James Barnes — known to audiences throughout the region as JB — carries the blues in his blood. Born in Cleveland, and raised in New Jersey after his family moved east in 1965, JB grew up steeped in the sound and spirit of the music. On his father’s side, Barnes traces his lineage back to Mississippi, the wellspring from which so much of this tradition flows. Those “Mississippi Roots” became more than just family history; they formed the bedrock of his artistic calling.“This is definitely a feast for big ears, not narrow tastes.. musicianship is more than solid, the bluesy spirit unquenchable, and the material –- original and borrowed — universally first rate.”
“On My Mississippi Roots, JB pays homage to the most traditional blues and, at the same time, to the new paths of this music, reminding listeners that blues is not only where we come from but also where we hope to go.”
LA HORA DEL BLUES
“James ‘JB’ Barnes is a bassist who possesses a honeyed- tenor voice.”
“JB and his friends have delivered a first-class varied set of songs. Highly recommended.”
“Jersey-raised blues man James “JB” Barnes is keen to stress that he’s the real deal; a soulful, authentic blues man with real stories to tell. That certainly comes across on songs such as “My Mississippi Roots” (inspired by his father’s lineage) and “Southern Girl.” The musicianship is faultless, and Barnes’ voice is as smooth as silk.”
“My Mississippi Roots is cohesive yet varied, full of musical texture and narrative intention….balances past and present with authenticity.”
“My Mississippi Roots is a fine release that pays tribute to blues past and present….an excellent set of contemporary blues mixed with soul and rock that should satisfy blues fans all over.”
“JB’s My Mississippi Roots successfully covers a lot of ground both from a personal narrative but also with an extension of the music of his ancestors showing how it fits a modern narrative.”
“No ice is needed to water down this delicious blues concoction. You will certainly want another after your first listen to JB’s My Mississippi Roots.”
SOUTHLAND BLUES
“JB Barnes has certainly honored his parents and their journey…he dug back into the legends who came before him, and you can bank that he’ll continue to ensure that the blues today stays honest, just like those greats of the past. Give a listen to this one, and you’ll feel the truth. A great record.”
“On My Mississippi Roots Barnes lives up to his mission: to honor the artists that came before him while ensuring the blues remains vibrant in the present, to which I say, spectacularly well done. One of the most soulful blues records I’ve heard in maybe forever.”
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Source: dougdeutschPR