath’s versatile harmonica skills and includes twelve original songs, highlighting his deep commitment to the blues tradition.
The Altered Five Blues Band, established in 2002 and based in Milwaukee, has released their eighth album, “Hammer & Chisel,” produced by Grammy winner Tom Hambridge. The band focuses on original material and features guest musicians. The album showcases their unique sound, reflecting two decades of musical experience and creativity in modern blues.
Crystal Shawanda, an Indigenous Canadian artist, showcases her love for blues in her eighth album, “Sing Pretty Blues.” With influences like Etta James, the album features a blend of personal storytelling and emotional depth. Produced by her husband, it highlights her evolution as a musician, reaffirming her position in the modern blues scene.
Billy Thompson, an accomplished musician blending blues, rock, and funk, has performed widely across the US and internationally. His latest album, “This World,” features original songs highlighting themes of love and social commentary. With an impressive career collaborating with music legends, Thompson continues to captivate audiences with his unique sound.
Duke Robillard, a two-time Grammy nominee, releases his album “Blast Off” on February 20, 2026, with Nola Blue Records. The 12-track collection showcases his versatility in blues, swing, jazz, and R&B, featuring original compositions and classic covers. Robillard highlights his enduring influence on American roots music through this celebratory work.
Ed Alstrom’s latest album, “This Idea of Humanity,” showcases his diverse musical journey, blending blues with personal reflections. He plays multiple instruments and delivers lead vocals, accompanied by notable guests. The album features themes of love, resilience, and societal issues, culminating in a heartfelt exploration of humanity’s complexities.
South Mississippi native Davey Jones will release his album “Ball Cap Blues” on January 23, 2026. The nine-track collection blends Southern and contemporary influences while honoring the Mississippi blues tradition. With varied themes and genres, Jones showcases both personal reflections and regional imagery, solidifying his unique approach to the blues.
The Dedicated Men of Zion, a sacred soul quartet from North Carolina, release their third album, “Coming Up Through the Years.” Featuring themes of faith, struggle, and perseverance, the album blends gospel and soul. Co-produced by notable musicians, it showcases the quartet’s deep familial ties and rich musical tradition spanning over 300 years.
Omar Coleman and Igor Prado collaborate on the album “Old, New, Funky And Blue,” featuring a blend of original tracks and reimagined covers inspired by blues legends. With infectious grooves and soulful performances, the album showcases Coleman’s harmonica and vocals alongside Prado’s guitar work. It’s a celebration of blues tradition and contemporary sound.
Lucinda Williams, a Grammy-winning artist, releases her album World’s Gone Wrong on January 23, 2025, tackling socio-political issues through raw and urgent songwriting. The album features themes of struggle, resilience, division, and moral reckoning, culminating in a call to action and hope for a better future amidst turmoil.
The Lowest Pair, an American folk band, releases their seventh album, Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be, under Team Love Records. This ten-song collection explores life’s uncertainties, emphasizing themes of love, resilience, and emotional confusion. The duo, Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee, reflects on life’s imperfections in their heartfelt lyrics.
Erik Vincent Huey, a fourth-generation coal miner’s son from West Virginia, embodies his Appalachian roots in his music. His upcoming album, Fort Defiance, produced by Eric Ambel, features a mix of original songs and a Bob Dylan cover. With influences from cowpunk and Americana, Huey delivers authentic narratives reflecting escapism and personal experiences.
Teresa James’ fourteenth album, “Bad at Being Good,” showcases her signature rockin’ roadhouse blues style. Featuring a talented ensemble, the album includes tracks like “Love’s a Full-Time Job” and “We Came to Rock.” With heartfelt lyrics and emotional honesty, James continues to solidify her legacy in the music industry.
Alex Lopez, hailing from Cleveland, blends rock and blues through his band The Xpress. His musical journey includes several albums, showcasing original songs that reflect themes of love, hardship, and resilience. Notable releases include “Nasty Crime,” hitting number one in 2022, and “Looking for a Change” in 2023.
Stew Cutler’s upcoming album, “Undercover (Mostly),” features nine tracks, including seven covers and two originals, set for release on February 6, 2026. The album showcases Cutler’s guitar and harmonica skills alongside Bobby Harden’s vocals. Recorded in fall 2025, it offers fresh interpretations of classic songs with a blues twist.
Charles Tiner, known as N’Treble, is a Chicago-born blues artist rooted in gospel music. His follow-up album, Good Soul, showcases eleven original tracks that blend soulful vocals with vibrant arrangements. Tiner’s experience as a church musician influences his powerful songwriting, making the album a compelling representation of his artistry and passion for blues.
The Johnny Max Band celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary with the album “Johnny Max & His So-Called Friends.” Drawing from diverse musical influences, the band features original songs and reimagined classics. Led by Johnny Max, they emphasize themes of reflection, love, and social commentary, showcasing their seasoned musical talent. Highly recommended.
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.