John Primer was born and raised in Camden, Mississippi in a sharecropping family. One can hear it in every note, and it is the reason that his new album, Grown In Mississippi is such an impressive experience. Influenced by blues and gospel music during his youth, he later moved to Chicago where he performed with artists such as Magic Slim, Junior Wells, Willie Dixon, and Muddy Waters. Primer formed his own Real Deal Band in 1995 and has maintained an active career for more than 30 years. He returned to Mississippi to produce this album that is so reflective of his life’s journey. It is a pleasure to hear.

The album includes contributions from guest musicians, including Bobby Rush, Charlie Musselwhite, Watermelon Slim, Eden Brent, Lightnin’ Malcolm, and Deak Harp, serving as a tribute to Primer’s home state. Rickey “Quicksand” Martin or Lee Williams play drums on various tracks. Harvell Thomas Jr. is on bass, Billy Earheart appears on piano and keyboards for select tracks, and Steve Bell performs harmonica on a few songs.

Give this exquisite album a listen. It is as traditional and authentic as they come.