Top 20 Blues Albums of 2023

Crafting the "Top 20 Blues Albums of 2023" proved to be a formidable challenge, with an abundance of remarkable musical works for the choosing. The blues genre showcased a diverse range of talent this year, blending traditional roots with contemporary innovation. From seasoned icons to promising newcomers, these albums collectively shaped a year that celebrated the essence of blues in all its forms.

As we continue to relish the blues of 2023, our excitement grows for what lies ahead in 2024. The ever-evolving nature of blues music ensures that each year brings new expressions and revelations. We invite you to delve into these albums of this year's selection, knowing that the blues of 2024 holds the promise of uncovering even more gems. Join us on this musical journey as we navigate the rich tapestry of blues, celebrating the past while eagerly embracing the future.

~Jordan

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2
Ally Venable - Real Gone

Real Gone is the fifth studio album by Ally Venable. Her style is firmly grounded in Texas blues, accentuated by her smoldering guitar playing. The title track is a hooked filled rocker that will catch the ear of many listeners. "Texas Louisiana" is a collaboration between Venable and blues legend Buddy Guy. The back-and-forth vocals between the two is an enjoyable tune that garnered considerable airplay on blues stations. But it is the more traditional blues ballad "Broken and Blue," which features guitarist Joe Bonamassa, that really is the standout track on the album. Real Gone is Ally Venable’s best album to date.

3
Tom Hambridge - Blu Ja Vu

Tom Hambridge is a Renaissance Man of the Blues. Not only is he the drummer for Buddy Guy, he is also a talented singer and songwriter and one of the most sought after producers of the contemporary blues. On his 2023 album, Blu Ja Vu, Tom features songs from artists that he has produced records for over the years as well as contributions from some of the greatest names in the blues genre: Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Joe Bonamassa and Buddy Guy. There is also a stellar cut featuring the late great James Cotton. This was considered one of the "can't miss" albums of 2023 when it was released and Blu Ja Vu lived up to the billing.

4
Gráinne Duffy - Dirt Woman Blues

If your taste wanders towards folk, rock, soul, blues or Celtic music, look no further – Irish singer-songwriter Gráinne Duffy’s 2023 release “Dirt Woman Blues” will be the meal that satisfies and keeps you coming back for more. This is, without a doubt, the most substantive of Duffy’s five solo albums to date – co-written with her husband, guitarist Paul Sherry and backed by a star-studded ensemble of musicians.

5
Coco Montoya - Writing On The Wall

Coco Montoya traces his musical roots back to the mid-70s, initially as a drummer for Albert Collins. It was back in the 70s when Montoya made a career-defining shift from rhythm to strings, learning the guitar from Collins himself. Montoya's 12th album, Writing On The Wall, was released in September 2023 under Alligator Records, serving as a sonic testament to this transformative journey. The album contains 13 tracks (including ten originals and five co-written by Montoya) that seamlessly weave together blues, soul, and rock. Co-produced by Grammy winner Tony Braunagel and Jeff Paris, with Ronnie Baker Brooks and Lee Roy Parnell sitting in on some tracks, Writing On The Wall is a harmonious reflection of Montoya's enduring musical career.

6
Christone "Kingfish" Ingram - Live In London

Coming to us “Live In London,” 24-year old Christone “Kingfish” Ingram is a blues force to be reckoned with. Kingfish has come far from his roots in the Mississippi delta where he cultivated his style – and grew his audience – streaming blues to an unsuspecting public across a YouTube channel. “662,” his second album, netted him a Grammy for Best Blues Album. Whenever Kingfish puts those hands of his on his guitar, he conjures blues greats – such as his mentor, blues legend Buddy Guy, with whom he has toured. There’s a blues tune for any time and any mood. This having been said, even though the music itself is threaded with the history of resistance, it hasn’t exactly caught on with younger populations. This young musician might just change that.

7
Robert Finley - Black Bayou

Robert Finley is probably the best soul blues singer in contemporary blues. Black Bayou is Finley’s fourth album, and his third produced by Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys. The album is consciously unrefined to give a raw feel to the recording, but make no mistake, the production values are high on Black Bayou. "What Goes Around (Comes Around)" is an infectious swamp rocker that was designated as the album’s first single. "You Got It (And I Need It)" prominently features Finley’s appealing falsetto, and shows the commercial potential of Finley as a mainstream artist. Likely the best track on the album though is "Alligator Bait," a slow groove that is both catchy and compelling.

8
The Teskey Brothers - The Winding Way

Like a fine wine maturing into magnificence The Teskey Brothers just keep getting better. Co-produced by Eric J Dubowsky and Sam Teskey, “The Winding Way” is reminiscent of the better blues-based classic soul of decades ago. It is seamless, timeless, and vocalist Josh Teskey and his instrumentalist brother Sam make it sound effortless. The Teskey’s 2019 sophomore album “Run Home Slow” netted Sam a Grammy nomination. It will be interesting to see where “The Winding Way” takes the dynamic duo.

9
Gov't Mule - Peace...Like A River

Master musician Warren Haynes and his band Gov’t Mule has once again hit the target with his 12th studio release - “Peace…Like a River”. Making good use of the “down time” of the Covid pandemic, the Mule recorded much of this album at the same time, and in the same studio, as the 2021 release “Heavy Load Blues”. They simply booked two separate recording suites. Peace…Like a River is a wonderfully moody recording that shows Gov’t Mules wide range of influences, wandering between genres with blues, rock, and funk showing up in different tracks. Guest vocalists also show up in spades, including Billy Gibbons, Ivan Neville, Ruthie Foster, Billy Bob Thorton and Cellise Henderson. Tracks that will grab you include : Same As It Ever Was, Shake Our Way Out, Dreaming Out Loud, and Just Across The River. This album was well worth the wait, and is a real gem you should have in your music library. Highly recommended.

10
Joe Bonamassa - Blues Deluxe Vol. 2

Vol. 1 celebrated a mix of originals & reinterpretations & Vol. 2 is no different. With 2 original songs & 8 Covers, you take a journey through the history of blues. Blues-guitar lovers will fall in love from the first song, “Twenty-Four Hour Blues (originally performed by Bobby “Blue” Bland)” to the last “Is It Safe to Go Home (original song written by Josh Smith)”. Released through Joe’s own label, Bonamassa adds his own artistry to each song & shows you why he is one of the best. Not only did he release Vol. 2 but they remastered & re-released Vol. 1 to go with it. The only thing left to do is ask, when is Vol. 3 coming out?

11
Bob Corritore & Friends - Somebody Put Bad Luck On Me

Bob Corritore is sly as a fox, when it comes to preserving the Chicago and Traditional Blues sound for years to come. Owner of the Phoenix venue “Corritore’s Rhythm Room”, Bob is in constant communication with some of the real heavy hitters in the Blues world. “Somebody Put Bad Luck on Me” is an amazing compilation of friends and talent, all showcasing their talents with Bob and his magic Harp. Not to simply drop names, but guest artists include Diunna Greenleaf, Sugarray Rayford, John Primer, Johnny Rawls, Lurrie Bell, Bobby Rush among others. Somebody Put Bad Luck on Me is an album of studio recorded tracks, and not to be confused with Bob’s “Vault Series” of recordings. This album is strong from start to finish and showcases many styles. Bob blends them all together with his amazing Harp play.

12
Eric Johanson - The Deep And The Dirty

Native Louisianan Eric Johanson isn’t pigeon holed into the traditional Blues genre. He stretches the boundaries of Blues/Rock with solid hard to miss guitar skills, and a voice made for hard Blues as well. You will wonder if Jimi Hendrix was reincarnated on cuts like “Don’t Hold Back” as the feedback fuzzy sound in the beginning takes you back. There are 12 tracks, many written by Eric, and the rest in collaboration with Jesse Dayton. The results are of the highest quality, and the music demands your attention. The title track, “The Deep And The Dirty” tells a story of just how eye opening life in the South can be. Other notable tracks include “Get Me High” and “Elysian Fields”.. With album releases like this, expect Eric’s career to soar. It leaves you wanting more!

13
Selwyn Birchwood - Exorcist

Selwyn Birchwood’s Exorcist is a worthy follow-up to his Living in a Burning House (2020). Birchwood is blessed with both a distinctive gruff baritone voice and a high level of skill with the guitar. Playing what he describes as “electric swamp funkin’ blues”, his music mixes the blues, funk, soul and even a hint of jazz. Exorcist opens with “Done Cryin’”, one of the standout songs on the album, which blends his soul blues foundation with traces of Latin rhythm. “FLorida Man” is a hilarious take on his home state, and demonstrates his skill as a lyricist, with an acerbic wit that takes Floridians to task. Exorcist is a well-rounded album which shows Birchwood’s continued maturity in the blues.

14
Eddie 9V - Capricorn

His third album Capricorn takes its name from the historic Capricorn Sound Studio (Allman Brothers & Otis Redding Mojo Sessions) in Macon, Ga where it was recorded. Take 9 original songs written by Eddie 9V (Mason Brooks Kelly) & his brother Lane Kelly, covers of "’Bout to Make Me Leave Home" (Bonnie Raitt) & "Down by The Cove" (Bob Dylan) & add 11 of the South’s best roots musicians & you can’t go wrong. From the gospel feel of "Mary Don’t You Weep" to "Yella Alligator" swampy grooves & guitar slides, you are taken on an emotional journey. Eddie is quoted as saying "We made this record the way they would have made it in 1969" & you can definitely feel the inspiration.

15
Duke Robillard & His All-Star Band - Six Strings Of Steel

Duke Robillard boasts a resume not many can match in the Blues music world. Sessioning with established genre favorites “The Fabulous Thunderbirds” and “Room Full of Blues” Duke has seen and felt the music from many different perspectives, so it’s no wonder that his own music represents his wide experience, and his very own sound and place in the Blues genre. Expect to hear influences of Swing, jazz, Ska, Rock all woven into an amazing and cohesive album. The “All Star Band” includes Doug James, Chirs Cote, Bruce Bears, Mark Teixeira and Marty Ballou who collectively bring a wide reaching sound of Sax, Drums, Keys and vocals. Duke pays homage to Fats Domino with “I’m Going To Be a Wheel Someday”, other notable tracks include “Shame, Shame, Shame”, and “Rumble”. Duke Robillard deserves recognition for musical excellence with “Six Strings of Steel” Add this one to your library, and you will come back and listen to it often.

16
Bettye Lavette - Lavette!

If you were to take a bruised and battered heart, mix it with an indomitable spirit and fierce determination, you’d have Bettye LaVette. It’s been a long road from 1962 when she recorded her first single at the age of 16, to 2023’s “LaVette” – but the now 77-year old songbird has handled the journey with grit and stubborn persistence. She’s released more than 20 albums over the course of her career, eight since her 2005 album “I’ve Got My Own Hell To Raise” netted critical acclaim and landed her solidly on the blues landscape. While Bettye is backed by some superb musicians including Steve Winwood, Pino Palladino, and Ray Parker Jr., it’s the Detroit diva herself who grabs – and holds – our attention.

17
Ghalia Volt - Shout Sister Shout

This Belgian singer-songwriter showing the influence of her new home in the big easy on her 6th Studio album. Recorded at the famous Rancho De La Luna studio (Iggy Pop, Foo Fighters & many others). Volt along with drummer Danny Frankel (Joan Jett & Lou Reed), keyboardist Ben Alleman (Dr. John) & David Catching (studio owner) himself on guitar lend their talents to her sixth studio release. The title track takes inspiration from Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s encouraging anthem for women. "Hop a Ride" is a co-write with label mate Eddie 9V with classic blues riffs. Album ends with this rockabilly tune "Po’ Boy John." Definitely a must have!

18
Kenny Wayne Shepherd - Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol.1

Kenny Wayne Shepherd goes back to the FAME studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama to release the gem, “Dirt on My Diamonds Vol.1”. The results are magnificent! This album is a fun, blues rock release that is perhaps a little different that his previous works. Noah Hunt is strong with lead vocals, and Kenny Wayne himself jumps in for a few vocal licks as well. “Man on a Mission” comes to mind right away. “Sweet and Low” and “You Can’t Love Me” are a couple other notable cuts. Kenny hasn’t lost a step, he only keeps getting better with his guitar. Listen to this album, and you will be waiting and wanting Vol. 2.. Highly recommended!

19
Rolling Stones - Hackney Diamonds

Hackney Diamonds is probably the best Rolling Stones album since Tattoo You (1981). Released in October, it went #1 in the UK, and #2 in the US. Most people will focus on the straight-ahead rocker "Angry," or the lush "Sweet Sounds of Heaven," but there are a few hidden gems on this album as well. "Whole Wide World" is reminiscent of Some Girls era Stones, and "Mess It Up" was one of the last songs featuring the Stones’ late legendary drummer Charlie Watts. But "Dreamy Skies" really shines, with its country blues feel that harkens back to the best material on Exile On Main Street, and their cover of Muddy Waters’ "Rolling Stone Blues" is the perfect album closer.

20
Monster Mike Welch - Nothing But Time

Monster Mike Welch considers Nothing But Time the most personal album of his thirty-year career. The album features thirteen tracks that encompass hard-hitting blues, including the classic "If I Had Possession Over Judgement Day," some smooth blues with "I've Got Nothing But Time," and a phenomenal reworking of George Harrison's "I Me Mine." Don't miss the rockin' "Offswitch Blues," a tune that will have you groovin'... you just won't be able to help yourself! Play the deep blues ballad "Ten Years Ago," a six-minute gem you can lose yourself in. Welch delivers it all in just over an hour on his June 2023 Gulf Coast Records release, Nothing But Time.

Blues Music Fan Radio TOP 20 BLUES ALBUMS OF 2023
RANK	ARTIST
1	Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia - Blood Brothers
2	Ally Venable - Real Gone
3	Tom Hambridge - Blu Ja Vu
4	Grainne Duffy - Dirt Woman Blues
5	Coco Montoya - Writing on the Wall
6	Christone "Kingfish" Ingram - Live in London
7	Robert Finley - Black Bayou
8	The Teskey Brothers - The Winding Way
9	Gov't Mule - Peace...Like A River
10	Joe Bonamassa - Blues Deluxe Vol. 2
11	Bob Corritore & Friends - Somebody Put Bad Luck on Me
12	Eric Johanson - The Deep And The Dirty
13	Selwyn Birchwood - Exorcist
14	Eddie 9V - Capricorn
15	Duke Robillard & His All-Star Band - Six Strings of Steel
16	Bettye LaVette - LaVette!
17	Ghalia Volt - Shout Sister Shout
18	Kenny Wayne Shepherd - Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol.1
19	Rolling Stones - Hackney Diamonds
20	Monster Mike Welch - Nothing But Time