Gulf Coast Beach Blast compiles highlights from the Antone’s Records vaults into a vibrant package of great American music with strong multi-market potential. The initial release in the TMG Party Platters line, this attractively priced 16-song set boasts musical credibility matched by strong and broad consumer appeal, all packaged in a lively fashion to catch attention. It’s a collection of quality tracks from some of the finest names in blues and R&B that also serves to get the good times rolling as it plays.

Among the artists sampled are some of the most eminent figures of the Texas blues-rock revival from which Stevie Ray Vaughan and The Fabulous Thunderbirds rose to stardom: Marcia Ball, Lou Ann Barton, Angela Strehli and Doyle Bramhall. Also featured are roots music legends Lazy Lester, Boozoo Chavis and Lavelle White, as well as top stars of the next Austin blues generation like Toni Price, Sue Foley, Omar & The Howlers and others. Gulf Coast Blues Bash also includes three songs from the late, great Doug Sahm. Among the tracks are cool versions of such hits as “Soul Deep,” “Let It Bleed” and “I Can See Clearly Now” as well as tunes by legends like Ike Turner, Willie Dixon and Lee Dorsey.

But Gulf Coast Beach Bast is also a slice of credible musical history that dances and parties through its hour-plus of great music, all re-mastered for enhanced sonics. Its colorful package stands out in the racks, and cover copy both front and back serves as a sales inducement. Inside, liner notes set the music in cultural and historical context. But best of all, the 16 tracks play with a deliciously rocking charm sure to spice up any occasion when this disc is played. With its first class music compiled in a fashion to get the party started, Gulf Coast Beach Blast promises to be a summer music classic here in 2004 and for many years to come.