Will Foulke has released his highly anticipated new album Charleston Blues, a record that pays tribute to the legends of the genre while carving out a sound that is distinctly his own. The album is both a celebration and a reinterpretation of the blues, blending heartfelt storytelling with meticulous musicianship across a diverse range of tracks.
From its psychedelic opening to the whimsical closing number, Charleston Blues unfolds as a layered journey through the heart of American music. Drawing inspiration from figures such as Robert Johnson, Otis Redding, George Harrison, and Eric Clapton, Foulke channels a sound that is at once fresh and timeless. Listeners may also hear echoes of John Mayer’s emotional pull, Jeff Lynne’s melodic sensibilities, and Brian Wilson’s introspective soul.
“This record is a tribute to the blues and the musicians who made the genre what it is today. Each song reflects a piece of that legacy,” Foulke explains.
Highlights include Dropped Out, a gritty road trip anthem with classic blues spirit, and Still Alive, a contemplative ballad steeped in Otis Redding’s raw emotion. One Notch introduces jazzy textures with slide guitar, piano, and layered rhythms, while the title track Charleston Blues showcases Foulke’s searing guitar work. Cold and Blue captures heartbreak with echoes of Clapton’s melancholy, and Out To You closes the record with lush harmonies in a touching nod to Brian Wilson.
The production of Charleston Blues ensures every detail is brought to life, with mixing by Elliott Elsey and mastering by legendary engineer Vlado Meller. Foulke performed all vocals and instrumentation himself, giving the album an authenticity and intimacy that reflect his deep connection to the material.
