Ronnie Baker Brooks - Blues in My DNA - album review

Alligator Records

Ronnie Baker Brooks new release is a masterful testament to his legacy as one of modern blues’ most dynamic torchbearers. The songs capture the raw emotion and virtuosity that Brooks is known for, with a tight blend of contemporary flair and classic blues grit. The opening track, Blues In My DNA is a personal and powerful statement, underscoring the generational ties that bind Brooks to his father, the legendary Lonnie Brooks, who he also pays homage on the next short introduction, Lonnie Brooks Blessing.

A must-listen for blues aficionados and newcomers alike

His guitar work commands attention, each note steeped in the traditions of Chicago blues while carving out fresh sonic territory. His voice, gravelly, soulful, and unmistakably authentic, guides the listener through tales of heartbreak, resilience, and self-reflection. The production is slick without being overproduced, maintaining a live, organic feel that pays homage to blues’ roots in smoky clubs and juke joints. Tracks like Instant Gratification and My Boo; hit hard, with deep grooves and piercing solos that showcase Brooks’ undeniable skill. Yet, it’s on slower, more introspective cuts like, My Love Will Make You Right, that his songwriting truly shines, revealing a vulnerability, this is full of groove also. Robbing Peter To Pay Paul has a swagger of its own, full on classic blues tones here. This release is not just another blues record, it’s a declaration. Ronnie Baker Brooks is both honouring the past and pushing the genre forward with heart, soul, and undeniable skill. A must-listen for blues aficionados and newcomers alike.