Will Foulke’s debut album Charleston Blues is both a tribute to the greats of the genre and a bold assertion of his own artistic voice. Steeped in reverence for legends like Robert Johnson, Otis Redding, George Harrison, and Eric Clapton, the album honors blues traditions while reshaping them into something unmistakably personal. The result is a record that feels nostalgic yet fresh, grounded in history but animated by contemporary sensibilities.
The opening track “Dropped Out” sets the tone with a Dylan-esque haze, pairing subdued vocals with snappy guitar riffs that conjure the restless energy of a road trip. From there, Foulke moves seamlessly into “Still Alive”, a heartfelt ballad carried by raw emotion and a soulful pull reminiscent of Redding. The album’s title track “Charleston Blues” is its centerpiece. It’s a searing showcase of Foulke’s guitar work that balances technical prowess with an aching emotional core.
Foulke’s willingness to experiment enriches the record. “One Notch” layers jazzy piano, slide guitar, and intricate rhythms into a vibrant composition, while “Cold and Blue” leans into Clapton-esque melancholy. “Out To You” closes with lush harmonies and a wistful nod to Brian Wilson, offering a dreamy and unexpected turn. The alternate closer, “Ran Away”, extends this ethereal mood, leaving listeners suspended between memory and imagination.
What makes Charleston Blues especially compelling is its intimacy. Foulke plays every instrument and sings every line, creating a unity of vision that feels deeply authentic. With mixing by Elliott Elsey and mastering by Vlado Meller, the production is warm, detailed, and polished without losing its organic soul.
By weaving together homage and innovation, Will Foulke has crafted a work that resonates across eras, offering both blues purists and new listeners an immersive, evocative experience.
Refrain Music 