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BLUES SPECIAL

BEHIND THE DOOR The singular vision that allows Keb’ Mo’ to tell the stories in the songs. By David Hamburger
Click here to read the story online.
Words and music to "Loola Loo"

PHILLY GUMBO "Philadelphia" Jerry Ricks brings gospel, R&B, and jazz influences to country blues guitar. By Duck Baker
Words and music to "No More Ramblin’"

SPIRIT OF THE BLUES Eric Bibb gets outside his head and inside the song. By Bill Milkowski
Words and music to "Come Back Baby"

BLUES TOOLS The guitars and accessories you’ll need to create that vintage sound. By Steve James

DEPARTMENTS

JUMP STREET The Hot Club of Cowtown, a farewell to Luiz Bonfá, Happenings, and more. Read our exclusive interview with alt-country singer-songwriter Mark Olson.

REVIEWS Bill Monroe biographies, Hit List CDs and books, and more.

A.G. LETTER Sam Shaber checks in from the Cutting Edge of the Campfire Festival in Harvard Square.

STAGE AND STUDIO Performance Lab: How to make the most of your local open mic. By Hassaun Ali Jones-Bey

GEARBOX Equipment picks from our featured artists, beginners’ guitar kits reviewed, a visit with Froggy Bottom Guitars, and new gear.

DEAR A.G. Answers to your questions about laminated woods, Nic Jones' guitar, and quick retuning, plus a tip about hanging your guitar.

PRIVATE LESSONS

Basics: Combining Bass Notes and Slide. By David Hamburger
Musical examples and "Offbeat Blues"

Rhythm Techniques: Building Swing Chords. By Jim Wood
Musical examples

OFF THE RECORD

Stephen Dick celebrates the 30th anniversary of Joni Mitchell’s ground-shaking Blue.
Music to "This Flight Tonight"

GREAT ACOUSTICS Epiphone Bluesmaster. By David Hamburger

MARKETPLACE Browse the classified ads with live links to advertiser Web sites.

Cover: Keb’ Mo’ and his new signature model Martin. Photo by Anne Hamersky.