This latest project from Trout finds the big guy joining forces with some of the most charismatic and influential bluesmen on the contemporary blues scene. The first studio release in five long years, 'Full Circle' pools resources and breaks down blues barriers; a truly superb and totally successful essay to carefully meld music that should satisfy both 'blues purists' and 'blues rockers'. 'Full Circle' is universal blues composed and played jointly by Trout and just some of his long admired contemporaries.

Featuring John Mayall, Jeff Healey, Eric Sardinas, Coco Montoya, Junior Watson, Guitar Shorty, James Harman, Bernard Allison, Finis Tasby, Deacon Jones, Joe Bonamassa and Larry Keene, 'Full Circle' has co-joined many of the regional and sectarianally diverse nuances and styles that have thus far remained mainly untouchable, almost sacred, to their respective followers and admirers. And cleverly, Trout has managed to retain his full-on Trout-ness throughout. Something for everyone, slick and smooth yet chock full of blues grind, Trout has pulled this off with seemingly consummate ease. Trout's well proven and justifiably utilised formula of big break, 'live' works is put to one side here to be replaced by thirteen full-on, band oriented works done to a turn.

Beautifully cooked and sunny side up 'Full Circle' rocks as much as it hurts (generically speaking). Pure class, this refined and solid outing sits wherever you want it to sit - If electric blues is your bag then Water Trout's 'Full Circle' is a must for your collection.

(Rhythm & Booze rating 9)