He displays a complete mastery of the guitar - a guitarist shouldn't be this good. Every, note, tone, texture, stroke, just absolute perfection. I can't recommend this recording any higher. This is the type of recording that after you've listened to all the "greats" you say, OK, now this is how its done. There is only one caveat, once you've heard Guy's fret work and the ease of his playing, it might spoil the rest of your electric blues collection. You've been warned. - D.H.

Guy Budd
With his second release Gypsy Souls, Guy BuddÑartist, poet, bluesmanÑdelivers a stunning, beautiful set of progressive and provocative blues fused with elements of rock, jazz, and soul. Budd, a native of rural New Jersey, later moved to Central California and hit the road in the late 1960s, when he hitched back and forth across the country for the next eight years. Budd later returned to California and settled in San Luis Obispo, where he studied music and forged his own space in the vibrant musical community there, passing up opportunities to record for major labels in Los Angeles. And thank God for that, because he later hooked up with Howard Emmons (drums), Big Wil Anderson (bass), and Ken Burton (keys), the artists who lent their talents on this new record. The songs on Gypsy Souls showcase Budd and companyÕs unique vision for where the blues can go, matched with superb songwriting thatÕs ripe with social commentary. ÒThrow AwayÓ (3) is a perfect example, as is the traditional Albert King number ÒBlues at SunriseÓ (2). For a nice version of ÒWar of Wits,Ó the cut Budd performed solo at KVRX for Local Live in 2005, try track 1. The real gem on this release, however, is the eclectic ÒShapeshifterÓ (4). It is a haunting song that defies genre categorization: part blues, part Middle Eastern/African rhythm, itÕs like something out of a dream, pure genius.

He will Perform at O'Reilly's in Grover Beach, CA on Friday, May 23rd, 2008 @ 9pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.