German guitarist Stefan Hillesheim, noted for his expressive slide guitar and soulful vocals, showcases his talent in a live album recorded at the Chicago Blues Festival. Featuring original compositions and two covers, the music reflects the heart and energy of Chicago blues, blending tradition with modern influences alongside skilled bandmates.
Brother John, comprised of seasoned Philadelphia blues artists Johnny Never and John Colgan-Davis, showcases their musical bond in the album “Black Crow.” With powerful storytelling and diverse blues styles, including gospel and Piedmont influences, the duo captures themes of love, loss, and humanity, affirming the vitality of blues music in contemporary culture.
Lily Sazz’s debut album, “What Just Happened,” showcases her transition from a background musician to a solo artist. Following a challenging year, the album features a heartfelt collection of songs that blend humor, emotion, and honesty. With an array of guest musicians, it explores themes of love, grief, and personal growth.
“Jackson and the Janks” is a New York rock and rhythm-and-blues gospel band celebrated for their lively dance music. Their latest album, featuring seven originals and a cover, showcases Jackson Lynch’s talents alongside a skilled ensemble. The vibrant tracks blend humor and emotion, immersing listeners in a joyful and energetic groove.
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.
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.
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.
Bahamas, the musical project of Afie Jurvanen, releases his seventh album, My Second Best Last Album, recorded casually in Nova Scotia. The collection showcases his signature blend of warmth and introspection, touching on themes of identity, connection, and personal renewal. Each track reflects his evolution as a songwriter, making it his most personal record yet.
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.
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.
Pavlov’s Dog, formed in the 1970s, blends rock, classical, and folk music, achieving cult status. Their latest album, Wonderlust, showcases renewed creativity and skill, featuring member collaborations and David Surkamp’s unique vocals. With engaging tracks and profound themes, the band continues to evolve, proving their lasting relevance in progressive rock.