I've been listening to this double-cd set during my work commute the past two days. Since I have a pretty short drive (less than 15 min.), I'm not quite through the 1st CD yet. Just a couple of preliminary comments: Joe's playing is (as I expected) fabulous, and his singing is solid, too. The whole band sounds great (it's a quartet now, with the addition of a keyboardist), and the quality of the live recording is just outstanding. But let me tell you what made the biggest impression on me--this first CD has probably the finest live-recorded Les Paul blues-rock tone I've ever heard. Just unbelievably rich, creamy, full, flat-out gorgeous tone. It's like the best freakin' cheesecake you've ever had in your life, but for your ears instead of your taste buds. I'm sure a lot of it is the equipment he uses--ol' Smokin' Joe ain't got no cheap stuff!!--but the guy(s) who handle his setup are obviously very, VERY good at what they do. If you're an equipment geek like me, you'll also enjoy how Joe lists all the guitars and amps he uses in the CD notes.
Anyway, Joe's tone has had me shaking my head and grinning, and I'm looking forward to the drive home tonight to hear more!
Oh whatever, it was only 20 bucks. I think Joe is worth that.
