Review of Solomon Hicks’ latest album, “How Did I Ever Get This Blue”

d turntablist DJ Logic is also part of the collaboration, along with pianist/organist Tommy Mandel and a host of other talented musicians.

The album features a mix of covers and two original tracks, showcasing Hicks’s growth and experimentation with new sounds. The first half of the record includes blues classics from Bobby Bland, John Lee Hooker, Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Otis Rush, and Johnny Copeland. Hicks’s signature clean guitar sound shines through, with the support of talented musicians such as drummer Chris Layton and pianist Tommy Mandel.

The second half of the album delves into more adventurous territory, with covers of Bruno Mars, Adele, and John Hiatt, alongside two original tracks. The title track, “How Did I Ever Get This Blue,” combines electronic elements with a bluesy groove, showcasing Hicks’s willingness to push boundaries. The electronic-infused “I’m Burning Up” is a dancefloor-ready track, while covers of popular songs like Bruno Mars’s “When I Was Your Man” and Adele’s “Rumour Has It” bring a modern twist to traditional blues.

Hicks’s rendition of John Hiatt’s “Feels Like Rain” showcases his vocal prowess and ability to interpret classic songs in his own unique style. The album closes with a nod to his roots with a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Memphis Tennessee,” reminding listeners of his traditional blues influences while still embracing new sounds and genres.

While some blues purists may raise eyebrows at Hicks’s experimental approach, there is no denying his talent and ability to adapt and evolve as an artist. With “How Did I Ever Get This Blue,” Solomon Hicks continues to push the boundaries of contemporary blues music, blending traditional sounds with modern influences to create a unique and captivating listening experience.