James Armstrong - Blues At The Border (2011)

First album in 11 years by the Ambassador of the Blues. His three albums on Hightone put James Armstrong at the forefront of contemporary blues. Several of those songs have been used in movie soundtracks. In a world where TV reality shows promise instant stardom and post 9-11 travel hassles have forced many artists to hang up their guitars, James continues to tour in the U.S. and internationally as he has for over 25 years. This album, recorded in New York and Texas, is his debut on Catfood Records. Backed by top studio musicians, his searing slide work and soulful vocals make this his best recording to date. These 11 well-selected tracks draw on his rock, jazz, country, and folk influences as well as his deep blues roots, as he manages to transcend the constraints of musical boundaries. CBC Radio wrote "James plays for his audience, extending the reach of the blues to include highly-charged sensuality, yearning and good lowdown fun. Full of haunting and subtle nuances that point to a life rich with experience, this musician has definitely paid his dues."
Blues At The Border has made several best of 2011 lists, is receiving rave reviews and was selected as CD of the Month for February 2012 by the leading UK blues publication, Blues and Rhythm.