We’re excited to announce the debut album from Lakota John & Kin! Although Lakota John released a solo album two years ago, this is the family’s first as a group. Mama Tonya, Papa John and Sister Layla join the 16-year-old guitar prodigy, and their family bond is unmistakable.

Lakota John and Kin offers a blend of Native American harmonies and traditional blues. “Amazing Grace” is one standout track—Lakota John learned it from a recording by legendary bluesman Guitar Gabriel, a founding Music Maker artist. “San Francisco Bay” features a jug band arrangement and includes the whole family playing together, with Tonya Locklear’s washboard rounding out the sound. “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” is another can’t-miss track featuring Layla’s lead vocals that seem to pour languidly over each guitar lick. Additionally, “New Orleans Town Rag,” is an original by Don Locklear, Lakota John’s uncle, and arranged by Lakota John.

The album was recorded in March 2012 and March 2013 at the Music Maker Studios in Hillsborough, N.C. It was recorded by French intern Raphaël Evrard and Tim Duffy and was produced by Aaron Greenhood and Tim Duffy.

Lakota John and Kin is available in the Music Maker store now!