Joe Bonamassa - Blues Of Desperation (2LP) - Limited Edition Silver Vinyl

**Album Review: Joe Bonamassa - Blues of Desperation**

Joe Bonamassa, the prolific blues-rock guitarist and singer, released his twelfth studio album, "Blues of Desperation," on March 25, 2016. Known for his virtuosic guitar skills and deep understanding of the blues genre, Bonamassa continues to push the boundaries of modern blues with this album. "Blues of Desperation" is a testament to his growth as an artist and his ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary rock elements.

The album was produced by Kevin Shirley, a long-time collaborator of Bonamassa, who has worked with him on several previous projects. Shirley's production expertise is evident throughout the album, as he manages to capture the raw energy of Bonamassa's live performances while maintaining a polished studio sound. The album was recorded at the Grand Victor Sound Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, a city known for its rich musical heritage.

"Blues of Desperation" features eleven tracks, each showcasing Bonamassa's exceptional guitar work and emotive vocal delivery. The album opens with "This Train," a high-energy track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. With its driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs, "This Train" immediately grabs the listener's attention and highlights Bonamassa's ability to blend blues with rock influences.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Mountain Climbing," which features a catchy chorus and a memorable guitar solo. The song's lyrics speak to themes of perseverance and determination, which are common motifs in Bonamassa's work. Another notable track is the title song, "Blues of Desperation," a slower, more introspective piece that showcases Bonamassa's soulful vocal delivery and intricate guitar work.

The album also includes "Drive," a hauntingly beautiful ballad that highlights Bonamassa's versatility as a musician. The song's minimalist arrangement allows his voice and guitar to take center stage, creating an intimate and emotional listening experience. "No Good Place for the Lonely" is another highlight, featuring an extended guitar solo that demonstrates Bonamassa's technical prowess and deep connection to the blues tradition.

Throughout "Blues of Desperation," Bonamassa is backed by a talented group of musicians, including Anton Fig on drums, Michael Rhodes on bass, Reese Wynans on keyboards, and a horn section that adds depth and texture to several tracks. The chemistry between Bonamassa and his band is palpable, and their tight performances contribute to the album's cohesive sound.

Lyrically, "Blues of Desperation" explores themes of love, loss, and longing, with Bonamassa drawing on personal experiences and universal emotions. His songwriting is both introspective and relatable, allowing listeners to connect with the music on a deeper level.

In terms of production, Kevin Shirley has done an excellent job of balancing the various elements of the album, ensuring that Bonamassa's guitar work is always at the forefront while allowing the other instruments to shine. The album's sound is both rich and dynamic, with each track offering something unique to the listener.

"Blues of Desperation" received positive reviews from critics, who praised Bonamassa's guitar playing and the album's overall production quality. It also performed well commercially, reaching number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and topping the Billboard Blues Albums chart.

In conclusion, "Blues of Desperation" is a strong addition to Joe Bonamassa's discography, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to innovate within the blues genre. With its blend of powerful guitar work, emotive vocals, and thoughtful songwriting, the album is sure to resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers to Bonamassa's music. Whether you're a blues aficionado or simply a lover of great guitar playing, "Blues of Desperation" is an album worth exploring.