So we have three generations of bluesmen playing, which should make for a very special reunion. Like fellow bassist Willie Kent, Aron Burton will not dazzle with his own virtuosity. A longtime regular at The Checkerboard, Rosa's and other clubs around the city, Burton's bands do not sway from well-traveled blues ground, but they are good at what they do. He is joined today by Mad Dog Lester, formerly with the Kinsey Report and just about everybody else. Mad Dog was definitely not given the moniker for his plentiful teeth, but for a wild, infectious harmonica style that will leave you stomping and smiling.
Some bands thrive on precision, choreographing each note, dance step and even the jokes.
Like most bluesmen, bassist Sam Cockrell is just the opposite. Whether it is traditional blues, R and B, blues rock or even gospel, Sam plays off of feeling and energy. His band, aptly named The Groove, plays a saxy type of jump blues that should be perfect for the strolling fans who populate the afternoon sets at Blues Fest. Although a bit smaller and off the beaten path, Rosa's Blues Lounge has established a reputation around town for employing new, innovative artists, as well as bringing some older ones back out of retirement. As part of their twentieth anniversary celebration, Rooster Records presents guitarist D.C. Bellamy.