142. BUFFALO NICHOLS (self-titled)

Houston-born, Milwaukee-raised and, now, Austin-living Buffalo Nichols offers a contemporary take on the blues with this just released 2021 record. Pairing his smokey voice with nimble guitar playing, he covers themes ranging from the overtly political/social commentary on ‘Another Man’ and ‘Living Hell’ to dealing with isolation on album opener (and lead single) ‘Lost & Lonesome.’ ‘These Things’ provides a moment of tenderness between the two halves of the record. By the way, if you’re a fan of slide guitar, you’re in for a treat.