First and impressive recording by Boston singer and guitar player Mike Welch for Gulf Coast label which, with this new release, hits the nail on the head.

With almost three decades of career now, it was Dan Aykroyd who gave him “Monster” nickname, when Welch was only thirteen years old. From 2001 to 2017 Mike was guitar player at the renowned band Sugar Ray & The Bluetones and now he is one of the most demanded musicians of East Coast blues scene. He has also received countless awards and recognitions.

This new album has been produced by Kid Andersen, one of the most outstanding actual blues producers, who also plays bass and keyboards. According to Mike Zito, CEO of Gulf Coast Records, he had followed and admired Monster Mike for more than twenty-five years. He really wanted to get Mike to sign to his label, because he considers him as one of the most complete and thrilling blues guitar players.

For a year and a half Monster Mike fought a hard battle against Covid. He was totally weakened and he didn’t know if he would be able to play professionally. Fortunately, Kid Andersen and Mike Zito encouraged him to start again and publish this recording, which has finally become one of the best of his career.

The cast of musicians who surround him is really impressive. Only mention the names of Kid Andersen, Jerry Jemmott, Bob Welsh, Eric Spaulding, Mike Peloquin or Rick Estrin among others.

One of those memorable blues recordings that should and must not miss in any blues lover record collection.