If Mojo Nixon had a brother and he had a new blues release, it might be Big Joe Shelton. The similarities to Mojo stop at the singing voice. Big Joe is no novelty act, he is a straight forward southern juke joint rocker. Vocalist/Harp player Big Joe Shelton’s new release “Black Prairie Blues” (Alt 45 Records) is a journey down to the northeast part of Mississippi known by the same name. 
Big Joe was raised surrounded by the blues. Early influences include a fortunate relationship with blues legend Big Joe Williams. In the mid seventies Shelton moved to Chicago and experienced the electric blues scene first hand. While in Chicago Big Joe was able to see the likes of Muddy Water, Howlin’ Wolf and Buddy Guy.
Big Joe really rocks the harp or as he likes to call it – his “Mississippi Saxophone.” Guitarist Willie King makes a guest appearance on the title track (“Black Prairie Blues”) which is a great tribute to Bukka White and the many other blues musicians of this region. Other favorites include “Ribs and Cat Whisky,” “Chitlin’ Lovin’ Man,” “One’s Too Many” and “Cat Fish Alley.” If you like your blues to rock-a-little or just have fun, take a trip down to Mississippi with Big Joe Shelton. Greg “Doc” Lefebre
