Blues Rock Holiday Gift Guide

via Blues Rock Review de Pete Francis em 04/12/12

The Holidays are here and if you're in need of gift ideas, we've got you covered with ideas for all types of music lovers.
For the "hip to what's new" person.
Claude Hay: I Love Hate You (BUY)
We all know that person who prides them self on knowing who all the coolest new acts are. They always seem to be listening to great artists before they break out. Enter Claude Hay with I Love Hate You. Claude Hay is a one man band who uses looping technology to give the effect of a full band. His funky blues rock style and nifty guitar skills combined with a knack for writing catchy tunes make I Love Hate You a must have album.


For the "I haven't heard a great blues guitarist since Stevie Ray Vaughan" person.
Simon McBride: Crossing The Line (BUY)
So you have that friend that likes blues, but apparently he hasn't heard a great blues guitarist since SRV? Infact, SRV is the most modern blues guitarist this friend listens to. Tell your friend to check out Simon McBride, one of the fastest rising stars of the blues rock genre. McBride's melodic guitar playing and strong songwriting has him on the fast track to blues rock greatness.

For the "Rock is dead, I refuse to listen to Nickelback, and there aren't any good rock bands anymore" person.
Black Country Communion: Afterglow (BUY)
Oh, really? There aren't any good rock bands anymore? Tell this person to listen to Black Country Communion and retract their statement immediately. BCC features legendary singer/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), blues rock guitar hero Joe Bonamassa, Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin) on drums, and Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) on keys. Afterglow is the band's third studio album in just over two years and continues the band's rise in modern day rock.

For the "I want to show my kids I still listen to cool music" person.
Gary Clark Jr.: Blak and Blu (BUY)
Gary Clark Jr. may be the most versatile act in blues rock today. He showcases this on Blak and Blu blending rock with blues, hip-hop, r&b, and soul. The young guitar slinger has mass appeal and is headed for a Black Keys esque blowup in the mainstream.

For the "You have to hear them live for the real experience" person.
Joe Bonamassa: Beacon Theatre – Live From New York (BUY)
Joe Bonamassa is one those artists you have to hear live to truly appreciate. His studio albums are great, but his virtuosity needs to be witnessed first hand. Beacon Theatre is a chance to hear Bonamassa live in his element and also includes guest appearances from John Hiatt, Beth Hart, and Paul Rodgers.

- Pete Francis