September Blues Jam at Biddy Mulligans

I had to leave early from this months jam, bummer!

However what I did see/hear before I left was awesome. A band called Lemon Heaven performed first, after the 'Have a Go Hour' at 7pm. From the first word sung by the female vocalist I thought I was hearing Eva Cassidy.

Eva Cassidy has since left the world but she has left wonderful songs for all to enjoy. I totally recommend you listen to Eva Cassidy if you haven't already.

So big ups the Lemon Heaven for a great job of covering some of the songs Eva did so well (hence the youtube clip of Eva)

Brilleaux at Biddy Mulligans, 28 Aug 2008

Johnny Stash open for Brilleaux

Johnny Stash were tight during through opening act for Brilleaux. Perhaps the tightest I've ever heard them. They maintained a strong Rockabilly flavor through their set and got the crowd feeling oh so gooooood!! They thought I was good enough to have on stage with them playing harp, thanks Johnny Stash!

August 2008 HBS Blues Jam photos

My camera's batteries went flat through-out the night so I missed some greats shots. So what you have here is just a sample of what went on at the August Blues Jam.

I must say though that Biddy's is sure getting packed each second Thursday with Blues enthusiasts. The place is really cosy and warm during these Waikato Winter nights. The crowd is always good to each other. And the atmosphere is friendly and inviting.

What will we do should we out-grow Biddy's???

Billy TK Jnr clips on Nate's YouTube profile

Was great seeing, hearing and finally meeting Billy TK Jnr. He played a three set gig which included many originals and covers of his heroes. It was loud and rocking for the most part. He's a really swell guy with time for anyone. Go see him when the chance arises. It doesn't come much better than Billy TK Jnr in New Zealand for Rock / Blues.

For more video clips of Nate's Blues experiences at BluesFest Byron Bay 2008 and more please visit: http://www.youtube.com/user/SkankinMojo

Billy TK Jnr

David Shearer of Shearers Music Works (The Blues Room Sponsor)
enjoys a great night out.

I rocked up to watch Billy TK Jnr and before I could get out of my car I could hear a blazing guitar piercing the cold winter's night air. When I got inside Billy was on stage with his four piece band (keyboard/sax player, drums bass and Billy on guitar), with sweat coming off his brow and eyes closed Billy was playing some thing that resembles Hendrix in his hay day - and boy did he do it justice.

The PA was cranked right up and at first this bugged me but I soon came to adjust and appreciated that this kind of rock blues is sometimes better heard and played loud.

The crowd were up dancing and cheered and applauded when Billy finished for the night.

I spent some time with Billy after the show chatting and recording some of his comments (tune into The Blues Room to hear him). He's a friendly sociable guy who has time for everyone. He got to talking about his experiences with Carlos Santana, Brownie McGhee, The Neville Brothers, and George Thorogood. He's had some awesome experiences and has many stories to share.

He's no wanna be guitar hero, believe me, HE IS A GUITAR HERO.

Quality of music: 4/5 Loud at first but clear
Crowd response: 3/5 A sit back and watch crowd
Stage: 3/5 Small
Cost: 5/5 ($5-$10 is cheap as chips!!!)
Recommendation: Go see him LIVE and buy the CD to remind you of a rockin good night.

Review by Nate