On Thursday. December 19, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra did what they do best – they tossed common musical conventions to the wind while elevating songs to a new level.
Photo Credit: Aidan Lukomnik
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, just back from a two-week tour around the U.S., was welcomed to their Big Band Holidays performance with a rousing round of applause. Standing on their home stage of Rose Theater, the Orchestra played ten songs from a catalog of more than thirty holiday standards ranging from religious to anti-holiday. But these weren’t your normal holiday songs.
“You might have heard Frosty the Snowman before, but you’ve never heard it like this,” Musical Director and Trombone player Christopher Crenshaw said. That was the theme that prevailed throughout the show: you ain’t heard it this way before. Across an hour and a half of music, standard holiday compositions were eschewed for new ways to play, throwing each song into a new context and making the audience consider their perception of just what a holiday song sounds like.
Christopher Crenshaw at Rose Hall, Photo Credit: Aidan Lukomnik
Starting with two classics, the band played a sped-up and swung version of “Here Comes Santa Claus” and then transitioned into an extremely melancholic version of “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel.” The first act was spiced up by Robbie Lee singing the anti-holiday song “Blue Xmas (To Whom it May Concern)” and “Merry Christmas Baby.” Lee’s vocal intonation was incredible – moving from a gravelly embodiment of the Grinch in “Blue Xmas” to clear and pure desire in “Merry Christmas Baby.”
However, the pinnacle of the first set was Sherman Irby’s solo in the “Merry Christmas Baby.” His saxophone transported audience members and, it seemed, members of the orchestra from a 1,200+ person venue to a dark and smoky jazz club inches from the stage. For the length of the solo, no one took a breath, and for a moment, all there was in the world was his music. It was a Blues solo at its finest.
Sherman Irby, Photo Credit: Aidan Lukomnik
The second set was punctuated by the dulcet vocals of Ekep Nkwelle, who sang a spiritual version of “Mary Had a Baby” and then upended all religious expectations with a downright sexy version of “Santa Claus, Santa Claus.” Nkwelle’s vocals during “Santa Claus, Santa Claus” felt straight out of film noir with desire, danger, and pain clear as day, while Chris Lewis’ solo put an exclamation point on the number.
As the night came to an end, the hometown crowd responded to the orchestra’s take on holiday classics with their you ain’t heard it this way before swagger, with a standing ovation.
Setlist:
Set 1: Here Comes Santa Claus> Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel>Blue Xmas (to Whom it May Concern) > Merry Christmas Baby > (I’m gettin’) Nuttin’ for Christmas
Set 2: Up on the House Top > Mary Had a Baby > Santa Claus, Santa Claus >Blue Christmas > Frosty the Snowman
The Big Band Holidays show has two more performances at Rose Theater on Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd.
Samara Joy and The McLendon Family, accompanied by Buffalo’s George Brown and the God’s Purchase Choir, took the stage at UB’s Center of the Arts on December 17. The night was full of smooth jazz and Christmas spirit.
As the audience were walking into the auditorium, Samara had a slideshow going of some of her family photos, giving the audience an insight into her family and her upbringing.
Once the audience settled in their seats, the band, composed of Shedrick Mitchell on Piano, Eric Wheeler on bass, and Charles Haynes on drums, came out first and started to play the intro to “Christmas Time is Here,” then Samara came out and began to sing, getting everyone right into the holiday spirit with her jazz rendition of the song.
After the song, she introduced herself and brought out members of her family to sing a few songs with her. She brought out her father, Antonio McLendon, her uncle, Laurone McLendon, and her cousins Tommy Niblack and Tierra “Lovey” Rowe, and rounding out the crew is Stephy Bloom Samara’s vocal director. She then brought out Buffalo’s George Brown and the God’s Purchase Choir who filled in the riser in the back. With her family and the choir, they perform “O Holy Night” and “Everybody Knows It’s Christmas.” Their renditions of these songs had such a warm gospel feel to them with the full auditorium enjoying every moment.
The night wasn’t just full of Christmas spirit as Samara and her band sprinkled in other songs including songs “You Stepped Out Of A Dream,” “Peace Of Mind/Dreams Come True” and “Now And Then” from her recently released album Portraits. They also performed renditions of “Reincarnation of A Lovebird” by Mingus, “Chega de Saudade,” also known as “No More Blue”s by Antonio Carlos Jobim, and Billie Holiday’s “Left Alone.”
Samara Joy, truly has a once in a generation voice. At such a young age of 25, she already has such a seasoned voice. Being able to resemble some of the great jazz artists, such as Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, and still having her own sound is a true testament to her talent. Throughout the whole performance, from the moment she started singing, her voice automatically just took you on a journey with her all night.
The Great Salt City Blues Concert 8 has been announced for its annual return to Syracuse on December 26, this time at a new venue, the St. George Church Hall.
The area’s best musicians will be paying tribute to the music of 4 Blues Hall Of Fame members: Michael Bloomfield (2012), Johnny “Guitar” Watson (2008), Ruth Brown (2002) & Big Bill Broonzy (a charter BHOF member). Michael Bloomfield was one of the first guitar heroes of his generation, who along with Eric Clapton, was considered an early influence on many aspiring Blues guitarist’s that followed the path of the Blues boom of the late 60’s and early 70’s.
The GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will also be paying tribute to, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, a Texas Blues guitar great who began recording in 1954 and later re-invented himself as a funk soul master, best known for writing and singing the classic 1977 R&B hit, “A Real Mother For Ya”. Ruth Brown is also a member of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, inducted in 1993, mostly on the strength of 50’s classics Ruth recorded for Atlantic Records. Atlantic Records was then known as “the house that Ruth built” and Ruth a consistent hit maker and was their Queen of Rhythm & Blues.
Michael Bloomfield
On the acoustic stage, The GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will pay tribute to the legendary Chicago Bluesman, Big Bill Broonzy, a Blues Hall of Fame artist who began performing in the 1920’s and continued to record until his death in 1958. His prolific writing skills include over 300 copyrighted compositions, including many Blues classics that formed the bedrock of Chicago Blues. The great Muddy Waters was one of his biggest fans and recorded many of Big Bill’s classics for Chess Records in the 50’s and 60’s.
This year’s GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will be limited to 400 seated patrons and there is plenty of free parking at the Macedonian Orthodox Church parking lot. Food & beverages will be available and served by the church staff. Tickets are $30.00 advance / $40.00 at door, if available and go on sale, Nov. 1. You’ll want to jump on tickets now, as this show is sure to get packed quick.
A series of 10 GREAT Salt City BLUES Concerts will be presented. This is concert #8 and each concert has been performed in front of a full capacity audience. Each concert is unique and never to be repeated with a changing line-up of performers featuring some of the area’s greatest musicians. Each concert is a thematic show honoring some of our greatest Blues Artists with participating musicians chosen specifically because they are best fitted for the show.
For more information on the upcoming GREAT Salt City BLUES concert and to purchase tickets, click here.
On Sunday, October 13, Marcus King took the stage at Brooklyn Paramount, delivering a solid performance that highlighted his powerful vocals and guitar work.
With his new album Blood Orange recently released, the show was a blend of older fan favorites and fresh material, showcasing King’s mix of blues, rock, and Southern soul.
Backed by a talented band, King was joined by Jack Ryan on drums, Drew Smithers on guitar, Mike Runyon on keys, and Eric Vogel on bass, all of whom contributed to the full, rich sound of the night. Kicking off with “The Well,” King set a steady pace. His voice carried depth, particularly on tracks like “Hero” and “Beautiful Stranger,” while “Goodbye Carolina” brought a bluesy vibe that resonated with the crowd. Songs from Blood Orange reflected a more refined sound, thanks in part to Rick Rubin’s stripped-back production, which allowed King’s musicianship and storytelling to come through clearly.
One of the highlights of the evening was a cover of “Me and Bobby McGee,” where King invited opener Brittany Spencer and 18-year-old guitarist Grace Bowers to join him on stage. Their performance of the classic song was a nice change of pace, and the blend of voices and guitar added a fresh layer to the song.
Brittany Spencer opened the night with a strong set of her own, performing tracks like “Night In,” “If You Say So,” “Bigger Than The Song,” and “My First Rodeo.” Spencer’s voice was clear and powerful, and she kept the audience engaged with her mix of country and soul influences. Over the years, she’s shared stages with artists like Willie Nelson and Jason Isbell, and her reputation as an up-and-coming artist continues to grow.
For the encore, King returned with a soulful rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman,” followed by a cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs.” Grace Bowers joined him again for the latter, adding a punch to the performance with her impressive guitar skills.
Overall, Marcus King’s show at Brooklyn Paramount was a solid mix of blues, rock, and heartfelt performances. The new material from Blood Orange stood out, marking a step forward in King’s evolving sound, while the mix of covers, collaborations, and a talented backing band made the night memorable for fans.
Setlist: The Well, Hero, Inglewood Hotel, Beautiful Stranger, Honky Tonk Hell, Die Alone, Bipolar Love, Goodbye Carolina, F*** Up My Life Again, Lie, Lie Lie, Me and Bobby McGee, Delilah, Wildflowers & Wine
Classic blues band Blood Brothers announced their live performance at Schenectady’s Music Haven. Their concert is held on August 16, in between concerts from Elias Ochoa and Banda Magda. The band is supported by blues powerhouses Misty Blues and Piedmont Bluz.
Hot off of their most recent album, Live in Canada, a collection of their best live performances in the country released last October, Blood Brothers have reached incredible success in the world of Blues and Rock’n’roll, in both their solo and group careers. In the past, both guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia won Blues Rock Album of the Year at the Blues Music Awards for their solo works, Zito winning in 2022 and Castiglia in 2024. That same year, Castiglia won for Blues Rock Artist of the Year. Earlier this year, the duo won for Blues Rock Album as Blood Brothers, and Zito won for Blues Artist of the Year.
Now, after their resounding season, they make their way over to New York for a performance at the Music Haven festival. This year, Music Haven celebrates several diverse performers, ranging in several genres from Brazilian Funk to Zydeco to Afrofusion.
Blood Brothers are the latest to join the lineup, making their Music Haven debut on August 16 as part of the Blues BBQ Concert Series. They are joined by their loyal band, including Doug Byrkit on bass guitar, Matt Johnson and Ephraim Lowell on drums and percussion, and Lewis Stephens on keyboards.
Opening for the band are fellow blues artists Misty Blues and finger-pick guitar specialists Piedmont Bluz. Blood Brothers’ headlining performance ends at 9:30 pm. Following the performances is a festive;-wide barbecue for all fans and attendees. After the show, they continue on the rest of their nationwide tour.
Blood Brothers On Tour
AUGUST
08/02 Notodden Blues Festival – Notodden, Norway – Info/Tix
08/15 Chenango Blues Festival Kick-Off in East Park – Norwich, NY – Info/FREE
08/17 Big Bull Falls Blues Fest – Wausau, WI – Info/Tix
While the band gets ready for their tour dates and upcoming festival performances, they are working hard on their solo careers. Mike Zito recently released his latest solo album, Life is Hard, in February earlier this year. Just a week ago, on July 19, Castiglia released Righteous Souls. Both albums have received widespread critical acclaim, ensuring Blood Brothers is a name that blues fans will never forget.
More tour dates are to be announced later this year. Information and tickets are available on the band’s official website. Check them out here.
After postponing four recent shows, Slash’s Serpent Festival is back on track with a stop at Artpark in Lewiston, NY on July 30. The tour celebrating the blues features a rotating support cast with the legendary Keb ‘Mo, ZZ Ward, Robert Randolph sharing the stage on this night.
Following the recent passing of his stepdaughter, Slash postponed four shows in the week leading up to the show in Lewiston, leaving others shows to be determined. After resuming the tour the night before, Slash slithered into Western NY and played a killer mix of 13 songs, many from his 2024 release, Orgy of The Damned.
Forming the S.E.R.P.E.N.T festival, Slash wanted to spread positive vibes through music and charity. “Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality, N’, Tolerance” is the acronym. With charitable causes selected by Slash, a portion of every ticket sale on the tour is donated to the chosen groups.
The former guitarist for Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver has taken on the blues genre and gave the middle finger to any ‘traditional’ blues guidelines, creating his own style for others to emulate and build on. So, for those who showed up for covers of “November Rain,” “Night Train,” or “Patience”, I hope you weren’t too upset.
Following a short set from Randolph, ZZ Ward took control of the stage and the crowd with her classic, raspy blues vocals and left the crowd in awe after her brief set. Setlist included an original “Put the Gun Down” and an immaculate rendition of “Grinning in Your Face” from Son House. Finishing her set, she announces she will meet everyone at the merch tent to say hi, as her supporting cast jams out for another minute or so with classic blues chords
Following Ward’s stellar performance, Keb ‘Mo took his shot with the crowd. After a couple songs, he admits he had been drinking all day and casually continued through his set. Fun, classic, and boisterous are three words that accurately describe the set. Having seen him in 2023, this night’s performance was by far the better of the two. He seemed more at ease and loose, which was perfect for the crowd before him, as the fans of an old 80’s hair band quickly learned why Keb has won multiple Grammy’s.
With an appetite for destruction, Slash arrived on stage around 845 and wasted no time in shredding the stage as the Niagara River rages behind the venue. The black top hat, the aviators, the ripped tank top, and skinny jeans. This is the style that most fans of GN’R will know from the late 80s and 90s. Here we are in 2024 and slash still rocks the same look, with the same hair, and he rips the guitar like no other, playing originals and covers with ease.
While the setlist included a large number of tracks from the newest album, Slash blew created a frenzy as he played a rendition of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and continued with T-bone Walker’s “Stormy Monday” and “The Pusher”. Known for jaw dropping solos, Slash did not let the fans down tonight as he went hog wild on “Metal Chesnut” toward the end of the set.
No to be outdone, the supporting cast for Slash proved they were now slouches. Keyboardis/vocalist Teddy Andreadis provided enough sound and entertainment for a show of his own, poking away at the keys and puffing the harmonica, ala John Popper style, all well providing bone chilling vocals throughout the night.
Bassist Johnny Griparic seemed to have the most fun on stage. Solo parts from start to finish, smiling and pointing at fans, and doing his Captain Morgan impressions at stage front.
On the drums, Micheal Jerome sat in back like most drummers and kept pace with every beat and every antic that was going on. Barely breaking a sweat, I might add.
Finally, guitarist Tash Neal provided ample support for Slash, going note for note with one of the greatest guitarists out there. Blistering solos and crisp vocals create a match made in heaven as Neal proves his worth. The onslaught of both smooth and heavy blues are presented flawlessly with this amazing stage of musicians.
Rounding out the night, Slash absolutely crushed a cover of “Stone Free” that would have Jimi dancing in the grave. Following a brief pause, the two-song encore brought back many fans who were already heading the parking lot. “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry” and “Shake Your Money Maker” completed a night that began some serious rain but finished with some sweltering blues.
The tour continues with another 11 stops and a rotating guest list that includes “Kingfish” Ingram and Samantha Fish.
Slash setlist: Parchman Farm Blues (Bukka White cover), Killing Floor (Howlinâ Wolf cover), Born Under a Bad Sign (Booker T. & the MGâs cover), Oh Well (Fleetwood Mac cover), Big legged woman (Freddie King cover), Awful Dream (Lightning Hopkins cover), Papa Was a Rolling Stone (The Temptations cover), Stormy Monday (T-Bone Walker cover), The Pusher (Hoyt Axton), Metal Chestnut, Crossroads (Robert Johnson cover), Stone Free (The Jimi Hendrix Experience cover) Encore: It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry (Bob Dylan cover), Shake Your Money Maker (Elmore James cover)
The 2024 Caramoor American Roots Festival was held on Saturday, June 29, 2024. The festival featured blues, Americana, folk, and bluegrass music with a stellar lineup featuring Lizzie No, Solomon Hicks, Fantastic Cat, Poor Monroe, Hopalong Andrew, and headliner Madison Cunningham. Attendees were treated to a day of entertainment in a distinctive setting.
Milton opening the festival
Nestled in a secluded part of northern Westchester County, the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts welcomes its visitors as they pass through a gate which reveals the sprawling 90-acre property. This welcoming gesture sets the tone for the immersive Caramoor experience.
Hopalong Andrew entertaining children in the Sunken Garden
The festival was divided into two sessions: daytime and nighttime. During the day, performances were spread across multiple locations within the center, while the evening session culminated with Madison Cunningham’s performance in the Venetian Theater.
Friends Field
Daytime performers had the chance to showcase their talents twice by performing in two of the four distinct show spaces throughout the day. This two-set format allowed attendees to catch every act without having to choose who to listen to. A map is provided to guide you through the vast expanse of the Caramoor Center. Each show location is sufficiently distant from the other and offers aunique listening experience.
Lizzie No with a young fan enjoying her performance
The Sunken Garden presented the most intimate setting, as it is nestled in a clearing among the trees. This charming location allowed the music to resonate in its purest form. Many at the festival brought their children. The garden proved to be an ideal spot for Hopalong Andrew’s family-oriented set, which encouraged interaction with the children in a tranquil setting. Poor Monroe, a bluegrass band that followed Andrew, equated the location to the origins of their musical genre and the natural materials of their instruments.
Fantastic Cat performing in the Spanish Courtyard
The Spanish Courtyard is situated inside the Rosen House, a Mediterranean-style stucco villa built in the 1930s. Originally the summer home of the Rosen family, the property was donated and converted into a center for the arts and music after the death of their son in World War II.
The Spanish Courtyard is described by Caramoor as “Spanish under the influence of the Italian Renaissance.” The picturesque courtyard with its arched walkways and central fountain, provided an unusual yet enchanting setting for a rock show. Fantastic Cat embraced this unique space with, as they dubbed it, a âspayed and neuteredâ acoustic set, before delivering a full-on electric performance later in the day at the Venetian Theater.
WFUV’s John Platt introducing performers
The third location, Friends Field, offered a spacious environment. Visitors could relax on blankets or chairs and enjoy great sightlines to the large stage. The grassy field also served as a soft dance floor for those so inclined. Singer-songwriter Milton opened this stage, and was followed by Lizzie No and Poor Monroe, with Harlem blues aficionado Solomon Hicks closing out the daytime session.
After the conclusion of the day session, Grammy Award winner Madison Cunningham and her band closed outthe evening with a heartfelt performance in the open-air Venetian Theater, leaving the audience thoroughly appreciative.
Bluesman Solomon Hicks closing the day session
Festivals bring to mindcrowds, long lines, and tight spaces. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts started presenting music in 1945. They have learned the best use ofthe 90 acres offering space for the attendees, performances that do not compete against each other, as well as providinga special place for everyone to enjoy the arts.
Headliner Madison Cunningham / Photo : Gabe Palacio
The American Roots Music Festival is just one of the many curated musical events that take place at Caramoor. Caramoor has a full lineup of musical happenings throughout the year. Check their website for more details.
Mr. Jive has cooked up a 12 song showcase worthy of a glance from a wider audience, titled, Hurry Up Please It’s Time”
Opening with “Monsters Write Pretty Songs,” Buggy immediately announces “Good luck,” with a thickly stacked vocal on top of the meandering rhythm guitar that jolts and grabs attention. The crispy blend of gospel and Doobie-esque backing vocals weave a soft takeoff before eventually punching the opening notes of “Scheherazade of Schenectady.” The first single off the record is appropriately verbose, as it touches on principles of fiction writing and brings up the heat after the smooth opener.
Relaxedly defiant, “Don’t Quit Your Day Job,” hints of the prog influence to come later in both “The Music is Beside the Point,” and “The Calendar is a Liar.” Distorted and stanky, the song that garnered the NPR shoutout from Bob Boilen and Bobby Carter somehow still gives front porch rocking chair vibes while hiding a middle finger attitude behind a content and fulfilled smile.
In “Another Song I Ain’t Allowed to Sing,” Buggy Jive offers reminders of his emotional range and musical intent while slowing down the pace, but featuring right-up-front lead vocals and an ocean of harmonies that keep the energy flowing. This range and intent returns in spades on “Autumn Is Burning.” The mid-album walking groove breaks out major key on a bridge change that feels like a full breath after the intentionally dark verse progression. While “Old Man Screams at Sky,” hits more like a barnhouse dance party than gospel groove, those dynamic controls and natural chord voicings remain steady and present.
“Ignore Them Fools,” and “Alpha the Beta,” both ooze confidence, with the former feeling like a class in session and the latter like a player on the field in action. “Alien Robot Love Song About Love,” and “Hurry Up Please It’s Time,” the final two tracks of the album, lay heavy wet grooves that drag the listener deep into the songwriters’ pocket lyrically and musically.
The entire work displays an adventurous attitude as a musician and a deep sensibility surrounding vocals that act as an homage to his influences, both perceived and expressed. Buggy Jive took a big swing on this record, and his dedication and emotion are both easily seen and felt throughout.
April 20 saw year three of the Buffalo Blues and Roots festival at Buffalo RiverWorks. With help from Three Chords Bourbon, Ray Barry and Barry Entertainment has brought some strong Chicago-esque blues to Buffalo’s waterfront on April 20.
Starting in 2022, Barry Entertainment has taken on the daunting task of organizing a full day of music, arts vendors, and bourbon tasting. Over this time they have welcomed international stars, Grammy award winners, and local talents to Buffalo. Vanessa Collier, Selwyn Birchwood, and Colin James to name a few. Pair theses with rising names and local talent and you now have the Buffalo Blues and Roots Festival.
Like previous years, Three Chord Bourbon, from nearby Clarence, was named sponsor of this event, and offered up some sample of their goods. 2024 saw a Kentucky Straight Bourbon on display, along with a blended bourbon and Rye Whiskey. The straight bourbon was a nice offering subtle notes and smooth finish that left the consumer ready for more. The chatter heard around the tasting table was very positive, and seemed as though the Kentucky straight was the fans choice.
Starting of the day was Diane Kallay. Originally from the Western NY area, Kallay has earned regional recognition over the years, winning accolades for Best Female Blues Vocalist, as well earning nominations for Best Acoustic Duo (for Kinship, with her brother), and Best Female Vocalist. Her vocal range, and ability to cover multiple genres with relative ease has led to sharing the limelight with such acts as .38 Special and The Marshall Tucker Band.
On this night, though, Kallay performed a beautiful set along with Barry Arbogast, Paul Beringer, Sal Marino, Keith Spurlock, and Michael Mietlicki. A nice mix of sultry blues and gentle roots to welcome music fans as they entered the venue.
Next up was Rusty Fisher. If you enjoy classic blues guitar riffs, you need to check out Rusty. Unlike 2023, where he sat in for a couple acts, Fisher had his own set time this year and made it count. Teaming up well known Western New Yorkers Dan Shurtleff (of The Growlers) and Nate Coffey, he took the stage for about an hour and did nothing but amaze the growing crowd. Lucky for locals, he is out and about often. He can be found at Fanatics Pub & Pizza on June 16th, among other venues that kick ass. Riffs, licks, and shredding seem to be the way of life for Rusty.
Planned accordingly or pure coincidence, Shurtleff was able to remain on stage with his drum set as he is the guy for The Growlers (Facebook). With the incomparable John Lewandowski leading the charge on harmonica, Shurtleff sits comfortably at the drums and does his thing. For the third year in a row, Lewandowski and the rest of the team shook the stage and got fans yearning for more. Seeing them last year for the first time was a treat. 2024 has me looking for more of their shows.
Joining the band on stage was local star Pat Harrington. Growing up about 45 minutes north of Buffalo, Harrington joined Victor Wainwright and The Train in 2016 and has provided a fresh youthful explosion to the band that Wainwright was seeking. Well known around the Buffalo area, Harrington has taken the blues world by storm and is has been heralded as one of the best young blues guitarists. As the night goes, Harrington would continue to join in and jam with everyone.
Pat Harrington – Buffalo Blues and Roots FestivalPat Harrington
As the show progresses, it seems like the next act couldn’t possibly top the previous. Enter Scott Celani and his band. Covering early music from Black Crowes, the Buffalo native and 2021 inductee to the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame came out rocking a Buffalo Bills cap, black leather jacket and aviator sunglasses, ready to play the part. I can assure you he excelled. As John Popper said “Scott has some pipes!” Not as raspy as Chris Robinson, Celani for sure has what it takes for these covers, and it was on full display as he paraded around nailing every note.
Following the amazing faux Black Crowes show, a handful of the musicians called an audible and took the stage for a little tribute to the late Dickey Betts. On stage were Ray Barry, Pat Harrington, Guy Nirelli, Dan Shurtleff, Eric Weinholtz, and Dave Thurman. An amazing tribute to a musical legend that the fans and musicians will never forget
Next up, Patti Parks. Another member of Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, Parks delivered a soulful set, donned in a black and red dress and fedora style hat. High energy and smooth vocals are on full display as Parks proves her worth better than a Buffalo Sabres coach.
Following the dynamite set from Parks, Miller and The Other Sinners hit the stage for the third year in a row. David Miller has nothing to prove to Western NY. He and his Sinners have made a name for themselves at this event as well as others from Buffalo to Syracuse. Some would say he is a household name, and rightfully so. He has shared the stage with names such as Tedeschi, Bonamassa, Vaughn, and Copeland. In doing so, David Miller has paid his dues earned his keep. While Buffalo is not a hotbed for Southern Soul, Miller makes an exception and delivers a world class set. New album for 2024 Thieves in The Breadline includes “Better Times Better Days” which was written pre-Covid and hits on the affect of social media on our lives.
Based out of Central NY, Tas Cru is a blues-roots songwriter/musician, with a splash of funk thrown into the mix. Take your standard blues jam and kick it up a notch, you wind up with Tas Cru. Soft, subtle lyrics and quick fingers on the guitar are only part of what makes him special. Amid a couple samples of Three Chords Bourbon, Cru flawlessly floats around and interacting with the crowd, he jokes around quips of his time touring, which all turn out to be segways into the next song. Such stories as about a young man saying he should be paid more for helping out. Cru’s response was “welcome to the blues, kid”.
Rounding out the 9-hour jam session, Victor Wainwright came out to crowd that was the loudest it had been all day. The headlining act of the Buffalo Blues and Roots Festival was at the end of an intense leg of their tour, including back-to-back shows at the aforementioned Fanatics Pub, in Lima, NY. Regardless of that, Wainwright and his Train of musicians, including hometown favorite Pat Harrington, were full of energy as if they had downed a couple red bulls backstage. Playing the ivories and swaying on his stool, ala Ray Charles, Wainright had a story for everything. He talked about getting his musical inspiration from older Disney movies, although he came from a musical family. The music for movies like The Jungle Book were what got Victor into the blues and roots scene. His parents were happy, though, that he was still into music of some sort. Subsequently, he and the band broke out into a very jubilant version of “I Wanna be Like You”, which the crowd really took in.
Grammy nominated and winner of Blues Music Awards for Piano Player of the Year (3x) and BB King Entertainer of The Year, Victor Wainwright is a name you will hear often and if you ever have the chance, you need to go see the show. Truly amazing and inspiring for all ages.
The blues and roots don’t always have to be the classic sounds of Elmore James or Cab Calloway. One song from Miller and The Other Sinners or Victor Wainwright will convince you of that. Still blues and roots, but with some modern flare and ingenuity, the artists on stage today make the genre much more marketable to the new generation.
Year three of Buffalo Blues and Roots didn’t see as many visitors as the first two years, but when you are going against a big show at the Highmark Stadium and numerous 420 events around town, you are bound to see a decline. Craft vendors, bourbon tasting and nine hours of outstanding music for a respectable price tag, one would be foolish not to check it out. Despite that, organizer Ray Barry said next year is in the works, and I will be there. In addition to this festival, Barry Entertainment (Facebook) organizes other events in and around the Buffalo area, please go check them out.
Rusty Fisher Band
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Barry Entertainment & Three Chord Bourbon proudly present the 3rd Annual Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival Saturday, April 20, at Buffalo RiverWorks.
This all-day event features the best in national, regional and local blues and roots acts, as well as over 20 local vendors and artisans, food/drinks and more. Some of the acts include Victor Wainwright & The Train, Tas Cru, Miller & The Other Sinners, and more.
The Buffalo Blues & Roots Festival returns for its 3rd year this April. The lineup is hefty with names like Patti Parks, Tonemah, The Growlers, Dave Thurman and more. GRAMMY-nominated Victor Wainwright & The Train see the stage to dazzle and move the audience with their immense soul, and creative fire.
Victor Wainwright & The Train
VIP tickets run for $60, while general admission tickets are selling for $30. For more information on the Blues & Roots Festival and to purchase tickets, click here.
