Blues harmonica virtuoso Charlie Mussel and Alligator Records have released In My Time, a new album that explores the artist's deep musical roots through a collection of modern and traditional band performances alongside four acoustic tracks. The release features Musselwhite performing with both contemporary ensembles and legendary groups such as The Blind Boys of Alabama.
A Blend of Modern and Traditional Styles
The album, available on CD for $16.98 and via digital platforms including iTunes and Amazon, functions as a musical odyssey that connects Musselwhite's past influences to his present mastery. According to Alligator Records, the project is described by the Associated Press as 'Musselwhite's best album ever,' while Billboard has praised the artist's 'fantastic harp' work.
In My Time comprises 16 tracks that traverse various styles of the blues. The tracklist includes songs such as Stingaree, Brownsville Blues, Ain't It Time, and The Big Boat. The recording also features more somber or stripped-back moments, including four acoustic cuts such as The Big Boat, which highlights Musselwhite on harmonica and vocals alongside musicians Mike 'Junior' Watson, Gene Taylor, Larry Taylor, and Steven Hodges.
Beyond the solo performances, the album emphasizes the communal nature of the genre. Notably, the track Brownsville Blues features the voices of The Blind Boys of Alabama, including Clarence Fountain, Jimmy Carter, Curtis Foster, and Bobby Butler.
Production Details and Technical Mastery
The production of In My Time involved significant technical work across multiple studios. The album was produced by Kevin Morrow and features recordings mixed by Sam Lehmer at Russian Hill Recording in San Francisco, with assistance from Bob Conlan and Scott Strain. Other portions of the album were recorded by Gary Brandt at Alpha Studio in Burbank, California, with help from Russell Burt.
Musselwhite's technical approach to his instrument is also highlighted in the release notes, which mention his use of Mudslide and Moonshine guitar slides as well as Lee Oskar harps. The mastering process was completed by Paul Stubblebine at Rocket Labs in San Francisco.
The album's liner notes suggest that the title In My Time reflects both a retrospective look at Musselwhite's career and a statement of his current standing in the music world. The notes describe the work as an 'inspired kind of simple' approach that uses musical snapshots to document the influences—such as John Lee Hooker, Big Joe Williams, and Sonny Boy Williamson—that have shaped his sound over nearly three decades.
Tributes and Musical Legacy
The release also serves as a tribute to several blues legends. The project was dedicated in memory of Luther Tucker, Albert King, and Albert Collins, noting that they have joined other greats like Big Joe, Shakey Horton, and Sleepy John at 'the next big jam session on the other side.'
The album's themes extend beyond mere nostalgia; it is presented as an exploration of Musselwhite's evolution into a fully matured artist. The liner notes indicate that the album demonstrates how he has absorbed and transcended his influences to develop a voice that is 'as distinctive as a fingerprint.'
In addition to the primary musical credits, the release acknowledges several contributors and supporters, including the staff at Falk and Morrow Talent, Brande Lindsey of Global Access, and various individuals such as Dan Aykroyd and Joe Filisco.
Final Reflections on In My Time
In My Time stands as a significant entry in the contemporary blues canon, offering listeners a window into the history of the genre through one of its most commanding voices. By balancing high-energy ensemble tracks with intimate acoustic performances, Musselwhite provides a comprehensive look at the enduring power of the blues.
