AllMusic 2016 Year in Review
Favorite Blues Albums
Although "a good year for the blues" might be somewhat oxymoronic, the style nonetheless delivered top-notch records in 2016, thanks to releases from Doyle Bramhall II, Charles Bradley and William Bell, plus the Rolling Stones' all-blues affair.
A complicated punk-blues portrait of the Deep South marks this enchanting singer/songwriter's debut.
God Don't Never Change: The Songs of Blind Willie Johnson
A tribute recording that highlights Blind Willie Johnson's enormous influence and the enduring mystery of his music.
On his best-produced album in years, the 83-year-old blues, soul, and funk wildman cuts the mustard and then some.
On the blues-rock icon's self-produced 20th album, virtually everything she's learned about making a great record is on display.
Retro-soul vocalist is in great, powerful form on this third album, which finds him covering Black Sabbath on the title track.
The most confident recording to date from this Southern songwriter and guitarist is drenched in blues, soul, and rock.
The great Bronx vocalist is still sounding strong and smooth at the age of 76 on this album produced by Jimmy Vivino.
The blues-rock guitarist's first album in 17 years is a funky, soulful workout that is his best record.
The Musical Mojo of Dr. John: Celebrating Mac & His Music
A star-studded celebration of the music of New Orleans legend Dr. John.
A lean, exciting, gospel-infused back to basics from the retro-soul guitarist.
Eric Bibb / Eric Bibb & North Country Far / Danny Thompson
The journeyman roots artist turns in a pleasantly relaxed collection of musical comfort food.
A vivid, genre-bending modern-day blues album from the Oakland-based singer/songwriter.
On his first widely distributed album in 20 years, the legendary guitarist and a young band from Chicago deliver a stone killer.
James Hunter / The James Hunter Six
On the band's Daptone debut, they deliver ten dynamic, soulful originals cut in mono and live from the studio floor with producer Gabriel Roth.
Kid Congo & the Pink Monkey Birds / Kid Congo Powers
Fourth time's the charm, as the former Gun Club and Cramps guitarist hits his stride as a frontman with his solo project.
I'm Glad Trouble Don't Last Always
Romantic troubles bring out the best in this Michigan-bred retro bluesman, who contemplates divorce in a soulful manner.
Blues & Ballads: A Folksinger's Songbook, Vols. 1-2
The guitarist, singer, and songwriter offers what amounts to a musical autobiography in these 21 beautifully recorded songs.
On their Alligator debut, the Kansas bluesmen reaffirm their roots in electric Delta blues in grand house-rocking style.
The singer/songwriter/guitarist reconnected to early childhood inspiration including family for this spirited and eclectic outing.
On its first self-recorded album, this 12-piece behemoth has never sounded more relaxed, free, or on fire.
The Memphis retro-soul act celebrate country-soul on their third album.
Mick Jagger dominates the Rolling Stones' quickly recorded, wholly satisfying blues album.
On his first set of new studio material in 12 years, the accordion king re-introduces himself as a fine singer of R&B, country, and rock.
Outstanding return to form from the celebrated R&B singer and songwriter.