January 30, 2012 at 09:49 PM

This past year was tough for everyone including the Magic City Blues Society. We run on a shoestring budget, yet manage to produce over 20 top notch events every year. Many of these shows are free admission, so we are footing the bill. We need your help to keep the Blues Alive in the ‘Ham. February 2 is ALABAMA GIVES DAY. It is a chance for you to support your favorite non-profit 501c(3) organization in Alabama. Since we are an official non-profit organization your contribution is tax deductible. Check out the links below to read about and give to your favorite organization… The Magic City Blues Society!!!

Read more about it here.

Donate here.

Scheduled for January 30, 2012 at 09:49 PM

Announcements • Events • Permalink •

October 01, 2010 at 07:30 PM

MCBS Open Electric Blues Jam

Friday, October 1st @ 7:30pm

Ranelli’s Soul Pit

1225 20th St S Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 933-6983

Come out and jam the Blues with us or just kick back and enjoy the plethora of local talent her in the ‘Ham. We invite jammers of all skill levels.  The pit has drums, bass amp, 2 guitar amps, and full PA. Just bring your AX and get ready to sign up and play. Questions?  Contact us here.

Scheduled for October 01, 2010 at 07:30 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

July 21, 2010 at 09:21 PM

OK, we have rescheduled his event for September 26. Everything is the same except we plan on having a full house of musicians competing this time.

If you want more info, you can respond to this email for complete info about BoBB or go to http://www.MagicCityBlues.org.

The show will start at 2pm at Old Car Heaven
115 35th Street South
Birmingham, AL 35222-1714
(205) 324-4545

Hey everybody, we do our best to put together events every month butt sometimes the timing of things just does not work out well. Although we had quite an interest from musicians in the area, there we too many conflicts with personal and professional schedules to be able to have the contest on Sunday. The Blues Board decided there were not enough entries to have a true competition. I am really bummed out about this, butt we are going to postpone BoBB. We will announce the new date next week.

Scheduled for July 21, 2010 at 09:21 PM

Events • Permalink •

July 09, 2010 at 07:00 PM

July 9   - MCBS Open Acoustic Blues Jam
We will start July as we do each month, with an open jam. They are usually on the first weekend of each month, butt, with Independence Day falling on that weekend, we will push it back to Friday, July 9. We will be jamming with our acoustic instruments this month at Sipsey Tavern on Southside, starting at 7:00 pm. Come on out to jam with us or just sit back and soak up the tunes.

Sipsey Tavern
1926 12th Ave. S.
Birmingham AL 35205
Phone:  205-202-4116
Email:  sipseytavern@yahoo.com

Scheduled for July 09, 2010 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

June 12, 2010 at 03:00 PM

Scheduled for June 12, 2010 at 03:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

May 16, 2010 at 02:00 PM

Scheduled for May 16, 2010 at 02:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

April 12, 2010 at 11:07 PM

Hey everybody, the Phelan Park Music Series will kick off its 17th season this coming Sunday, April 18 at 2pm. We are pleased to add a new dimension to this popular event by having an opening band on the bill. This means we will start an hour earlier than in the past.
We are excited to have Blind Pig recording artist Robin Rogers headline this event. Local band Altamont will open the show. Music will run from 2-6pm. This is FREE to the public. Dust off the lawn chair and clean the mold out of your cooler and join us for an awesome show.

This is sponsored by the Magic City Blues Society and the Five Points Neighborhood Association. Check out the Link of the Week for more info on these fine bands.

The park is located at the corner of 14th Avenue South and 15th Street South across the street from Dreamland BBQ.

Scheduled for April 12, 2010 at 11:07 PM

Events • Permalink •

September 18, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Hey everybody, we are having an Acoustic Open Blues Jam TONIGHT at Ranelli's Soul Pit  at 7pm. Come on out and jam with us. You will be able to buy Blues Ball tickets there if you are a member. If you are not, you can join the MCBS at Ranelli’s. The seats are going fast so you need to hurry up and get your tickets before they are gone. They will go on sale to the general public on October 18 (if there are any left that is).

Scheduled for September 18, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

September 13, 2009 at 03:00 PM

Hey everybody, the Phelan Park show scheduled for today is being moved to the 5 Points Music Hall. It was a hard call to make butt we want to make sure that we are able to have a show. The Daddy Mack Blues Band will be the featured artist today. The venue is located at 1016 20th Street South. Admission is FREE and the doors will open at 2 pm with the show starting at 3pm. Coolers will not be allowed in the club. I believe there is seating in the club, butt you may want to bring your lawn chair just in case. Since they just re-opened, I have not personally been in the club yet.

Blues Ball tickets go on sale today to MCBS members only. Gravy will headline the December 12 show at WorkPlay. This show will be a sellout, so I highly suggest that if you are a member, buy your tickets today. You can also join the MCBS at the club and be able to get tickets today as well. Cash is preferred, butt we will accept checks with a valid ID.

I really hate that this is our third Phelan rain-out in a row, butt I guess that is just the Blues for ya.

Come on out to see a hot show today.

September 13, 2009 3:00pm - 6:00pm Phelan Park Music Series Presents

Daddy Mack Blues Band
Bring your lawn chair and cooler and enjoy FREE Blues music from 3-6pm.  The park is located across from Dreamland BBQ at the corner of 14th Avenue and 15th Street South.  (click “read more” for a map) Presented with the support of The Five Points Neighborhood Association.

View Larger Map

Scheduled for September 13, 2009 at 03:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

August 24, 2009 at 07:54 PM

Hey everybody, there are no official MCBS events this week. There is still good music around town though. Jason Ricci & New Blood will be at Zydeco this coming Thursday night. MCBS members get $2 off at the door. Jason rocked our socks off at Phelan Park last year. He is a superb harp player and has a really tight band behind him.

2BLU & the Lucky Stiffs will be playing at a benefit for Homeless Veterans on Friday, August 28. This is a worthwhile cause and the winner of Battle of Blues Bands is ready for a great show. Go to www.cotsforvets.org for more info.

Scheduled for August 24, 2009 at 07:54 PM

Events • Permalink •

June 13, 2009 at 05:00 PM

June 13, 2009 Hey everybody, well we are three for three as far as getting our outdoor plans ruined due to rain this year. The GOOD news is that we are going to have the show despite the rainy weather outside. Here is the scoop. We are moving it to Matthew’s Bar & Grill. We will be upstairs this time, so you will need to enter from the 1st Avenue North side between 22nd and 23rd street. This is different from in the past when we have had events there. There is plenty of parking in the area. YOU CAN BRING YOUR COOLERS! Also, bring your lawn chair. Doors will open at 3 pm with music starting at 4 pm. Leonard Watkins trio – 4- 5:15 Roscoe Robinson with the Cosmic Snakehandlers 5:50-6:45 Mikey Jr.  & Cold Stone Blues 7:00-8:15 Admission is $10 / $8 for MCBS members – You need to flash your membership card in order to get the discount. The Lending library for MCBS members will be at the show. Please bring back any items you have borrowed in order to be able to check out new ones.

Junkyard Juke At Tres Taylor’s studio in Avondale - 4:00 pm gates open at 3:00 pm Featuring: Mikey Jr and Stone Cold Blues Roscoe Robinson with the Cosmic Snakehandlers Leonard Watkins Trio

Scheduled for June 13, 2009 at 05:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

May 08, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Hey everybody, it is time for another Acoustic Open Blues Jam. We will be at Ranelli's Soul Pit this coming Friday, May 8 at 7pm. We were overwhelmed with how many jammers and listeners showed up in March. We may end up spilling the jam over on to the deck again this time. Please give me a heads up if you are planning on jamming with us this weekend, it will help with the planning, though you can also just show up.  Contact Here.

Scheduled for May 08, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

May 07, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Come check out this great band as they pass through Birmingham on their way to Chicago to play Buddy Guy’s Legends and House of Blues.

These are last minute bookings to help them out because they had a gig cancelled. They need help with publicity so please pass this email on to your friends.

Thursday May 7th at Up Top in Rocky Ridge Plaza (upper level), Rocky Ridge Road, 6:30pm to 10pm

Great burgers and we’ll move back the tables if you want to dance. You can’t say it’s too late to come out!

Friday May 8th at Wellingtons Bistro, 1500 2nd Ave. N, 9pm

The dance floor is waiting!

Saturday, they will be at Gip’s

Scheduled for May 07, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Events • Permalink •

April 25, 2009 at 09:00 PM

Big Mike Griffin will be at Gip’s tonight Saturday April 25th, 9pm.

We are going to squeeze all 6 foot 10 inches of him onto the stage for a great show. Bring your dancing shoes. The weather is set to be perfect.

Iron City Blues

Scheduled for April 25, 2009 at 09:00 PM

Events • Permalink •

April 19, 2009 at 03:00 PM

Hey everybody, even though the sun was out this morning, the weather is too iffy to try to produce an outdoor show today. We are officially moving the Phelan Park Music Series show to Twist & Shout. The venue is located at 2011 Highland Avenue. It is where Dugan’s used to be and is next door to the former Bell Bottom’s night club, which is on the corner of 20th Street South and Highland Avenue.

The show will be from 3-6pm.

Admission is FREE, butt you can’t bring a cooler into the club. This is a 21 and up venue, so kids (or pets) will not be allowed… sorry folks.

There will be plenty of seating, so you can travel light today.

Twist & Shout is going to offer $1 off any drink WHEN YOU FLASH YOUR MCBS MEMBERSHIP CARD.

The Phelan Park Music Series kicks off its 16th season this Sunday, April 19th at 3pm.

This is sponsored by the Five Points Neighborhood Association. Big Mike Griffin makes his first appearance in the area in quite a while. Grab you lawn chair and packed cooler and come out and enjoy this FREE concert. The park is located at the corner of 14th Ave South and 15th Street South. (Note:  There is some chance that the weather will force us indoors.  Check back here on Sunday for an update.)

Scheduled for April 19, 2009 at 03:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

April 17, 2009 at 08:00 PM

Scheduled for April 17, 2009 at 08:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

March 27, 2009 at 07:00 PM

The jam this month will be at Ranelli’s Deli (the Soul Pit)
March 27, 2009
7:00 pm

Free Admission

Contact us if you want to play.  Click here.

Scheduled for March 27, 2009 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

February 13, 2009 at 08:00 PM

The February electric jam is all set at Matthews Bar & Grill for Friday, February 13, 2009
From 8pm til 11pm

Here are some pictures from Roger.

Following the jam the Shawn Gober Band will play for a $5 cover.

Scheduled for February 13, 2009 at 08:00 PM

Events • Permalink •

November 14, 2008 at 07:00 PM

Canned Jam @ Marty’s
1813 Tenth Court South • Birmingham, Alabama 35205 • 205 939-0045
Benefit for the Old Firehouse Shelter for homeless men
The point is to pay an admission by bringing a donation for the Old Firehouse Shelter.

Donations of all kinds are needed. They include
• Financial - Individual, congregational, foundation and corporate donations
• Clothing - socks, shoes, underwear, t-shirts, pants, etc.
• Toiletries- hotel sized soap, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream, razors
• Food- large-sized can goods, coffee, sugar, margarine, produce, etc.
• Cleaning Supplies - dishwashing liquid, bleach, laundry detergent, etc.

Old Firehouse Shelter is sponsored by the Cooperative Downtown Ministries.
Thanks for helping

Scheduled for November 14, 2008 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

October 04, 2008 at 09:00 PM

Po Monkey winners of the BOBB will be at Gip’s this Saturday, October 4, 2008 9:00PM. Come on down to see these guy’s, all eight of them give us some big band Blues. Fat Mouth Blues Band will also be featured as special guest band. Also a few surprise guests. Looks like a party. Requested donation for the band $10. See you.

http://www.pomonkeymusic.com/

Scheduled for October 04, 2008 at 09:00 PM

Events • Permalink •

September 19, 2008 at 07:00 PM

MCBS electric open jam

September 19, 2008 Wellington’s Bistro 1500 2nd Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 324-2345 Click read more for a map . . .

View Larger Map

Scheduled for September 19, 2008 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

November 18, 2007 at 07:22 PM

Thanks Everybody

Hey everybody, well we ended the event calendar in style this past Saturday with Blues Ball 2007. I will have to say that we were overwhelmed by the turnout. We want to thank everybody who came out to see a great show. Also, thanks to all who helped set and breakdown along with those who brought holiday munchies. I want to apologize to anybody that showed up and could not get a seat. Again, we did not expect such a large crowd and will make sure we get a bigger venue next year.

Some pictures of the event (thanks to Roger) can be found here:

Blues Ball Pictures

Mikey Jr. and the Stone Cold Blues Band to play Blues Ball

with supporting band Dan Turner and the Dusters

Date:  December 8th, 2007 - 8pm Location:  Quality Inn           1485 Montgomery Highway, Birmingham, AL 35216 Tickets: $15 single, $25 couple Mikey Jr. played at our Magic City Blues Fest held at Sloss Furnaces earlier this year: he was a huge success. People started asking, “when can we get Mikey Jr. back into town”? This young man and his band put on a great show of mainly original music. He had the audience on their feet swaying and dancing to his unique updated 60’s sound. Who could be more perfect for a “Blues Ball”? YES, the Magic City Blues Society will sponsor Mikey Jr.‘s return to Birmingham for our annual Blues Ball. Dan Turner and the Dusters was the second placed band at our intensively competitive Battle of the Blues Band’s competition. They have agreed to open for Mikey Jr. This promises to be one great Blues party. We will have great door prizes. This will be a BYOB party and will provide the Hors d’ Oeuvres. No overpaying for a house brand you don’t like. Bring your favorite beer, wine or bottle of hooch and mixers. If you plan to imbibe more than a couple, the Quality Inn offers very reasonable room rates. Contact any board member for tickets.  We are limited to 120 tickets so buy soon to avoid disappointment. SEE YOU AT THE PARTY!!! www.mikeyjunior.com www.myspace.con/mikeyjunior www.myspace.com/danturnermusic

Scheduled for November 18, 2007 at 07:22 PM

Events • Permalink •

Are you a blues band looking for a place to play? Or are you just visiting and want to find some local clubs of interest? Below is a listing of clubs that play BLUES music (although not exclusively).
Please leave a comment to tell us of some we have missed (we hope there are more).

Venues • Permalink •

If you would like to join.

1. Print the Membership Application

2. Fill it out.

3. Send it to us.

OR
Join online using the paypal service which you can find just below.

OR
attend one of the many functions MCBS sponsors and bring your money to us.

DO NOT send cash through the mail.
When we receive your membership donation, we will process your application.

Membership • Permalink •

February 18, 2012 at 08:00 PM

February 18 – Blue Stages house concert Series featuring RB Stone – email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to reserve seating.
Please note that we have corrected the mistake in the Bluestages email address.  If you have had trouble getting through, try it again.

You can also submit the form Blue Stage Reservation.

Scheduled for February 18, 2012 at 08:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Blue Stages • Permalink •

Place and time to be announced

MCBS Events • Acoustic Jam • Permalink •

Memphis Annie – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio (2:00 PM)

Permalink •

Jerry Chapman Quartet - 7-10pm Marty's

Microwave Dave – Princess Theater – Decatur, AL. (Classical Blues Cabaret)

Permalink •

Ray Cashman – City Vineyard

Bourbon & Bleach – Stillwater Pub

Microwave Dave – Berkeley Bob’s – Cullman, AL.

Permalink •

Glen and Libba – Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

Permalink •

January 24, 2012 at 09:04 PM

A hearty good evening to all!
I wanted to take a moment to update everybody on a lot of new happenings in our world.
To start with, The Lefty Collins Band is officially releasing our latest work entitled “The Lost and Found”.
The great folks at Hittin the Note will have this for sale starting this week. If you prefer a digital download, you can get that on I Tunes, CD Baby and Amazon.com; http://cdbaby.com/cd/theleftycollinsband

The new disc contains 8 songs that are all original compositions and features David Green on drums, Andrew Brasfield on harmonica and Barry Wasserman on bass.
We will also be competing in the 28th International Blues Challenge Feb1-4th in Memphis ,TN. This is an amazing event that will feature 226 acts from all over the world. Single day wristbands are available for only $10.00 and get you into any venue in the competition. IBC will be held January 31- February 4 2012 in 20 venues in the Beale Street Historic District. That is 5 days consisting of over 575 performances by 226 acts. The 2012 challenge will bring 748 musicians from 40 states and a record 16 countries to downtown Memphis, Tennessee for the largest gathering of Blues artists…in the history of the World! To produce an event of this size it will take over 200 volunteers and 108 judges to pick the top acts from this colossal gathering.
You can check us out right here: http://www.blues.org/#ACT481

While we are in Memphis, Music on The Couch will be streaming live shows and interviews with artists and others each day of the competition. The Lefty Collins Band will be one of the sponsors of these broadcasts, which you can hear, right here: http://www.musiconthecouch.com/

We are also launching a new Lefty Collins Band app for Android which is available NOW!
You can get that app here; http://www.reverbnation.com/mobile-app/141841/theleftycollinsband

Our IPhone app will be available when Apple gets around to it….lol

For our friends and fans in the Birmingham/Gadsden markets, we will be featured on the NBC 13 program “Daytime in Alabama” on Monday and Tuesday, January 23rd and 24th at 11:30 am Central time.
They should have video up at some point which you can see here: http://www2.alabamas13.com/daytime/

We appreciate all of you and hope you can support us by picking up our new release and spreading the word.
Lefty

Scheduled for January 24, 2012 at 09:04 PM

Blues Bands • Events • Permalink •

Wednesday, January 26 Jose Carr’s Jazz Quartet at Ona's.  (8:30-11:00) Very nice straight up jazz.  Jose is a fine trumpet player. 
Thursday you can hear Ray Reach, playing and singing I hope.  At Ona's, also 8:30-11:00 pm.  Come on, that is early. 

Jerry Chapman Quartet will be at Marty's this Saturday, January 28, for the early show (7-10).
Chapman plays swing jazz in the style of Django, et al.  Also mixes in some standards.  Not sure who will be with him, but usually a violin, bass, sometimes a second guitar.  I think I once saw Jason Bailey in the mix.  Should be fun.

And on Friday, January 27, at Marty's, Marian McKay and the Mood Swings again for the early show (7-10).  Standards of the 30s and 40s, I think mostly. 

For the blues fans (of which there should be many), pay attention to the Sunday afternoon shows at DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio.  They are really doing a good job there with the art and the music.  Check the website to confirm what is happening.

Jazz • Permalink •

Soul Collision – Wined Down

Muddy King – Gip’s Place – Bessemer

Microwave Dave – Swampers – Florence, AL.

Permalink •

Sunday, January 22, 2012
Chad Fisher Show at Marty's
Not sure what exactly they will be playing, but sure it will be nice.

Jazz • Permalink •

George & The G-Men – Overtime Sports Bar

Bourbon & Bleach – Billy’s (EV)

Microwave Dave – John T’s BBQ – Winchester, TN.

Permalink •

http://www.bluesaccess.com/links/links.html

Links • Link of the Week • Permalink •

January 20, 2012 at 11:18 AM

Spencer Bohren is a Musician, Historian, Educator and Keeping the Blues Alive recipient. He will be rolling into town on Friday, February 3 at Moonlight on the Mountain. He performed a Blues in the Schools program at Vincent Middle School this past year on behalf of the MCBS. He also played a Blue Stages show her in the ‘Ham in 2010. He is a great storyteller and musician. I normally post a handful of “do-not-miss” shows each year and this is one of them. Moonlight on the Mountain is a GREAT venue to hear any acoustic act. I highly recommend this show.

Scheduled for January 20, 2012 at 11:18 AM

Events • Permalink •

January 20, 2012 at 11:12 AM

Hey everybody, we had a large time celebrating our 19 Birthday and the Randy Buell Band put on a great show.

We also have a new Blues board for 2012 with some being elected and some being appointed.

President – Roger Stephenson (stepping up as Karla Sasser resigned the position)

Vice President – Joan Hilner – elected

Treasurer – John Wiles – elected

Secretary – Wendy Walters – Appointed to fill vacant position)

Board at-Large
Patti Langan (re-elected)
Braxton Schell – (1 more year to serve current term)
Bob Harrison - (1 more year to serve current term)
—————————
Membership – Sleepy Gumbo Bailey (filling vacant position)

We encourage you to become a member if have not done so or let it lapse. We also need a little help each month to keep things running smoothly. Please think about giving up a few hours a month to Keep the Blues Alive in the ‘Ham!

Scheduled for January 20, 2012 at 11:12 AM

About Us • Events • Permalink •

January 14, 2012 at 08:00 PM

It’s Our Birthday!

MCBS Birthday Party
Board Elections
Moe's BBQ
Randy Buell Band – 8pm

We will start the year by celebrating our birthday and with annual Blues Board elections. If you are interested in serving on the board, please contact us. If we all do our part, we can continue to offer the best in Blues shows..  Step up, get involved and keep the tradition going.

Here’s some info about Randy Buell.  Not 100% sure it is up to date, but it is mostly historical anyway.  Taken from http://www.myspace.com/randybuellband

Randy Buell: Singer, songwriter, guitars. Randy grew up in south Mississippi. His influences came from various sources, including his family home. “My father was a huge musical influence, sharing his massive record collection with me from the time I was born.” Although his dad was not himself a musician, he had a keen ear and great musical taste. He encouraged his son by making the necessary investments in instruments and equipment and introducing him to friends who were skilled local players, often holding recording sessions at the Buell home. Out of these early experiences came his country music, bluegrass, and folk influences. This led to a ravenous desire for him to explore the other music genres. The guitar became a focus when he first heard “Jimi”! ” I was living in Germany with my family at the time(Dad was in the military) and my English teacher had an extra ticket to the Jimi Hendrix concert in Frankfurt(she was extremely cool!) “. “The deal was I had to take her little sister”. “No problem”!” Free Hendrix concert”!” Duh”! After that the die was cast and “the Buell” embarked on a journey that continues to this day. Other influences include such legendary players as Jeff Beck, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Albert King, Freddie King, Eric Clapton, and Duane Allman to name but a few. Randy’s original music can be described as a truly unique rock form, influenced heavily by the blues.

Scheduled for January 14, 2012 at 08:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • MCBS Birthday • Permalink •

January 07, 2012 at 07:30 PM

Lefty Collins Band

January 7, 7:30pm, Ranelli's Deli ($ 5 donation and cash bar)

MCBS will be starting the New Year with a Blues showcase/fundraiser/open jam all under one roof. The showcase will feature our BoBB winners who will soon head to Memphis to represent us in the International Blues Challenge. 2BLU will open the show follow by The Lefty Collins Band. We will be asking for (at least) a $5 donation at the door to help the bands pay some of their expenses for this extended trip up I-22.

We will finish the evening with an open jam and will mix and match the BoBB winners with other local musicians. It will be held at Ranelli's Soul Pit on Saturday, January 7 at 7pm. There will be a PA, amps and drums. So, musicians, all you need to bring is your instrument.  If you don’t play, then just come to listen.

Scheduled for January 07, 2012 at 07:30 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Permalink •

Happy New Year!
January Blues News is here! 
You may retrieve your copy here:
BluesNews January 2012

Newsletter • Permalink •

Kevin Harrison - City Vineyard
SharBaby -News Year’s Eve Celebration - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

Permalink •

Joe Breckenridge - City Vineyard

Permalink •

Jason & the Scorchers - The Nick

Permalink •

Glen and Libba - Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave - Bandito Southside - Huntsville, AL.

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TBA - Gip’s Place - Bessemer

Permalink •

BJ Miller - City Vineyard

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Glen and Libba - Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave - Bandito Southside - Huntsville, AL.

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Earl Williams - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

Permalink •

Cedric Burnside - Gip’s Place - Bessemer
Soul Collision - Wined Down
Bonerama - Workplay

Permalink •

Anthony Marino Trio - City Vineyard
BigFoot County Revue - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio
Webb Wilder - Workplay / theater

Permalink •

Glen and Libba - Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave - Bandido Southside - Huntsville, AL.

Permalink •

This looks promising.  At our new favorite place (well one of them anyway).

Thursday, December 15

John Williams & Friends

John Williams - guitar, vocals       Chas Williams - guitar, slide       Rob Alley - trumpet       Gary Wheat - tenor sax
Bob Taylor - keys       Tim Carroll - bass       Michael Glaser - drums

5:30 PM / The Barking Kudu / 7th Ave South in Lakeview / 205.328.1748

Jazz • Permalink •

December 14, 2011 at 12:17 AM

Roger has some photos from this years Ball.

You can view them:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/rogerstephenson/sets/72157628379053937/

Scheduled for December 14, 2011 at 12:17 AM

Events • Permalink •

Blues legend Hubert Sumlin died this past week.
I think he played at one of the Magic City Blues Fests one year.
You may read about his life and times here.

Links • Link of the Week • Permalink •

Mart Avant Night Flight Big Band
Ona's
Tomorrow night, though maybe by the time I write this, it is tonight.
In any case
Wednesday December 14, 2011
at
Ona's
8:30pm

This show is always a nice way to start or continue the holidays.

Jazz • Permalink •

MCBS Blues Ball - The Nighthawks / Lefty Collins Band - The Barking Kudu
BJ Miller - Gip’s Place - Bessemer
The Hurlers - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio
Bourbon & Bleach - Sweet Bones Alabama

Permalink •

December 10, 2011 at 08:00 PM

In the 32 years since the inception of the Blues Music Awards (formerly known as the W.C. Handy Awards), legendary Washington, D.C., band The Nighthawks had never even been nominated before in any category. That all changed when the 2011 nominations were announced late last year, as the group’s Last Train to Bluesville album, released in February 2010, was nominated for “Acoustic Album of the
Year.” And on May 5 in Memphis at the annual Blues Foundation awards presentation, The Nighthawks heard their name read as the winner. Amid whoops and hollers from the packed audience at the Cook Convention Center, Mark Wenner, Paul Bell, Johnny Castle and Mark Stutso proudly bounded to the stage to accept their first-ever Blues Music Award. Later that night, The Nighthawks performed two songs from the album to the Convention Center audience and to listeners of the live broadcast on Sirius XM’s B.B. King’s Bluesville channel.

Recorded live at the Washington studios of Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Last Train to Bluesville was a departure of sorts from the band’s previous efforts. Stripped down and acoustic, Last Train to Bluesville resonated with music fans and the media alike with its honesty, passion and soul. The album features down-home versions of 10 blues classics from such artists as Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley, Slim Harpo, Chuck Berry, Sonny Boy Williamson and James Brown, among others. Recorded with the intimate feeling of a back-porch setting, Last Train to Bluesville bristles with all the energy of a live gig and the world-class performances Nighthawks fans from around the world have come to expect.

In its review of the CD, The Washington Post declared, “If there were ever a question about how the Nighthawks keep their blues-rock sound fresh after nearly 40 years together, Last Train to Bluesville gives the answer…the new acoustic setting really suits the group. The crisp recording draws the group’s instrumentation into the spotlight…a recording that stands out in the band’s lengthy discography.”

International blues magazine Blues Revue said, “While these songs have been staples of The Nighthawks set list for decades, the sparkling acoustic arrangements provide them, and the band, with a new lease on life…accurately captures the dynamics of one of roots music’s long lasting, dependable and often unsung outfits. Long may they fly.”

Blues Blast Magazine called it “Ten tracks of incredible acoustic blues, all the more impressive given that it was recorded as a live session in the studio rather than pieced together of tracks and parts. The crystal clear recording would showcase any flaws – instead what comes through is a tight, professional acoustic set that truly showcases The Nighthawks’ musicianship.”

And the Blog Critics website summed up its review by stating, “…this is a superb document of the intuitive interplay between seasoned veterans who still find sheer, unbridled joy in making music together. It simply doesn’t get much better than this!”

For more information, visit http://www.thenighthawks.com.

Scheduled for December 10, 2011 at 08:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Blues Ball • Permalink •

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Soul Collision - City Vineyard -7pm.
Bourbon & Bleach - Otey’s
The Hearts - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

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Glen and Libba - Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave - Bandido Southside - Huntsville, AL.

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Spoonful - Courtyard 280

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Kent Duchaine - Gip’s Place - Bessemer
OgreDrive - DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

Jimmy Thackery - The Melting Point - Athens, GA.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGArXYgm5rc&feature=related

Links • Link of the Week • Permalink •

December Blues News is here! 
You may retrieve your copy here:
BluesNews December 2011

Newsletter • Permalink •

Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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Joe Bonamassa – BJCC Concert Hall

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Microwave Dave – Mama Annie’s – Huntsville, AL.

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Carlos Pino Jazz Group - Marty's
What a group, Carlos and Donnie Davis (I think that is the name) drummer put on a great show.  You people need to get out more often.  Rainy night, perfect for jazz.  Anyway, he will be back December 18, 2011.  So, make a note on your calendar.

So, you might want to get to Ona's tomorrow night for Chad Fisher.  Not sure what he will be doing.  Maybe some swing, maybe some Hank Williams Jr. (Who had a hit with a song called “Lovesick Blues”, which I think was written by Cliff Friend and Irving Mills.  I think Mills was more of a producer, but maybe he actually did write some things.  Not, anyway, Jimmie Rodgers, though it sort of reminds me of that style.  It seems somehow older than Hank.)

Oh, and Blue Galaxy will be at Marty's this Saturday 7:00-10:00 pm.  Some rockin’ strings (also drums). 

Jazz • Permalink •

Debbie Bond – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

Microwave Dave & The Nukes – Huey’s Midtown – Memphis, TN.

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Just Us Three w/Rob Harris – Gip’s Place

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Tonight, November 26, 2011 at Marty's
7-10
An early show.

Jazz • Permalink •

Bourbon & Bleach – Sweet Bones Alabama

Little G Weevil – City Vineyard

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Microwave Dave & The Nukes – Thanksgiving Throwdown – Kaffeeklatsch-Huntsville, AL.

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Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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Wednesday, November 23

Pedro Mayor Trio

Pedro Mayor - keys       Cleve Eaton - bass       Michael Glaser - drums

8 PM / Ona’s Music Room / 2nd Ave South & 28th Street (western edge of Pepper Place) / FREE

Jazz • Permalink •

George Griffin – Pub 261

Microwave Dave – Mama Annie’s – Huntsville, AL.

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Tim Boykin Blues Band – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

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Western Night at Gip’s Place

Microwave Dave – Swamper’s – Marriott Shoals – Florence, AL.

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Here’s your link.

Links • Link of the Week • Permalink •

George & The G-Men – Metro Bar

Kevin Harrison – City Vineyard

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Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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Microwave Dave – Mama Annie’s – Huntsville, AL.

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Charlie Soul Band – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

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Thomas Henry Band – Pub 261

Soul Collision – Wined Down

Microwave Dave – St. Thomas Church Lobsterfest – Huntsville, AL.

Microwave Dave – Swamper’s – Marriott Shoals – Florence, AL. -9pm.

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November 11, 2011 at 07:00 PM

November 11 - Canned Jam (benefit for the homeless) – The Cantina at Pepper Place 7pm

The MCBS feels it is important to be an active part of the community and help others in need. The open jam in November is always a charity event when we collect food, clothing and cash to help the Firehouse Shelter for the Homeless. We ask musicians to give their time to come jam for a cause as well. I want to give everybody a heads up that it will be on November 11 so that you can hopefully buy a few extra items each week to put away to bring to this event. It has been a very tough year for most of us and it is a good time to help others if you are able.

Here is a list of requested items you can bring:
• Clothing - socks, shoes, underwear, t-shirts, pants, etc.
• Toiletries- hotel sized soap, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream, razors
• Food- large-sized can goods, coffee, sugar, margarine, produce, etc.
• Cleaning Supplies - dishwashing liquid, bleach, laundry detergent, etc.

We are suggesting a $5 donation at the door. If you want to donate more, that will be great!
We will start with an Acoustic Blues Jam and move over into the electric side of things as the night progresses. We will have a PA, amps and a drum kit, so just bring your instrument of choice. Get ready for a major musical throw-down.

There will be fine food and drink available for a reasonable price, so bring an appetite as well.

Scheduled for November 11, 2011 at 07:00 PM

Events • MCBS Events • Canned Jam • Permalink •

MCBS Canned Jam – The Cantina – Pepper Place -7pm.

John Bull & Sheffield Walker – City Vineyard

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Carolina Chocolate Drops – Bama Theatre – Tuscaloosa, AL.

Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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http://www.reverbnation.com/thebluedevils

Links • Link of the Week • Permalink •

George Griffin – Pub 261

Microwave Dave – Mama Annie’s – Huntsville, AL.

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Big Daddy’s New Band – Ona’s Music Room

Honey Tree Band – Gip’s Place

Bourbon & Bleach – Dreamland BBQ – Tuscaloosa, AL.

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Bourbon & Bleach – Stillwater Pub

Ray Cashman – Moe’s BBQ - Lakeview

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Songwriters in the Round – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

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Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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November Blues News is here! 
You may retrieve your copy here:
BluesNews November 2011

Newsletter • Permalink •

Soul Collision – Wined Down

Unchain the Melody/Halloween Party – DanielDay Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio

Microwave Dave & The Nukes –(Swing Dance Society) Flying Monkey –Huntsville, AL.

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Little G Weevil Jam Party -Moe’s BBQ – Lakeview

Bonus Round - Superior Grill

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Oct 28/29 in Gadsden, Al.

The show will be at the Cultural Arts Center on Broad St, downtown Gadsden.

The Friday night concert features the Big Tasties. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door.

The Saturday ‘Jam for Duane’ event will be held at ‘The Hideout’ located on Hwy. 278/431. The doors open at 10am and the event will start around 12pm. There will be an ‘Open Jam’ for all musicians playing Duane Allman related music…blues, ect..

There is a $5.00 day cover for the entire day and night.

Later in the afternoon, we will have a ‘World Record’ attempt.  Bring your GIBSON LES PAUL and enter the event. Your name and guitar info will be recorded. Everyone will perform ‘Statesboro Blues’ (key of D)  together.

After this, there will be several traveling bands perform for everyone’s pleasure.

.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for more info.

Festivals • Permalink •

Glen & Libba – Satterfield’s

Microwave Dave – Bandito Southside – Huntsville, AL.

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BA Bodiford and Clay Swafford - Marty's 7-10
George Griffin – Marty's Midnight

Microwave Dave – Mama Annie’s – Huntsville, AL.

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