Highway Bound by Lloyd Jones: A Blues Journey You Can’t Miss
If you’re a fan of raw, soulful blues that feels like it’s been pulled straight outta the Delta mud, Highway Bound by Lloyd Jones is gonna hit the spot. Released back in 2011 under the Underworld label, this album dives deep into classic blues styles—Delta, Country, Chicago, and Louisiana Blues all get their time to shine. It’s one of those records where you can practically smell the whiskey and feel the grit of the road beneath your boots.
Now, let me tell ya, there are some real gems on here. The tracklist reads like a love letter to blues traditionals, but Lloyd makes ‘em his own with a voice that’s equal parts gravelly and smooth. Two tracks stuck with me big time: “Key To The Highway” and “Good Morning Little School Girl.”
“Key To The Highway,” man, what a tune. It’s got this laid-back groove that just pulls you in, like sitting on a porch at sunset with nothing but time to kill. Lloyd’s guitar work? Stellar. He doesn’t overplay; every note feels intentional, dripping with emotion. And when he sings about hitting the open road, it’s impossible not to picture yourself doing the same—freedom mixed with a little heartache, y’know?
Then there’s “Good Morning Little School Girl.” This one’s a blues standard for sure, but Lloyd gives it new life. His version has this playful swagger, but underneath, there’s a wink of mischief. The rhythm section locks in tight, and the harmonica solo? Just enough to give you goosebumps without going overboard. It’s the kind of song that reminds you why blues music still matters—it’s simple yet profound, full of stories and soul.
What I dig most about Highway Bound is how authentic it feels. There’s no fancy production tricks or glossy sheen trying to modernize these tunes. Instead, Lloyd lets the songs breathe, respecting their roots while adding his own flavor. Tracks like “Careless Love” and “Make Me A Pallet On The Floor” bring that old-school vibe, while cuts like “Travelin’ On” keep things fresh and moving forward.
But here’s the thing—I wasn’t expecting to laugh out loud near the end of the album. Listening to “Lazybones,” I couldn’t help but chuckle at how relatable it felt. Ain’t we all lazybones sometimes? That little moment of levity amidst all the heavy blues made me appreciate the record even more. It’s like Lloyd saying, “Hey, life’s tough, but don’t take yourself too seriously.”
So, if you’re looking for an album that’ll transport you to another time and place, Highway Bound deserves a spot in your collection. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself daydreaming about hopping a southbound train after giving it a spin.
