Tune In, Turn On
By Doug Deutsch
Kenny Wayne Shepherd, guitarist extraordinaire, put on what can only be described as a clinic last Friday night at the Borgata’s 900-capacity Music Box, delivering approximately 90 minutes worth of electrified blues-infused guitar rock, mainly from his 1997 classic album, “Trouble Is,” with a stellar band that featured vocalist/guitarist Noah Hunt; Chris “Whipper” Layton on drums; Kevin McCormick on bass; and the incredible Joe Krown on keyboards.
Krown will perform at the “Mardi Gras In July” Somers Point Beach Concert Series on July 7, playing the music of Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint and James Booker as part of the Tony Marts Summer Concert Series.
Shepherd, a veteran on the music scene though only 45 years old, kicked off the night with the titular “Trouble Is,” gliding through an 11-song set that included this reviewer’s fave, a Bob Dylan song, “Everything Is Broken.” Shepherd’s generously-long, four-song encore found Kenny singing on a few of the songs, “I Want You” and “Diamonds And Gold” – not that he had to, given the excellence of vocalist Hunt, himself talented enough to front a band that would undoubtedly be successful on its own.
If you haven’t been to the Music Box, it’s a terrific venue to see and hear live music. And the Borgata is one of the nicest casino properties in AC.
It was a fine night of blues and rock not to be forgotten by any who attended.
News ‘N Notes: Local blues enthusiast Betsy Lynn Paisley welcomes renowned vocalist Rae Gordon to her Betsy’s Backyard concerts on April 11. Hailing from Oregon, Gordon founded Musicians & Mutts (Miles 4 Mutts Tour), which helps shelter stray dogs throughout the US. Paisley suggests contacting her on Facebook to reserve a spot https://www.facebook.com/betsy.paisley
Donation is $15 (with reservation), $25. without, and attendees must bring something to share (5-10 small serving size for pot luck).
Paisley is bringing in other names of note, including guitarist Mick Kolssa (April 22), and from the UK, celebrated vocalist Janice Harrington (May 12); and “Coast to Coast Chicago Blues” by guitarist Johnny Burgin on July 17.
The North 2 Shore Jersey Festival comes to the Atlantic City area June 4-11. Two shows here of note include Pure Petty, a top-notch Tom Petty tribute featuring our longtime music compadre Chuck Darrow on bass, playing the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall June 3 at 9 p.m.; and Tune In Turn On faves, Billy Walton Band, performing outdoors at the new Cardinal Beach outdoor venue, on the property where the new Cardinal Restaurant will be on New York Avenue, June 9.
Speaking of BWB, they’re currently touring the UK. Info: https://northtoshore.com/
Local promoter Tina Notaro is the proverbial Energizer Bunny come to life, always on the go, and always cooking up fun events that encompass both music and art.
She’s back with Jungle Jam, taking place April 20 at Anchor Rock Club (in conjunction with Norstep/Stephen Weiss’ Third Annual 420 Festival), a New Moon Night Market and Dance Party hosted by DJ Skyline and the Kulture Crew Takeover (Viberium, Chris Gicky, The Primordial Archetype) and more.
The fun and music run at 9 p.m.-till? www.noetrope.net or https://www.facebook.com/futuristicpositivity for more on this one.
Saving the Whales, One Song (and Sculpture) at aTime:
Was really happy to see the excellent turnout last Sunday at Ventnor’s Suffolk Avenue Beach for a Save The Whales event featuring a 30-foot sand sculture created by famed local artist John Gowdy, as well as a song, “Save The Whales,” written and performed that day on top of the sculpture by longtime local musician, Johnny Higbee, accompanied by the Blue Street Band (Ludovico Menegon and Zachary Gitto).
Several local politicians spoke, and everyone in attendance was united on one subject, an important one: Protecting our precious marine wildlife and the Atlantic Ocean.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com and www.facebook.com/dougdeutschpublicity.
