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This is his second recent album and it is agreeable and likeable in a MOR sort of
way.
The songs themselves are excellently constructed, often with clever twists and
turns in the lyrics. There is no doubt too, that Will is an accomplished guitar
player. The recording quality is high and the arrangements are thoughtful and well
considered.
There are two small problems, one fairly easily rectified the second more
problematic. First, I kept on wishing that the guitar breaks were more forceful and
in-your-face. The guitar solos are set too far back in the mix for me, and as Will’s
style is often compared to Garry Moore (quite legitimately IMHO) it needs the
guitar solos to be boosted to bring them well to the front, over the rhythm section,
just like Mr Moore did.
The second problem for me (and it may be me alone) is the vocals. Will has a nice
melodic voice and sings well and in tune, but oh! that English accent. Maybe it
could work like a ‘hook’ or something and it’s possible it’s not been noticed by
others but for me it’s rather incongruous..
Nevertheless, the album is, in summary, well produced and skilfully delivered. Will
has dedicated his musical life to the Blues and deserves to be recognised for that!
Ian K McKenzie
Various Artists—Jus’ Blues 25th Anniversary
Legends Collection—Jus’ Blues Music
Foundation
The Jus’ Blues Music Foundation, based in Georgia,
USA, held its 25th Annual Jus’ Blues Music Awards
& Conference with a Star-Studded Week of Legacy,
Innovation and Soul at the end of July 2025. This
album is a celebration of that event and of their
quarter century of supporting the blues.
It consists of a selection of eleven previously
issued (but re-mastered) tracks, coupled with a
small selection of new cuts and the publication of some unreleased tracks. The
whole album might be seen as a summary of contemporary blues music, suitable
perhaps as an introduction to the genre for someone wanting to ‘know’ about
contemporary blues, gospel and soul music.
There are previously unreleased tracks, one from Trudy Lynn ’Turning the Same
Ole Corners’ and one from the late Lucky Peterson ’See My Way God’ and two
brand new tracks from Bobby Rush ’Garbage Man’ and Latimore, ‘Let’s Straighten
It Out’.
One fascinating inclusion is Zadakia Hooker, the late John Lee’s daughter who

