With his piano-pounding international reputation and guests like Duke Robillard on guitar. Harpist Billy Branch and BB’s bass man Russell Jackson, the listener can expect much from this release. And there’ll be no disappointment.

Things kick off with a real Chess style groove, Branch playing like Paul Oscher and a perfect vocal key for Kenny who for my money sings like a softer Freddie King. The piano runs tinkle away as the steady bass keeps things in place. I Knew I’d Be Playing The Blues is the title. Start Rockin’ is sprightly and a very Noo Awlins sound.

How ‘Bout That has echoes of Albert King with its rueful lyric. Dig that Hammond and electric piano over the snappy bass and then here comes Duke with a spiky solo! I Like That Woman nods to Ray Charles with another ace vocal whilst Jimmy & Johnny is a delightful jump blues telling of a pals’ falling out..over a female of course. Make Up Your Mind takes a Jimmy Reed tempo and sounds very Memphis Slim in style on the vocal. These cats make it sound so very easy.

Lake Country Boogie has a slick jazz style about it, with a rich horn ensemble and sparkling piano. Mr Blueberry Hill is a paean to Fats and well-handled, observing the Domino sound and rolling rhythm.

An Old Brick Wall has a 50s jukebox vibe. That Girl Needs Help finds Branch back on the harp and is my favourite here, with its dark edge and memorable middle eight. I could hear our pal Errol Linton tackling this one.

That Raggedy Shack is back to the dancehall strut, an ensemble vocal working well. The parting shot on the record is a live rendition of Georgia On My Mind. So very traditional but so very entertaining.

Pete Sargeant