Voodoo Doll - Hamilton Loomis Band (Tour Schedule)

Haven't played any Hamilton Loomis in a while and tonight's the night.

	R> THU 1st FAMOUS DAVE'S CALHOUN SQUARE KEN VALDEZ BAND opens @ 7pm 3001 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis MN 8pm 612-822-9900 FRI 2nd OLDE BOSTON'S 809 Central Ave, Ft. Dodge IA 9pm 515-955-5333 SAT 3rd PRIVATE EVENT Minneapolis MN 9:30pm THU 8th BAKER ST. PUB SUGAR LAND HAMILTON LOOMIS TRIO! 15970 City Walk, Sugar Land TX 9:45pm 281-494-0774 FRI 9th EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB 309 N. Water St, Corpus Christi TX 8:30pm 361-884-7873 THU 15th JACKIE'S BRICKHOUSE 1053 Marina Bay Dr, Kemah TX 8pm 832-864-2459 FRI 16th MAIN STREET CROSSING 111 W. Main, Tomball TX 8pm 281-290-0431 SAT 17th CROW'S CANTINA 2408 Strand, Galveston TX 9pm 409-766-9995
	JANUARY  2012
	R> FRI 6th BOULDER OUTLOOK HOTEL DVD RELEASE PARTY 800 28th St., Boulder CO 9pm 303-443-3322 SAT 7th BUFFALO ROSE SALOON DVD RELEASE PARTY 1119 Washington, Golden CO 9pm 303-278-6800 TUE 10th JOHNNY MAC'S DVD RELEASE PARTY 2012 Dewar Dr., Rock Springs WY EARLY SHOW 7pm - 10pm 307-362-3034 THU 12th CONCERT AT THE ELKS DVD RELEASE PARTY 45 W. Brundage, Sheridan WY EARLY SHOW 7pm - 10pm 307-674-9500 FRI 13th BONES BREWING CO. DVD RELEASE PARTY 1425 Broadwater, Billings MT EARLY SHOW 6pm - 9pm 406-839-9231 SAT 14th THE ATTIC DVD RELEASE PARTY Sponsored by WY Blues & Jazz Society 256 S. Center St., Casper WY EARLY SHOW 7:30pm - 10:30pm 307-234-4110 SUN 15th DUBLIN SQUARE DVD RELEASE PARTY 504 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Rapid City SD EARLY SHOW 4pm - 7pm 605-791-1600 WED 18th THE HUB DVD RELEASE PARTY THE RAMBLERS OPEN SHOW 406 Main, Cedar Falls IA RAMBLERS @ 7pm HAMILTON 8pm - 10:30pm 319-266-2360 THU 19th THE 21st SALOON (FORMERLY MURPHY'S) DVD RELEASE PARTY 4727 S. 96th St., Omaha NE EARLY SHOW 6pm - 9pm 402-339-7170 SAT 21st PRIVATE EVENT IA 8pm SUN 22nd KNUCKLEHEADS DVD RELEASE PARTY 2715 Rochester, Kansas City MO 8pm - 11pm 816-483-1456

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Gene Gene and the BLUES MACHINE

We are excited to announce the addition of Ricky Vacca – bass/vocals (BEATLEMANIA), Jeff Jones – guitar/vocals (SUPERGLIDE), AND Rick Hodges on percussion
Due to marketing we will also be performing as Gene Gene and the MACHINENo longer new to the area (three years +), the group has come togther as a band. Playing Chicago, jump, swing, Delta BLUES and even some classic rock. COME EXPERIENCE GENE GENE and the BLUES MACHINE AND FIND OUT WHAT THEY MEAN BY "ELECTRIC BLUES"
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British Blues Guitarist Trevor Sewell Wins Holloywood Music In Media Award at the HMMA in Los Angeles

British musician Trevor Sewell won the Best Blues Award in the prestigious

Awards ceremony in the U.S.A. Other nominated acts included Linkin Park and

the lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Smokey Robinson at the ‘Red

Carpet‘ ceremony, which took place on Thursday evening in Los Angeles.

The advisory board of Judges include such luminaries as Dave Mason, Nile Rogers

and co-organizer Jim DeCicco who also votes on the Grammys.

Trevor Sewell who initially received 3 separate nominations successfully claimed

the No 1 spot for his song ‘Where the Wild Ones Go!’ in the Category for ‘Best

Blues. The song is featured on his current album ‘Calling Your Name’ which is

available Worldwide through iTunes Amazon CdBaby etc.

‘Calling Your Name’ continues to attract widespread radio play in the U.S.A. and

the awards have recently escalated interest in his music seeing Sewell continuing

to ride the current New Wave of British Blues in America.

Sewell commented “To be accepted by the Blues fraternity at this level in such an

American dominated genre is really fantastic and it has been very encouraging to

see the support the Blues Community in the U.S.

Sewell who has only recently embarked on a solo career after many years of

playing sessions and touring with other artists said:

“Just to be nominated for such a prestigious event was great but to go on and

win it, really is amazing. I’m just letting it sink in for now and investigating any

opportunities that may arise from it. I’m already working on the next album and

am currently focusing on demoing songs for possible inclusion. I’m amazed at

how far its been possible to go in such a short time as it was only 12 months

almost to the day from my first release to winning the award in Hollywood.”

Find our more about Trevor from:

http://soundcloud.com/trevor-sewell

http://trevorsewell.com

Or join him onFacebook:

http://facebook.com/trevorsewellmusic

Trevor Sewell is triple nominated British Blues Guitarist who has just won a major

award in the prestigious Hollywood Music in Media Awards, held at the Kodak

Complex in Los Angeles on November 17th 2011.

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

It's Duane Allman's Birthday

It's hard for me not to do a special post for "Skyman", one of the most influential guitar players in my lifetime on the day of his birth. Duane, Lke Jimi wasn't with us very long, but he made a huge impact on the blues music scene as we know it. People who only know Duane as being in the Allman Brothers think of the Allman Brothers as a Southern Rock Band but during Duane's time they were primarily a blues band playing mostly old standards and improvisational music. It was upon Duane's death that Dickey Betts penned Ramblin Man which skyrocketed the Allmans into Southern Rock stardom. Here is a cool photo collage of Duane as he played with the Grateful Dead.



Duane as many of my readers know had a heavy influence on my music tastes as a youth and then as my musical tastes developed. He has had a profound influence on most anyone who had tried to play slide guitar since then.

Happy Birthday Skydog!

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Walking The Floor Over You/Off The Hook - Earl Hooker

Earl Hooker (January 15, 1929 – April 21, 1970) was an American Chicago blues guitarist, perhaps best known for his slide guitar playing. Considered a "musician's musician",

Hooker performed with blues artists such as Sonny Boy Williamson II, Junior Wells, and John Lee Hooker (a cousin) as well as fronting his own bands. An early player of the electric guitar, Hooker was influenced by the modern urban styles of T-Bone Walker and Robert Nighthawk. As a band leader, he recorded several singles and albums, in addition to recording with well-known artists. His "Blue Guitar", a popular Chicago area slide-guitar instrumental single, was later overdubbed with vocals by Muddy Waters and became the popular "You Shook Me".

In the late 1960s, Hooker began performing on the college and concert circuit and had several recording contracts. Just as his career was on an upswing, Earl Hooker died in 1970 at age 41 after a life-long struggle with tuberculosis. His guitar playing has been acknowledged by many of his peers, including B.B. King, who commented: "to me he is the best of modern guitarists. Period. With the slide he was the best. It was nobody else like him, he was just one of a kind"
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Down in New Orleans - Motel Kingz and Marc Tee

Motel Kingz is the youngest addition within the Dutch blues-scene. The band with it’s home base in Leerdam belongs to the new generation blues bands with a strong growing live-reputation. The band with 4 members headed by the singer/harmonica player Daniël "Double D" Derksen who has gained their inspiration and musical maturity in bands such as Hardtime and Captain Heartbeat. In a period in which many new bands aim at popular styles such as bluesrock, the men of Motel Kingz like to walk down on older paths. They let them selves inspire mainly by American artists who were predominant in the last decades such as James Harman, Junior Watson and contemporary artists such as The Red Devils. Examples which are inspiered especially by the American West coast scene.. Motel Kingz combines West coast Jump & Swing with Chicago blues and transforms this in modern music. At Motel Kingz there is no place for arrogance . An inquisitive band, there where it concerns the ‘’ old masters’’. Motel Kingz know how to put up a show. Music is combined with an inexhaustible enthusiasm as a result of which in many jamming sessions people get totally into the groove.
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Bman's Exclusive Interview: Stains of Blue (Stockholm, Sweden)

I caught up with Simon Schultz, bandleader of Stains of Blue, a band from Stockholm, Sweden.

Bman: Hi Simon. So tell me a little about the band. Who are the members and how long have you been playing together?

Simon: The band consists of Rahwa Ghebrehiwet on vocals, Anton Hållbus on bass guitar, Todd Barker on drums, and me and Simon Näckborn taking turns on lead and rythm guitar. We also have some new material featuring myself on harmonica and piano. We've been playing together for about a year and a half, I believe. We play a mix of blues and rock, with influences from all over the rock n roll spectrum, ranging all the way from AC/DC to Red Hot Chili Peppers to Jimi Hendrix.

Bman: We live a pretty sheltered life in the US and don't often get to hear of European talents unless they really get a big break (or unless they play pop music). I came across one of your videos and really liked your sound. I've only found a few tracks online. Are you just working up your first collection for recording?

Simon: We have around 15-20 original songs which we are quite happy with. But we are just now getting in to recording, and we actually went into the studio for the first time this summer. We try to record as much live footage as possible and upload it to Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarGeorgie?blend=21&ob=5 and our facebook-page  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stains-Of-Blue/158421817510160?sk=wall . As of today we currently have 3 recorded tracks and we are in the process of recording a couple more.

Bman: In looking through your materials on Youtube, I find that I like your original material much better than your cover tunes. I don't know if anyone has told you that but your original tunes come across a lot more real.

Simon: Thanks a lot, really appreciate it! We have never heard that before, no. We feel the same way as you. Our original songs have a personal connection to us and therefore they feel more real. Covers are great, but generally, original songs are more fun to play.

Bman: There is an extreme difference between the two. So who is the song writer or is that a collaborative effort?

Simon: The song writing process is pretty loose. We usually noodle at home by ourselves and then bring some lyrics, chords or riffs along to a rehearsal. There we make up the missing parts and try to make it into a song. Some songs take more time to construct than others. It depends on how the song is composed and on our daily form.

Bman: That makes a lot of sense. Is there a plan for a cd release anytime soon?

Simon: After we have recorded a few more songs we will look into putting them on some sort of a digital album, probably on spotify and itunes, but we have some studio work to do first. My estimation is that we’ll have a finished product within 6 months, but you never know, could be earlier.

Bman: Your vocalist has a really cool sound. Where did you find her? (Jeff Beck found Rod Stewart singing in a pub).

Simon: If I remember correctly  Simon Näckborn's little sister brought home a recording from a performance in her school.

A couple of days after Simon N. heard the recording, he asked his sister to invite Rahwa to a rehearsal. Thankfully she showed up, because there wouldn’t be any Stains of Blue without her.

Bman: I think what I heard sounded like there is talent throughout but her voice is definitely what initially caught my attention.

Well, I wish you well and hope to hear some new stuff soon. Do you have anything that you'd like to tell you new fans world wide?

Simon: Stay tuned for more recorded material as well as live footage! Any videos, songs or news about the band can be found on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stains-Of-Blue/158421817510160?sk=wall, a “like” would be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions feel free to contact us on our facebook page our send an email to simon.schultz@comhem.se

Rock on!

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10 SIMPLE TASKS TO GIVE YOUR BAND THE ULTIMATE EXPOSURE

Obviously a lot of people have bands just for fun to entertain themselves and their friends and never hope or expect to ever pay their beer tab with the money they make. If this is you, you need read no further. This is a serious commentary regarding my observations of the difference between successful marketing campaigns and amateur campaigns to publicize a band or artist.These are the 10 steps that you must do to have a successful advertising campaign:

1)GET YOUR MATERIAL IN FRONT OF EVERYONE YOU CAN.
Ok so everyone sells cd's at their local venues and on their website (if they have one). If a blogger finds your band and writes a blog on you, do you thank the blogger? Do you share the blog writeup on your page? Do you "Like" the blog's Facebook page. Do you know if the blogger is writing for an international record company looking for new talent? Do you offer the blogger your cd if you have one? Most likely you don't even acknowledge it. Then why would anyone acknowledge you? Let's face it, there are a lot of people who are making a lot of money in entertainment that don't have as much talent in their entire body as you do in your little finger. I won't mention her name but there is a pop star who made a career our of promoting herself. Her music was ok... but she was a master promoter. The photo shown here is Matthew Curry, a 16 year old very professional musician who just put out a spectacular cd. Matthew knows how to do this. He was responsive to my posting, he sent me a cd immediately.

2)MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE A READILY ACCESSIBLE BIO AND PHOTOGRAPHS (THAT ARE AVALIABLE FOR COPY) ONLINE.
When a blogger finds something that they like on Youtube or hears something that's been posted somewhere, they have absolutely no way of finding out who you are unless you have it posted somewhere on the net. You don't know how many times I have compiled a blog on a band and then to find out that they have no bio online and one photo that is protected. How does someone help a band like that. Do you want to read a blog with no pictures? I don't! I can find 50 pictures of Joe Bonamassa just by typing Joe into Google. Are you more talented than Joe? It doesn't cost anything to take a photo and post it on Reverb or Myspace. Help yourself out.
Here's Matthews Bio from Reverbnation:

Artist Bio

Matthew Curry and The Fury deliver energized blues and blues rock along with great show. Matthew, at 16 and already a veteran performer, is astonishing audiences with his blazing guitar playing, original songs, and soulful voice. After a busy season of summer festivals, Matt and The Fury returned to the Castle Theatre on October 1 for their long-awaited CD Release Party. Audience favs like “Walk Out That Door” and“If I Don’t Got You” were on tap, and then the enthusiastic crowd was treated to the new Matthew Curry originals on the CD. Blues legend Bryan Lee says, “Hurry to hear Matthew Curry, he is the real deal! He plays from his heart, soul and mind.” Matthew has jammed with blues greats Coco Montoya, Tommy Castro, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Bernard Allison, and Bryan Lee. Ronnie Baker Brooks says, “Matthew is an awesome talent! He has a natural feel as if he was born with a guitar in his hand.” Often referred to as a cross between Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Clapton, Matthew Curry is a triple-charged musician in his own right and amping up the blues scene. Matthew and The Fury competed in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, and came back to Bloomington and got busy on the CD project. They were also one of five international finalists in Ampeg’s “Straight-Up Tone” competition. All the prep has paid off - "If I Don't Got You" has been sponsored by the Crossroads Blues Society in the Best Self-Produced CD competition for the IBC.
More About Matthew Curry and the Fury

Matthew Curry is backed by The Fury, pro players including Randy Hoffman (rhythm guitar) Greg Neville, (drums) and Jeff Paxton (bass). "If I Don’t Got You" also features a horn section, background vocals, blaz-ing guitar solos, solid lyrics and well-crafted melodies that show off Matthew’s versatility. Influences include Sonny Landreth, Albert Collins, ZZ Top and Joe Bonamassa.

Shows are planned for spring and summer 2012. *Ampeg Straight-Up Tone finalist *Reviews expected in Blues Blast Magazine, Blues Revue and Indie Music Reviewer Magazine *One of IBC Best Self-Produced CDs *WHOI, WILL interviews *Featured on WGLT "Talkin’ Blues" *WBNQ, WKCC, WILL, WGLT radio play *available on iTunes and Amazon

3) MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE AT LEAST ONE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE THAT HAS A COMPLETE SONG, WHERE YOU CAN ACTUALLY SEE THE BAND, AND THE SOUND QUALITY ISN'T HORRIBLE.
Some bloggers are going to the trouble to search out not only photos and bio's but also videos of your band to help to promote you. Why are they doing this? They could just as easily promote Joe Bonamassa. He makes new videos everyday. They don't have to be professionally shot... but it's nice if you can actually see the bands faces. Make sure they are readily defined (name of the band and song title)and free for the taking. Here's on of Matthews videos:



4)YOUR FANS ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS, NOT YOUR ENTOURAGE TREAT THEM THAT WAY.
When someone posts on your page look at what they post. If your Facebook page is just your fan club and you are happy with 15 fans, you need not read any further. If you want a real fan base then look at what's being posted on all of your sites. My blog's Facebook site is followed by record companies and promoters. When I post a review of your band or just blog your band with what crappy bio you may have provided, it is your chance to be seen. Make sure that your Bio is well thought out and tells something that you want people to know about your band. If you don't take the opportunity to get it in front of all of your fans, "LIKE" my page and "SHARE" my post, what's the likelihood that you'll ever hear from me again... unless of course you have a professional promoter. They will contact me...believe me!

5)IF YOU CAN'T AFFORD A PROFESSIONAL PUBLICIST, USE WHAT RESOURCES YOU HAVE TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY.
Facebook is a great tool for spreading the word about who you are and what you do. So is Twitter. When a fan "LIKES" you, acknowledge it. When a promoter "LIKES" you... jump on it! They can put your name places that you have never heard of... and will! You need all of the press you can get! The one person that you ignore may be the difference between you ultimate success and working at the grocery store for the rest of your life.
Write on our Facebook Wall or post your Photos of great blues events! -  Here

6)FOLLOW UP WITH ANYONE WILLING TO PROMOTE YOU.
It's funny that I promote mega stars who have more than 10 top selling cd's and their paid promoters make sure I get every cd, tell me every move and ask for copies of the posts and reviews so that they can further promote. When I promote a small struggling band in BFE they possibly don't even acknowledge that I stayed up until 2am writing about their band to try to help them out. Then wonder why they aren't successful. I don't take it personally. That's why I'm writing this post. So bands can understand why they aren't succeeding.

7)SEEK ADVICE FROM OTHERS IN THE BUSINESS.
If you are trying to get your foot in the door somewhere, ask for help. I run a "New Talent" section on my blog each week and Tweet the "Fans Favorite" each week.If you want your band promoted, ask someone for help. You would not believe how many bands do absolutely nothing to promote their band that doesn't show up on a telephone pole and expect to be discovered!

8)MAKE YOUR FACEBOOK PAGE ACCESSIBLE FOR PROMOTERS TO POST REVIEWS OF YOUR MATERIALS ON YOUR SITE.
I often go to a bands Facebook page to post a blog that I have written about them only to find that they have a wall up so no one can post on their wall. Are they so bad that they expect that they will be barraged with negative comments? Get feedback on your work. It may be the advice you need. Let people help you!

9)TRY TO FIND OUT WHO'S TWEETING AND ASK FOR THEIR HELP. FOLLOW THEM!
I have a Twitter account for my blog. It's BmanBluesRpt. I tweet only "new release reviews", new artist "winner of the week" and any "exclusive interviews" that I have done this week. I can tell you that I get a lot of traffic to my blog from Twitter. Even if you don't want to or know how to Tweet, get with someone who does. It can help your career.

10)GET YOUR MATERIALS IN FRONT OF EVERYONE YOU CAN.
Yes...we're back to this! When I approach you with a blog that I have written about you, thank me, make sure you "LIKE" my page and "SHARE" the post with your fans. It's the smallest thing that you can do. The internet is king.


These seem like simple enough principles but believe me, there are a number of talented people out there who either through lack of business sense, laziness or "big shot" attitude are failing miserably primarily because they are failing in one of maybe 8 of the above rules.

Fix your campaign today. If you want exposure, let me know. I routinely blog local, rural and international talents. Although my most viewed blog post is of an internationally represented PR firm client and a household name, my second largest blog post is of a 16 year old kid names Matthew Curry with a self produced cd. Now a lot of you don't have Matthew Curry's talents, but Matthew is following all of the rules. He's a great talent and I hope I can continue to help to elevate his career as he is destined to becomes very famous.

Please feel free to ask for help! (It's free!)

Write on our Facebook Wall or post your Photos of great blues events! -  Here

The Sky Is Crying - The Pam Taylor Band

Singer /Songwriter/Guitar player from South Carolina that's keeping the blues alive.
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Harmonica Whomp! - Abe Reid

Abe Reid was born in Statesville, North Carolina in 1972. His first foray into music started at a mere 8 years old when his mom's then current boyfriend, Tim bought him a guitar, introduced him to blues music and began teaching him how to play. Eventually, he expanded his repertoire with harmonicas, kazoos, and various other instruments. Aside from Tim's instrument coaching, Abe never had any formal training or lessons. He says, "We didn't have a radio in our car so my mom would always sing songs to me."

Abe made his first public appearance at the early age of 12, playing at a fiddler's convention with Tim. He knew then that he wanted to be a musician. At age 16 he met Tim Duffy, founder of Music Maker Relief Foundation, at a blues festival. Duffy told him that he knew where to find "a real live bluesman" and introduced Abe to the infamous Guitar Gabriel. Abe played harmonica with him and Gabe told him he was good. That gave Abe the confidence he needed to continue to move forward in the music industry. That chance meeting is also what inspired Abe to focus in the early days on blues in particular.

Abe started playing gigs for local parties, friends, etc., but still felt he needed to grow and gain more confidence. "It's kind of hard to take on the persona of an old black dude in your hometown where all the people know you...so I [went to] New Orleans to sing like I wanted to try to sing and do the things that I knew that I could do..."

At age 19, he left North Carolina for the streets of New Orleans. He stayed for about 6 months, playing mostly blues and ragtime, all the while gaining more confidence to play in front of larger crowds. After his New Orleans experience, he returned to North Carolina, this time to Asheville, and joined a local band playing southern rock at various venues. After 6 months, he headed back to Statesville and formed the Blue Rags where he sang lead vocals and played harmonica. The band frequented various clubs, festivals and private parties, even opening for Colonel Bruce Hampton.

The Blue Rags quickly became known as a premier rag-n-roll band shooting off fabulous original blues tunes as well as terrific covers of old favorites. Featured on the cover of Mountain Xpress three different times, the band was voted by Creative Loafing magazine as the best blues band twice and the best band in Charlotte, N.C. Soon after signing with Sub Pop records, Abe and the band parted ways.

In 1998, Abe went solo and entered the Piedmont Blues Preservation Society's Talent Contest. He won first prize and a trip to Memphis to compete in the International Blues Talent Competition. The only solo act out of 34 selected to compete in the contest, Abe won and took home the honor of "Best Blues Band in the Land." In addition to taking home 20 hours of recording time, $1,000 and 1,000 complete CDs, he also received performance slots at the 1999 W.C. Handy Blues Awards in Memphis, TN, King Biscuit Blues Festival, Springing the Blues Festival, the Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival as well as bookings at over a dozen clubs nationwide.

In 2001, Abe went back to the band concept and started Abe Reid and the Spikedrivers. The band released their first CD Caution: Falling Boogie, featuring the local hit, "Fern Gully Lace". Abe recently relocated to Maryland and signed with Aces and Eights Productions, LLC. He is currently booking local venues while working on his next CD and preparing for an East Coast tour. Today, Abe's music combines blues, funk, rock, and punk with a splash of country, creating infectious melodies that take on a life of their own. Abe has overwhelmed audiences of every background with his screamin' harmonica, rock-solid guitar and raspy, howlin' vocals.
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Rocky Athas Band with Neal Drennan

Born in 1954, Texan Rocky Athas started playing guitar at school and performing at neighborhood gigs with good friend Stevie Ray Vaughan who were schoolmates and friends growing up in the Dallas, Texas suburbs. By age 23, Rocky was honored as one of the ten best guitarists in the state and In the late 70's and early 80's he was the creative vortex behind 'Lightning', one of the biggest draws in Texas nightclub history.

Rocky took a further step up when he signed on as lead guitarist for the legendary 'Black Oak Arkansas' who featured him on their 'Ready As Hell' album and showcased him on their tours from 1996 through 2001. As a session guitarist for Polygram records he recorded with the late Buddy Miles on a project called The Blues Berries and on sessions with Stevie Ray's rhythm section of Chris Layton and Tommy Shannon.

Producer Jim Gaines felt Rocky's talents should be showcased under his own name and so the four piece Texan band, 'The Rocky Athas Group' debuted with the 2003 CD 'Miracle'. This subsequently led to his next one entitled 'Voodoo Moon' also produced by Jim Gaines to excellent reviews.

It was shortly after this release that Mayall happened to catch Rocky's set when he opened for him at a Texas club and was impressed enough to take down a phone number for future reference. In 2008, John was putting together a new band for a studio album and thought Rocky would be ideal for what he had in mind. Rocky was pleased to accept the offer and got on a plane to California and within a week his position in the band was locked in. He has since been impressing audiences worldwide as a player in a long line of John's legendary guitarists.
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Mystic Dream - Ryan McGarvey Band

At age 24, Albuquerque, New Mexico native Ryan McGarvey has in a relatively short amount of time not only gained a national, and international fan base, but admiration from his personal idols as well. In the past few years of Ryan's career he has had the honor, and the pleasure of sharing the bill with such top name act's as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, ZZ Top, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Blue Oyster Cult, Joe Bonamassa, Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi, Back Door Slam, Gov't Mule, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, and many more. His debut CD release "Forward In Reverse" recently reached the top 20 (out of over 200,000 Artist's Cd's) on the best sellers list on CDBaby.com (The worlds largest online independent distributor). With rave reviews complimenting everything from his fiery guitar chops, which range from everything from delta slide to heavy rock, his unique vocals, or mature songwriting skills, Ryan McGarvey's live shows will leave you breathless and wanting more. Absorbing influences from everything from early delta blues, to classic hard rock, to more contemporary blues/rock artist's of today. In 2006 Ryan was named Guitar Center 's "Guitarmaggeddon: Next King Of The Blues" champion of New Mexico . For three consecutive years (2007-2009) he was named "Blues Act Of The Year". As well Ryan was named "Best Guitarist Of The Year" for 2009 in The Weekly Alibi's Annual Readers Poll. In 2007 Ryan took home the New Mexico Music Award for "Blues Song Of The Year" for his song "Cryin' Over You", and was nominated for "Mainstream Rock Song Of The Year" for his song "The One That Got Away". In 2008 Ryan was once again nominated for "Blues Song Of The Year" for his blues ballad "Blue Eyed Angel Blues". Most recently Ryan was featured by the editors of Guitar Player Magazine twice during the Summer of 2008 in their publication. Ryan has also been featured in magazines such as Music Connection, Premier Guitar Magazine, Music & Musicians Magazine, Blues Review, and more. Ryan has been named "Best Musician" from Albuquerque The Magazine's Annual "Best Of The City" Readers Poll in 2008 & 2010. In 2010 Ryan and his band were chosen out of some 4,000 bands (worldwide), and chosen to perform a set at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago. Ryan and his band have been performing currently highly successful European Tours, and are constantly evolving and spreading their loyal fan base.With a solid rhythm section backing him, Ryan McGarvey and his band are embarking on bigger and better things... Don't miss your chance to catch them in a town near you!
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page (available in over 50 languages). I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog. I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

SEVERN RECORDS SIGNS LARRY “MUD” MORGANFIELD

SEVERN RECORDS SIGNS LARRY “MUD” MORGANFIELD, SON OF THE LEGENDARY MUDDY WATERS; NEW CD, SON OF THE SEVENTH SON,

COMING FROM THE LABEL IN EARLY 2012

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Hot off the signing of seminal American roots music bands, The Fabulous Thunderbirds and The Nighthawks, Severn Records has announced the signing of Larry “Mud” Morganfield, son of the legendary Muddy Waters, and will release his label debut CD, Son of the Seventh Son, in early 2012.

Recorded in Chicago and produced by Bob Corritore, Son of the Seventh Son features Mud Morganfield’s earthy, soulful vocals backed by a cadre of blues all-stars, including Kenny Smith on drums, Rick Kreher and Billy Flynn on guitar, Barrelhouse Chuck on keyboards, E.G. McDaniel on bass, and Harmonica Hines and Bob Corritore on harp.

“I just couldn’t have done this without those cats, man,” Morganfield told writer Terry Mullins in an interview published in Blues Blast Magazine. “They brought something to the studio that will forever live in my heart. It brought out the best in me. It’s a great CD, some of the best work I’ve done so far. It’s got one great song after another on it.

“There’s two songs of pop’s on there and with anything I do, I’m gonna add pop,” Morganfield said in the interview. “But the rest of the disc is made up of several songs that I wrote, along with a song that Bob Corritore wrote and one my good friend Studebaker John wrote. But it’s all got that Muddy style to it, because that’s who I am. Without me even trying, I come off like the son of Muddy Waters and I’m proud that it’s like that.”

Chicago-based Mud Morganfield is the eldest son of the blues icon and bears a striking vocal and physical resemblance to his illustrious father. He has toured all over the word spreading the gospel of blues just like his daddy did and will support the release of Son of the Seventh Son with tour dates both in the U.S. and internationally, as well.  

For more information on Mud Morganfield, visit http://www.mudmorganfieldsite.com/ and www.severnrecords.com.

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page. I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog (Now with translation in over 50 languages). I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Bman's Exclusive Interview with Shari Puorto

Bman: Hi Shari. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me. Tell me about Shari, the person. Your Bio indicates that you are "currently residing" in Southern California but didn't you grow up on the east coast?

Shari: I did grow up on the East Coast! If you asked me where I was from, I'd probably say, Connecticut. Even though I was born in So. Cal. I feel I'm "from" Connecticut because that's where I grew up. I have strong ties there. I still have family and my bestest friends in the world in Connecticut! Not to mention the best pizza in the world, Pepe's. Oh man, my mouth is watering! I always feel at "home" when I go back to CT. Interestingly enough, I'm currently writing a song with Barry Goldberg called, "Old Silo Road". That's the road I grew up on! I'm so psyched.


Bman: I'm guessing that a move back east isn't in your future. I grew up in the east as well.You look really comfortable in your west coast skin.

Shari: Well, never say never right?.....but I don't plan on it anytime soon....I love California. You can't beat the weather and living by the beach. It's just gorgeous!


Bman: Exactly! You put on a pretty hot show which is likely why you've shared the stage with the likes of Johnny Winter, Dickey Betts, Robben Ford, Tower of Power, Walter Trout, Coco Montoya, Larry Carlton... a virtual who's who of the blues music business. Now you're working with Barry Goldberg. Now I know that a lot of people don't really know Barry by name but he's played with Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Howlin Wolf, Bob Dylan and Mike Bloomfield. I even have an old vinyl recording of him with Duane Allman!

Shari: Wow, I'd love to hear that album! What a treasure.

Bman: Ask Barry about the recording. It was primarily he and Mike Bloomfield but Duane was featured as well. So how did you hook up with Barry?

Funny you ask about how I met Barry. I met Barry through Alastair Greene, who you know. He coordinated a jam and Barry and I hit it off ever since. We've been writing songs and on occasion perform live together. It's been about 3 years now! Man, how time flies. Barry and I had a show last night ironically enough. Too much fun!

Bman: Nice! Do you write most of your own music or is it mostly collaborative?

Shari: Mostly collaborative. It can work so many different ways. Sometimes I write the lyrics based on something happening in my life (or happened) with an idea of the melody or chorus. Then I'll sit down with someone and the magic begins! Or, the other person might have an idea and they start playing it. I'll start to sing lyrics here and there based on how the music is making me feel and we go from there. Sometimes Barry and I have written amazing songs in 2 hours (well, I think they are amazing! One I'm thinking of is called, "Could it be Me?")

Bman: And I know that you recently released a new album called "Real". How is that going?

Shari: I'm so excited about this album. Also scared a little. My fear is that it isn't better than the last one. You know we always want to top ourselves, right? At least I do. I've received great feedback which settles me a bit. And I am very happy with how it came out.

Bman: No, You're right. We all think tomorrow's results should be better than today. Can you tell us a little about it?

Shari: Would love to. I called the CD 'Real' because that's how I feel the music and performances are on the CD (and should always be), "Real". You know how the record industry has been going which is more "pop" culture ...with a lot of synthesized sounds, bells and whistles not only in the "live" performances but on the recordings too. I miss Real, Raw, it-is-what-it-is performances from the heart and soul. Just strip all that crap down and let's go for it! From the singing to the musicians....that's what we do. Each and every fiber of my songs (whether it's a recording or a live performance) gets a piece of me and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Bman: I know exactly what you're saying. I'm glad to know that the artists aren't all buying into the machine where it all has to sound homogenized.

Shari: Maybe you should come out to my CD Release party on 12/3?! It's going to be a blow out event. I can't wait. The show will be at the new Harvelle's in Long Beach, CA at 6pm. More details can be found at my website, www.BluesRockMusic.com. Why not come out!? In case anyone is interested, being the "starving" musician I am, I have a fundraising campaign online with a company called Kickstarter. If you went to Kickstarter.com and typed my name (Shari Puorto) in the search box you can watch my video and read all about what I'm doing. I'm raising money to fund a long held dream of mine. Which is filming a High Def DVD to be released next year. The people near and far can watch and hear us. I am very excited about this. So everyone who comes to the CD release party on December 3rd will be a part of the DVD! How fun is that?


Bman: Sounds like a blast! Do you have a supporting tour set up for this new cd. If so what is the schedule?

Shari: I don't have a scheduled "tour" per-say at the moment, but we perform a lot which certainly is helpful. We'll be heading up North at the first of the year, with other travels in the works and, festivals hitting around festival season. Those are always fun times!






Bman: It gets harder for some of the more talented but less "Pop" band to afford touring except in a festival setting so I'm glad that that venue is still available.
Do you have anything else that you would like to share with your fans?

Shari: Yes! I can't thank my supporters enough. They know who they are and they mean so much to me. If you haven't seen or heard my music, please take a moment, tune in and take a listen. There are several sites that carry my 3 albums. iTunes, CD Baby, and my website (BluesRockMusic.com), etc. If you want to feel something deep in your soul and like to be "moved" by music, I think you might like what we are doing. But to really get the idea, you have to come to a show! Or help with the DVD campaign so you can get a copy. Again, the campaign can be found at kickstarter.com - search for Shari Puorto.

Shari: Thanks Bman. I truly appreciate your time and interest in talking with me. I hope to see you soon! Perhaps on December 3rd!! =) Music and what's 'real' xo Shari
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page. I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog (Now with translation in over 50 languages). I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Delmark recording artist: Toronzo Cannon - Leaving Mood - New recording review

I just received the new recording by Toronzo Cannon, "Leaving Mood". Cannon has assembled a great band to compliment his guitar and vocals including Lawrence Gladney on Rhythm Guitar,Roosevelt Purifoy on Keys, Larry Williams on Bass, Marty Binder on Drums and Carl Weathersby who guest plays guitar on a few tracks as well as Matthew Stoller who is featured on harp on a few songs.

This is a very solid Chicago blues recording with great stinging blues guitar solos, solid vocals throughout and nice dashes of harp all played over a very tight rhythm section. The album format is not a lot unlike an Albert King recording with a switch up in rhythm patterns from slow blues to a little funk on the top. All of the soloing is added in tastefully and it is a true pleasure to listen to. If you look closely you won't find me handing out recommendations that freely but this one is a keeper!

(Don't know if anyone noticed but I've been reviewing an awful large number of lefty guitar players recently. It is totally coincidental!)
“Like” Bman’s Facebook page. I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog (Now with translation in over 50 languages). I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

Gregg Allman Tour Dates

Date             City                               Venue                                   Public On-Sale

The Allman Brothers Band
11/25/11	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Tower Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
11/26/11	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Tower Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
11/29/11	Boston, Massachusetts	Orpheum Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
11/30/11	Boston, Massachusetts	Orpheum Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
12/2/11	Boston, Massachusetts	Orpheum Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
12/3/11	Boston, Massachusetts	Orpheum Theatre	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
Jaimoe's Jasssz Band
12/17/11	Collinsville, Connecticut	Bridge Street Live	On Sale Date coming soon...
Gregg Allman
12/31/11	Newkirk, Oklahoma	First Council Casino	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/1/12	Thackerville, Oklahoma	Winstar Casino	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/3/12	St. Louis, Missouri	The Pageant	On Sale Now
01/4/12	Nashville, Tennessee	Ryman Auditorium	On Sale Now
01/6/12	Baton Rouge, Louisiana	River Center for the Performing Arts	On Sale Now
01/7/12	Biloxi, Mississippi	Hard Rock Live	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/10/12	Pensacola, Florida	Saenger Theatre	On Sale Now
01/11/12	Montgomery, Alabama	Montgomery Performing Arts Center	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/13/12	Jacksonville, Florida	Florida Theatre	On Sale Now
01/14/12	Clearwater, Florida	Ruth Eckerd Hall	On Sale Now
01/17/12	Ft. Myers, Florida	Barbara B. Mann Hall	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/18/12	Hollywood, Florida	Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino	On Sale Date coming soon...
01/20/12	Melbourne, Florida	King Center for the Performing Arts	CLICK TO BUY TICKETS
01/21/12	Savannah, Georgia	Johnny Mercer Theater	On Sale Now

New Years Eve LIVE on ABC7 with James Hunter

James Hunter - Baby Don't Do It - Live     "James Hunter is one of the best voices, and best kept secrets, in British R'n'B and Soul. Check him out." -VAN MORRISON   SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 DOORS AT 9PM