The blues is an American art form; however people all over the world love the blues. They love the blues in Europe and they love the blues in Australia too. This is the Australian Invasion

Dave Hole is an Australian blues slide guitarist. He burst on the American music scene in 1992. His fourth album "The Live One" was recorded in 2002 and established Dave Hole as a headliner. His slide guitar mesmerizes with his interpretation of Jimi Hendrix's "Purple Haze". Other highlights include "Short Fuse Blues", "Berwick Road" and his version of "Bullfrog Blues". He continues to be a most exciting performer and he has led the Australian Invasion. Visit his website www.davehole.com

Sugarcane Collins
"Way Down Under"
Andy Collins

Sounding as if it's from a Sergio Leone western Sugarcane Collins creates what could be a movie soundtrack. From the drama of "Like a Midnight Shower of Rain" to "Got a Mind To Ramble" when he sings "if I make it to Chicago I'm going change my name", to his tribute to "Leadbelly", this is an interesting recording. Learn more about Sugarcane Collins at andycollins.com

Fiona Boyes
"Lucky 13"
Yellow Dog Records

Fiona Boyes sometimes sounds like Bonnie Raitt and sometimes like Marcia Ball, but her talent is undeniable. This is one of my favorite albums this year with production by Mark "Kaz" Kazanoff. The album includes 13 songs 10 of which were written by Fiona. Guest musicians include Marcia Ball, Bob Margolin and Kaz Kazanoff and The Texas Horns. Highlights include the rockin' "Chicken Wants Corn" and the sexy "Celebrate The Curves" with horn arrangements by Kaz. Check out her website. fionaboyes.com

These three have led what I will call the Australian Invasion. They have totally absorbed enough Americana to be true to the "Blues". Our "Blues", is loved all around the world.

Richard Ludmerer
Director, The New York Blues & Jazz Society
ricdale2@yahoo.com