My Mississippi Roots
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
Listen to My Mississippi Roots
The veteran musician James ‘JB’ Barnes knows a thing or 2 about the blues, and he highlights his Mississippi heritage with these 13 authentic and memorable originals, tributes and reimagined classics.
The soulful and spirited “Get Up And Go Blues” opens with Barnes’ smooth voice and playful bass amid Carmine Diorio’s skilled drumming, and ‘Gotta Make A Change” follows with a calmer pace that showcases Jarred "Arktkt" Barnes’ warm keys that suit the emotive pipes.
Moving towards the middle, “Southern Girl” carries a dreamy spirit that’s eloquent and also a bit gritty, while “Sara Smiles” comes with some R&B nods, where the sharp guitar playing and well timed backing vocals help make for an inviting climate.
Deeper still, “Brush With The Blues” leads soft before the dense guitar licks take over, and “Stand Up And Give Peace And Love A Chance” exits and flirts with ‘70s rock that benefits much from Joey Stan’s animated horns.
A truly exceptional display of the blues, Barnes utilizes grooves, balladry, gospel moments, and meticulous layering that honors the legends before him while showcasing his inestimable talents.
Travels well with: Jay Hooks- Tequila & Bullets; Fred Hostetler- Blues Back Pages