Hellfire [CD]

We're extremely pleased to welcome Joe Louis Walker into the Alligator Records family. For years, I've considered Joe to be one of the most exciting, gifted and creative blues artists of his generation. His roots are deep and his vision is wide. He's everything a bluesman should be-a great guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and, most of all, a soul-to-soul communicator.

Starting in the clubs of his home town of San Francisco, Joe played with and befriended many of the greatest artists in blues history, from Mississippi Fred McDowell to Willie Dixon to Albert King. He's made their lessons and wisdom part of his essential fiber. At the same time, he was part of the creative explosion of rock music during the 1960s and '70s, hanging out with Sly Stone, Bob Weir and Jorma Kaukonen in the company of his close friend, the brilliant and groundbreaking guitarist Michael Bloomfield. Joe's guitar always speaks in his own original voice, but you can hear the influence of the blues and rock masters who inspired him both personally and musically.

Joe is also blessed with a commanding, gritty voice that literally comes right out of church. He spent years singing with The Spiritual Corinthians. The profoundly emotional, straight-from-the-soul intensity of traditional gospel music is palpable in every word he sings.

Although Joe has cut many other terrific records, Hellfire is the most passionate recording of his long career. Teaming with the famed producer/songwriter/drummer Tom Hambridge (who has sparked great studio performances from artists like Buddy Guy and Susan Tedeschi), Joe has created his deepest and hardest rocking album ever.

For decades, blues fans worldwide have recognized him as one of the true masters. With this recording, the time has come for Joe Louis Walker to take his rightful place as one of today's musical giants.

-Bruce Iglauer,
President and founder, Alligator Records