Artists Descriptions & Links - State Street Blues Stroll

Johnny Rawls Soul Revue @ Media Theatre Main Stage* (9 to 11)

- "Keep the Blues Alive", Johnny Rawls was born in Columbia, Mississippi in 1951 and raised in Purvis and Gulfport. He acquired an early interest in music when hearing his grandfather play the blues guitar one Christmas morning. He began playing professionally while still in high school with such stars as ZZ Hill, Little Johnny Taylor, Joe Tex and the Sweet Inspirations. In the mid-70's, Johnny went to work for OV Wright as Wright's band director. After Wright's death in 1980, Johnny led Little Johnny Taylor's band until 1985, when he began touring as a solo artist and made his first solo recording under the Rainbow label.

Recording under Touch Records, Rooster Blues, Rock House, Reach and JSP Records, Johnny has done it all from producing, songwriting, horn arranging, Rhythm, Lead and Bass guitar, keyboard, vocals and background vocals. Johnny started his own record company, Deep South Soul, in 2002 and has released his CD's Lucky Man, Live in Montana, and The Best of Johnny Rawls. His newest CD entitled Heart and Soul was released in October 2006 and has been nominated for "Best Soul Blues Album of the Year (2007)" by the Blues Foundation . No Boundaries was released under the TopCat, Catfood and Deep South Soul labels in 2005.

Johnny has appeared on the cover of the April 2002 Living Blues Magazine and has been nominated four times for the W.C. Handy Award. One of his more recent awards came from the West Coast Blues Hall of Fame for R&B Male Vocalist of the Year 2006.

His new CD "Red Cadillac" was nominated as best Soul Blues CD of 2009 by the BMA (Blues Music Awards) of the Blues Foundation.
Johnny was also a nominee for Best Soul Blues Artist in these Awards.

Johnny has performed at the Chicago, Russian River, King Biscuit and Portland Waterfront blues festivals, the Poconos, as well as festivals in Sweden and Poland. He tours constantly, playing well over 200 dates a year. He can also be heard on XM radio's Bluesville. Whether he is playing in a small club or a large blues festival, Johnny gives it his all and the crowds love him!

Catfish Hodge @ Media Theatre Main Stage* (8 to 8:45) & @ Keystone Bank/Plum St. Mall Stage* - Special Children's Show (6:30)

- "Catfish on stage is like a twelve gauge shot gun of emotion going off!" - Rolling Stone Magazine, Catfish has been called an "American folk blues hero" and has been a mainstay on the American Blues music scene for three decades now! He has twenty four albums to his credit, comprised almost totally of original material. "Catfish Blues" and "Like A Big Dog Barkin'" on the Wildcat label, and "Eyewitness Blues" on Genes CD were released in 1994 and 1995. His first album of children's songs "Adventures at Catfish Pond", on Music for Little People label was released in May of 1996. The album won the NAPA Golden Award as best children's music of 1996. His 1998 release "Bare Necessities"(on Chicken Legs Music) finds him in a solo acoustic setting, with lowdown funky blues and soulful ballads. His 1999 release "Twenty Years" features performances from concerts and radio broadcast and includes the only version now available of "Boogie Man Gonna Git Ya", as well as other rare gems. His 2002 release "Let's Eat" is a best of collection of his best known food songs of which there are many! Both of his latest albums are available on Chicken Legs Music. All of his albums prior to the 1990's are hard to find except for the first Catfish Band album "Get Down", which Sony/Epic re-released in the mid 1990's, due to demand for it overseas.

Catfish found his calling early on. While growing up in Detroit, he was sneaking into Motown Records Hitsville studio to catch the Four tops and the Supremes and grooving to R&B and Blues while his contemporaries gravitated to the Beatles. In the late 1960's he formed the Catfish Band and led them out of Detroit into national prominence.

By 1973 Catfish had settled into Washington, DC where he was packing them in at Desperado's, Childe Harold and the Cellar Door with what the Washington City Paper describes as "his cheerfully muscular blues & rockin' boogie". He made a few friends along the way too. He became a regular opener for Bonnie Raitt and Little Feat, who also started showing up on his recordings. When he formed the Chicken Legs Band in 1981, he was joined by Little Feat's Paul Barrere, Richie Hayward, Kenny Gradney and Sam Clayton. Their final tour hit twenty one cities and sold out every one. In 1982 Catfish had headed west to California where he lived for the next 17 years. Along with Paul Barrere he formed the Bluesbusters in 1984. They recorded two albums for Landslide Records and toured for many years, until Little Feat was reformed in the late 1980's. In 1999 Catfish founded the Hillbilly Funk Allstars with T Lavitz, Richie Hayward, Kenny Gradney, and Vassar Clements. Their first tour was well received, with great turn outs, will they ever tour again? He continues to work solo acoustic and with his new electric band in the mid-atlantic area, as well as festivals around the globe.

Bluesman Catfish Hodge to Perform Children's Show
He will appear at the Keystone Bank Plum Street Mall Stage on State Street from 6:15pm to 7pm on Saturday, June 13 as part of the State Street Blues Stroll and Second Saturday activities. "Fish" will perform songs from his acclaimed children's release, "Adventures at Catfish Pond". This special appearance, sponsored by Media Arts Council and Media Business Authority, is free for all ages. For more information: 610-566-5039

Today Catfish Hodge lives in the Great Smoky Mountains near Asheville North Carolina where he says, "the air is fresh and the mountains are good for the healing of the soul." After thirty five years on the road and twenty four albums having been released, he is still electrifying music fans with his powerful and spiritual style of original music!

Lonnie Shields Band @ Sligo (9:30) - Our Helena, Arkansas Bluesman-in-Residence

- Lonnie Shields is truly the next generation of the blues. He cut his blues teeth performing with the Jelly Roll Kings. His recording career has led him through a number of studios from Memphis and Clarksdale to tours all over the world.

This Delta born guitarist, singer and songwriter's style is just the opposite of his demeanor. Lonnie comes across as a mild mannered southern gentleman with a laid back nature. On stage, he is transformed into an extraordinary entertainer moving to his music and feeding off the energy of the audience. His music is deeply rooted in gospel, soul and R & B while his sound, like his soul is never too far from the home of the blues.

Lonnie Shields career has skyrocketed over the past few years and he is performing all over the world. He was the first Delta artist that Rooster Blues picked up after moving to Clarksdale, Mississippi in 1987. His CD "Portrait" was released in 1992 and reads like a who's who of Delta Blues Performers. Since then he has gone on to release more CD's and build an impressive list of songwriter credits.

Over the years, Lonnie has played with many Blues greats including Sam Carr, Sonny Rhodes, Eddie Shaw and Big Jack Johnson to name just a few.

Lonnie's latest release "Keeper of The Blues" is another jewel in a string of 5 CDs featuring his soulful, "down home" Blues with a contemporary focus yet juke-joint feel. Lonnie's hard work has paid off in a fine compilation of music and a reputation of a man with the heart and soul of the Blues. Lonnie now makes his home in Media, Pennsylvania but always has and always will be the Keeper of The Blues wherever he lays his guitar. - DeltaBoogie.com

Gina Sicilia Band @ Picasso (9:30)

- Only once in a great while an artist comes along with the power to cause jaws to drop in awe. Ladies and gentleman, meet Philadelphia's own musical dynamo Gina Sicilia.

Exposed to music early on by her music-loving family, Gina began singing at the tender age of 3 and wrote her first song at the age of 12. Upon hearing blues legend Bobby Bland for the first time at the age of 14, she became instantly enthralled by the raw emotion and power of blues & soul. After spending her teenage years polishing her vocal and songwriting skills, Gina began singing in clubs around the Philadelphia area, and has since branched out worldwide.

As an artist who has been performing on the blues circuit for only a few short years, it is obvious to see that Gina's star is rising, and it is rising fast.

In December 2007, only five months after the release of her critically acclaimed debut album, "Allow Me To Confess", Gina signed with the prestigious Piedmont Talent booking agency, which represents such legendary acts as Johnny Winter and James Cotton. That same month, Gina's impressive talent was recognized by the Blues Foundation, earning her a 2008 Blues Music Awards nomination for "Best New Artist Debut".

Now 23, this soulful, passionate vocalist and songwriter has just completed her sophomore CD. Entitled "Hey Sugar", this musical masterpiece proves Sicilia to be not only a stunning vocalist but an extraordinarily gifted, unique songwriter, capable of writing soulfully and effectively in a multitude of genres. The record is a reflection of Gina's diverse musical talent and tastes, as well as her undeniable and continuous growth as a vocalist and songwriter.

The album consists of nine original tracks by Gina herself, plus four stirring standards. "Hey Sugar" was produced by 2007 Blues Music Awards Nominee Dave Gross, who also lends his own innovative guitar playing to the mix. Backed by a cast of some of the finest players in the business, including young harmonica master Dennis Gruenling and acclaimed pianist David Maxwell, Gina's powerful vocal delivery, range, and conviction command the attention of listeners throughout the entire album.

More than just a throwback to the great blues & soul vocalists of the 50's & 60's, Gina uniquely separates herself from the pack of current vocalists with a style that is distinctive, magnetic, and anything but cliché. She is an artist in high-demand, and continues to receive rave reviews from critics and music fans alike.

Now an internationally touring artist, Gina's ability to evolve as a vocalist and songwriter is boundless. This is only the beginning for Gina Sicilia, as she will undoubtedly continue to make her mark among the new generation of musical artists.

Leroy Hawkes and the Hipnotics @ Joclyn's (9)

- Hawkes, whose career began in the church as a gospel singer in Virginia, later moved to Philadelphia where he sang with various local acts. There he developed his musical style, reflecting the influence of singers such as Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Joe Tex and Wilson Pickett. By the 1980's, Hawkes was appearing with greats like the Temptations and the O'Jays when he became stricken with an affliction which left him temporarily blind. With his recovery comes the rebirth of an exciting vocalist with a band that can truly exemplify his talent. The nucleus of The Hipnotics is assembled around a rhythm section cast in the mold of Memphis' MG's and New Orleans' Meters.

James Thunderbird Ford @ "Quotation's" (9:30)

- Philly blues veteran James "Thunderbird" Ford is back with a new band! The line up features James on vocals with guitars, bass, keyboard, harmonica and sax. The band has played at the New Jersey Barbecue Cook-Off and Blues Festival in Anglesea, NJ, The Rusty Nail , The World Cafe and other Philadelphia blues scene venues. Band members were often seen at Warm Daddy's jam sessions. Traditional Chicago-style electric blues is on tap with a sense of humor and freewheeling improvisation. The band is currently accepting bookings for 2009 - 2010.

We were alternating with Randy Lippincott's Band as the house band at Gloria's Gourmet Seafood Cafe, 2120 Fairmount Avenue, in Philadelphia. for the Tuesday night jam session, but that venue has ended. We are looking toward starting a new jam in October.

James Ford also hosts a Monday night blues jam at the New Barber Hall at 1402 W. Oxford St. near Temple University. Call 215-763-0369 for info. We start at 8pm.

Dukes of Destiny @ Iron Hill Brewery (9)

- It was a rambling three story house on the edge of the woods in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park. The year was 1984 and four young musicians lived in that house, spending hour upon hour jamming on old blues songs. They decided to take the act out as The Dukes of Destiny, a name they got from a matchbook cover urging the reader to "Be the Captain of Your Own Destiny." At first they played house parties in Germantown, generating word of mouth interest. A gig at the now-defunct Taker's Cafe in Germantown launched their public career, and 20 years later they are still playing some of the hottest, most danceable blues and R'n'B in the Philadelphia area. The Dukes of Destiny reign as one of Philadelphia's longest lived blues act.

John Colgan-Davis: Harmonica, Lead Vocals, Songwriting - John has been a Philadelphia music treasure for most of his adult life. His harp style is both raw and haunting. He is a powerful and emotional vocalist. John has written several songs that are on our latest CD.

Arlyn Wolters: Lead and Background Vocals - Arlyn is a really hot singer with great stage presence.

Rich Curtis: Bass, Lead and Background Vocals - Rich is a smooth vocalist and one of the most solid bass players in Philly.

Bobby Holden: Drums, Background Vocals - Bobby is another Philly legend, AND one of the hardest working men in the music business. He is also one of the the most powerful and tasteful drummers in the area.

"Chicago" Carl Snyder: Keyboards - Over a span of thirty years, "Chicago" Carl Snyder worked with over sixty of the Windy City's blues artists, most extensively with Junior Wells, Otis Rush, Son Seals and Jimmy Johnson. He played on two albums that won the Handy Award, two more that were nominated for Grammies, and appeared in a film, "Blues Highway", that was nominated for an Academy Award. At one time he was also the pianist at Chicago's famed Second City Theater. He has performed in over 40 states and eleven foreign countries. He also operates his own record label, Lost World Music, and hosts radio shows on college and public stations.

Richard "Ray" Adler: Guitar - "Ray" is an unpredictable and exciting guitarist with Blues, Country, Bluegrass, and Rock roots.

Carl Crabtree ("CC"): Sax - "CC" is a classic R&B sax player who can "wail" or play mellow, depending on the mood. He is a also a great singer.

The Frankadelics (Atlantic City) @ Azie Global Restaurant (9)

- frank.a.del.ic: (v) 1. an experience that is characterized by the collective sights and sounds of four virtuoso musicians as they conjure up the creative exuberance of the mind being liberated from it's ordinary restraints while producing a profound feeling of euphoria. 2. a roller coaster ride that dares you to climb aboard, strap in and hang on!

Frank DiNunzio - Lead Guitar & Vocals, Chris Quaile - Upright Bass, Tony Day - Drums, Larry Larrabee - Harmonica & Vocals

Steve Guyger Trio @ Plumstead Inn (8:15)

- Philadelphia is home to one of the finest blues harp players in the world, much to the surprise of people not "inside" the blues scene. Over the past thiry-plus years, Steve Guyger with his band, The Excellos, has been dishing out some of the finest blues to be heard anywhere. Steve has toured with the late Jimmy Rogers, among others, and has played with many of the great Chicago bluesmen and contemporary players, yet he remains one of the best kept secrets in blues. The late William Clarke called Steve "the best harp player I've ever seen." Mark Hummel called him "a monster player." If you have heard Steve play, you know what they're talking about. If you've never heard him, you're missing a major page in your blues portfolio.

Steve began playing harp back in the late 60's on a harmonica given to him by his future sister-in-law. Sometime later, his brother turned him on to Paul Butterfield. Steve's passion for the blues harp took him to Chicago to learn at the feet of the masters of the art. Each trip taught him skills that he brought back to the local bands in which he paid his dues. Steve has shared the stage with the greats in Chicago and the contemporary harp players touring the world today, names like Little Sammy Davis, Carey Bell, Rick Estrin, Rod Piazza, Kim Wilson, Mark Hummel, Charlie Musselwhite and many others. His playing, vocals, songwriting and stage presence have earned him a place among the best of the players on stage today.

2009 Blues Music Awards Nominee - Best Harmonica. Steve is also a Hohner endorsee, a designation earned by only a few outstanding harmonica players. Needless to say, Steve plays and recommends Hohner harmonicas.

Gary Cogdell Trio @ Towne House Forge Room (8)

- Garry's Singing and guitar playing draw deeply from the music of the Mississippi Delta, Chicago, Texas and sometimes-even London England in the 60's. His masterful slide guitar, fluid flat and finger picking in the "hammer-stroke" style in several guitar tunings confirm his depth of knowledge, and understanding of the subtleties and strengths of the best of the Blues guitarists. Commenting on Garry's playing, Philadelphia Jerry Ricks said, "He's so good it's scary" Garry opened the show for, Jimmy "Fast Fingers" Dawkins, Muddy Waters, Noble "Thin man" Watts, George Thorogood, John Hammond, Satan & Adam, Sapphire and many others. He has played this music for over 35 years, in his early years was a student of the great Philadelphia Jerry Ricks.

At about age 19 Gary had the pleasure of seeing the great Sleepy John Estes. It was his first exposure to a real Delta Blues player. Sleepy John sat at the side of a small plywood stage that was just about ground level, looking to Gary to be about 150 years old. Gary thought, "What is that old guy doing there?" Then two guys just about carried Sleepy John to center stage, set his guitar in his lap, placing his hands on the guitar. Then it happened! He never looked up, just beat the hell out of the guitar and played and sang with the intensity of a space shuttle launch. He was unbelievably cool. He sounded like nothing Gary had ever heard. And soul, man he didn't care if I or anyone else was there or not, he was just letting it out! Gary felt then, and now that nothing could ever match what he was, but Gary sure had to try. The honesty and shear soul of this music we call Blues is something that is very very rare. Thank You, Sleepy John!

Blues Anatomy @ Brodeur's on State Street (9:30)

- Blues Anatomy is a blues and R&B band comprised of very talented musicians, all Philadelphia area natives who have been on the Philly music scene for 25 years or more.

Since 2007, Blues Anatomy has appeared at WXPN's World Cafe Live, the National Constitution Center (twice), the Media Blues Stroll, the White's Road Park Concert Series in Lansdale PA, and various venues in and around Philadelphia. We've recorded a CD of blues and R&B covers, titled "Let's Straighten It Out." While we adhere to the instrumental lineup established by Muddy Waters in the '50s, several tracks feature our four-part harmonies, which we think makes this a very distinctive album within its genre. You can hear samples and order a copy on our web site.

In 2006, they had the good fortune to be invited by Aaron Levinson, a Grammy-winning producer, to be the backbone of his latest project, a tribute to an overlooked bluesman titled "Rediscovering Lonnie Johnson," featuring guitarist Jef Lee Johnson. It was released nationally in March 2008 to very favorable reviews. WHYY's Radio Times' May 14th interview with Aaron and liner notes writer Francis Davis featured samples from the CD alongside original Johnson tracks. The CD was reviewed in Blues Review magazine. As a result, if you search the Internet for "blues anatomy lonnie johnson" you'll receive dozens of hits from sources all over the country.

Lenny Gordon - vocals & drums, Rick Prince - bass, Rick Nollet - guitar & vocals, Andy Haley - drums & percussion, Marky B - harmonica.

The Blues Mercenaries @ John's Grille (8)

- "Purveyors of great new and traditional blues." Craig Tillman's Blues Mercenaries were formed in 2001. They started with various players Craig had played with at different jams over the years. Although the band now has a steady "A" Team of players, as is so common with local blues, the mercenary nature of the players prevails and the group has an extraordinary list of hired guns. Craig Tillman was introduced to the Blues in 1965 by Todd Rudgren (who went on to produce Paul Butterfield and James Cotton).

Craig Tillman - Vocal and Harmonica; Greg Taylor - Bass and Vocal; Kenny Brooks - Drums; Don Evans - Guitar and Vocal

The Barbreakers featuring Pucci @ Stephen's on State (9:15)

- Pucci Talbert has a special talent to sing the Blues. In her appearance at this year's Blues Stroll, she will be fronting the much experienced local trio of Mark Baker on guitar, Sam Chicks on bass, and drummer Dave Indevero. Pucci hails from nearby Sharon Hill and, over the years, has given some legendary performances with the likes of The Hipnotics, Roger Girke & the Funky Twisters, and the late great Red Shank and his Shakin' Souls. She and the Barbreakers entertain frequently at CJ's Blues Bar in Glenolden.

The Russ Lambert Band @Pinocchio's* (8:45)

- By day, a stonemason and by night a Blues singer/musician, Russ Lambert with his Shake Dancer Band blends the traditional Chicago and Mississippi Blues with California Jump. He is a first class showman who likes to move in and involve his audiences in his performance. His audiences seem to have to get up and dance.

While in High School, Russ got addicted to the blues and bought his first harmonica. Following High School he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. While stationed in Beirut, the Navy's Six Fleet Band was entertaining the troops and Russ had his first opportunity to perform when they let him sit in. His energizing performance and his audience's reaction sparked his desire to form his own band and dedicate his life to his music. During the years that followed, Russ worked at applying himself to crafting his vocal and harmonica skills. His first band was called, "FDA" short for Frank, Dan and Al. This was followed by, a band Russ formed in the early 90' called "The Juke Rockers". The Rockers later was transformed into the "Shake Dancer Band" and finally evolved into the Russ Lambert Band.

These days the lineup of musicians varies but often includes the following members; Guitarists - Rob Perna, Wayne Johnston, Bassists - Jeff Michael, Jimmy Prichard, Lou Brotman; Drummers - Larry Hinkel and Michael St. John O'Rourke. Russ sings vocals and plays chromatic and diatonic harmonica.

Like all musicians, Russ has his inspirations. They include, Big (and Little) Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson (I & II), William Clark, Rod Piazza, George Smith, Kim Wilson, Rick Estrin, and many other excellent musicians as well. Having the opportunity to meet and play with Philadelphia's harmonica virtuoso Steve Guyger was and continues to be an ongoing inspirational influence.

"They don't settle on just one style but span the whole range of what the blues are all about. Lowdown shuffles, fast tempo tunes that hit you with a case of audio whiplash, dynamite struts and to juice it up a little more, some swinging jump. And it's all played with Russ Lambert's own style. He has the history of the blues down cold." - Deleware's Big Shout Newspaper

If you are truly a blues lover or just want to be sure to have a great time, then do yourself a favor and don't miss this performance of the Russ Lambert Band.

Octavia Duo (Straight from Paradise, PA) @ Coffee Beanery* (7:30)

- Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, on a stage at five years of age, Octavia began guitar in 1963, harmonica in 1966.

Octavia's toured with Etta James, played with Freddy King, The Funky Meters (Neveille Brothers) Gil Scott-Heron, The Iguanas. She's opened for BB King, Taj Mahal, Mavis Staples, Delbert McClinton, Dr. John, Elvin Bishop, The Muddy Waters Blues Band, Shamekia Copeland, and The Tubes. Octavia has performed - Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, House Of Blues in Atlantic City, Longwood Gardens, Harrisburg's Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, New York City's B.B. King Club, The World Cafe Live, Lancaster Jazz and Blues Festivals and First Nights, and many others. Octavia has also toured extensively in the UK.

Larry Yunker @ Margaret Kuo's Media* (7:30 – 12) (Dinner seating only)

- From Chicago, Larry absorbed the blues of B.B. King, Albert King, Paul Butterfield, and Son Seals. He incorporates elements of the styles of B.B. King, Robby Krieger, Elvin Bishop, Eric Clapton, Dickey Betts, and most importantly Mark Knopfler into his playing and musical thought. In the late 70's, he moved to Miami, FL, then to Key Largo, where he honed his craft in the clubs, cruise ships, and nightspots of that tropical paradise. On the way, he worked with many great players including Hank Williams Jr., Robyn Robbins (keyboardist, Bob Seger Silver Bullet Band), Wesley Wright (guitarist, Miami Sound Machine), Bertie Higgins (songwriter), Jimmy Hawkins (Key Largo's Blues and Reggae Master), Dave Feder (guitarist). He set up shop in the Tri State area in 1995 and worked three years backing Philadelphia's Deb Callahan. He continues to work as a solo performer, as an electric blues guitarist with his own band, and as bassist with Dockta D and The Infirmary Blues Band.

Frank Tucci @ Leon BenAri Jewelers* (7 – 10)

- A South Philly guy who stated playing gigs with his guitar at 12 years with the likes of Frankie Avalon and Charles Earland. Then the pre-Casino Louis Mallesque Atlantic City scene. Lands in Vegas at 20 years old and does the Fremont opposite Wayne Newton. Many groups and gigs thereafter. Now owns three music stores, a recording studio and "Independent Artists" booking agency.

300 Lbs. of Joy @ Starry Eyed Optical* (7:30)

- 300 Lbs. of Joy is a power trio that has been amazing audiences throughout the Tri State area. The band represents over 70 years of combined musical experience. The members, Chris Boker - guitar/vocals, George Loving - bass, and Mike Kernicky - drums; have come together on this project with a shared passion for the Blues and funky Rock and Roll.

Moloko Plus @ Baker Street Tattoo (7 – 10)

- "New Wave Blues" John Hurst (guitar/vocals) joins with ubiquitous master percussionist Hoagy Wing to perform their rootsy mix of original and classic blues.

Johnny B & Irving Street Blues Band @ Main Line Today / Bud Light Stage at Veterans' Square* (7 – 10:30)

Johnny B & Irving Street Blues Band - Johnny "Hammond B" Bickel, age 18, Hammond Organ, vocals: Johnny's sound is stylized after the great Jimmy Smith of Norristown and Memphis' Booker T for that soulful edge. Doug "The Rhythm Master" DiFilippo, age 21 on drums: a solid energetic percussionist with a funky grove. Ian "Iceman" Hoper, age 21, electric guitar: a mastery usually found in players with decades more experience. Patrick "Bluesman" Bickel, age 22, on bass: Patrick, also of the Roger Girke Band, has an expertise reflecting his love of the classic Motown / Funk Bros./James Jamerson's sound.

Special Brew'd featuring T / Jerry Burruss / Tom Mullian / The Birch Brothers / Jonny Never / Sautéed & Mesquite Band . . .
@ Keystone Bank / Seven Stones Café "Local Stage" on the Plum Street Mall* (5:30 – 10:30)

Special Brew'd featuring T - Taking the great leap forward tonight, the new local R&B band that includes of few of Media's gems: Musical Director Mark Hunter, twin brother Mitch, drummer Bob Martin, background vocalist Charles Walton, co-founder lead vocalist Ed Jackson, and co-founder lead vocalist T. When you're tired and down, sad and blue, come to the Special Brew'd. For info and booking call 267-973-9786 or 610-565-1735.

Jerry Burruss - is a 73 year old blind black blues and country guitarist and vocalist from Chester County Pennsylvania. Burruss, raised in alcoholism and squalor in the dank dung scented shadows of Kennett Square area mushroom houses, began before age 10 by noodling on a family member's Piano. Jerry was given his first string instrument, a standup bass consisting of a string, a broomstick, and a washtub near age 10. He picked up a guitar at age 13 and taught himself to play overhand.

For 56 years Burruss mimicked blues and country performers on the radio while cataloging lyrics, songs, artists, and music history in his head. During that time he developed a series of open tunings and companion finger work that often leave practiced musicians scratching their heads. The difficulties inherent in growing up blind in alcoholism, poverty, and racial prejudice, each add a layer to the grit in Burruss' singular voice.

Tom Mullian - Tom has played in many clubs and at WXPN's World Café Live. He has performed at innumerable rallies, festivals, and fundraisers. He has been a featured performer in Media's Americana Roots Festival and Blues Stroll. He's also played numerous open mics and at Quaker monthly sharings, schools and meetinghouses. His music has been broadcast on NPR, KYW, and the Independent Media. Tom's most recent release is "Six Strings Against The War".

The Birch Brothers - Richie and Robbie Birch would like to introduce two of their best students to the Blues Stroll audience - Casey Brown on drums and Will Ohley on bass. Passing the baton onto the next generation. It's a capital idea.

Johnny Never - (not his real name) is an organic acoustic blues artist. Deriving his style from old recordings of Robert Johnson, Blind Willie McTell, Blind Blake and others, Mr. Never does not copy these artists as much as honor them with a unique, true to form style of playing. There is no point in playing any particular song exactly the way you hear it on an original recordings, because the original artists never played a song the same way twice. There was always lots of noodling, blues spirit, borrowing of licks and mixing of lines with all the blues originals like Blind Lemon and Big Bill Broonzy. All of em'. Self taught, Mr. Never, who derives his name the 1980's Never Brothers, plays because his soul breaks out in hives if he doesn't. Mr. Never has been pursuing "the honest" blues for about 20 years. He has played at the Point, the State Street Media Blues Stroll, as well as various coffee houses and bars in the area.

The Sautéed and Mesquite Band - features Parris Bradley (The Johnny Never Band) and Jim Klinger (The Philadelphia Jug Band) performing a blend of jug band songs and blues classics. With the help local musicians Alan Lewine (bass) and Steve Smith (percussion) and in the true spirit of blues inspired jug bands, the band uses a sundry of acoustic instruments to raise the devil and assuage the ukulele gods. Special guests Qin Qian on (the erhu-Chinese violin) and Carol Moog (harmonica) will also join in on the fun.