Blues News Switzerland Review Translation

Brad "Guitar" Wilson has titled the follow-up to his successful 2025 album *The Californian, "Boundless"— and the name hits the nail on the head, as the musical range is indeed limitless. This album, recorded partly in Brussels and partly in Hollywood, boasts an impressive 16 tracks. They encompass everything from blues standards and pop anthems to intriguing original compositions spanning a wide variety of styles, giving *Boundless* a charming jukebox vibe. What ties it all together is Wilson’s melodic guitar work — always serving the song—and his soulful vocals.

The blues contingent includes the opening track, B.B. King’s 1969 crossover hit "The Thrill Is Gone," which receives a special touch here thanks to Brad playing an original B.B. "Lucille" guitar. Wilson ventures into pop territory with the Tears For Fears chart-topper "Everybody Wants to Rule the World"—interpreted here with a soulful, bluesy feel—a song that frequently features in his live sets.

"Gonna Stay or Go" and "Living Underground," both penned by Wilson, possess a sonic flair reminiscent of 1960s Britain; the latter’s contemplative lyrics were, according to the guitarist, inspired by the war in Ukraine. "Let’s Dance Tonight" hails from the rockabilly realm, while "Wild and Free with Rooster" evokes the glory days of Lynyrd Skynyrd. "Home," driven by acoustic guitar, leans toward folk-rock; "Time Was" is easy listening; "San Francisco Nights" carries a soulful, jazzy undertone; and "Sky Full of Rain" falls squarely into the category of heartbreak ballads. Brad Wilson (voc, g), Toto Poznantek, Chris Ross, Adam Gust (dr), Chris Rhyne, Luca Catalfamo, Frankie Vriens (keys), Hal Cragin, Brian Beal, Fabrizo Erba (b), Francis Buckley (synth-b, perc, prod), Paulina Campos, Valerie Chanelle (b-voc)

(CD, DL, www.bradwilsonlive.com)

Marco Piazzalonga