CHRISTOPHER MESI MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

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ATTENTION: High School Principals, Counselors, Music Teachers, and
College Financial Aid Officers

The Cascade Blues Association (CBA) is pleased to offer a musical scholarship in the amount of $500.00. This award is to be used for tuition only by students enrolled in a music degree program at any Oregon or SW Washington College for the 2013 Fall Term.

This scholarship was established in January 1997 in the memory of Christopher James Mesi, who passed away on July 11, 1996 at age 22 months, due to health complications stemming from a rare respiratory condition known as “Tracheal Rings.” Funds continue to be raised to promote the life and growth of this scholarship and its contribution to the field of music.

TIMELINE FOR APPLICATION PROCESS:

Application Process Opens: April 15, 2013
Applications & all Supporting Documents Due: July 1, 2013
Selection Process Completed & Winner Notified: August 1, 2013
Funds Available for Fall 2013 after Proof of Enrollment: August 15, 2013

CRITERIA FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION:

Any high school senior or current college student pursuing a music degree.
A student who has demonstrated commitment to school or community through involvement in activities.
A grade point average of 2.75 or greater (attach transcript).
Two (2) letters of recommendation: one (1) from current music teacher and one (1) from a counselor or teacher.
Application completed and submitted by the deadline.
Proof of college enrollment, fall 2013 term, must be submitted prior to award.

You can write to:
CBA Scholarship Committee P.O. Box 14493
P.O. Box 14493 Portland, OR 97293-0493
Portland, OR 97293-0493

Jimmy Mak’s presents Lloyd Jones Starlight Revue with Teresa James

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On Saturday June 1st The Lloyd Jones Struggle will present a special evening with Los Angeles recording artist, piano player and singer “Teresa James” at Portland’s premiere nightclub Jimmy Mak’s! This “Starlight Reveue” will begin early at 7pm, with the Portland Starlight Parade following at midnight!

Teresa & Lloyd first met on Delbert McClinton’s “Sandy Beach’s Cruise” years ago, with “Teresa James Rhythm Tramps” returning to play the Portland Waterfront Blues Festival” several times. Since then, Teresa has recorded with Jones on his latest recording “Doin’ What It Takes” and she will be celebrating her own new release “Come on Home” later this month.

Tickets only $10 in advance, $12 at the door!! Please get your tickets early. Don’t miss this special “Starlght Reveue” show, as it will sell out fast!! Just go to www.tickettomato.com to purchase tickets.

BTW – Teresa James will be at this year’s Waterfront Blues Festival singing with Eric Burton. Check out www.teresajames.com or www.lloydjonesmusic.com to find out more!

The Sultans Of Slide – A Celebration of the Slide Guitar

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Monti AmundsonOn Friday, June 7th, Duff’s Garage welcomes back The Sultans Of Slide, the power-house guitar extravaganza featuring a collection of some of the very best players in the Pacific Northwest. The Sultans of Slide were originally the brain-child of Monti Amundson and Franck Goldwasser in 2010 and soon added former Terraplanes/Duffy Bishop guitarist Henry Cooper to the mix. Since Goldwasser moved to Southern California, the band has continued in a new incarnation with two of the finest slide players of the Seattle area in the mix with Rod Cook and Mark Riley, plus Portland’s Joe McMurrian.

This show at Duff’s Garage will open with an acoustic slide performance by McMurrian, which will then be followed by electric sets featuring the rest of the guitarists. These Sultans Of Slide shows in the past have been an incredible tour de force, with stunning slide-work that can easily harken the likes of the greats such as Earl Hooker, Elmore James or Johnny Winter. Not to be missed.

Duff’s Garage is located at 1635 SE 7th. Showtime is 9:00 pm. This is a Cascade Blues Association co-sponsored event. Admission is $12.00, with a $1.00 discount for CBA members who show their current cards at the door.

Legendary Vocalist Boz Scaggs at Arlene Schnizter Concert Hall

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Renowned vocalist Boz Scaggs brings his unique voice and trademark sound to the Rose City! The iconic singer, songwriter and guitarist has been a fan favorite ever since his debut album, Boz, in 1965. And now fans will enjoy old favorites and new songs from his latest, just-released album, MEMPHIS. A casual listen to the Boz Scaggs discography makes one thing obvious: Boz Scaggs is both a musical seeker and a man of sizable talent as a singer, songwriter and guitarist. His explorations in blues and R&B, rock and jazz have produced a lasting body of work and a career that has brought with it acclaim, a loyal following, and an enduring respect among musicians.

Boz Scaggs will be performing in Portland at the historic Arlene Schnizter Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway, on Tuesday, June 11th at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available through the Oregon Symphony Box Office and by phone at 503-228-1353 or 800-228-7343, or through www.tickets.orsymphony.org. Tickets range in price from $40.00 – $125.00. (Note: The Oregon Symphony is not performing at this event.)

Blues Rockers Indigenous to play at Mississippi Studios

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Mato Nanji of Indigenous - press photoBluesy, roots-rockers Indigenous featuring guitar sensation Mato Nanji is out on tour cranking it up with their latest electric release titled Vanishing Americans. This spirited band from South Dakota’s Nakota Nation is known for their exciting performances filled with soaring guitar fireworks that mixes the sounds of blues, soul, R&B and even a bit of country, showcasing their deep influences. Mato Nanji’s guitar playing has been compared with greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Carlos Santana and Jimi Hendrix with good reason as he draws inspiration from each. Guitar.com praises Indigenous and Mato Nanji: “The band serves up an extra hefty buffet of fiery hard-rocking blues, and when Mato Nanji cuts loose, you’ll be wondering why all the mainstream guitar magazines have not yet caught on to tout this outstanding player and award him the praise he truly deserves.”

Indigenous will be returning to Portland on Wednesday, June 12th for an 8:00 pm show at Mississippi Studios, 3939 N Mississippi Ave. This is a 21 & over only show with mostly standing room and a seated balcony. Tickets are $12.00 advance and $15.00 day of show and can be purchased through www.ticketbiscuit.com.

Blues Divas Gina Sicilia and Karen Lovely in Super Double Bill

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The Alberta Rose Theatre presents a very special night, bringing two of the most amazing up and rising blues divas today together for one show. Both are past Blues Music Award nominees, representing both sides of the country, with exceptional musicians playing with them.

Philadelphia’s Gina Sicilia has been described as “…Sounding like a Petri dish mixture of mature Maria Muldaur and mature Bonnie Raitt, Sicilia is going to force the blues world to take notice as she adds the rhythm to the blues and brings on the soul. A vocalist with real chops that just keep getting honed sharper, contemporary blues vocal fans will find indispensable.” Celebrating the release of her fourth recording, It Wasn’t Real, on the VizzTone Records label, Gina is touring the country extensively, joined by guitarist and fiancé Dave Gross.

Also, on the show will be Portland’s own Karen Lovely. 2010’s second place winner of the International Blues Challenge and three-time BMA nominee as Contemporary Female Artist, Contemporary Album and Song of the Year.. Karen has recently toured Canada and Europe twice. Karen always features a crack-sharp band, including guitar master Leonard Griffie.

This dynamic double-header will start at 8:00 pm on Friday, June 21st. The Alberta Rose Theatre is located at 3000 NE Alberta St. Minors are okay with a parent or guardian. Tickets are available through www.albertarosetheatre.com, $15.00 general admission.

Malian Guitarist Vieux Farka Toure at Mississippi Studios

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Often referred to as “The Hendrix of the Sahara”, Vieux Farka Toure was born in Niafunké, Mali in 1981. He is the son of the late legendary Malian guitar player Ali Farka Toure, who died in 2006. His father recorded one of the greatest collaboration albums of all time with Ry Cooder, titled Talking Timbuktu, which won a Grammy and illustrated just how close the sounds of Western Africa and the blues actually were. Vieux Farka Toure continues to expand and broaden the sounds of his music, proving himself a more than exceptional guitarist and composer, paying homage to the musicians of the past while looking toward the future and showing that the blues is a blend of generations, from the father to the son.

Mali is a country under a great deal of strife these days. Religious insurgents in the North are attempting to take over the country and would ban music if successful. Listening to the sounds of Malian music show a direct link between their country and original blues. Come witness and listen for yourself before these artists may no longer be allowed to travel and perform this important music.

Vieux Farka Toure is touring to support his fourth solo recording, The Tel Aviv Session and will be performing at Mississippi Studios on Friday, June 28th for a 9:00 pm show. Admission is $22.00 advance and $25.00 day of show. Advance tickets are available through www.ticketbiscuit.com, mostly standing with a seated balcony.

What’s on Tap for June’s General Membership Meeting . . .

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Melody Ballroom, 615 SE Alder St., Portland
Wednesday, June 5th – 7:00 pm
Members always Free – Non-members $3.00
Opening Acoustic Set – The Hitmen
Second Electric Set – The Fat Tones

With some of the weather we had in May, you’d think that it was already deep in the summer months. Well, we’re about to get started there and a good way to start it out is by attending the Cascade Blues Association’s June General Membership Meeting. Whether the weather changes back to cold or continues to cook, one thing is guaranteed, you’re going to have things heat up every month at our meeting with two sensational acts to check out.

This month’s meeting brings “The Hitmen,” this duo of Ron Rocci (The Hitman) on drums and Bill Hyland (Froggy) on Lap steel, vocals, acoustic guitar and various harmonicas are heading up from the Eugene/Springfield area. Froggy of course is the host of perhaps the longest running jam at one venue in Oregon with his Sunday afternoon shows at Albany’s Calapooia Brewing Company. “All things spring from the ‘Pooia,” says Froggy, whose jam has been termed as the friendliest around, not plagued by endless guitar wanking. Everybody gets to play.

The duo were the brains and heartbeat of the Vicki Stevens Band which made the semi-finals at the 2011 International Blues Challenge in Memphis (along with Lisa Mann), where they later that same week took second place in the prestigious Beale Street Kings contest. “We really appreciated Lisa’s support at the contest, and we’d like to get back and make a dent in the Catfish, Ribs, Fried Chicken and Waffles. Oh yeah! And the music competition too!”

The Hitmen will be performing a preview of their Journey to Memphis contest performance scheduled for June 8th. Multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter Froggy has been doing lots of solo work recently, and the relentless beats of The Hitman keep the tunes moving along with a wide range of tempos and rhythms. Along with their J2M set, they’ll be showcasing tunes from all three Froggy CDs, homages and some brand new tunes for your listening pleasure.

The second set of the night will feature The Fat Tones. Since their inception in 2002, this rockin’ blues trio has enjoyed a steady stream of success. After releasing six hit albums of original music and being recognized for multiple categories of regional awards, winning practically every award offered by The Inland Empire Blues Society in Spokane for their annual Empire Awards. This band is very much one of the hottest bands around!

Skilled guitarist Bobby Patterson leads the band with his world class talent and versatility. Ever passionate, Bobby exudes perfection and professional musicianship in every note he strums. Next we have the backbone position of live music, bass player Bob Ehrgott. He effortlessly lays down the groove and contributes greatly to the bands’ vocals and writing. Zach Cooper is our drum and percussion specialist. Zach boasts an impressive career as a blues drummer having toured internationally with regional and national acts. He also rounds out the vocal harmony of this phenomenal trio. Together these three experienced artists create a symphony of sound that pleasure senses in every way. The Fat Tones play rockin’ blues style music that is packed full of harmonic melodies and fresh lyrics. Their act is danceable and fun, perfect for any venue from private parties to national festivals. Jump on the bandwagon and hear this fabulous group today!

Make sure you receive a free drawing ticket when you enter the venue, for your chance to win CDs and other great prizes. We will also hold our special winner-take-all drawing for a multi-CD package put together just for the meeting. The multi-CD tickets are $1.00 each and go to help support the CBA in their monthly expenses.

Come on out to The Melody Ballroom and mingle with friends while we hear great blues. It is the perfect way to start out the month and the summer. See you there.

 

John Primer and Bob Corritore

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Knockin’ Around These Blues
Delta Groove

When it comes to traditional Chicago style blues, pairing John Primer and Bob Corritore is a natural fit. The kind of match that Louis Jordan would’ve said goes together like beans and cornbread.

John Primer is a legendary guitarist on The Windy City scene, having cut his teeth behind the likes of Muddy Waters and Magic Slim; as well as building his own illustrious solo career. If you’re looking for one of the deepest, down in the alley blues guitar heroes, you need look no further than John Primer.

And although Bob Corritore may have spent the past three decades in Phoenix, make no mistake, this man was raised in Chicago and knows more than just a thing or two about delivering the greasy goodness of his hometown’s sound on the harmonica.

Knockin’ Around These Blues is a long time coming disc featuring these two masters together for the first time in a studio setting. There is no question they’ve obviously stood side by side on stage throughout the years, thrilling audiences with their satisfying interactions. So putting that magic together in something you can take home and enjoy eternally is a true blessing.

Most of the tracks found on this album are covers from the blues world’s best. Songwriters like Willie Dixon, Little Walter, Jimmy Reed, Lightnin’ Hopkins and Robert Lockwood Jr. But these numbers are not necessarily always the most-known and often overplayed selections from those greats. And when thrown into the hands of Primer and Corritore, you just do not care who wrote them anyway, because they come out alive and kickin’, gonna make you say “oh yeah!”

Delta Groove always has the know-how to combine their musicians with the absolute best artists to back them. Nothing different here, either. How can you argue with a stable of side-musicians that offer Billy Flynn and Chris James on guitars; Bob Stroger and Patrick Rynn on bass; Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith and Brian Fahey on drums; plus Barrelhouse Chuck on keys?

Chicago blues are certainly jumping with Knockin’ Around These Blues. It is a superb collection of that classical blues sound. Really hoping that this pairing develops into a partnership churning out more discs together. Very appetizing indeed!

Total Time: 55:34

The Clock / Blue And Lonesome / When I Get Lonely / Cairo Blues / Leanin’ Tree / Harmonica Joyride / Little Boy Blue . Just Like I Treat You / Man Or Mouse / Going Back Home

The McCrary Sisters

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McCrary Sisters CD coverAll The Way
McCrary Sister Production

If you love vocal harmonies, you’re going to be hard pressed to find anything finer than The McCrary Sisters. This Nashville-based group of siblings (Ann, Deborah, Regina and Alfreda) are the daughters of renowned Reverend Samuel McCrary who was a member of The Fairfield Four, where they were exposed first-hand to the best in gospel. And it paid off beautifully. Their voices carry the influence of their gospel background and delve deeply into rock, soul, country, R&B and all forms roots, all of it quite satisfying no matter what denomination you may follow.

All The Way is the second release by The McCrary Sisters and it is filled with incredible soul-bending music that highlights the perfect harmonization of the four. Plenty of messages abound in tracks like “Let It Go,” “Skin Deep,” “You Can Make It” and “Come On.” There is not a song found here that will not lift your spirits with the various approaches they take, such as slide blues guitar of “Hum And Moan,” the funkiness behind “Victory” or the rocking drive of “Train.”

There is a lot of emotion and passion in the sisters’ delivery. This is an album that will have you jumping and testifying. Wonderful voices meshed in astounding presentation. The McCrary Sisters have that sense of musical bond that can only come from a lifetime of singing together and it shines clearly on this amazing recording.

Total Time: 55:15

Come On / Train / Skin Deep / Let It Go / Hum And Moan / Right Where You Are / Hello Jesus / Victory / You Can Make It / The Ways Of The World / Talk To You / All The Way