Aynsley Lister - Eyes Wide Open (2016)

'Eyes Wide Open' is a bold, confident and accessible slice of contemporary blues-rock that promises to bring Aynsley yet more accolades as well as introduce his genre-blending sound to a new audience, building on the 100,000 albums he's already sold worldwide. The 39-year-old British guitarist says that this raw, energetic album is a return to his roots; a record that at its heart boasts all the grit of traditional blues. 'I wanted to keep the raw edginess and energy of a band, says Aynsley. 'So that meant minimal takes and going with the ones that had the most spirit and passion over those with technical perfection. To me, music isn't supposed to be perfect. It's supposed to grab you and move you both emotionally and physically; it's supposed to connect with you.' 'Eyes Wide Open' seals Aynsley's reputation for adroitly blending blues and rock, pop and even a smattering of soul. Hooky melodies dovetail seamlessly with blazing blues solos that are as passionate as they are tasteful. Like every musician of weight, this album also reveals Aynsley's ability to tell a story. Each track paints a picture, exposing an emotional landscape with the insight of a fine artist: 'The world never stops and so much happens around us - some of it resonates with you, some of it doesn't. This album is written about the world as I see it, through eyes wide open.' 'His guitar playing is a fire hazard' MOJO

This is the kind of album you hope someone will release but never does. It's one of those rare works of art that will never leave your stack of favourites –Eminence

Eyes Wide Open is over an hour of exceptional song-writing, guitar playing, vocals and musicianship that will want you to listen over and over again. Aynsley is a quite simply a blues master! –jamtrackcentral

TRACKLIST
1. All Of Your Love (4:41)
2. Everything I Have To Give (5:41)
3. Il Grande Mafioso (7:07)
4. Won't Be Taken Down (5:56)
5. Time (4:51)
6. Dishevelled (5:26)
7. Troubled Soul (Intro) - Kalina (5:57)
8. Handful Of Doubt (4:53)
9. Right As Rain (5:01)
10. Other Part Of Me (5:08)
11. Stay (6:01)
12. Hold You To It (4:52)