Blues/rock guitarist, singer and songwriter Joanna Connor recently made her Gulf Coast Records label debut with Best of Me, her latest album is a blend of blues, funk, R&B, soul and country, and a testament to her musical intensity. No doubt Connor could have released a “Best” album in any one of these genres.

Along with her band The Wrecking Crew (Shaun Gotti Calloway – bass; Dan Souvigny – guitar and keys; Curtis Moore Jr. – keys; and Jason J Roc Edwards – drums and vocals.), Connor (on vocals and guitar) electrifies. Special guests include Joe Bonamassa (guitar), Josh Smith (guitar), Jason Ricci (harmonica) Eric Demmer (saxophone), Gary Hoey (guitar), Gulf Coast Records president Mike Zito (guitar), and The Grooveline Horns.

Best of Me is as much about the strength of the songs as it is the stellar musicianship. In order to impress to the degree that she does, with her shredding, igniting guitar work, Connor must have material that showcases her multiple gifts. And, with the songs collected here—most composed in conjunction with Shawn Calloway—she does.