In a career defined by constant evolution, Joe Bonamassa is once again ready to turn the page. The acclaimed blues-rock virtuoso has announced Breakthrough, his most adventurous and genre-blending studio album to date, set for release on July 18th through his own label, J&R Adventures.
Central to this announcement is the release of the album’s powerful title track, “Breakthrough,” a soulful and hard-hitting anthem about letting go, moving forward, and reigniting one’s inner fire. The track is now available on all streaming platforms, offering fans an early glimpse into Bonamassa’s bold new artistic direction.
Crafted across multiple continents and infused with a world’s worth of musical inspiration, Breakthrough marks a vibrant new chapter for Bonamassa. The album leans heavily into fiery guitar solos, emotionally rich storytelling, groove-driven arrangements, and a deep exploration of stylistic diversity. Produced by Bonamassa’s longtime creative partner Kevin Shirley—known for his work with Iron Maiden, The Black Crowes, and Journey—the record was shaped by sessions held in Greece, Egypt, Nashville, and Los Angeles, resulting in a colorful and dynamic sonic landscape that shifts seamlessly from funky blues and Texas swing to acoustic ballads and swaggering hard rock.
Kevin Shirley expressed that Breakthrough represents a notable shift in Bonamassa’s recording style. While the album still features plenty of the guitar solos that fans cherish, the primary focus this time is on the strength and depth of the songs themselves. According to Shirley, each new recording project allows Bonamassa to access a different part of his vast internal jukebox, and this album is no exception, offering a round-the-world musical journey that encompasses everything from Little Feat funkiness and Texas swing to hard rock intensity and acoustic singer-songwriter introspection.
The newly released single “Breakthrough,” co-written with longtime collaborator Tom Hambridge, captures the emotional heart of the album. The uplifting anthem addresses themes of transformation, persistence, and releasing the burdens that hold us back. With its gritty vocals, melodic guitar lines, and lush arrangements, the track embodies Bonamassa’s signature combination of power and finesse, while also signaling the bold new territory he is exploring.
The release of “Breakthrough” follows the success of Bonamassa’s recent singles “Still Walking With Me” and “Shake This Ground,” both of which hinted at the adventurous spirit behind the full album. “Shake This Ground” introduced a moody, introspective edge, while “Still Walking With Me” embraced warmth, gratitude, and a classic soul influence. Each track showcases different facets of Bonamassa’s evolving songwriting approach, rooted in emotional honesty and anchored by his unmistakable guitar prowess.
The announcement of Breakthrough arrives during a period of extraordinary momentum for Bonamassa. He recently launched his extensive European Spring Tour, followed by an upcoming June run with his powerhouse supergroup Black Country Communion, featuring Glenn Hughes, Jason Bonham, and Derek Sherinian. After a series of summer performances across Europe, including sold-out shows in Ireland, Bonamassa will return to the United States for his just-announced 2025 U.S. Summer Tour, a limited amphitheater run that will include stops at iconic venues such as The Greek Theatre and Red Rocks.
With over 50 albums to his name, 28 number-one Billboard Blues albums, and a lifelong dedication to pushing the genre forward, Joe Bonamassa shows no signs of slowing down. Whether headlining prestigious venues, mentoring emerging artists through his Journeyman Records label, or supporting music education initiatives via his Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation, Bonamassa continues to shape the future of blues-rock with passion, innovation, and every note he plays.
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