Live at the Alamo Theatre marks Eddie Cotton’s triumphant arrival on the blues scene. It is not everyday that blues fans can celebrate the discovery of a young player hailing from a traditional background.

Eddie Cotton found inspiration in traditional blues masters like Little Milton, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters as well as soul singers like O.V. Wright, Little Willie John and Otis Redding.

Hot on the heels of his 1999 Grammy Award nominated album, “Welcome to Little Milton,” producer Greg Preston was quick to realize Eddie’s tremendous potential and embraced this project with his usual professionalism and drive. The historic Alamo Theater on Farish Street in downtown Jackson, MS where so many blues luminaries have performed over the years; was the perfect venue for Eddie’s recording debut. Eddie Cotton’s impassioned, soulful vocals and fluid, biting guitar combined with his youthful enthusiasm and powerful stage presence stormed the Alamo and took no prisoners. Preston teamed up again with ace engineer Kent Bruce to superbly capture the energy and excitement of that memorable night.

Eddie shines on creative arrangements and interpretations of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Shake For Me,” Hound Dog Taylor’s “She’s Gone” and the scorching closer, Little Milton’s “Walkin’ The Backstreets And Cryin’.” His originals include the Gospel drenched “Don’t Give Up On A Love Affair,” the mournful “You’re The Girl,” as well as the soul blues “Why Must I Cry.”

Live at the Alamo Theater is a fitting debut to what will likely become a long and distinguished career. With his passion, exuberance and overflowing talent, Eddie Cotton promises to carry the blues tradition well into the 21st century

– Alain Recaborde & Jeff Wiener, Blues Access contributors.