Many CD's come across my desk in the course of a year. Here are my picks for The Best of 2008.

Catherine Russell - Sentimental Streak - World Village

A joyous, vibrant, tour de force by this fully realized artist who has come into her own after years of singing background for everyone else. Great tunes, great band, swinging arrangements, wonderfully recorded, beautiful cover art too. It's all here. Catherine Russell is The Bomb!

Hans Theessink & Terry Evans - Visions - Blue Groove

Two soulful singers, two acoustic guitars, one stomp box, and...Voila! Less really is more.

Irma Thomas - Simply Grand - Rounder

The Soul Queen of New Orleans accompanied by a Who's Who of The Crescent City's finest piano players (Marcia Ball and Norah Jones are along as well). Nominated for a Grammy.

Clarence Spady - Just Between Us - Severn

Outstanding comeback by The guitarist/vocalist from Eastern PA. He weaves soul/jazz together with blues, funk, and R&B in a mixture that continually satisfies.

Carlos Del Junco - Steady Movin' - Northern Blues

Any new album from the Toronto based (Cuban born) harpmaster is BIG news around here. Once again guitarist extraordinaire Kevin Breit is along for the ride. Cutting edge grooves, outside the box, but always in the pocket.

Catfish Keith - If I Could Holler - Fishtail

Throughout his 30 years in the business and 11 albums, all issued on his own label, this Master of pre-war styles has been slapping that Resonator Guitar silly! He plays and sings at a very, very, high level...few can touch him...a must for guitar players and fans of acoustic blues.

Gary Allegretto - Many Shades Of Blue - Big Fiore

Many shades indeed...a surprise from Southern California... This crisp and clean harp player moves effortlessly from Jimmy Reed to Piedmont styles and beyond. Clever and heartfelt songs chronicle his own personal blues history. Guest turns by Janiva Magness, John Cephas, Ivan Neville, and Doug MacLeod sweeten the pot. Gary also uses his harmonica to reach Special Needs Children. Check out his foundation: www.harmonikids.org

Eric Bibb - Get Onboard - TELARC

Another Spirit filled offering from the singer/songwriter with a big heart and a deep soul. Ruthie Foster guests on one track.

Duke Robillard - A Swingin' Session - Stony Plain

Bruce Katz told me that this one has been in the can for SEVEN (count 'em) YEARS! Don't ask why...just be glad it's finally out. Along with Duke's sublime guitar, Scott Hamilton, Bruce Katz and the creme de la creme of The New England Blues Scene make this one swing like nobodys business, pure joy from begining to end!

to be continued