British combo Juke Joint Blues, who live in the Algarve, have just had their debut album released. Entitled Rockin In The Sun it is available on all major platforms – Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, etc.
The songs, all original compositions, sit comfortably in the classic R'n’B groove, while adding a new twist to the genre. Lyrics are largely based on their experiences of living in the Algarve, such as 125 (Trying To Stay Alive), a wry reference to the accident-prone N125 main road running through the region, Steady Rollin’ Camper – a comment on the plethora of camper vans locally, not all of which conform to the legal norms – and Algarve August Blues, which they hope is self explanatory.
Juke Joint Blues comprises of Andy Gray and Tim Holmes, residents in Vila De Bispo and Carrapateira respectively. They were discovered by music biz veteran Chris France, who now lives in Praia da Luz. Chris has been associated with bands like The Clash, The Damned, Jam, Steve Marriott, and has a string of hits to his name during his 50 year career, including taking Prince to his only UK number one with The Most Beautiful Girl In The World.
“Our influences range from John Lee Hooker and the Rolling Stones to Elvis and Johnny Cash”, Andy explains, “so that gives the songs plenty of scope.”
“Sprinkle some Algarve fairy dust on top”, adds Tim, “and you have the complete package – familiar but fresh.”
Juke Joint Blues are playing at Tito’s Bar in the Orbitur Campsite, Praia de Luz on Sunday 5 May, starting at 14.30. Entrance is free. After that they perform at Kaffee Onda in Barao de Sao Miguel on Friday 17 May, starting at 20.00.
For the album, Andy and Tim called on local musicians Roberto Freitas (drums), Gary Collins (guitar), Syd Harris (bass) and Jo Alice Braswell (vocals) to augment the sound. It was recorded at Odiaxere studio Area 432, where Marc Mennigmann produced and mastered, as well as playing keyboards.
Find out more or contact the group via:
W: www.jukejointbluesalgarve.com;
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jukejointblues.algarve/
Insta: Jukejointblues_algarve
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@JukeJointBluesAlgarve-tv7gm
Hear the album for free at: https://promo.theorchard.com/iklbiaYLQO8MG7GvlAxl
