Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band

The Traveler, the latest offering from singer-guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd, kicks off with a bang as both “Woman Like You” and “Long Time Running” pack a punch. Both songs draw equally from blues and rock, and Sheperd’s rough vocals make the songs feel particularly gritty and potent. Decades into his career, the Louisiana native sounds as riled up as ever. After performing the Buffalo Springfield tune “Mr. Soul” at a benefit show with Springfield founders Stephen Stills and Neil Young, he decided to include it on this album. The disc also includes his take on the Joe Walsh rocker "Turn to Stone." (Niesel)