Hey there. Musicians are starting to slowly crawl back into the sunlight.
Some tours are being tentatively scheduled (again). And some clubs are opening back up to limited audiences (again). Yay!
Maybe we’re finally on our way back to free-range music.
I hope so because I’ve been sequestered for so long I’m ready to buy a ticket to a Junior High Sock Hop, just to see some live music.
It’s about time to buy some tickets and start having some fun again. (Who knew I’d actually miss standing in line?)
This week: The Spotlight’s shining on a Blues Band that’s been rockin’ live stages in the EU for years now.
And then in Short Licks I ask the question “What if Bach played the Blues?”, then there’s a little serving of some vintage B. Gibbons, and a turntable that takes spinning to a whole new level – literally.
Spotlight – The BluesBones
Belgium Cuisine Anyone?
No, I’m not talking about chocolate or waffles. I talking about Blues Rock. Good old solid food for the soul. And the Belgium group The BluesBones is cooking it up real good.
The band’s been together for nearly 10 years. But they’ve been a little under the radar.
That’s because they haven’t toured the U.S. yet. And for that matter, they haven’t toured the UK either. Even though they’ve topped the Blues charts there. Go figure.
But this is a band worth knowing because they’re one of Europe’s favorite Blues Rock groups – for a reason.
Muscular Musicos
Introductions are in order. Left-to-right in the picture above are: Edwin Risbourg (Hammond & Rhodes), Geert Boeckx (bass), Nico de Cock (vocals), Jens Roelandt (drums), and Stef Paglia (guitar).
These guys have done hundreds of shows together and they’re dialed into the “live vibe” better than most groups.
In fact, of the 6 albums they’ve recorded to date, 3 were Live shows and 2 of the other 3 were recorded live in-studio.
Performing in front of a live audience is more than a comfort zone for them. It’s their Shangri-la.
And that really shows through on their latest album, “Live on Stage.” That album catches them in excellent form. Good deal for us.
Jacques Of All Trades
Their music is mostly original stuff. But it covers a wide range. Their set list tackles just about anything really. Any Blues style you could want.
They can be Jazzy or Funky. They can throw some Electric Delta at you, or even some Rockabilly. And it all comes with a thumpin’ beat. There’s something for everyone.
For me, it’s the Hammond organ.
I love the way it fills out their arrangements. Edwin’s solo-takes are also pretty tasty too. What can I say, I’m partial to great keyboards.
The Outro
The BluesBones are a great live Blues band. Their albums and videos certainly tell that story. They have no weak spots.
If they can put together a tour this year to the UK and the U.S. they will kill, big time. Audiences will Love them. I know I’d definitely line up for a show.
Here’s a small sample of The BluesBones in their favorite element – on stage. There’s also a link to their latest album “Live on Stage.”
The BluesBones: “Find My Way Out“
The BluesBones latest album: “Live On Stage”
Short Licks
Strange Bedfellows?
So what do you get when Classical Chamber music smooshes together with Chicago Blues? You might think a train wreck, but no. You get an eclectic musical mix you probably never heard before. Corky Siegel’s been mixing this musical brew together for years now. The latest installment is streaming from Chicago’s City Winery on March 6th. (Harmonica and strings…who knew?)
Miles To Go Before They Sleep
Until I read this article, I hadn’t realized it. But Savoy Brown has released more than 40 albums. That’s a lot of Blues to listen to, even for me. And they just keep on keepin’ on. (Their latest album, “Ain’t Done Yet,” is up for a Blues Music Award this year.)
Savoy Brown: Havin’ Fun with Jags and Caddys
Old Blues New Bottle
A little something for you Billy F. Gibbons fans out there. A new video of an old song, Rollin’ and Tumblin’. The song’s over 70 years old but in Billy’s hands, it’s new again. It’s from his 2019 album but the video’s brand new. (Come for the music, but stay for his jacket.)
Billy F. Gibbons Rollin’ and Tumblin’ Video
Time To Face The Music
Since we’re all now wearing face masks to match our socks and shoes, don’t you think it’s time to show off a bit? Why not profess your love for the Blues while at the same time showing your Blues Brothers and Sisters you really care? Check out a couple face masks that do just that. (Oh, and they’re printed in Texas so you’ll be sending some extra love where it’s needed right now.)
If The Jetsons Played Vinyl
I just thought this looked so cool. Something for you serious vinyl folks out there. You guys and gals that covet those old records and liner notes but have to spin your discs on the latest turntables. I couldn’t find a price on this puppy but for you hardcore audiophiles, that’s a minor matter right? (Let the coveting begin.)
This Turntable Will Make Your Music Soar
I’ll Leave You With…
“T-Bone Shuffle” by Albert Collins
(Because, you know, sometimes you just wanna shuffle)
Thanks for reading,
Jon
Jon Beres
I’m one part Blues Fan and one part Digital Native (with a dash of Curmudgeon.) I’m also the publisher of AlltheWayBlue.com. If you love the Blues, I have a feeling we’ll get along just fine - cheers!
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