Although it’s now 2011, it’s not too late to reflect on a few of the excellent albums that came out in 2010. This is a list of some of the more notable albums that crossed my radar in 2010, listed in alphabetical order by artist:
Black Country Communion – This was a highly anticipated album this year featuring one of my favorite guitarists (Joe Bonamassa). In retrospect, it’s amazing how quickly BCC and this album came about. I’m looking forward to seeing where they take this band.
Black Keys Brothers – When I first heard about this album from the Black Keys, I was really excited. However, it took me a couple of listens before I finally got into it. I’m glad I gave it a few listens, as I really enjoy this album.
Joe Bonamassa Black Rock – I really enjoyed this album from JB this year. Click here to read my review of the album.
Jim Campilongo Orange – With Orange, Jim Campilongo has put out one of the most interesting mostly instrumental guitar-based albums I’ve heard in years. He goes from rock to jazz to country to blues to everything in between and somehow makes it all work.
Mark Ford Fuzz Machine – I’ve enjoyed Marc Ford’s music since he came out swinging on the Black Crowes’ Southern Harmony and Musical Companion album in the early 90s. Fuzz Machine was recorded in late 2007, but was shelved while Ford pursued his Neptune Blues Club project. I’m glad that they’ve finally released it, as it has some great guitar tones. You can preview the entire album by clicking this link.
Gov’t Mule Mulennium – Gov’t Mule is best experienced live, and their New Year’s Eve shows are some of the best shows they ever put on. This 3-CD collection was recorded on 12-31-99 at the Roxy in Atlanta, GA. I happened to be at this show, so this album is particularly interesting to me, but even if you weren’t there this is a great collection of songs from when Allen Woody was still with the band.
Buddy Guy Living Proof – One of Buddy’s best albums in years. Includes an excellent backing band featuring Reese Wynans and David Grissom.
Eric Johnson Up Close – Regular readers of Guitar Lifestyle know how much I was looking forward to this album. When there’s that much anticipation, I always worry that it can’t live up to the hype. However, I think this album lives up to the hype. In fact, I think this is his best album since Venus Isle, which happens to be my favorite EJ album.
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals – This album seems to have catapulted Grace Potter & the Nocturnals onto the worldwide music scene, and I’m glad for it. They are an awesome live band and have put in many miles on the road over the past few years. Although no record has yet captured the feeling of seeing them live, this latest record is an excellent effort.
Slash – To be honest, I wasn’t expecting too much from Slash’s latest album. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The guest artists were mostly well chosen, and the songs are solid.
This is a fantastic list, Josh!