Chicago The Heart of Chicago

This historic compilation of classic Chicago blues from six decades brought through contemporary recording terms is a loving, two-CD set of music that is not interpreted or reinvented as it is played faithfully to the core. A fairly set rhythm section featuring guitarist Billy Flynn, bassist Felton Crews, and drummer Kenny "Beedy Eyes" Smith, backs modern-day living legends like Billy Boy Arnold, Lurrie Bell, Billy Branch, and John Primer on tunes penned by both Sonny Boy Williamsons, Big Bill Broonzy, Big Maceo Merriweather, Elmore James, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, the Hooker Brothers, Buddy Guy, and others. Considerable help is given by harmonicist Matthew Skoller (brother of producer Larry Skoller,) keyboardist Johnny Iguana, vocalist Mike Avery (cousin of Magic Sam), and lead guitarist Carlos Johnson…

Born in the Bluestown of Chicago in 1951, Tino Gonzales, grew up with the soul sounds of Black music. Blues, R & B, Jazz, and Soul have all contributed to his musical foundations. Having served his apprenticeship with a wide range of blues and jazz greats, he eventually set off on his solo Blues career in 1985. Tino Gonzales is to the blues what Carlos Santana is to Rock music ! Coming from "southside" of Chicago, this one of a kind Chicano cooked his special blues in New York with a touch of funk, a spicy latin groove and a jazzy beat. As a Mexican dude, a spanish blood runs in his veins. Tinos’ blues is hot and so different, a real blast in the today blues landscape. Fluid, cool and sexy that’s Gonzales touch.