With a true affinity for ‘50s song structure and a swinging feel for slinky blues lines, Lisbon-born Rui Veloso has earned his nickname “the father of Portuguese rock”. Veloso switched from harmonica to guitar while still a teenager, seeking to emulate the pitch-perfect blue notes of B.B. King—whom he'd eventually share a stage with in a career highlight. While he tips his hat in the direction of contemporary Portuguese pop, Veloso remains a blues guitarist of startling energy, peeling off electric solos amid barrelhouse piano and chugging harmonica.