James Cotton Blues Documentary Is Pitch Perfect
Harmonicist blues musician James Cotton was a powerhouse performer, and Bestor Cram’s documentary Bonnie Blues captures his essence with great admiration.
blues
JoBoxers Pull No Punches in This Retrospective Interview
British new wave/ progressive soul band JoBoxers talk with PopMatters about cracking whips at lions and tigers and pulling no punches with their new box set of lost albums.
Reed Turchi Sings and Plays Like the World Is on Fire
Reed Turchi’s World on Fire contains eight old-style country blues numbers stripped down to their essence. He finds that plain truths provide solace.
Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ Sound Happy and Bring the Fun
Room on the Porch proves there is more room for Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ to create, sing, and be happy with their collective union.
Mississippi John Hurt Reissue Brings Us Closer to The Legendary Bluesman
Bluesman Mississippi John Hurt’s innovative guitar playing and down-to-earth vocal delivery are elevated in these updated recordings.
John Lee Hooker’s Blues Legend Thrives on New Compilation
Unheard for half a century, John Lee Hooker’s Standard School Broadcast Recordings offer a fresh addition to the legacy of one of the all-time great blues performers.
Justin Adams and Mauro Durante Discover Common Ground
On Sweet Release, Justin Adams and Mauro Durante’s second album together, they unearth ancient, elemental spirits that live half-hidden in the modern world.
Mdou Moctar Mourns with Sadness on ‘Tears of Injustice’
Mdou Moctar’s Tears of Injustice is cause for mourning and melancholy. It makes time for lamentation, knowing there is more to sustaining resistance than fighting with fire.
Lonnie Johnson’s Guitar Genius Is the Star on ‘Blues & Ballads’
The re-release of Lonnie Johnson in 2025 suggests that audiences can still draw inspiration from the painful past with hope for the present and future.
When “Hocus Pocus” Guitar God Jan Akkerman Went Kind of Blue
Jan Akkerman’s discography is vast and ranges from rock to jazz to classical works, several including solo performances on the guitar forerunner, the lute.
Ollee Owens Protects Us When There Is ‘Nowhere to Hide’
Ollee Owen expresses that quintessential blues vibe of “we are all in this together” no matter what troubles come down the road.
Samantha Fish Fires Up the Fillmore on a Magical Night
Samantha Fish and her quartet pour gasoline on the sonic campfire with an electrifying sound that mixes more rock into the blues power stew.