Volume 39 October 2012 - November 2012 “To Support and Promote the American Art of the Blues on the Treasure Coast”

Blues News Volume 39 October 2012 - November 2012 “To Support and Promote the American Art of the Blues on the Treasure Coast”

The Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast, Inc. is a non-profit organiza- Officers Patti Gamble-President tion comprised of musicians, vocalists, song writers, bands and folks who just Elaine Romano Souza-VP/Treasurer love music, especially the BLUES, here on the Treasure Coast of Florida. The Caren Belowch-Rec. Secretary Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast supports all types of music, however, the Bob “Cougar” Whitt- Past President/ basis of the organization is the BLUES. The Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast Retired has many fine community programs: Blues Newsletter–Interesting articles, mailed every other month to members Board of Directors Richard Griffith and distributed throughout the Treasure Coast. Tom Brown Sonny Owens Belowch Monthly membership meetings- Come and socialize with the other Blues Sandra Griffith Alliance members and discuss the local area blues scene. Sharon Brickman Member– The National Blues Foundation. Advisory Committee Gerry Mullaney Vern Melvin Listed– The Blues Festival Guide, the “BIBLE OF THE BLUES”. Steve “Hawk“ Levy Elaine Romano Souza Participant– The IBC, International Blues Challenge. Richard Ludmerer Benefit Program– for local musicians. Phone Committee Sandra Griffith Scholarships- Provides two worthy children with music scholarships to IRSC Newsletter Editor Patti Gamble each year. Eric McManis Let Us Play Program- Recycle program providing instruments free of cost to Newsletter Printer Ocean Grafix children unable to buy or rent their own. Website Wes Neal Hooked on Blues - Supporting our bands each month. Media Teresa Vincent Blues website- Packed with blues information, music, lessons, scheduled Tom Brown events, happenings, links and more.

Hot Line: 772-467-1851 www.bluesalliance.org www.myspace.com/bluesalliancetc

Next Blues Alliance Membership Meetings

“Hooked on Blues” BATC Event Holiday Party With The Sophisticats Thursday, December 6, 2012 7pm

Tuesday, November 6, 2012 B Merry Gastro Pub 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM 320 SE Denver Ave., Raindate: November 13 Stuart, Fl. 34994 Little Jim’s 601 N. Beach Causway, Tickets limited: $15, $5 goes to Scholarship Fund Fort Pierce, Fl. 34949 Music provided. Call the Hot Line to reserve your www.blues.org For directions: 772-468-2503 ticket, 772-467-1851 Volume 39 Page 2

Tim and Rebecca-Hooked on Blues with The Nouveaux Honkies Duo at Carmela’s in Stuart, Aug. 2012

The Blues Alliance enjoyed a great "Hooked on Blues" evening with Cat 5 at Crawdaddy's, in Jensen on Patti's 1st night as President. James "The Cat In The Hat" Archer was great! Here's the entire band with The Storm Horns, Aug. 25, 2012 MEMBER BANDS BATC Lifetime Award presented by VP/Treas., Support our member bands by going out to see them. Elaine Souza to Mae Tynes Aug. 2012 Category 5: Stevie and the Hot Rods www.category5blues.com www.facebook.com/albertwesleyandrews www.facebook.com/Cat5blues [email protected] www.reverbnation.com/category5blues Joel Zoss (Solo, Trio, Band) The Mojo Band: www.joelzoss.com www.myspace.com/greggjacksonthemojoband www.bluzpik.com/joelzoss/joelzossepk.htm www.facebook.com/gjmojoband www.reverbnation.com/joelzossandjoelzosstrio The Nouveaux Honkies: facebook.com/joel.zoss www.tnhband.com or www.myspace.com/ www.facebook.com/pages/Official-Joel-Zoss-Fan-Site/295414086537 thenouveauxhonkies myspace.com/joelzoss Soul Rebel: cdbaby.com/cd/joelzoss www.soulrebelband.com The Party Dogs Facebook: SoulRebelBand www.thepartydogsband.com www.youtube.com/desikane.music Sophisticats www.desikane.bandcamp.com www.s-cats.com [email protected] www.nortonmusic.com Stoney and the House Rockers: Don Bestor/Trademark Duo/Trio www.facebook.com/stoneyhouserkrs www.trademarkduo.com Masquerade Band www.trademarktrio.com www.masqueradeband.net www.donplayspiano.com Ben Prestage Mark Barnes www.benprestagemusic.com www.markbarnesmusic.com Steve “ Hawk” Levy www.reverbnation.com/markbarnesmusic www.hurricanehawk.com Fat Cat and the Monsters The Pitbull of Blues Band [email protected] www.thepitbullofblues.com 24 Steven Mary Ann Stefanik [email protected] www.maryannsmusic.com www.bacebook.com/stevenphillippejr www.reverbnation.com/maryann (772)468-2258 David Shelley and Bluestone www.davidshelleyandbluestone.com Volume 39 Page 3 BATC’s Desi Kane Releases a Compilation Album and a New Single M. Suarez

SOUL REBEL Desi Kane has just released an album of 17 blues originals. Each track appeared on one of his 11 other albums, recorded over a 20 year period. Desi Kane Blues, Volume 1 is self-produced and performed totally or in collaboration with fellow musicians and lyrists. He gives special thanks to Ryan Copt and Joey Butera of Avalon Power Station in Port St Lucie, FL, who mixed and mastered. To hear, to purchase, and to see credits and lyrics: www.desikane.bandcamp.com

Desi is next releasing his first single from his album-in-progress Back to the Roots on his youtube channel and bandcamp. “Baby, Bring Me out of the Dark,”(or as he calls it, “blue balls”) features Blues Alliance favorite Stevie B on lead guitar. www.youtube.com/desikanemusic

And stay tuned…Desi promises a very special guest performer on his next album and its first single released.

The Blues Alliance wishes to welcome: BATC IBC Playoff Event -Steven W. Phillippe, Jr. and his band, Tuesday, Oct. 9th, 2012 "24 Steven." Time: 4-9 PM

-Tony Jones Pirate’s Cove Resort and Marina -Steel Shannon 4307 SE Bayview St., Stuart, Fl. 34997 -Harry A. Blond (Port Salerno Area) Directions: 772-287-2500 Rememberin’ Joe South By Vern Melvin

Legendary singer/song writer Joe South died unexpectedly last week at age 72 of a heart attack. Joe was true Son of the South. He was born Joseph Souter in Atlanta, where he died. Joe was not a “bluesman” per se, at least not in the traditional sense but he certainly had a lot of SOUL….and was one heckuva of song writer, but I’m gettin’ ahead of myself. I’d like to spend a few moments reflecting on my history with Joe South. It’s circa 1970 and I’m sittin’ in a bar in South Florida and the song “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” comes on the juke box. The voice and the lyrics, to me, are extaordinary… so much so that I go over to the juke box to check it out and ended up playing the song a couple more times. At this point I’m vowing to find out more about this artist, Joe South. As it turns out, “Walk a Mile” was just one of many classic songs written by South, some performed by him and some made famous by other artists. “Games People Play” came out the year before and got my attention, but “Walk a Mile” stopped me in my tracks. It’s message of tolerance of and love for one another really resonated with me. It was not, however, as easy to find information about musicians back in 1970 as it is today (go to google, type in a name or subject, and any info you want pops up on the screen in front of you instantly). I did my best to find his records and over the years, collected a few 45’s and a couple of LP’s. My search for info about Joe was complicated by the fact that he stopped recording in 1975 at the ripe old age of 35. Apparently Joe had fallen victim to alcohol & drug abuse as well as depression (his brother, also the drummer in his band, committed suicide in 1971). So, Joe disappeared from site, both literally and figuratively, for decades. During that time there were rumors that Joe was back in the studio and a new record was in the offing, but nothing ever appeared. Over the past few years I’ve monitored his website, hoping against hope for some new music but never rewarded for my patience. Some other songs that Joe wrote and were recorded by other artists include Down in the Boondocks/ Billy Joe Royal, Rose Garden/Lynn Anderson, Unite Me/The Tams, Hush/Deep Purple, Walk a Mile in My Shoes/Elvis Presley, and on and on. For those reading this article that may not be very familiar with Joe’s music, I highly recommend Joe South Anthology-Hits & Highlights 1968-1975 on Raven records. If I could be you, if you could be me for just one hour If we could find a way to get inside each other's mind, mh If you could see you through my eyes instead of your ego I believe you'd be surprised to see that you've been blind, mh Walk a mile in my shoes, walk a mile in my shoes Hey, before you abuse, criticize and accuse Lord have mercy, walk a mile in my shoes Amen and thanks…. Rest in peace, Joe! Volume 39 Page 4

“Let Us Play” Program Donation by Elaine Romano Souza

On Tuesday, August 21st Tom Brown and I met with Mr. Richardson of “Future Generations of St. Lu- cie County Music Enhancement Program” to donate an acoustic guitar, a few small percussion instruments, some song books for children, a monitor, speaker, small amp and a mixer PA.

The children were not present, but would begin the after school program after Labor Day. Mr. Rich- ardson is always most appreciative of any donation and The Blues Alliance appreciates his big heart in inspiring the children to do their homework and teach them music.

As if this writing, we have no instruments in our possession to donate to the children of our community. We need to work on getting greater exposure to those who may have used/new musical instruments to donate. We have some press, but more is needed…..a work in progress.

If you have or know of anyone who would care to donate a musical instrument to a needy child, please contact “The Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast” at: 772-467-1851 or www.bluesalliance.org.

The smiles on the children’s faces tell all.

New Raffle Information Note From the Heart by Elaine Romano Souza by Elaine Romano Souza

Looking for a guitar with all the “trimmings” for yourself My heart goes out to Bob “Cougar” and Linda Whitt. Too much has or as a gift? We have just the thing for you. continued to storm on their parade. And because of all the clouds, We’ve started selling raffle tickets (only 50 to be sold-good Bobby has regretfully felt the need to resign as The Blues Alliance odds for you!) on September 20th and they will be on sale President, maintain membership, but also resigns from the board. until the drawing to be held November 16th. The tickets are only $5.00 each and the proceeds will benefit our “Let We will surely miss his presence and hard work he so tirelessly gave Us Play” Musical Instruments Program and the annual to the organization he loves dearly. We will also miss both of their recital for the children. If you’ve never attended the recital smiles. you’ve missed a wonderful experience! Bobby and Linda, you are always in our thoughts and prayers. God To get more information and /or purchase tickets, tickets is with you. Peace and love. will be sold at “Blues Alliance” functions, or you may contact “Blues Alliance” officials or call: 772-467-1851.

Thank you for your generous support of our children’s musical program.

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Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast, Playoff Participants

Joey Balboa, Fat Cat and the Monsterz: Joey Balboa, born in Atlanta, is kin to Appalachian folk musicians in the Tennessee and Georgia blues belt from the 1930’s and 40’s era and has been cutting his teeth on Blues, Rock and R&B originals and obscure blues favorites for S. Florida listeners for merely a year and a half, and has gained the undivided attention and respect of S. Florida’s best musicians. And in so little time, they have commanded the respect of their audiences with the multi-flavored tastes of their selections. Joey Balboa, Fat Cat, is a formidable force to be reckoned with. Josh “The Pitbull of Blues” Rowand Joel Zoss has enjoyed a worldwide reputation as a songwriter and guitarist since Bonnie Raitt recorded his “Too Long at the Fair” and “I Gave My Love a Candle.” From 07-09 he opened shows for BB King and Etta James. Featuring his own million-selling compositions, folk and blues classics by American masters such as Elizabeth Cotton, Leadbelly and Big Bill Broonzy, Zoss’s unique finger picking style and moving vocals have entertained audiences from blues clubs and concert halls to the Philadelphia Folk Festival. He has performed and recorded with many highly regarded artists including David Bromberg, Taj Mahal, James Taylor, Paul Butterfield and Howlin’ Wolf. Joel works as a solo, duo with upright bass and a trio with bass and drums.

Josh “The Pitbull of Blues” Rowand is an electrifying master of his guitar. He allows the Joel Zoss guitar to come alive and speak to his audience. Josh shows just how a guitar wants to be played with his energized soulful rendition of the blues. It has been said that Josh is a “Silent Conductor” and he demonstrates this while on stage with only his guitar or while perform- ing with his band. Josh, along with his band “The Pitbull of Blues Band”, is a regular on the festival circuit, having won a number of blues challenges and contests. Josh has been prowl- ing the Southern US for many years. In July he was honored to perform in Montreal Canada at the 2012 Montreal International Jazz Festival where he laid down his own breed of blues and was rewarded with an overwhelming response from the audience as well as outstanding comments from a Canadian reporter where Josh’s music and impressive slide guitar work was compared with George Thorogood and Johnny Winter. Josh is a performer, guitarist, Stoney and the House Rockers singer, song writer….Josh “The Pitbull of Blues” Rowand is a true artist and entertainer!

Stoney and the House Rockers have been Cruisin’ and Bluesin’ here in Florida since 2002. The past decade has produced many great things for Stoney and the boys, including two trips to the IBC in Memphis and three award winning CDs. Their latest CD is titled “SHOWTIME!” and was just released in September, 2012. “SHOWTIME” features 14 songs, 9 of which are written by Stoney. The CD features the legendary Rick Fincke on guitar and Stoney’s lead vocals and his award winning harmonica chops throughout this great new CD. It’s blues as it should be—energetic, foot stomping and swingin’. For the past ten years, Stoney has said it at every show…..”It’s SHOWTIME Baby!!!” Fat Cat and the Monsterz Volume 39 Page 6

Raphael Wressnig & Alex Schultz Soul Gift ZYX Music

Raphael Wressnig’s resume is an impressive one. Wressnig is an Austrian B-3 organ player who, as a sideman, played with countless artists, beginning with Larry Garner; and who now fronts his own jazzy “Organic Trio”. Wressnig although only 32 years young has also absorbed the music of an older generation, including an appreciation for Soul, and especially Booker T and The MG’s. So unlike previous projects this one is all about re-creating a sound first heard long before he was even born. It boils down to musicianship nd emotion.

On this project he is partnered with Alex Schultz, the ex- New Yorker, who in 2004 released “Think About It”, and who still remains one of today’s highest regarded guitarists. As a member of the Severn All-stars, Shultz is featured on Tad Robinson’s three Severn Records recordings. Tad Robinson also guests on this project, along with Deitra Farr, “Sax” Gordon Beadle, and Kirk Fletcher. These are just a few of those whose names I am familiar with.

Wressnig’s gospel styled organ intro opens the cd with Billy Preston’s “All That I’ve Got” and features a vocal by Dietra Farr and Gordon Beadle on tenor and baritone saxes.It is followed by the MG’s “Soul Dressing” with a guitar solo from Schultz as he interprets Steve Cropper. They also tackle the MG’s “Jellybread.”

Robinson’s vocals on “Go Now” and again on Asford and Simpson’s “Ain’t Nothing like the Real Thing” are nothing short of mercurial. Sources are widespread but each and every track is perfectly “maxed out.” Also included are Don Nix’s “Same Old Blues”, Jim Webb’s “Wichita Lineman” and Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come”.

Wressnig’s originals include “Tasty Dish” and “Casio Slim” while Schultz’s “Double Bubble” electrifies. Although a “soul gift” this album transcends genres. Wressnig and Schultz are sublime; this album has to be a contender for “Import Album of The Year”, it’s that good.

Richard Ludmerer

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BLUES ALLIANCE OF THE TREASURE COAST MembershipApplication

Name______Membership types and dues: Lup-Under 21, novice, 1st year, $10.00 Address______Student: $10 (full time student) ______Individual: $20 Household: $30 (2 members same address/2 votes) Phone______Mojo member: $40 (1 vote - free T-shirt or Hat) Band Member: $50 (1 vote) Corporate Member: $100 (1 vote, website and newsletter recogni- E-Mail ______tion) Payable, Mail To: Instrument(s) played ______Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast P.O. Box 7192 ______Port Saint Lucie, Fl. 34985-7192 Hot Line: (772) 467-1851 Private/confidential Volume 39 Page 7 Support our Sponsors, They Support the Blues! Take a moment to discover our corporate members and think of them when you are doing business. They contribute much needed funds to the organization and some even offer members discounts too. They share your love of the music and they showed their support for it where it counts, so let’s do the same for them. Corporate Sponsors, we will be featuring your businesses in our newsletter. You will remain here in the selected area of the newsletter for your business....plus, we will feature some members each month. Another perk coming back atcha!

Port St. Lucie Downtown Lion’s Club

Meeting place Bristo on the Green 2nd Tuesday of every month at

11:45AM P. O. Box 9301 Port St. Lucie, FL 34985-9301 psldowntownus.lionswap.org

THE FRIENDLY POST OF THE TREASURE COAST AMERICAN LEGION POST #40

772-461-1480 810 S. U S 1 Fort Pierce, Fl 34950