Joe Louis Walker is a veteran bluesman and one of modern blues’ most essential practitioners. His playing can be smooth and effortless, but he’s more likely to capture the fire of the blues in its loudest moments. 2009’s Between a Rock and the Blues features an all-star cast of players from producer Duke Robillard, keyboardist Bruce Katz and Sugar Ray Norcia on harmonica to special guest Kevin Eubanks (Jay Leno’s musical director) on guitar. But Walker doesn’t allow anyone to bask in the glow of their previous accomplishments. “I’ve Been Down” rocks at that intersection with the blues the Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart’s Faces mined many years ago. “Prisoner of Misery” masters the mid-tempo trudge with several fiery solos. “I’m Tide” sets up a driving shuffle for the highway. “If There’s a Heaven” features a killer dirty guitar tone. “Tell Me Why” adds a masterful sense of control to the standard blues form. “Blackjack” slows to a crawl. “Big Fine Woman” features several twisted guitar solos. Strict to form, Walker keeps the blues alive.