 Chris O’Leary Announces New Album Blue Collar and Shares New Single 'Bad Decisions' Release date July 10, 2026 Acclaimed blues artist, harmonica virtuoso, and master songwriter Chris O’Leary returns with Blue Collar, his second album for Alligator Records, set for release on July 10, 2026. The album will be available on translucent blue vinyl, CD, and all major digital platforms. A Marine combat veteran, former federal police officer, and ex-frontman of Levon Helm’s Barn Burners, O’Leary channels a lifetime of extraordinary experiences into a deeply personal and compelling collection of songs. Blue Collar transforms hard-earned stories into timeless blues narratives, grounded in authenticity and emotional depth. Whether in the studio or on stage, O’Leary commands attention with soul-drenched vocals and explosive, locomotive harmonica playing. His all-original compositions are musically captivating by turns humorous, reflective, and wise blending Chicago blues, Memphis soul, and New Orleans funk into a rich, high-energy sound. “I’ve lived the craziest life,” says O’Leary. “Going to war, touring with Levon Helm, learning from blues legend James Cotton, and now recording for Alligator it’s something I’ll never take for granted.” The album’s first single, “Bad Decisions,” premieres today alongside an official video. “I’ve been writing about my poor judgment for years,” O’Leary notes, “only this time it’s the actual name of the song.” Self-produced, Blue Collar features 11 original tracks that showcase O’Leary’s powerful harp work and impassioned vocals, backed by a dynamic band brimming with confidence and groove. Each song reflects real-life experiences “all personal, all real-life,” as O’Leary puts it. Highlights include the late-night cautionary tale “After 2 A.M.,” the wry and relatable “What Would I Do Without You?,” and the swampy, high-octane “Live Baby Gators,” featuring accordionist Wayne Toups. Longtime collaborator Bob Margolin contributes Muddy Waters-inspired guitar to the soulful “Nothing But A Memory,” while Alligator labelmate Lil’ Ed Williams brings fiery slide guitar to the autobiographical “One More Cup Of Coffee.” From his home base in Virginia to stages worldwide, O’Leary has established himself as one of modern blues’ leading harmonica players, songwriters, and live performers. A veteran of the road, he has toured extensively across North America and Europe, earning a reputation for electrifying performances and relentless energy. With a career spanning decades and a catalog that includes five independent releases prior to his Alligator debut, The Hard Line, O’Leary continues to push the boundaries of contemporary blues while staying rooted in its traditions. As noted by Blues Music Magazine, O’Leary delivers “excellent, high-energy performances…powerful, first-rate virtuosity.” With Blue Collar, he raises the bar once again. Tracklist: 1. Bad Decisions 4:21 2 .Lady Luck 3:32 3. Am I The Only Fool? 3:44 4. One More Cup Of Coffee 3:35 5. Nothing But A Memory 5:08 6. Justice Must Be Blind 3:43 7. After 2 A.M. 4:43 8. One Way Street 5:04 9. Live Baby Gators 4:45 10. How'd I Ever Get Along? 5:01 11. Daddy Was A Wolfman 3:51 Website: thechrisolearyband.net Opmerkingen zijn gesloten.
|