Joanna Connor – Best of Me
11 songs – 39 minutes
Chicago-based blues powerhouse Joanna Connor returns with a bang in "Best of Me," a scorching album that features her unparalleled guitar skills and a stellar lineup of guest musicians. With a career spanning decades and a recent chart-topping album under her belt, Connor continues to prove why she's a force to be reckoned with in the blues scene.
"Best of Me" kicks off with the lively "House Rules," setting the stage for a high-energy ride. With an enthusiastic live audience at the Mines, emcee Frank Pellegrino introduces Connor before the band launches into a horn-fueled shuffle that demands listeners hit the dance floor. Connor's vocals, filled with conviction, make it clear that this is a call to action.
The album boasts a mix of blues-drenched soul, rock, funk, and country, with ten original tracks and a well-chosen cover. The interplay of Connor's regular touring band, the Wrecking Crew, alongside guest musicians like Joe Bonamassa, Josh Smith, and Mike Zito, creates a sonic tapestry that's both powerful and dynamic.
"Pain and Pleasure," featuring Josh Smith, is a standout track that rides on a funky Latin beat. It explores the nuances of a new romance, capturing the thrill and uncertainty that comes with the territory. The ballad "Best of Me" showcases Connor's vocal prowess against a backdrop of sweet guitar tones, delving into the emotional aftermath of heartbreak.
The collaboration with Joe Bonamassa on "Highway Child" is a fiery, country-tinged rocker that celebrates the life of a road warrior. The emotional depth of "I Lost You" is palpable, with Connor's solo expressing the pain of saying goodbye. "Two of a Kind" and "All I Want Is You" continue the theme of romance and connection, each track showcasing Connor's versatility.
The reimagining of Robert Geddins and K.C. Douglas' "Mercury Blues" adds a modern touch to the classic country tune, and "Shadow Lover" introduces a request for undercover romance with a rock edge. "Greatest of These" is a passionate ballad celebrating triumph over troubles, while "Shine On" closes the album with a percussive, upbeat rocker featuring Gary Hoey and Jason Ricci.
Joanna Connor's guitar prowess and emotive vocals shine throughout "Best of Me." With a career resurgence sparked by the attention of Joe Bonamassa and a string of powerful releases, Connor cements her status as a blues force. This album is a testament to her enduring talent and should propel her into the spotlight for years to come.
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