While the principal writer and tour de force of this website is still recovering from the devestating post season performance of the Los Angeles Dodgers, I thought I would jump in and get this edition of BLUES JUNCTION moving.

Typically David writes a lovely Letter from the Editor, but he’s still in mourning so I’m here to direct you to the great pieces we have published for November. 

First, we have a review of Al Blake’s latest offering, a career retrospective which every blues fan should own, Al Blake’s XXL Bag of Blues Volume 1.  This release has been much anticipated and is very limited so check out the Monthly Album Spotlight and then get a copy.  Al Blake, both solo and with the Hollywood Fats band and Hollywood Blue Flames, has been an influence on the work of many young blues artists.  Check out his influences in Al Blake’s Ten Essential Blues Albums.

This year two amazing European blues bands celebrate milestone anniversaries.  It’s the silver anniversary for trickbag and they are providing the gift, a fantastic release of all original tunes which reflect the diversity and growth of the band since its inception in 1994.  25 Years of Houserockin’ Rhythm’ N’ Blues! is not to be missed.

Thirty years?  Yep, that’s how long B.B. & the Blues Shacks have been giving audiences the thrill of a lifetime with their performances.  Their anniversary release, Dirty Thirty, is a three disc set of two previously released cds and a third of original, older Blues Shacks tunes, taken from the shelf, dusted off and reimagined as a celebratory soundtrack for their fans.

Last month we were blessed with a reunion performance of the Hacienda Brothers.  They have a great, retrospective album out, Western Soul, and have more performances slated for Texas this month.  Read about the band, the album and why they are so special in Re-Visited.

Like the movies, it seems that “end of year” releases provide some of the best entertainment of the year.  Check out Recommended Listening and judge for yourself.

Charlie’s Re-Issue Rodeo is once again providing a list of vintage music repackaged for your listening pleasure.

I very rarely step out from behind the “curtain” of editing to express my opinions on this website, but this month I have the opportunity to say THANK YOU to all of you who read this website, support our efforts and recognize the very special talent we are blessed to have in David Mac.  With his writing, the many awesome artists we are able to feature and the platform we have where other writers and photographers can be featured, BLUES JUNCTION has become known as a place to find quality articles and the latest in blues, roots and soul music.  We know how truly blessed we are to have this platform and are grateful every day for it and our readers.

It is our hope that everyone has something to be thankful for and recognizes that.  We do.  Enjoy the November edition of BLUES JUNCTION and as David Mac says, be well and be in touch.

-  Tracy Morgan, Senior Editor



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