Rain, the new CD from Lew Jetton & 61 South, promises to further Jetton’s reputation as a clever songwriter, and dynamic, original vocalist. The band’s previous 2 releases, State Line Blues and Tales From A 2 Lane, were both “Picks to Click” on XM/Sirius Radio’s Bluesville Channel, and Rain promises to take up where the other two left off.
The songs on Rain range from poignant (“Lay Me Down”) to rousing gospel (“Glory Train”) to contemporary “(Who’s Texting You”) to humorous (“Move On, Yvonne”). Think a little southern-fried Chicago, seasoned with cajun and creole spices.
Rain brings together the longtime 61 South bandmates, along with several of Jetton’s buddies, including 2-Time International Thumbpicking Champion and IBC Semi-Finalist Alonzo Pennington, former multi-instrumentalist for guitar legend Johnny Hiland, J. Solon Smith on piano, former Lonnie Mack backup vocalist Miranda Louise, J.D. Wilkes, harp ace from Th’ Legendary ShackShakers and the Reverend JoAnn Green, who’s contribution is actually a clip from her longtime gospel radio show, “Words to Ponder,” on WDXR-AM in Paducah, KY.
Here’s what others are saying:
“Listening to Lew Jetton sing is like having that conversation with a trusted friend you’ve needed for a long time. There’s no excess baggage, no TV idle jive; just the guts of truth voiced in ageless warmth and emotional experience. Lew gets to the point; the stories tell themselves. Blues, Gulf Coast R&B, gospel and southern rock are referenced in the arrangements that frame them.
A slew of expert operators of American traditional tools make damn sure you were listening. Besides 61 South, notable guests lend picking, preaching and singing to Rain’s ensemble strength. But it’s Lew Jetton’s bonafide vocals that build you a home in these very direct lyrics. Tired of guessin’? Here’s your lesson. “
Microwave Dave, WLRH/WJAB FM
“An A+. If you could taste this album, it would be the best gumbo you ever ate.”
Will Stephens, Host of “The Electric Blues Hours” 91.1 FM WDBX
“Heartfelt lyrics and stinging blues guitar licks make you feel like you’re at one of Lew’s live shows. Like a cool Kentucky rain, Lew and the band keep sounding better with every song.
Eric Dahl, Host of Fox 17 Rock & Review (Nashville,TN). Author, B.B. King’s Lucille and the Loves Before Her
“Lawd, it has been WAAAY too long since we’ve heard from Lew Jetton And 61 South. Lew’s got one of those friendly, expressive voices that you can’t help but enjoy, especially when he’s singing the eight originals and two covers that comprise his latest album for Coffee Street Records, Rain. Hearing Lew Jetton And 61 South on Rain is like re-connecting with a long-lost friend who hasn’t changed a bit. Raise a glass and enjoy a listen to one of our long-time favorites!”
Sheryl and Don Crow, Nashville Blues Society
Although Lew Jetton & 61 South has been around more than 20 years, the sound remains fresh and honest, as their live shows continue to combine high energy with deep emotion, just like their new CD, Rain.
Booking: Booking@61south.com 270.519.1788
