Blues rock pro Coco Montoya makes a resounding return with his latest album, Writing On The Wall. As an icon in his field, Montoya's fiery guitar skills, soul-infused vocals, and songwriting ability converge in this career-defining piece of work. The release also marks a significant milestone as it's the first to feature his steadfast road band of keyboardist Jeff Paris, bassist Nathan Brown, and drummer Rena Beavers. This potent mix of raw talent and long-term camaraderie has left Montoya, in his own words, "over the moon."

Writing On The Wall unfolds with thirteen tracks including ten originals, five of which Montoya co-wrote. At the forefront of the album is the soul-baring single "I Was Wrong," which showcases one his most moving performances to date. The song, penned by friend and occasional co-writer Dave Steen, holds personal significance for the artist as it brought back echoes of Montoya's days with the Bluesbreakers alongside John Mayall. Montoya shares, "It felt really good to record this song and approach it from that style."

The album is a tour-de-force of memorable tracks that interweave passion with top-tier musicianship. From the scorching "Save It For The Next Fool" to Jeff Paris's philosophy-laden "(I'd Rather Feel) Bad About Doin' It" and the electrifying reinvention of Lonnie Mack's "Stop," Montoya infuses each song with heart-pounding emotion. Lee Roy Parnell lends his seasoned slide guitar to the smoldering "A Chip And A Chair," while Ronnie Baker Brooks joins the mix for the playful "Baby, You're A Drag" and brings searing fervor to the cover of Bobby "Blue" Bland's "You Got Me."

The self-taught Montoya honed his craft under the wing of the legendary Albert Collins. Synthesizing the teachings of his mentors, including the iconic Collins (whom he initially drummed for) and UK legend John Mayall, Montoya chisels his unique mark on each track. Since his debut solo album in 1995, which earned him the Blues Music Award for Best New Artist, Montoya's inventive guitar artistry and impassioned vocals have maintained his status atop the blues world.

With Writing On The Wall, Montoya presents what he considers one of his finest creations. Overflowing with pride, Montoya reflects on the album's creation, stating, "I am so proud of this one." In the studio, Coco's bandmates provided constant inspiration, compelling him to push his own boundaries. "They made me sound better than I am!" he enthuses.