Dear listener and reader of Soundville, how long has it been since you last listened to excellent blues? That kind of blues that flows from the musicians’ hearts, making you become one with the music. Such inspired songs truly impress and linger in memory, accompanying you throughout entire days. This atmosphere is exactly what defines the debut album “Go Be Free” by singer, songwriter, and keyboardist Kevin “Sonny” Gullage, who represents the new generation of great jazz musicians.

His soul is the blues in its purest, truest form. But allow me to introduce you a bit to Sonny. His journey in music began in early childhood with his first rhythmic exercises, soon shaping his life. Embracing the blues, Sonny has always been in the spotlight. From performances at B.B. King’s Blues Club in New Orleans to American Idol, and then to concert venues around the world, his relentless desire to create blues for everyone has only intensified. Now, Sonny has released his debut album “Go Be Free,” marking the start of his grand musical career. The album features 12 tracks performed with brilliance and passion. It’s impossible not to fall in love with his performance, the stunning play of emotions, and the atmosphere in the release. Even if you are unfamiliar with blues music or have never felt its charm and energy, you should try starting anew with “Go Be Free.” It might just change your world forever from the first track, “Just Kiss Me, Baby.”
Sonny’s vocals always shine in the spotlight, completely detached from reality, in a dazzling display. The instruments resonate within an incredibly cool blues atmosphere, and Sonny’s voice is bright and compelling, inviting you to feel the beauty of the world. From the very first track, Sonny’s music has a profound impact on the heart and soul. When the vocals soar into an airy falsetto, it becomes impossible to resist this drive and energy, shooting from head to toe.
You must listen to the album “Go Be Free” ready for the emerging desires to dance and sway along with the music. Just surrender to these feelings in the title track “Go Be Free”. The Southern hospitality unfolds with steady stomping drums, choirs, and the palpable atmosphere of a young church. An inexplicable joy and sense of freedom run through your consciousness from this track. In “Go Be Free,” familiar motifs merge with Sonny’s completely unique, unparalleled sound. Every beat, word, and note is flawless, and by the end of the track, you feel the need to catch your breath from the overwhelming energy.
I was charmed by “Worried About the Young (feat. Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram)” with its gripping, intriguing sound, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram’s sweet guitar, and Sonny’s sensual vocals. The keys and drums create a solid foundation for the melody, while the vocals and guitar seem to perform their best show. When I first heard this track, it felt more daring, free, and Sonny seemed incredibly comfortable with this sound. I love how emotional Christone “Kingfish” Ingram’s guitar is in this track. It gives me goosebumps (seriously!). Next, in “Blues All Over You,” the swaying rhythm, delightful keys, and deep guitars seem to dance a passionate dance with Sonny’s vocals. The flawless performance is like honey to the ears. It makes you want to jump up and give all your energy to this traditional Chicago blues! True freedom!

In “I’ve Been There,” there’s a breather with a light pop blues arrangement, gentle guitar, and Sonny creates a very tender, romantic mood. If this track became the soundtrack to a popular series, I wouldn’t be surprised. Changing direction in the album, Sonny reveals a new, more lyrical side. And I really like this side. Something truly extraordinary emerges in Sonny’s slow tracks. That’s why I was so moved by “Tattooed Wings,” with its enchanting blues passion. A slow dance in the swaying shadows of a fireplace, a glass of wine in hand, and complete serenity. I’m an absolute fan of the keyboard solo in this track, I haven’t heard such emotional keys in a long time, and together with Sonny’s expressive vocals, it forms something utterly incredible! Oh, I adore it.
If you enjoy fast and unstoppable blues, don’t miss “File It Under Blues.” Superb lyrics, unfolding vocals, and a rocking melody will create just the atmosphere to energize you for the whole day, and another favorite track will appear in your playlist! The final “Home to You” sounds like the most tender song I’ve ever heard. This track reminds me of a prayer pouring from the heart. But in every beat and word, there’s so much love and reconciliation that it transmits to me as well. It’s an incredibly warm ending to the album, leaving only the warmest feelings. You noticed that too, right?
An amazing album that reveals Sonny in different aspects and roles. It truly is a massive effort, and I absolutely recommend everyone to listen to “Go Be Free”; you will be utterly delighted. I promise you.
Hey Sonny! Thanks for releasing such amazing music. I so enjoyed experiencing completely different emotions from each track, it’s some kind of magic! Impeccable sound quality, the brightness of the texts, your performance is divine. And how much strength and energy is here, and I heard blues anew! I hope to hear even more of your music, and someday to be at one of your concerts. I want to feel all that energy from the live sound, oh. And until then, I will tell all my friends about your music.
Let them listen to great blues, right?



