2025 – M.C. Records
By Phillip
Smith; Jan.
17, 2026
Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com
Slow Burn, the latest album from Kim Wilson deeply digs
its heels into the classic blues. Alongside Wilson’s four original
tracks, the album contains exceptional covers of blues legends such as Little
Milton, B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson II,
Robert Nighthawk, Otis Rush, and Magic Sam. Recorded in
single takes on two different sessions taking place in 2014 and 2020, Slow
Burn features some of the last studio sessions with Richard Innes on
drums, Larry Taylor on bass, and Barrelhouse Chuck on piano. With Wilson front and center on vocals
and harp, he is also joined by guitarists Nathan James and Billy Flynn,
drummer Marty Dodson, bassist Troy Sandow, and guests Bob
Welsh on guitar and piano, Malachi Johnson on drums, Johnny Vlau
on horns, and Jon Atkinson on guitar.
Wilson’s performance on B.B. King’s “Sweet Little Angel” is outstanding, and with Flynn on guitar and Barrelhouse Chuck behind the ivories, I’m left in a state of awe. Following immediately after is a shindig of an original harp-driven instrumental called “Boogie in E”. This one really does cook. The Howlin’ Wolf classic “Howlin’ For My Darlin’” grabs my full attention with more musical excellence from Flynn and Chuck. From the opening notes of Magic Sam’s “Easy Baby” I am hooked. Bob Welsh’s piano accompaniment absolutely shines. The outstanding harmonica performance Wilson gives on Otis Rush’s “So Many Roads” is pure bliss accompanied by James’ toneful guitar mastery. I love the way Wilson pours his whole essence into the vocals too. It’s soulful and filled with heart.
Kim Wilson’s attention to detail on the production of this record definitely lends a vintage feel and sound. Listening to Slow Burn, feels like discovering a lost classic. This is certainly a record blues fans will want to hear.
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