Garret T Willie is a twenty-five-year-old guy from Alert Bay, British Columbia. Now, this is not where you would normally find a Blues artist, and especially not one so young. In his short career, he has opened for the likes of Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Kingfish, John Fogerty, plus Joe Bonamassa.
So even at this tender age, he’s already earned his Blues chops. Bill’s Café is his second album, following his debut album in 2023. He has surrounded himself with some fine musicians, none more so than Tom Hambridge, who is probably the most sought-after muso and producer around at the moment.
Hypnotist opens the proceedings with a hard-rocking tune, gritty vocals that are a constant throughout, and some mean guitar. Not only does Willie perform as the lead vocalist, but he’s also the lead guitar player, both of which he does exceptionally well. From then on, the songs take on a more Blues and Boogie trait, you hardly have time to catch your breath, then bang, here comes another one. All of the tracks are based on his time growing up in Alert Bay, his experiences of life and tales of small-town gigs, and the yearning to break out and be the biggest Blues artist in the world. This may only be his second album, but if he keeps on writing and playing tunes as good as these, I can see him sitting on top of the Blues perch before too long.
“his dream may not be too far away. Bravo”
Small Town People echoes his thoughts superbly, not in a detrimental way, but he’s telling his story, how he became enthralled in Blues music, and his willingness to succeed. Golden Highway takes a more gentle approach to a tale of being on the road, striving to be heard. I can honestly say that Bill’s Café is a very early contender for album of the year. With a great record label behind him and his undoubted talent, his dream may not be too far away. Bravo.
STEPHEN HARRISON
