Milwaukee Veteran Jim Eannelli Steps into the Spotlight with Debut Solo Album “Just Deserts”

After decades of shaping the sound of others from the sidelines, Milwaukee’s own Jim Eannelli is finally stepping into the centre of the frame with Just Deserts—a deeply personal debut that draws from a lifetime of musical and emotional experience.

Best known as a behind-the-scenes force, Eannelli has spent years lending his guitar work and production talents to artists across genres, from synth-pop to hard rock. His résumé includes working with Rick Derringer on the Colour Radio record, performing and recording with BoDeans alum Sam Llanas, and contributing to the cult ‘80s power-pop group The Shivvers. But Just Deserts, due September 27 via Happy Growl Records, is the first time Eannelli has fully owned the stage—and the results are striking.

Pulling from a stash of songs written across the years, the album spans a wide sonic palette: the raw rockabilly punk of opener “29 Women,” the dusky blues of “Train from Chicago,” the heart-worn balladry of “Where I’ve Been,” and the Beatlesque shimmer of “Waitin’.” Through it all, Eannelli remains a deeply intentional storyteller, capturing themes of war, heartbreak, confusion, and redemption. One standout moment is “Simple Man”—a mortality-measuring slow-burn that recalls the album’s spiritual core, weaving somber reflection with a subtle sense of uplift.

As both producer and lyricist, Eannelli treats each song like a lived-in space, chasing not polish but presence. Just Deserts doesn’t just revisit a career—it reframes it, carving out a compelling new chapter for one of Milwaukee’s most quietly legendary musicians.

Just Deserts is streaming now on all platforms, with physical CDs sold through Bandcamp, Ebay, and select local record stores. For updates, visit facebook.com/JimEannelli.