JB said in the run up to the release that his latest album would have a harder edge, although still keeping it's feet firmly in the blues. He certainly delivers on the promise, with the first track 'This Train' and 'Mountain Climbing' opening with monstrous, stomping riffs and ending as only JB knows how, with intricate, euphoric solos.
There's also a softer side. 'Drive' is a smooth, chilled out track with an old American wilderness feel; perfect for driving through the middle of nowhere with the roof down.
Our first experience of classic blues on the album comes on track four. 'No Good Place For The Lonely' - the longest track of the 61 minute LP at 8:39 - is as perfect a blues track as you're likely to hear, and will no doubt become a Bonamassa classic to accompany fellow epic, 'Sloe Gin'. As every great blues track should, it starts slow and deliberate, before diving head first into a sultry, perfectly phrased guitar solo, overflowing with feel. With this example alone, JB is cementing himself as one of the great guitar players of all time.
JB has never been afraid of changing up the musical styles within his albums before and this time is no different. I was surprised to find a jazz infused track full of sassy saxophone and piano, 'Livin Easy', which provides a divergent flavour to an already tasty album. As it glides along effortlessly, like a warm knife through butter, you can't help but get into the feel of the song.
The title track is classic Bonamassa but with a middle-eastern essence; echoed vocals, Sitar, slide guitar and lots of soaring, screeching Theremin. It's probably the most complex track on the album but JB keeps everything neat and never allows the sounds to discombobulate.
Finally, we get root Blues, Bonamassa style. 'What I've Known for a Very Long Time', accompanied by saxophones, trumpets, piano and organ, starts off as slow as can be while gathering pace with every verse. It teases too, reaching a peak before slowing right down again.
Bonamassa evokes so much emotion from the combination of his playing and lyrics that it's very difficult to not get lost in every track. This is his longest album since 2011's 'Dust Bowl', but even after an hour I still wanted to play it through again and again.
'Blues of Desperation' is a very complete sounding album. Nothing sounds out of place and showcases a bit of everything JB can do; from slow chilled out acoustic with harmonies to blistering hard rock on one of his exquisitely expensive Les Pauls.
Verdict 9/10
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