We’ve just gotten our hands on the next show-stopping compilation album from Bongo Boy Records. This indie label is known for compiling some of the industry’s brightest rising stars into genre-specific compilations that bring exposure to the musicians and quality entertainment to the fans. The label’s newest release is the next in a series of blues albums – this 14-track album Backroom Blues Volume Eleven is a dynamic, comprehensive dive into the work of today’s rising blues artists.
Kicking things off is Gar & Myke with their rock-based classic blues track Intentional Chaos. Gritty guitar riffs shine at the center of this track, bringing driving energy to the album right away. On That Morning of Mornings by J. Howard Duff keeps that same energy flowing, a gritty and swampy number that brings elements of texture and soul to a modern blues feel.
The work of songwriter Clark Ford never ceases to amaze as he steps boldly into the blues space with Housewife’s Blues, a truly clean and classic blues sound carried perfectly by the sultry vocals of Morgan Ridgely. Bible Belt Blues follows with Mighty Warriors for Christ, a blues-Christian-rock hybrid track that fully embodies the soulful, rich elements of the blues genre. Slow, intentional riffs and deliberate percussion emphasize this track’s strong messaging at every measure.
The version of Gypsy Carns‘ track Stock Market Blues included on this compilation is a stellar live rendition of their single, speaking loud and clear to the working man with money lost in the stock market. It’s a modern take on a classic melancholy blues theme, with a lead guitar that perfectly blends modern and classic blues elements alongside a growling lead vocal. This is followed by Got It by Big Bone Daddy, bringing us an uptempo swinging rhythm and plenty of great harmony inclusions that give this track a touch of modern rock flair at times.
Ann M. Wolf‘s track Lord, Don’t Move That Mountain is a gentle, jazzy, and haunting number. Ann’s voice is delicate and airy, a clear highlight of the track working in beautiful contrast against the deep piano and subtle percussion. And it wouldn’t be a Bongo Boy Records blues compilation if we didn’t find work from Sheba The Mississippi Queen. Her track Beg Borrow and Steal is a bonafide, classic 12-bar blues accentuated by Sheba’s iconic smoky vocals. These two tracks are no doubt two of the brightest highlights on this compilation.
We also love Champagne No Fizz from Gar Francis for bringing a funk element to this compilation, and Ending Blues by GURLIK for its definitively modern take on a blues-inspired track, comprised solely of synths and electronic instruments. Closing things out we have the ever-entertaining Grit’s Guitar with Run Like a River, showcasing the consistently impressive, dynamic guitar skills this artist seems to possess in every one of his releases, and grounding us in a true classic blues sound once more.
These blues compilations have been called “highly desired and requested by Blues radio DJs and Blues lovers from around the world“, and it’s absolutely no secret as to why. Bongo Boy Records always does a phenomenal job highlighting the talent and musicianship of these blues artists, selecting only the best of the best and combining the tracks in such a way that makes listening through each compilation effortless. Backroom Blues Volume Eleven is of course no exception, and if you have any appreciation for the blues style you’d be remiss not to pick up a copy of this compilation for yourself.
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BELOW: Listen to Backroom Blues Volume Eleven and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Bongo Boy Records by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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