Carolyn Wonderland – Truth Is (Alligator Records, 2025)
Carolyn Wonderland cements her place in modern blues music with Truth Is, her latest album on Alligator Records. A highly skilled guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, Wonderland combines blues, Tex-Mex, and rock into a signature sound developed over decades of relentless touring.
This gifted musician has been performing professionally since age 15 and has shared stages with legends such as Townes Van Zandt, Levon Helm, Buddy Guy, and Bob Dylan while building a catalog of compelling original work. On Truth Is, she delivers 12 outstanding tracks, 10 of them originals or co-writes, characterized by sharp lyricism, superb and powerful guitar work, and raw emotional depth.
Produced by guitarist and songwriter Dave Alvin, who also co-wrote four tracks, the album features guest appearances by Marcia Ball, Ruthie Foster, Cindy Cashdollar, and others.
Highlights include the searing urgency of “Sooner Or Later” as well as the defiant anthem “I Ain’t Going Back.” Equally captivating is the hauntingly personal “Blues For Gene.” Indeed, Wonderland’s music spans a spectrum of emotions. Her rendition of “Orange Juice Blues” channels the loose, spirited energy of The Band’s original, while “Wishful Thinking” puts the spotlight on her engaging, evocative vocal style.
Buy Truth Is.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.