Best known for his classic blues, jazz and guitar instrumental sounds, Duke Robillard cuts loose in style on his 2023 album Six Strings Of Steel. Credited to Duke Robillard & His All-Star Band, the 12-track, 60-minute CD features Duke’s guitar and vocals backed up by a top-flight band including long-time Robillard band members Mark Teixeira (drums), Bruce Bears (keys), Marty Ballou (bass), and Doug James (sax), in addition to recently added band member, Chris Cote (vocals). Guesting is Katie Shore (fiddle) of Asleep at The Wheel.

Nestled among Duke’s new tracks are several chestnut covers including, Link Wray’s classic instrumental rocker “Rumble”, a take of Bob Dylan’s “Watching The River Flow and cover of Fats Domino’s “I’m Going To Be A Wheel Someday”. More instrumentals here include a take of guitar legend Barney Kessel’s “Git With It” and a swing-jazz cover of Leo Parker’s “Billy In The Lion’s Den”. “Groovin’ In The Swamp” is a 5-minute instrumental tribute to James Burton and Steve Cropper.

Speaking about his new album, Duke says, “I am really excited about the release of Six Strings of Steel on M.C. Records. It’s a look back at many guitar and song styles that have been important to me along my journey in this world of ever-changing tastes and sounds. At the same time, all the genres rooted in the blues still captivate my imagination on a daily basis.”  Whether covering the classics or rocking out his originals, Duke Robillard & His All-Star Band keeps his sound alive and well with Six Strings Of Steel.