New Gina Coleman Album "Uncrowned: A Tribute To Ida Cox" Review.

Artist: Gina Coleman

Album: Uncrowned: A Tribute To Ida Cox

Released: 2026

Artist Website: https://www.ginacolemanmusic.com/

Gina Coleman returns with her second solo album in a 12 month span. Between her main gig as the founder/singer of Misty Blues and her solo releases her musical output is staggering. To put out so much quality music in such a short time span is a testament to her commitment to the art. This latest release "Uncrowned: A Tribute To Ida Cox" is a slick eleven song set of wonderful versions of Ida Cox classics. There is simply nothing that Gina touches that isn't 100% unique, and this record is no exception to the incredibly high standard she has set.

Graveyard Dream Blues sets the hook as the opening track of this fine record. A slinky take on the Ida Cox classic is everything we have come to know and love of Gina Coleman's music. The bass line of this track is one that isn't typically heard in a blues cut. It is very busy, but sits deep in the pocket at every turn like a James Jamerson line. A tasteful slide guitar accents the sweet vocals throughout. This cut sounds like a group of musicians that are truly one locked unit, versus separate parts searching for where they belong. 

As a traditionalist it is a pleasure to hear the straight up shuffle Wild Women Don't Have The Blues. The time tested swing of the blues never gets old when it is done with the relaxed mastery of this band. It is played loosely, as it should be. There is an ebb and flow to classic blues that is rare these days, particularly in the acoustic realm. There always seems to be a handful of bands that can do the classic electric Chicago approach quite effectively, but this band goes a few years further back where most don't venture and they seem as comfortable as a kitten doing so. 

Lawdy Lawdy Blues is a funky 12 bar blues that is a masterclass in how to modernize an old song without losing its original intent. That in a nutshell is what makes Gina Coleman's releases so intoxicating. There is more than a foot steeped in tradition, while tactfully moving the boat forward with the rest of her body and soul into the 21st century. I am reminded of the great Keb Mo interpreting Robert Johnson's music, somehow electrifying it without plugging in. This song is a shining example of the power and simplicity of the blues. Simple doesn't mean the same thing as easy, although one would think otherwise listening to Gina effortlessly deliver the goods. 

The primarily acoustic setting of Gina's solo releases showcases the softer side of her vocal approach which is as warm as fresh baked bread. Coleman is truly a master of the blues art form, and it shows whether she is functioning within the very electric Misty Blues or in a more stripped down acoustic setting. To take on the Ida Cox catalog is a gutsy decision. Gina and her band more than rose to the challenge, breathing fresh new life into time tested classics! This is a record that blues fans will absolutely adore!