Lockport's own Keith "Jr Blues" Zofkie has just released his first self titled Blues CD "They call me Jr." which is taking the Chicago blues scene by storm.

Zofkie artfully blends a fiery soulfulness with a touch of down home grit that proves that he can really sing the blues. With his new CD, this bluesman has but one goal: to share his un-compromised vision of how the blues should be played. This unwavering passion led Zofkie to self produce his own album on his own label. " I'm an original" quotes
Zofkie. "I have to stay true to myself. I don't want to sing anyone else's version of the blues. I want it to come straight from my heart."

Zofkie, 27, began playing the guitar at age 12. A self-taught player, he discovered the blues early on thanks to his older brother. Chuck, who also played guitar. Further inspiration developed from a trip with Chuck to Chicago's famed Maxwell Street in the 1980's; where Zofkie picked up tracks from the great Elmore James, Lighting Hopkins and John Lee Hooker. "I brought the tapes home and listened to them over and over again and taught myself how to play it."

By the late 1990's Zofkie began playing Joliet area blues jams, roaring with local blues legends like Twist Ferguson, T-Bird Huck, and Al Spears. " I love the blues, and there's so many good players out there. I have learned so much from playing with these guys." It was Twist Ferguson who bestowed upon him the moniker of "Junior Blues." "They really helped me hone my instruments to where I want be" said Zofkie, in a recent interview. "They showed me the right musical direction and what it takes to get there."

The CD was recorded at the studios of Bob Scumaci, (Dave Mason's Keyboardist) who was also a great source of encouragement and inspiration for Zofkie. " I thank the Lord for surrounding me with all these great people and for giving me this opportunity." said Zofkie.

Jamming with the local legends seasoned Zofkie and now with his new cd, he is ready to strike out on his own, with the backup of his Jr. Blues Band. Their first CD "They call me Junior" showcases Zofkie's expert guitar playing and differentiates him from the faceless other ax slingers in the crowd. It's an album that combines the best of all blues styles, from the Delta to Detroit, It doesn't sound like it came from the suburbs of Chicago. Zofkie's brand of relaxed confidence oozes from each song, drawing the listener in, and making them want more.

Each heartfelt song is a testament to Zofkie's passion for the Blues. On the first track " Blues Man" Zofkie's voice opens up wide and cooks with swaggering gritty twang." His deep-seeded love of the blues and his genuine, unflinching approach to the music. "I feel it in my soul" sings Zofkie, and he makes you believe it. 

The track "Carter's Place Cut up" delivers a foot tapping stand out with cranked up Stratocasters and catchy riff. The soulful "I got the blues" calls to your soul and gets better with every listen.

His inspiration for "Carter's Place" came from is days sitting in with the blues greats. "I took each of the legends infamous character traits and incorporated them in the tune. It's just a bunch of jokes about everybody."

Jr. Blues recently played to national crowds, both days at the Bush Lite and Tropicana 400 NASCAR races in Joliet. In addition, they also received the honor of opening up for the Fabulous Thundersbirds at the Chicagoland Speedway.