Allison August’s new album, August Moon (on MoMojo Records), showcases the multiple talents of this Southern California-based singer. The album is produced by Grammy-winner Tony Braunagel, who also performs drums on most tracks. August Moon highlights August’s exceptional vocal abilities, supported by a group of renowned musicians, including Paul Barrere (guitar), Mike Finnigan (keyboards), Lenny … Continue reading
Tag Archives: blues music
New Blues: Max Hightower — ‘Nothin’ But The Truth’
On Max Hightower‘s new album—Nothin’ But The Truth—his vocal style, reminiscent of some of the best blues musicians, is framed by a crew of equally gifted instrumentalists, and because of that each track shines. Hightower’ earthy, raw approach feels both invigorating and timeless. It’s an album that sends you in search of information about his … Continue reading
New Blues: Jimmy Vivino — ‘Gonna Be 2 of Those Days’
Guitarist Jimmy Vivino will release his label (Gulf Coast Records) debut album, Gonna Be 2 of Those Days, on February 14, 2025. It’s an album that features all of the passion and power expected from this monster musician. It also features special guests Joe Bonamassa and John Sebastian. After his highly successful run as the leader of Jimmy Vivino and the … Continue reading
New Blues: Greg Nagy — The Real You
Greg Nagy‘s recently released album,, The Real You, is all about the bluesy approach he brings to the ideas in the songs. He amplifies the compositions not only with vocals and instrumentation, but with his very soul. The album is a perfect antidote to anything that needs a remedy in the world. In other words, … Continue reading
New Jazz / Blues: Blue Moon Marquee — ‘New Orleans Sessions’
When you open a CD and the inside cover reads “This album was recorded over two afternoons, one year apart at Bigtone Records in New Orleans, Louisiana. The songs were recorded live off the floor directly to tape using vintage analogue equipment. The sounds were captured with all the musicians in one room playing together, … Continue reading
New Blues: Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne — ‘Ooh Yeah!’
(release date: November 15, 2024) Keyboardist Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne (having received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jus’ Blues Foundation, among several others) has assembled another highly engaging album that will, no doubt, earn him more acclaim. His new release, Ooh Yeah!, is one of those discs where each track could easily be twice … Continue reading
New Blues: Albert Castiglia — ‘Righteous Souls’
Albert Castiglia‘s latest album, Righteous Souls, displays the guitar slinger at his best. The contemporary blues album explores (and delivers) deeply within each song. The album features an abundance of skilled and dexterous guest artists, including Rayne Castiglia (vocals), Joe Bonamassa (guitar), Josh Smith (guitar), Danielle Nicole (vocals), Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram (guitar), Popa Chubby (guitar), … Continue reading
New Blues: True Blues Brother: The Legacy Of Matt ‘Guitar’ Murphy
Blues Hall of Fame inductee Matt “Guitar” Murphy’s legacy, including his last three studio recordings, is honored on this double album, True Blues Brothers. Featured artists include Doyle Bramhall II, Fran Christina & The Original Roomful of Blues, Steve Cropper, Ronnie Earl, Sax Gordon, Jaimoe, Bill Kirchen, Chuck Leavell, Bob Margolin, James Montgomery, Tracy Nelson, Johnny … Continue reading
New Blues: The Fabulous Thunderbirds — ‘Struck Down’
They’re just about the most consistent band out there. Fans of contemporary blues and blues/rock are in luck: The Fabulous Thunderbirds have released their first new studio album in eight years, and yes, it’s another solid album. Founder Kim Wilson leads the way (vocals and harmonica) on Struck Down, the band’s 50th anniversary release, which … Continue reading
New Soul/Blues: Ollee Owens — ‘Nowhere To Hide’
If sweet vibes sound good to you, then pay attention to Nowhere To Hide, the upcoming release from soul/blues dynamo Ollee Owens. The album delivers eleven tracks that cover a range of emotional territory, and, in doing so, allow Owens to display her gift for conveying present ideas with classic soulful undercurrents. Owens successfully offers … Continue reading