It's been a cool summer in several places, but not the Blues! Here is the grooviest of Summer 2004.
1. R. L. Burnside - A Bothered Mind
R.L. Burnside ain't scared! This is another musical trip way out of town from mainstream Blues. The combination of raw Blues mashed with modern sampling and surprizing guest artists like Willie Nelason and Kid Rock, make this another unique Blues venture by Burnside and the folks at Fat Possum Records.
2. Dr. John - N'Awlinz: Dis Dat Or D'Udda
Anytime Dr. John releases a record with "New Orleans" in the title you can be sure it's gonna be funky. The good doctor does it again with the best collection of N'Awlinz music since "Goin' Back to New Orleans".
3. Smokin Joe Kubek, Bnois King - Show Me the Money
I've always loved the rough and tumble Texas Blues and Smokin' Joe Kubek has been one of my favorites. His searing guitar is classic Texas ala Jimmie Vaughan and Anson Funderburg. But I also love contrast, so when you add the top-shelf, whiskey-smooth voice of Bnois King, you have the best in Texas Blues.4. Bruce Katz - Deeper Blue
The amazing thing about this guy is that he is a music professor, but plays like a juke joint hero. Katz's B3 work is pure class.5. W. C. Clark - Deep in the Heart
Every town has their Blues heros, and in Austin, Texas W.C. Clark is a Blues institution. Like his past efforts, As usual,Clark shows his Blues maturity with great songs and strong performances.6. Nick Curran & The Nitelifes - Player
Nick Curran is currently the young hot-shot in the Blues. This Handy-winning guitarist injects the Blues with a great fresh mojo.7. Vassar Clements - Livin With the Blues
Florida fiddle monster Vassar Claments has not been widely recognised in Blues circles. But Bluegrass and the Blues are not that far apart on the musical family tree. It's Blues, it's Country, it's cool!8. Carey & Lurrie Bell - Second Nature
Carey Bell and his son Lurrie are Chicago Blues. This long awaited record places these two artist where they belong, next to each other.9. Kelley Hunt - New Shade of Blue
Kelly Hunt seems to be following in Bonnie Raitt's footsteps. She is recieving rave reports from her live shows and here second release.10. Sue Foley - Change
There are several women artists in the Blues, but Sue Foley is in a league of her own as a guitar slinger and singer.