SmokeHouse - Cadillac In The Swamp (1995)

Cadillac in the Swamp is a torrid, steaming album, powered by the gutsy, powerful songwriting and singing of harpist Anthony Thompson. Smokehouse reworks the deep, swampy groove of New Orleans and Delta blues, adding the electric energy of Chicago blues. Thompson is a raw, greasy harmonica player, evoking the classic licks of Little Walter. He's not as good a singer -- his range is quite limited -- but he is a forceful and emotional vocalist and he's one hell of a songwriter; unlike many of his contemporaries, he is not afraid of tackling big social issues. Guitarist Robert Thomas is equally impressive, spitting out firey solos and muscular riffs throughout the record. That musical dexterity and sinewy energy shines throughout Cadillac in the Swamp, a first-rate modern blues album.