Bandstand November 2015

Dave Fleschner/The Blues Cabaret

Congratulations to all the Muddy Award Nominees, and I’m honored and humbled to be considered for an award in the company of great players like Dover Weinberg, Steve Kerin, and Ed Neumann.  When I first moved to Portland in 1996, Dover was gracious enough to have me sit in with the Jim Mesi Band at the Candlelight, and that was a wonderful introduction to the Portland Blues Scene.

Almost twenty years later, having had the opportunity to tour the world as a band-member and or musical director with Curtis Salgado, Earl Thomas, John Nemeth and Karen Lovely – I’m finally releasing an album of my own music.  The Blues Cabaret is releasing our debut CD at the Alberta Rose on November 7th, and I’m really excited to share this music with you.  The vocals on the record feature myself, Earl Thomas, Billy Mixer and Jimmy Wilcox.  The CD features performances by some amazing musicians.  You’ll hear guitar work from Alan Hager, Vyasa Dodson and Dan Gildea.  Carlton Jackson and Russ Kleiner play the drums.  Chuck Barber adds percussion. Bill Athens plays the upright bass.  The horn section features performances by Joe McCarthy, Doug Bundy, Mary-Sue Tobin, Willie Mathias, Robert Pawlowski, Bryan Pawlowski, and Ben Medler.

I’d like to thank all these world-class musicians for their great performances, and I’d like to thank the CBA for supporting me over the years. November 7th is going to be a great night.  Tickets start at $15, but we’ll include a CD for $30 (saving you $5).  For something really special, get your VIP ticket and join the band for a champagne toast at 6:30, with music by La Musica String Quartet, who are also featured on the album.  For $60, this also includes a CD and lets you choose your seat early.  This is a CBA co-sponsored event, so $2 off any ticket price for CBA members.  Thanks to all of you for all your support of me and the Portland live music scene.