Colin James — ‘Blue Highways’

Label: True North Records (release date: October 14, 2016)

“Colin James” is the answer to the age old question, “Do Canadians ever get the blues?”

If you doubt it, then get James’ new album, Blue Highways (his eighteenth), and believe.

On Blue Highways, Colin James takes us on a journey through some of his favorite blues songs, which he has not previously recorded. The collection covers a range of styles (paying tribute to Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed, Freddie King, Jr. Wells & Buddy Guy, Peter Green, Robert Johnson and William Bell and others) and it adds up to a satisfying listen. James takes an easy-going approach to most of the material, making it clear that the blues, for him, are an intimate experience. His artistry draws the listener in, toward the singer and the song. James knows how to communicate so well that at times, you’d swear this was a “live” album.

Someone once said that the blues are a mighty long road. Or was it a river? I do know this, though: if it’s a highway, and if Colin James is driving, it’s a helluva pleasurable ride.

Essential Downloads: “Watch Out,” “Big Road Blues,” “Goin’ Away,” “Don’t Miss Your Water.”

To preview or purchase this album on iTunes, click here.

To visit Colin James’ website, click here.