Helge Tallqvist of Finland is one of the best exponents of chromatic harp today with a deep understanding of the subtle tones and innate swing of the masters.  

A decade ago, Tallqvist released one of the best harp records we've heard called, ...Plays George Harmonica Smith. In 2013, he and his band backed up exciting young Finnish vocalist, Ina Forsman.

This new fourteen track, all instrumental release presents more wonderful covers of George Smith songs as well as a trio of Lee Allen instrumentals that really rock. The sleeper of the set though is his take on Ode to Billy Joe, the country/soul classic that was first recorded by Bobbie Gentry.  Guitarist Tomi Leino, who has been recording recently with Swedish blues sensations Trickbag, is featured throughout the record and adds his solid and sparse sounds to the proceedings. Harp lovers take notice. In Footsteps is a good one. If you aren’t familiar with Helge Tallqvist you might enjoy the interview he did with David Mac which you can find in this edition of BLUES JUNCTION.

- Charlie Lange