Music / Interviews
Interview: J W Jones
J W Jones is a Canadian bluesman, but rather than going for country soul, he’s producing music informed by the blues greats – fluid guitar lines wrapped up in a classic blues band sound (but with a pleasing twang). He’s released eight albums and garnered critical acclaim for both studio & live work and it will be a real treat to see him back in town (his last visit was to the Tunnels). His sound harks back to the big band sounds of the late fifties and early sixties when the blues was coming out of the delta and in to the city but before it got too rawk, so there’s a real soulful rock n roll feel to his work. His latest release is High Temperature he is playing the Thunderbolt on Saturday 25th November. He’s recently had a virtual visit from the vinyl enquirer so let’s find out what floats his boat.
What was the first record you ever bought and where did you buy it?
It was probably a Stevie Ray Vaughan or Vaughan Brothers CD (after vinyl disappeared for a while), in Ottawa, Canada where I am from.
is needed now More than ever
What was the most recent record you bought and where did you buy it?
Three Jimmy Smith records, and I couldn’t name one of them (and can’t look because I am on tour), at Fascinating Rhythm in Nanaimo, BC
What record do you stick on the deck to sooth your soul?
B.B. King – Live at the Regal.
Have you bought a record on the basis of a great single and then been disappointed by the rest of the album? If so, tell us all about it…
Can’t say I’ve ever purchased a record based on one song, because typically I am just looking to dig deeper into what the artist is all about.
What record do you turn up to maximum to get in to that party mood?
Fabulous Thunderbirds – Girls Go Wild.
If we had the ability to land you at the recording of one classic LP so you could witness the whole recording process, what would you choose and why?
B.B. King – Blues Is King – because it’s got such an incredible intensity. Even though it’s a live record, it’s a different vibe from Live at the Regal, and it feels more intimate to me.
Ever bought a record solely because you liked the sleeve? If so, what was it and did it delight you or disappoint you?
When I was a kid, I thought Michael Jackson’s Dangerous was super cool, and tried to draw it free-hand.
Oh no, your house is burning down and you can only rescue one record! What would it be and why?
Jimmie Vaughan – Strange Pleasure – because every time I listen to that record I hear something new. It’s timeless!
Morbidity alert: what record would you like played at your funeral?
I’m too young for this! How about asking me this question after I survive this upcoming 17-date UK tour! OK?
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