Browsing: Reviews

Their undeniable chemistry was on full display as they exchanged scorching guitar solos and took turns on vocals. Drawing from their impressive backgrounds in Phil Lesh and Friends and collaborations with artists such as John Hiatt and Beyonce, Simo and Dickinson highlighted their extraordinary skills, further elevated by Abarashoff’s intricate drumming.

With a setlist that spanned new tracks and fan favorites, she poured vulnerability, humor, and immense power into every song, leaving the sold-out crowd deeply moved. The night was a testament to Ruth’s incredible journey—one of resilience, authenticity, and musical magic.

Stu and Debbie Hanna, with the added depth of bassist John Parker, create a haunting, nostalgic journey through industrial change and personal memories. Featuring a mix of original songs, traditional ballads, and the iconic “The Highwayman,” this new EP captures the essence of folk music’s ability to address societal struggles while remaining deeply rooted in personal and cultural heritage.

‘Songs From My Kitchen, Volume 1’ is a deeply personal album from Curtis Stigers, filled with emotionally charged tracks that highlight his connection to blues, jazz, and soul.

Backed by the Lou Levy Quartet, Ella delivers an unforgettable set that captures the essence of her artistry. From heartfelt ballads to show-stopping blues, this restored recording offers a glimpse into the magic of one of the greatest voices in music history.

John Primer takes flight into a new decade of music, demonstrating once again that you can’t paint the blues without the Primer!

An intimate evening of acoustic mastery, where the quietest moments spoke the loudest, as Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes) and MC Taylor (Hiss Golden Messenger) mesmerized the Chicago crowd with stripped-down performances that left a lasting impression.

This double vinyl captures the historic American Folk Blues Festival performances in 1962 and 1963, showcasing artists like John Lee Hooker, Sonny Boy Williamson II, T-Bone Walker, and Willie Dixon at their peak. Restored to impeccable quality, these recordings offer a front-row experience of the blues’ transformative impact on European audiences, forever influencing the global music landscape.

Illiterate Light defies expectations by reshaping their songs live, creating unique, dynamic performances that stand apart from their studio recordings. With genre-bending music and eco-conscious initiatives like The Bike Stage at Newport Folk Festival, they continue to forge a new path in both sound and sustainability.

‘John Mayall Plays John Mayall Live at Klooks Kleek’ captures his multifaceted talent, with standout harmonica solos and powerful vocal delivery, while his collaboration with saxophonists like Nigel Stanger introduces an unexpected yet powerful brass element to the music. This live recording not only highlights Mayall’s ability to seamlessly lead his band, but it also provides a glimpse into the early stages of British blues, paving the way for future generations.