Albert Castiglia Coming to Blind WIllie's and Review of "Living the Dream"

This week I got news that Albert Castiglia is coming to Blind Willie's March 8. Castiglia has his own Atlanta connection because not only did he formerly play guitar with Junior Wells, he also played with our own Sandra Hall from 1998-2001. Now, he's a dynamic blues performer on his own, with fantastic guitar licks and a gritty, Chicago style.

Along with the news came a link to Castiglia's latest CD, r`leased in June 2012, which reached #1 on BB King's Bluesville and also spent a number of weeks on the Living the Blues and other charts. After a listen, it's easy to see why.

The CD is an equal mix of original songs like "The Man" and "Living the Dream" and excellent covers, including a scintillating version of Freddie King's "Freddie's Boogie" that made the hair stand up on the back of my neck, it's so good.

"Public Enemy No. 9" is, I believe, also an original and a very strong song, as is "I Want Her For Myself," probably my favorite of the original tunes, very catchy and sly. Another great number is "Walk the Back Streets," with an amazing guitar solo that you won't quickly forget.

My absolute favorites on this CD, however, are the excellent cover of Paul Butterfield's "Lovin Cup" and the last song, "Parchman Farm," a blistering version of this Mose Allison tune.

Overall, this CD truly rocks. Make plans to see Albert Castiglia at Blind Willie's, and get "Living the Dream." You'll be glad you did.