CEDRIC BURNSIDE

Hill Country Love (Provogue)

After 2021’s I Be Trying set a new standard for Mississippi hill country blues, Cedric Burnside is back with a lighter follow-up that reflects the warmth of his live performances. Where his previous album may have made the case for a style of blues that is as relevant as it is ancient, Hill Country Love helps a generation of acolytes look at the blessings that can be shared through the blues.

Titles like Smile, Thank You and Love You Music tell you all you need to know about the tone of the album, showing gratitude for his faith, family and looking towards the future. I Be Trying earned Burnside a Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album; Hill Country Love isn’t quite up to that level, but the lighter tone doesn’t diminish the authenticity of the performances. Captured in only two days of recording and featuring rhythm work and solos as good as anything out there, this is an album that grooves with an easiness few can muster. 

words JOHN-PAUL DAVIES