Made up of an all-star cast of musicians, the Tangiers Blues Band rolled and rocked the crowd at Joe’s Pub last Sunday. The 8 piece ensemble, fronted by a bedazzled and pimped out singer named King, brought the sounds of the South to the Big Apple. Playing TBB originals, blues covers of “My Sharona,” and “Fight for your Right to Party,” along with classic blues riffs, enough soul was delivered to move the building.
The heartbeat of the band lies in the collective enjoyment featured on stage. The spotlight is passed between members during every song. Instead of being led by one frontman, the band is led by each member’s creative contribution. Each tune, emanates the sadness of blues lyrics with the gritty, down and out, just-don’t-give-a-damn fills of acoustic, electric and slide guitars, bass, piano, drums, and harmonica.
According to their bio, The Tangiers Blues Band started as a jam session, which initially included John McEnroe on guitar. Imagine channeling John McEnroe’s 7 Grand Slams and his notorious outbursts into a half stack. Assuredly, a winning combination. TBB members have played (or still play for) bands such as Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Dangermen and Echobrain. Additionally, Danny Clinch (harmonica), is a well known photographer and film director, having worked with and photographed many major artists (Tom Waits, Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, and more). He also directed a number of Live Music DVD’s (John Mayer, Ben Harper, Pearl Jam, Guster).
Full Roster: King (vocals), El Millionario (lap steel), Waterslide Slim (guitars), Sneaky Pete (piano), Chico Baja (drums), Dangerous Danny (harmonica), Lonesome Dave (bass).
New York natives, Hey Battlefield, opened the show with their stripped-down, jazz-meets-folk sound. The venue played to their strengths, providing the right lighting and feel for lead singer Jason Rossi’s folksy vocals. As noted in a previous article, the sound is kept afloat by the simple combination of drum and bass. Michael Scheideler’s jazz style keeps the fills exciting, and Tyler Krupsky’s bass lines carry the spaces. Hey Battlefield’s success derives from their “less is more” approach. No effects pedals, no novelty instruments, just the simplicity of 3 men doing what they enjoy. Sharing the stage and allowing the music to speak for itself. The band came together last year, and is making strides in the New York scene. They will be opening for Shannon McNally at Southpaw on April 15.
All photos courtesy of Anna Morgowicz.
Joe’s Pub
425 Lafayette Street
New York, NY 10003-7021
(212) 539-8778
