Ronnie Earl — Beyond the Blue Door

Award-winning blues guitar master Ronnie Earl delivers his new record, Beyond the Blue Door, on August 30th, 2019 on Stony Plain Records. The set features Earl backed by his band The Broadcasters, as well as guest appearances by Kim Wilson (harmonica and vocals), David Bromberg (acoustic guitar and vocals), and Greg Piccolo (tenor sax) performing a blend of original and classic material.

It’s the latest release from the prolific and consistent Ronnie Earl, the four-time Blues Music Award winner as “Guitar Player of the Year.” This disc showcases the collaborative aspects of the group of artists involved. Mr. Earl is surrounded by the best type of musicians — those that play so well together because they rely on each other, since they are individually seemingly lost in their own instruments. It’s music that connects.

I’m not exactly sure who Alexis is in Mr. Earl’s life, but she must be something special. The track titled “Alexis’ Song” is one of the most heartfelt tributes I’ve heard in quite awhile. On a cloud of tenor sax, the song communicates all the tenderness and devotion that, occasionally, a sweet song without a single word can. Equally impressive is the acoustic rendition of Bob Dylan’s “It Takes A Lot To Laugh, It Takes A Train To Cry,” featuring the well-lived (and -worn) vocals of David Bromberg.

Ronnie Earl believes in the redemptive and healing power of music, and that’s achieved in the collection of 15 substantial songs on this stirring disc.