Joe Bonamassa Returns To His Roots With New Studio Album Blues Deluxe Vol. 2, Album review

Review by Halina Wegner

Joe Bonamassa, the eminent blues-rock maestro, is back with his latest offering, “Blues Deluxe Vol. 2,” reaffirming his status as a luminary in the contemporary blues and rock landscape. With a career spanning decades, Bonamassa’s virtuosity on the guitar and his soul-stirring vocals have consistently enthralled audiences. Here’s a deep dive into his latest musical creation.

Bonamassa’s guitar prowess is nothing short of legendary, a sentiment echoed by aficionados of all ages. He seamlessly weaves together an array of blues styles, from the Delta’s raw authenticity to the urban flair of Chicago blues, infusing them with a rock-infused energy that is uniquely his own. The album kicks off with “Twenty-Four Hour Blues,” a track that immediately puts his guitar skills in the spotlight, and the result is electrifying.

While Bonamassa’s guitar wizardry often takes centre stage, his vocal ability should not be underestimated. His raspy yet soulful voice is the perfect companion to his guitar’s emotive storytelling. It’s a voice that carries the weight of the blues, and it becomes strikingly evident on tracks like “It’s Hard But It’s Fair,” where his vocals grab your attention from the very first note.

“Dive deep with “Well I Done Got Over It,” a track that leans more towards pure blues than blues-rock. The noticeable shift in mood adds depth to the album, showcasing Bonamassa’s versatility and willingness to explore new sonic territories. Similarly, “I Want to Shout About It” exemplifies his ability to channel the spirit of classic blues while infusing it with a modern twist.

For me, the standout moment on the album arrives with “Lazy Poker Blues,” a blues gem that showcases Bonamassa’s unparalleled guitar work and vocals. The track is a testament to his technical prowess, leaving no doubt about his mastery of the craft. Originally Performed by Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac I have to say I like Bonamassa’s track better.

In summary, Joe Bonamassa’s latest album is a testament to his exceptional talent as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. “Blues Deluxe Vol. 2” breathes new life into the blues-rock genre, demonstrating his unwavering passion for the music and his willingness to push its boundaries. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of blues, a rock enthusiast, or both, this album is an absolute must-listen. It serves as a reminder of the transcendental power of superb musicianship and the authentic storytelling that music can convey.

Blues Deluxe Vol. 2 by Joe Bonamassa

1. Twenty-Four Hour Blues (originally performed by Bobby “Blue” Bland)
   2) It’s Hard But It’s Fair (originally performed by Bobby Parker)
   3) Well, I Done Got Over It (originally performed by Guitar Slim)
   4) I Want to Shout About It (originally performed by Ronnie Earle & The Broadcasters)
   5) Win-O (originally performed by Pee Wee Crayton)
   6) Hope You Realize It (Goodbye Again) *original song written by Joe Bonamassa & Tom Hambridge
   7) Lazy Poker Blues (originally performed by Fleetwood Mac)
   8) You Sure Drive a Hard Bargain (originally performed by Albert King)
   9) The Truth Hurts Feat Kirk Fletcher and Josh Smith (originally performed by Kenny Neal)
   10) Is It Safe To Go Home *original song written by Josh Smith

Produced By Josh Smith

Executive Producer: Roy Weisman

Recorded At Sunset Sound Studio B 

Engineer: JJ Blair 

Engineer: Austin Atwood 

Asst Engineer: George Janho & Zack Zajdel

Recorded At Ocean Way Nashville 

Engineer: Austin Atwood 

Asst Engineer: Ryan Yount 

Mixed By Alan Hertz

Mastered By Eric Boulanger At The Bakery Mastering

Main Musicians

Joe Bonamassa – Vocals/Guitar 

Josh Smith – Guitar 

Kirk Fletcher – Guitar 

Calvin Turner – Bass 

Lemar Carter – Drums 

Reese Wynans – Keys & B3 

Steve Patrick & Jeff Bailey – Trumpet

Jimmy Bowland – Sax, Flute, & Alto Flute

Mark Douthit – Sax

Barry Breen – Trombone

Matt Jefferson – Bass Trombone

Jade MacRae – Background Vocals

Dannielle DeAndrea – Background Vocals

Charles Jones – Background Vocals

Mahalia Barnes – Background Vocals

Strings:

Violin

David Angell (Contractor, Leader)

Conni Ellisor

Janet Darnall

Carrie Bailey 

Jenny Bifano

Ali Hoffman

Viola

Monisa Angell 

Elizabeth Lamb

Cello

Anthony La Marchina

Sari Reist

Paulie Cerra – Saxophone on “I Want To Shout About It”

Horn & String Arrangements: Calvin Turner