Blues Revivalism Is A Risky Game

Blues revivalism is a risky game. Too much imitation and you’re karaoke, too much invention and you lose the point. Will Foulke somehow threads the needle on Charleston Blues, a debut that’s bold, reverent, and surprisingly fun. He’s raided the vinyl stacks of Robert Johnson, Clapton, and George Harrison, but instead of sounding like a museum exhibit, this album thrums with restless energy.

“Dropped Out” is a road-trip anthem with teeth, all grit and slide guitar. “Cold and Blue” could easily slot into Clapton’s Unplugged, while “Out To You” leans Brian Wilson in its kaleidoscopic harmonies. The production, courtesy of Elliott Elsey and Vlado Meller, gives every detail—from piano flourishes to guitar bends—its rightful place in the mix. This is a record that knows its history but refuses to sit still.

At times, Foulke’s earnestness borders on overstatement, but that’s part of the charm. Charleston Blues isn’t shy about wearing its influences on its sleeve; instead, it waves them like a banner. For a debut, it’s impressively assured, pointing to an artist who could just as easily open for John Mayer as headline his own sweaty club tour. File under: one to watch.

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