Kenny Neal's Most Welcome Return to CD

After having been through some serious health issues, the blues world has to be delighted that Kenny Neal is back and performing, touring and recording. Blind Pig has just issued his latest recording, “Let Life Flow,” and there is a reflective quality perhaps reflects his appreciation of the little things as on the opening title track. Not a shouter, Neal’s country-soul tinged vocals along with his fleet, fret work are as appealing as ever. Certainly his singing is enhanced by the terrific band that includes his son, Kenny Jr., brothers Darnell and Frederick, the late Little Milton’s nephew, trumpeter Joe Campbell among others. In addition to other striking originals like ‘Blues Leave Me Alone,’ Neal also puts his own stamp on Larry Addison’s ‘You Got to Hurt before You Heal’ (best known from Bobby Bland's classic recording), Ivory Joe Hunter’s ballad, “Since I Met You Baby,’ and Willie Dixon’s still very pertinent, ‘It Don’t Make Sense You Can’t Make Peace.’ Kenny Neal's music has always being thoughtful and well-paced. He shows that singing naturally and honestly will come off more convincingly and frenzied emoting. Let’s hope he remains in good health and continues to produce such marvelous music as here. Kenny’s website is www.kennyneal.net.