Based in Brazil, Leo Maier has released one of the surprise debut albums of the year. A mixture of original instrumentals and vocals, it is 11 songs of guitar mastery. Opening with “Good Luck Socks,” a swinging instrumental on which he reminds a bit of Duke Robillard he lays down sizzling lines that announce the presence of a major guitar voice. The instrumental “South To North Side” features a slinky guitar that conjures palm trees. “Blumenau Boogie” is a first class swinger with great playing from the piano and horns, as well. “Blues For Mr. Jody Williams” reminds of the original Fleetwood Mac Blues Band and “We Miss The King (BB King Tribute” is a nice instrumental nod to the King.  The set closes with an alternative version of the ultra-swinger “Good Luck Socks” Those are the instrumentals and they’re strong enough to sell the set, but there are also a number of vocals to do the job, as well. “You Drink Too Much,” “That Crazy Girl” and “I’m Travelling” are the most impressive, along with the excellent title track. Everything here is composed by Maier. Recommended: “Good Luck Socks,” “South To North Side,” “I’m Travelling” and “I Chose the Blues.”