John Mayall — Talk About That

Comprised of eight originals and three covers (from writers Bettye Crutcher, Jerry Lynn Williams and Jimmy Rogers), Talk About That effortlessly blends past and present material under one unifying voice. That voice is that of legendary bluesman John Mayall. Mayall’s new album proves, once again, why he is one of the world’s preeminent players of blues guitar. His devotion to the genre has provided decades of remarkable music, whilst also furnishing a workplace of inestimable insight to many musicians who have gone on to exceptional careers of their own (including Eric Clapton, Peter Green and Mick Taylor).

Contemplate, if you will, the artists who join Mayall (vocals, organ, piano, keyboards, harmonica, guitar) on Talk About That and you’ll understand just what I’m talking about: Joe Walsh (lead guitar on two tracks), Rocky Athas (lead and rhythm guitar), Greg Rzab (bass guitar, percussion),  Jay Davenport (drums, percussion), along with the horn trio Ron Dziubla (sax), Mark Pender (trumpet) and Nick Lane (trombone). Under the deft guidance of co-producers Mayall and engineer Eric Corne, these musicians play with enough joy to bring an instant end to the current winter blast outside. Theirs is a collaboration of elation, full of interwoven intentions and mutually reliable musical support. The blues have never sounded so agreeable.

Essential Downloads: “The Devil Must Be Laughing,” “Cards on the Table,” “Goin’ Away Baby.”

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