Major League Blues
Delmark, 2022
9/10
At just 34 years old, the guitarist and singer Jose Ramirez has shared the stage with the biggest names in the blues industry, and he’s the first Latin American blues artist to sign with the Delmark label.
Here, he’s aligned with the Delmark All-Star Band and the Jose Ramirez Studio Band for 10 memorable and well crafted blues gems, including a pair of covers from masters of Chicago Blues, Magic Sam and Eddie Taylor.
The title track opens the listen with thick and timeless blues that benefits from Bob Stroger’s proficient bass which complements Ramirez’s soulful pipes and Jimmy Johnson’s sturdy guitar, and “I Saw It Coming” follows with much emotion thanks to Wille ‘The Touch’ Hayes’ skilled drumming.
“My Love Is Your Love”, the best track with this ensemble, then showcases Roosevelt Purifoy’s exceptional organ prowess and Billy Flynn’s precise guitar, as Ramirez brings a slow burning and lush climate.
The back half of the listen leads with the dynamic and melodic “Whatever She Wants”, while “Forbidden Funk” picks up the pace with a lively energy that’s full of Kenny Watson Jr.’s infectious bass and Andre Key Jr.’s acrobatic keys. “After All This Time” exits the listen, and brings Shelly Bonet’s sublime pipes to the soulful and intimate finish.
An aptly titled effort, Ramirez indeed cements himself as a major player in the modern blues scene with this exceptional sophomore album that features the last recording of Jimmy Johnson.
Travels well with: Johnny Burgin- Live; Bob Stroger & The Headcutters- That’s My Name