Few artists in modern blues-rock evolve with every release quite like Joanne Shaw Taylor.
Back in June, she released the superb 10th album of her career, “Black And Gold.” Now it returns in deluxe form, produced throughout by Kevin Shirley – the man behind records for everyone from Iron Maiden to Journey and Joe Bonamassa – and complete with three bonus tracks. As ever with Taylor, the additions only underline what was already true: the best songs translate to any format.
Take “Hold Of My Heart.” Swampy, bluesy, and dripping with that natural soul that sets JST apart, it works perfectly in its original form too. Yet she’s not just defined by that anymore. “All The Things I Said” is a gorgeous slice of Fleetwood Mac–ish summer, tinged with reflection – maybe even regret – that colours the record throughout.
That’s certainly true of the title track. Moody, soulful, but boasting a wonderful solo, it perfectly captures where Taylor is now. But arguably the most affecting moment is the raw beauty of “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?” Written, you imagine, about losing someone special, it hits hard. Listen without thinking of your own – a parent, a partner, whoever – and you’re made of stronger stuff than me.
After that, the groove of the superb “I Gotta Stop Letting You Let Me Down” feels like a release, but even here the personal edge remains. “Summer Love” is contentment itself – a song country stars the world over would kill to have as an anthem. And although the West Midlands–born Taylor now lives in the southern USA, the record carries a distinct West Coast feel. “Grayer Shade Of Blue” underlines this, sun-dappled and dripping with Laurel Canyon haze.
Of course, sometimes it’s all about sass and rock ’n’ roll. “Hell Of A Good Time” is exactly what you’d hope for from its title, while “Look What I’ve Become” is a showcase for the guitar brilliance that has always been part of her DNA. The energy of “What Are You Gonna Do Now?” makes something else just as clear: Joanne Shaw Taylor is a better songwriter these days than she’s ever been.
And then there’s the voice. The slow croon of “Love Loves Here” is drenched in warmth and honesty, pulling everything together.
The deluxe edition closes with three fresh highlights: “Hold Of My Heart,” “Grayer Shade Of Blue,” and the title track “Black And Gold.” Each one not only adds depth, but also reaffirms just how strong this body of work is.
We always seem to say it with JST records, but “Black And Gold” really is a career high – only this time, the deluxe edition proves it beyond doubt.
“Black And Gold Deluxe” isn’t just a reissue – it’s the definitive statement of where Joanne Shaw Taylor stands in 2025.
Rating: 9/10
