As a follow-up to the "Koko Taylor RIP" topic, we should also have a topic where people can post about current up-and-coming blues acts who are "must sees". Please post your picks here too.
Here is sample from a great young Canadian blues man, Julian Fauth. From Kitchener, Ontario, now living and working in Toronto. He's proved himself, having recently won a Juno award (Canadian Grammy) for best blues album of 2008, "Ramblin' Son". I've been following his career for three or four years now and have been lucky enough to see him in some small venues. I guess it's too late to predict that he will make a splash...
His main talent is barrel-house piano, but he also plays guitar. He writes a lot of his own material. Often works with a harp player as well.
I got to see him up close at Curley Bridges 75th Birthday party at the Silver Dollar room (Toronto, Ont) in Feb. He has a unique voice and phrasing. (I can't use youtube so I'm not sure what this song is like) I enjoyed his "Red Richard" tune. ---------- If it ain't got harp - it ain't really blues!!!!
Patrickbarker:I disagree that isn't awesome piano playing to me. Most of us can do that sort of thing and I don't class my self as a piano player.
Have a listen to the average local pro playing any form of jazz should elevate your definition of awesome. Better still check out top jazz cats for sure.
This guy is a very nice blues player from what I hear on this clip but nothing outstanding to me.
Our own Violin Cat has mentioned his friend and guitar wizard Shawn Kellerman in a few posts. Here's a recent video of Shawn Kellerman and Jason Ricci playing together. BTW, I'm including JR&NB in the "new greats" category too.
