Billy Walton and his power trio the Billy Walton Band are the hottest thing to emerge from the Jersey shore scene since you know who. Walton, however, seems more content to be king of the blues guitar, rather than the boss of rock. To that aim, Walton's triad are reaching for the crown with a smoldering licked based offering that mines the royal blood line of Cream, SRV and Hendrix in their quest to ascend and take hold of the guitar god throne. The ten tracks on Neon City glow and burn brightly on traditional and British-based blues rock with American pop sensibilities. "Radio" jumps out of the speakers with a dose of dynamic sound.

"Soul Song" gives a vocal nod to the more soulful styles of Bon Jovi and Southside Johnny - reminding listeners of Walton's roots. In 2009, Billy was featured in the spotlight as guitarist on Mr. Lyon's tour of England. "Set Backs" merges 60's call-back R&B with 80's metal that's full steam ahead. Walton has been honing his chops in the Garden State for years and has recently developed a fervent following in the UK so it's beginning to look like harvest time for the talented singer songwriter. The album's cover and the band's logo features a six-string guitar adorned with a hybrid graphic of the Union Jack and Stars and Stripes ... and that just about says it all.

• Info: -- USA/NJ 2009: www.billywaltonband.com