The most excellent and esteemed Joe Louis Walker was recently a star attraction on a cruise line that specializes in making sure that the only vacation blues coming up are the [positive] ones you signed up for! And since this was actually a bit of a news flash to me I thought I’d share, since the “Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise” is a phenomenon that brings top blues artists to its “cruisers” as they sail to their destinations. In this case, the effort was also committed to a cd: “Blues Conspiracy: Live on the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise.”

The interesting thing about this cd is that in spite of its being a live recording – something I am often not fond of – it really manages to translate the experience without seeming contrived or forced. As well as Joe, there are also some significant guests floating alongside, notably Johnny Winter, Duke Robillard Watermelon Slim and Tommy Castro and that’s just to name a few. Joe makes a point of giving a shout out to soon-to-be-known-better cutie Brit musician Todd Sharpville and his contributions to “Tell Me Why” are definitely note worthy. These guys are clearly having a blast by the way also and that certainly comes through on the record. It’s not just a bunch of tired, constantly re-heated blues leftovers that one can sometimes encounter in this kind of situation either – – it’s predominantly Joe’s own tunes. Also, the track selection and presentation is certainly thoughtful and well put together. (Not sure if Duke Robillard had any influence here but you can really feel his imprint on the cd too …)
Here’s what you get on the cd:

1. Slow Down GTO
2. Ain’t That Cold
3. You’re Gonna Make Me Cry
4. Eyes Like a Cat
5. Ten More Shows to Play
6. Born in Chicago
7. Sugar Mama
8. Tell Me Why
9. A Poor Man’s Plea
10. It’s a Shame
11. 747

I should credit Joe’s own band as well consisting of: Joe Louis Walker (guitar, slide guitar and vocals) Kevin Burton (piano and organ) Linwood Taylor (guitar) Henry Oden (bass) and Jeff Minnieweather (drums).

Click below to sample and enjoy!



*** Editor’s note: In the interest of full disclosure, this is a cd that was sent to me free of charge.