JR Clark - January Rain (2017)

J R Clark and the All Star Blues mobs latest release "January Rain" in a disc in the spirit of the late great Luther Allison. Complete with horn section which includes Kenny Anderson "Trumpet" -Luther Allison Band /Chicago Blues All-Stars, Johnny Cotton "Trombone" -Chicago Blues All Stars/ Ohio Players on five tracks this album has a big sound that will make you want to turn the volume up! The band which consists of Chicago Blues Legends "Johnny B. Gayden " - Albert Collins and the Ice Breakers- on Bass and 'Jerry "Bam Bam" Porter '- former drummer for Buddy Guy and James Cotton. Both are Chicago Blues Hall of Fame Inductees. On Keys is "Willie Styles" who briefly toured with the late Robert Ward. J R Clark fronts the band on vocals and guitar. Earning his dues over the years grinding away in the club scene and learning from his mentor Chicago Blues Legend "Lil Ed Williams"about showmanship, J R 's songwriting skills, vocals and string bending are showcased on this disc. J R Clarks growth in songwriting and as a vocalist are evident on songs which show his range like "Today, I Fell In Love All Over Again" (a soul ballad dedicated to his wife) to the title cut "January Rain" which has an Albert King feel with vocal spirit of Luther Allison and a special take on James Browns "It's A Man's World" where J R gives a heartfelt rendition of this classic. This disc has something for everyone. Chicago Blues, Soul, Country and even a little Reggae. The song "Something Funny" is done in the spirit of Reggae and touches on the state of the homeless today and the conmen out there who make you second guess yourself when wanting to help. When you hear the song "Shakin' Magarita's" you can almost picture the men huddled up to the bar after a hard day work lining up just to see Maria make her drinks that is the highlight of their day. This album has such a variety that you look forward to hearing what is coming up next!