Albert Castiglia announces “Grits & Glory”
Albert Castiglia has announced the release of his new studio album, Grits & Glory, due out via Gulf Coast Records on July 31. The album was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London and marks another chapter in the multiple Blues Music Award winner and Billboard No. 1 artist’s career.
According to Castiglia, the project represents a return to some of the earliest influences that shaped his musical journey.
“Coming up playing in Chicago and down the East Coast defined my playing style and my take on the blues. But at the same time, I love the back and forth within the blues from America to the UK and back again, both places have had their own impact,” Castiglia said.
The idea for the album began during a 2023 European tour when Castiglia and Gulf Coast Records’ Olly Overton discussed the possibility of recording in the United Kingdom. The concept eventually evolved into a project that reflects both Castiglia’s musical influences and his personal reflections on the world around him.
“There is a lot of noise in America right now,” said Castiglia. “I wanted to step out of all that, give myself room for contemplation. Cutting this record in England allowed me to do that.”
Castiglia recorded the album with his touring band, bassist Cliff Moore and drummer Ray Hangen, marking the first studio recording from the current lineup of the Albert Castiglia Band. Longtime collaborator Dave Gross produced the album after previously working with Castiglia on Solid Ground.
Before entering Abbey Road Studios, Castiglia spent time exploring locations that influenced many of his musical heroes, including a visit to Birmingham, England, where he walked the streets associated with Black Sabbath and guitarist Tony Iommi. The visit took on added significance following the recent passing of Ozzy Osbourne.
The resulting album features 11 tracks and showcases what Castiglia describes as a blend of his American blues roots and the British blues tradition that helped shape generations of guitarists. The record closes with a version of the Beatles classic “Yer Blues.”
TRACK LISTING
In My America
I’m Afraid to Fall Asleep
Uncertainty
Michigan Avenue
Sack The Juggler
Slumlord Billionaire
The Milk Is Still Good
Don’t Burn Down The Bridge
When The Coin Came Callin’
Afro Blue
Yer Blues
