‘Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro and the legendary Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac have come together to release a groundbreaking instrumental blues album, Blues Experience, on October 18 via 40 Below Records. This unique collaboration blends the distinct sounds of Shimabukuro’s genre-defying ‘ukulele performances with Fleetwood’s powerful and iconic drumming, creating a fresh, experimental take on blues-rock.
The Blues Experience album features a collection of eight cover songs along with one original composition, “Kula Blues”. The album includes the focus track, "Rockin' in the Free World”, a dynamic rendition of Neil Young's 1989 single which Fleetwood describes as a “…classic that transformed into an off-the-wall version. Glad I was in shape to play this more than a few times before we settled for this take!" Fleetwood also noted that, like many tracks on the album, this song has rarely been approached in an instrumental format, making it a standout.
The album also offers a fresh, instrumental take on Little Willie John's "Need Your Love So Bad," a song that holds special meaning for Fleetwood, as Fleetwood Mac had previously recorded a version. Mick reflected on the collaboration with Jake Shimabukuro, praising Jake's extraordinary ‘ukulele artistry and describing the instrumental interpretation as "a melodic painting" that brings the song to life in a way that transcends traditional vocal versions.
A standout track on the album, the duo’s rendition of “Rollin’ N Tumblin,’” drew critical praise as the first single. Relix magazine describes it as an “amalgamated musical category of psych and jazz-rock taking the track from a standard presentation to experimental and otherworldly with a genuinely unique rhythmic display paired with swirling strums...” This redefines the possibilities of the ‘ukulele, adding weight to Shimabukuro’s reputation as “the Jimi Hendrix of the ‘ukulele” (Guitar Player).
Mojo Magazine raves, “Shimabukuro conveys delicacy as well as visceral power. Who knew the humble ‘ukulele could be such a viable blues-rock vehicle? No wonder Fleetwood is a keen collaborator. Extraordinary stuff.” Blues Experience pushes the boundaries of traditional blues, adding new textures and sonic layers that elevate the genre.
In addition, the album includes a touching instrumental version of Christine McVie’s iconic composition, "Songbird." Fleetwood poignantly shared, "’Songbird’ unfolded in the studio… not only with its new musical approach but the depth of what we were playing brought on my full awareness that Christine McVie had truly flown away. For me, that was a moment to absorb such a huge loss."
The upcoming album, Blues Experience, promises to be a powerful fusion of their distinct musical styles, blending Shimabukuro’s innovative approach to the ‘ukulele with Fleetwood’s legendary rhythm. Fans can look forward to an album that pushes boundaries while honoring the timeless quality of the music they both cherish.
Joining Shimabukuro and Fleetwood on the album are bassist Jackson Waldhoff and keyboard player Michael Grande. Special guest Mark Johnstone from The Mick Fleetwood Blues Band also lends his keyboard prowess to "Need Your Love So Bad" and "Rockin' In The Free World." Over two intense three-day sessions, the band recorded nine tracks live in the studio, with Sonny Landreth contributing slide guitar to the Jeff Beck/Stevie Wonder classic "Cause We've Ended As Lovers."
Blues Experience promises to be a landmark release. It combines the formidable talents of Jake Shimabukuro and Mick Fleetwood with fresh, innovative interpretations of blues classics. Fans can expect a bold and forward-looking album that is deeply rooted in tradition.
Blues Experience is set to captivate fans when it hits the shelves today, October 18.
Track Listing:
Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers
Rollin’ N Tumblin’
Need Your Love So Bad
Kula Blues
Whiter Shade Of Pale
I Wanna Get Funky
Still Got The Blues
Rockin’ In The Free World
Songbird (Mick spoken word)
