This is Chicago blues, played straightforward with no fancy production, not even much reverb to these fuzzy ears. The problem with a lot of blues is that one song sounds like the other, but that’s not the case here. Charlie and his collaborators are interesting songwriters. Go to his music page and particularly listen to Church Is Out and Black Water and you’ll see. The only problem with this recording is Charlie’s voice—he’s a no-frills vocalist who often sounds like he could be your next door neighbor shouting and singing the blues in your living room. If you like a more polished vocal, your ears may twitch a bit. Americana radio programmers, don’t pass this one by. It will fit nicely between your folkie and alternative country stuff. Might even make your station jump a bit!