San Luis Obispo Blues Society Blog
by Char Ham
The critiques expressed in this blog are those of Char Ham, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the San Luis Obispo Blues Society Board Members. Char independently writes this blog and is not affiliated with the San Luis Obispo Blues Society.
Jason Ricci is the embodiment of what blues historian, record producer, and music journalist, Dick Shurman describes as “allowing the blues to change and grow.”
Dancing and romancing to guitarist John Primer and harmonica player Bob Corritore was the best way to celebrate Halloween. For those who took part, many came in costume and added to the festive mood.
The latest iteration of Mark Hummel’s touring show involves a partnership with grand guitar hipster Anson Funderburgh. They’ve worked together many times, and some of their recorded work is on the albums Golden State Blues and Golden State Lone Star Blues Revue.
Mavis Staples came into this evening as a bearer of Good News, and a voice of joy. For her, this has been a lifetime calling, starting with her family band, the Staple Singers. Fremont Theater was transformed into a living room as she made you feel as if you were there for an intimate house concert.
Sugaray Rayford is a mastermind when it comes to connecting a packed audience on a rainy evening. Wearing a black cowboy hat and a crispy red plaid sports coat, this urban cowboy welcomed us NOLA style! The fans felt welcomed from the first song as he threw bead necklaces to them. His hands moved up and down to direct the band while dancing, especially with his two horn players.