All tagged Chicago Blues

Butterfield Blues Reunion

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Mark Naftalin, who added high octane playing to one of the original incarnations of the Butterfield Blues Band, offered a dazzling two-hour solo piano recital.  Why this guy has not issued albums of his great blues piano playing is totally beyond me, particularly because runs an independent record label.  

The Tale Dragger

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Whatever.  Today, with towel in hand, Tail Dragger gave a mesmerizing performance.  On the surface, it was rooted deep in Chicago blues traditions that many others have sucessfully mined over the years.  Yet, Tail Dragger is the real deal.  There are not too many veterans like him around any more.  I am glad I dragged myself out of bed into the heat.

Chicago Blues Festival

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Many people expressed a lot of concern when the City decided to move the 2017 Chicago Bluesfest to Millennium Park rather than continuing to use the longstanding location at Petrillo Music Shell and the side stages in Grant Park.  People did not want to substitute concrete for grass.  Overall, I think the City did a great job in prepping Millennium Park for the onslaught of blues enthusiasts and casual passersby who heard the music wafting from the four stages as they enjoyed the Bean and the Crown Fountain.

Sharp

"What a lonesome feeling when you are by yourself."  This well-dressed gentleman was certainly by himself tonight, playing very softly while many people passed by on Chicago's river walk, paying no attention to him.