The latest release from Rockford Illinois' Steve Ditzell and Blue Lightning Band, this disc shows a very traditional blues style to their music. While in live appearances they sometimes wander more into the harder rocking territory popularized by people like Stevie Ray Vaughn, this album stays closer to its old school roots. That's not to say that fans of the more hard rock guitar style will feel disappointed. There is certainly enough of Ditzell's fiery soloing to keep them happy. It's just that the overall tone has a more traditional air to it.

For fans of authentic blues this one will also be a treat as it includes guest appearances by the late Junior Wells. He joins Ditzell and the band (Dave Kaye on bass and Marty Binder handling the drums) on six of the ten tracks - of course meaning that these were recorded a while ago. Those listeners should also find familiar territory here with the choice of songs. Just over half the tracks are blues standards with Ditzell creating new classics with his own song craft on the remainder. In fact, the originals have so much old school blues texture that it's hard to believe they aren't tried and true songs that have been around for thirty years or more.

If you haven't heard Ditzell, by all means, pick this one up. His heartfelt love of the musical style and his skill at both vocals and tasty guitar work would make it a winner with any band. When you add in the guest appearance of Wells on harmonica and vocals and the classy playing of Kaye and Binder, though - this really stands tall above most of the competition. For anyone familiar with Ditzell I'm most likely preaching to the choir, as they probably already have the disc. This guy is a real blues man, and if you've seen him, you're probably already hooked. For more information, or to order the CD, stop by the official site.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2006 Volume 1 at lulu.com/strangesound.