Since 2018, GA-20 has been at the forefront of traditional blues revival. The dynamic throwback trio have long been disciples of the place where traditional blues, country and rock ’n’ roll intersect. As they continue with their mission, GA-20 welcomes in the exciting vocal powerhouse and slide expertise of Cody Nilsen.
Together with guitarist/founder Matthew Stubbs and drummer Joshua Kiggans, the chart-topping power trio forges ahead into 2025 with their upcoming GA-20 EP Volume 2 (due out April 29th), and a renewed commitment to their take on the traditional song-based electric blues they love.
Today Glide is excited to premiere GA-20’s latest single “Stranger Blues,” the first opportunity for the blues trio to showcase the virtuoso slide playing of new guitarist/vocalist Cody Nilsen. Hitting out of the gate with a viciously tasty groove, the song carries a driving slide guitar force that supports the swaggering and soulful vocals. Indeed, this is one of those tunes that is absolutely made for dancing and could turn any club into a jumping and jiving affair. GA-20 have proven by now to be masters of interpreting the blues in a way that is faithful and authentic while also injecting fresh vibrancy into classic songs. This is exactly what they do with the Elmore James tune by giving it their own swinging touch, offering yet another heady reminder that they are one of the preeminent blues revivalist acts on the road today.
Matthew Stubbs describes the inspiration behind the tune:
GA-20 co-founder and guitarist Matt Stubbs share more insight into this track, “’Stranger Blues’ is the first opportunity for us to showcase the virtuoso slide playing of our new guitarist/vocalist Cody Nilsen. Slide guitar has been a mainstay of our repertoire from the very first single, ‘Naggin’ On My Mind,’ which featured guest Luther Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars. On this track, Cody, Joshua and I dig in with a hard driving, urgent sound that pays tribute to the originators.”
LISTEN:
