Joanna Connor - Nothing But The Blues (2000)

Brooklyn, NY-born vocalist/composer/electric slide guitarist Joanna Connor honed her craft, shedding and learning in Chicago's blues clubs. However, with several albums to her credit along with a seemingly hefty touring schedule, the artist has attained prominence in Europe and abroad, as the high-octane "Nothing But The Blues" was recorded live in Bamberg, Germany. Essentially, Ms. Connor once again demonstrates her exuberant blues-based convictions via her spirited vocals, electrified crunch chords and scorching slide guitar lines. Supported by a rock solid band, featuring bassist Darnell Wilcher, drummer Lance Lewis and guitarist Tony Palmer, Ms. Connor belts out a series of standard and original compositions amid a 70's style hard rock groove, brimming with fiery dynamics and strong soloing. And while the author of the CD liners boldly states; "This is the future of blues-rock", admirers of sizzling blues-drenched guitar licks, impacting opuses and bone-crushing interplay might reap huge benefits here. ~Glenn Astarita