Billy Jones & The Delta Blues Outlaws – Welcome to the Blues Highway
Self Released/Billy Jones Bluez
12 tracks/60 minutes
Billy Jones and his band, The Delta Blues Outlaws, take listeners on a captivating ride through the heart of blues with their latest live release, "Welcome to the Blues Highway." Hailing from the Bay Area, Jones infuses his music with a modern twist, drawing inspiration from blues legends like Chaka Khan, Chocolate Milk, and the Bar-Kays. This self-released album showcases twelve tracks that blend gritty blues, soulful vocals, and infectious grooves, creating a memorable experience for blues enthusiasts.
The journey begins with "Shadetree Mechanic," a rollicking tune filled with automotive metaphors, where Jones' gravelly vocals and funky guitar work set the stage for what's to come. The energy continues with a soulful rendition of Charles Brown's "Please Come Home for Christmas," featuring emotional vocals and a standout organ solo that adds depth to the performance.
In "Running Out Of Lies," Jones delves into the struggles of a relationship, delivering a heavy, soul-infused sound that showcases both his vocal prowess and the band's tight instrumentation. The honky-tonk piano in "Trying To Get Next To You" adds a playful touch to the track, creating a lively atmosphere as Jones passionately expresses his desire.
A medley of "Someone New – Before I Let Go" exhibits the band's versatility, seamlessly blending soul and blues elements. The infectious groove of "No Diggity" adds a modern twist to the mix, with Jones showcasing his funky side and delivering a vibrant performance.
"Love's Train" takes a mellower turn, allowing Jones to display his emotive guitar skills and soulful vocals. The dance-worthy "Barefootin'" injects a dose of fun into the album, capturing the essence of a live, energetic performance. The slow and introspective "Can We Talk" explores the complexities of relationships, with Jones laying bare his emotions through heartfelt lyrics.
"Everyday Will Be Like A Holiday" brings a sense of nostalgia, with Jones crooning about reuniting with a loved one. A soulful rendition of "Tennessee Whiskey" showcases Jones' interpretative skills, infusing the song with his signature style. The album concludes on a reflective note with "Keep On Rolling," a slow-paced track that provides a fitting end to this bluesy journey.
While the live recording may lack some polish, it adds an authentic and raw quality to the music, capturing the essence of Billy Jones and The Delta Blues Outlaws' performance.
"Welcome to the Blues Highway" stands as a testament to their passion for the blues, offering a diverse collection of tracks that will resonate with blues aficionados and newcomers alike.
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