Damn Traffic (feat. Bnois King)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious grooves of Damn Traffic (feat. Bnois King) from Take Your Best Shot by Smokin' Joe Kubek, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks vibing hard. This 1998 release on Bullseye Blues showcases the dynamic interplay between Kubek’s scorching guitar riffs and Bnois King’s soulful vocals and jazz-inflected rhythm guitar. One piece of trivia about the song is its reflection of the duo’s road-warrior lifestyle, with the title capturing the gritty reality of endless touring. While specific interviews about Damn Traffic are scarce, Kubek and King often spoke about their creative process in general, emphasizing spontaneity and chemistry. In a review from their official site, Living Blues praised their “raucous, high-energy Texas roadhouse blues-rock,” a vibe that pulses through this track. The song’s driving rhythm and witty lyrics, paired with King’s laid-back yet passionate delivery, make it a standout for fans craving authentic Texas blues.

Another tidbit comes from the album’s production context. Take Your Best Shot featured guest appearances by blues heavyweights like Jimmy Thackery and Little Milton, adding depth to the record. While no direct quotes tie to Damn Traffic specifically, Kubek once shared in a Blues Revue interview (noted on their website) that King’s vocals were “like aged whiskey, smooth and mellow,” a quality that shines in this track. Social media posts from fans on platforms like their Facebook page often highlight the song’s relatable humor, with one fan commenting, “Damn Traffic always gets me nodding along, like I’m stuck on I-35!” The track’s energy and the duo’s ability to blend humor with blistering blues make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic playlist.

Smokin’ Joe Kubek was born on November 30, 1956, in Grove City, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Dallas, Texas, where the local blues scene shaped his early years. As a teenager in the 1970s, he was already jamming with legends like Freddie King, soaking up the raw energy of Texas blues. Kubek’s career kicked off with his first release in 1985, a 45 RPM single featuring Driving Sideways and Other Side of Love on Bird Records. This early recording, produced by Clint Birdwell, laid the groundwork for his signature sound—fiery, Hendrix-inspired guitar work. In the 1980s, Kubek teamed up with Louisiana-born vocalist and guitarist Bnois King, forming a partnership that Living Blues called “intricate interplay between their differing guitar styles.” Their complementary talents—Kubek’s intense leads and King’s soulful rhythms—became the heart of their music, propelling them to release multiple albums and tour relentlessly.

Fans can connect with Kubek and King’s legacy through several platforms. The official website, www.smokinjoekubek.com, offers updates on rare releases like The Axe Man on vinyl. Their Facebook page is active with fan posts and tributes, especially poignant after Kubek’s passing in 2015. While their Instagram has limited activity, it features nostalgic photos and album art. On X, fans occasionally share memories, though the account isn’t heavily active. For deeper fan engagement, the Smokin’ Joe Kubek & Bnois King Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant space where Zoo Freaks and blues lovers trade stories, rare tracks, and concert memories. While no standalone fan websites dominate, BOYZ MAKE NOIZE has a dedicated post on Take Your Best Shot, celebrating its raw power.