Eric Gales: A Tribute To LJK Review
Eric Gales has long been recognized as one of the most important blues rock performers of his generation, and his new record, A Tribute to LJK, carries a particular gravity. It honors his late brother, Manuel “Little Jimmy King” Gales, who passed away in 2002 at only 37. Manuel was a gifted Memphis guitarist who toured with Albert King and later led the Memphis Soul Survivors. Eric, the youngest of five siblings, first emerged in the early ’90s as a prodigy, releasing his debut album at just 16. With this tribute, he revisits his brother’s catalog and reintroduces it with both reverence and vitality.
The opening track, “You Shouldn’t Have Left Me,” sets the tone with a lively shuffle that bursts out of the speakers. It is sharp, energetic, and anchored by classic blues rock guitar lines, making for a strong opener. “Rockin’ Horse Ride,” featuring Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, follows with wah-wah-laced riffs and a groove that swings effortlessly, standing out as one of the record’s most infectious moments.
“Don’t Wanna Go Home,” featuring Joe Bonamassa, boasts a mid-paced groove that exudes pure feel-good energy. It’s one of those tracks that makes you want to turn it up and just ride the rhythm while the guitar leads cut through the mix with fire and flair. The mood shifts with “Something Inside of Me,” a slow and dramatic blues where Eric’s guitar work is piercing and deeply expressive. It is one of the record’s most emotional moments, showing the heart and reverence that guide the project.
“It Takes a Whole Lot of Money” brings Gales, Bonamassa, and Josh Smith together in a blues rock showcase that feels effortless, while “Worried Man” eases the pace, leaning toward a late-night soulful mood before the record closes on its most meaningful note.
That closer, “Somebody,” featuring Buddy Guy and Roosevelt Collier, begins with an acoustic introduction before building into a full-bodied blues. On the surface, it may seem like a mere traditional blues number, but Buddy’s presence and vocals bring a weight and character all its own, giving the song a depth and magnetism that are undeniable.
What stands out throughout is the guitar work. The solos are bold and expressive, but they always serve the song. The production, handled by Bonamassa and Smith, is clean and modern while still capturing the feel of a live performance. It has polish without losing warmth or sounding sterile
As a tribute album, it naturally looks back, but that is its purpose. It succeeds in bringing Manuel Gales’ music back into focus while allowing Eric to honor his brother in the most fitting way. A Tribute to LJK is heartfelt, fiery, and deeply rewarding. It keeps a legacy alive and marks another high point in Eric Gales’ career.
The Review: 9/10
Can’t Miss Tracks
– You Shouldn’t Have Left Me
– Rockin’ Horse Ride
– Don’t Wanna Go Home
– Something Inside of Me
– Worried Man
– Somebody
The Big Hit
– Somebody
