Well, we're counting down pretty quickly. Tonight is my last solo gig in Aberdeen before I pack up and move. It's a solo gig opening for the Lyndon Anderson Band, one of my favorites. Lyndon is a great harp player and the band is rock solid. Like I said, a favorite.
The big leaving-blast is December 9th at the Moorings. It's a double header with the Malpaso Gang opening the show- both my bands on one bill, I don't think that's ever happened before!
So, sad to go, but a few parties along the way.....
Saturday, November 05, 2011
Friday, October 07, 2011
The incredible shrinking trio
Yeah, its true, I did in fact play drums the other night.
I got a wild hair about it after watching Homer Henderson on youtube. Seemed like a great idea. And so "hmmm", I thought, "could you combine that idea with the Black Keys or the White Stripes and really strip it down?"
The answer is yes- with help from Mike Oxley on bass we played an hour or so as the worlds only 2-man trio. I rigged the drums up so I could play with my feet, play the guitar and sing. It was pretty primal and of course not as sophisticated as having a real drummer.
You do learn something doing a gig like that, and its something that a drummer or a guitar player alone don't always'get'- that's that a good groove is a mix of the right amount of each instrument in the right place. And in putting together the material for this gig we had to be really careful to find ways to use the instruments to make things rhythmically interesting where EACH instrument (including the vocals) is really a member of the rhythm section.
Oh, this was a great workout. I'm thinking of setting up an aerobics class like this; sing and play drums. Cool, huh?
But in the end it was fun enough that we'll do it again at the Moorings on December 9th. The Malpaso Gang will open the show. Mark your diaries- it's my last show in Aberdeen.
I got a wild hair about it after watching Homer Henderson on youtube. Seemed like a great idea. And so "hmmm", I thought, "could you combine that idea with the Black Keys or the White Stripes and really strip it down?"
The answer is yes- with help from Mike Oxley on bass we played an hour or so as the worlds only 2-man trio. I rigged the drums up so I could play with my feet, play the guitar and sing. It was pretty primal and of course not as sophisticated as having a real drummer.
You do learn something doing a gig like that, and its something that a drummer or a guitar player alone don't always'get'- that's that a good groove is a mix of the right amount of each instrument in the right place. And in putting together the material for this gig we had to be really careful to find ways to use the instruments to make things rhythmically interesting where EACH instrument (including the vocals) is really a member of the rhythm section.
Oh, this was a great workout. I'm thinking of setting up an aerobics class like this; sing and play drums. Cool, huh?
But in the end it was fun enough that we'll do it again at the Moorings on December 9th. The Malpaso Gang will open the show. Mark your diaries- it's my last show in Aberdeen.
Friday, September 23, 2011
So, been busy lately...
But I did get time to finish my Coodercaster- it's a modified tele named after Ry Cooder who had a habit of dropping supro lap steel pickups into fender guitars. I'll post pictures...
I started with a cheap Squier Telecaster that I got from the Aberdeen Music forum. Cheap as chips, nice guitar. Cheap. And then dropped in a Supro pickup, complete with the big metal baseplate. Took an hour or so to wire it all up and adjust the intonation.
Hows it sound? Really good, actually. Lap steel pickups pack a lot of punch, and they're a little darker sounding than a normal guitar pickup so it takes some of the high end off the guitar. It's a great sounding slide guitar, although the big baseplate is really ugly. So, close your eyes and don't look there.
Like I said, pics to follow....
Sunday, September 18, 2011
British Blues Awards, 2011
OK, so the dust is settling in life, and the award is sinking in.
Thanks to all of you that took the time to organize the awards, and all of you that voted. It was a great event this year, and an impressive collection of talented artists from across the blues in Britain. As you can imaging, it's an honor just to be included in this group, but to have won this award for the second time is really great.
So, getting down to work the rest of the year, one or two remaining gigs on the diary and a few more being penciled in now that my shoulder is back in working order. Its seemed like forever since I've been able to play an acoustic guitar, but those days look to be over. And so, with this new band of mine we'll plan on a tour of England next year, and a run of gigs on the continent next year as well. In the meantime, it's off to Texas for a couple of weeks in October to hang with some old friends, do some playing and a little recording.
And, that my friends, is the news from here. Stay tuned, things are gonna start moving faster now...
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Thanks to all!
Just saw the twitter comments from the Newark Blues Festival and the British Bues Awards. Thanks to all that voted! Its an honor to have won the Instrumentalist category again. More later when I calm down....
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
24 strings later....
All day spent restringing a stringmaster. 24 strings on 3 necks. So it's C6 on teeter neck, A6 on the middle and the Don Helms E13 on the inner neck. The outer two are nothing new, but I'm hooked on the Don Helms tuning, all those Hank Williams tunes fall right into place. And the Miller Sisters song we play with the Malpaso Gang? Well, that works better as well. Can't wait to try this out at the next rehearsal.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
And then it was over.
Yes folks, it's true. The Son Henry Band is done. Off. To something new.
It was a great run in Aberdeen, almost 6 years with some good local players. And years and years before that too. But I'm going to play a few solo gigs, play some steel guitar with the Malpaso Gang and work up something new, blues-ier than before.
Watch this space.
It was a great run in Aberdeen, almost 6 years with some good local players. And years and years before that too. But I'm going to play a few solo gigs, play some steel guitar with the Malpaso Gang and work up something new, blues-ier than before.
Watch this space.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
2011 British Blues Awards!
Hey- A big round of thanks to all of you that voted in the nomination process for the British Blues Awards! The list of nominees is now official, and thanks to you I'm on the list! And it's a great list of nominees this year, and an honor to be included on the list of such talented people. Thanks!
Voting now runs through July 31st. To vote for your favorites, you go to:
http://www.britishbluesawards.com
You'll find a complete list of all the nominees and a chance to vote on-line. You know we appreciate your taking a couple of minutes to vote!
New free downloads available!
Hey- as a small thank you for your support in the British Blues Awards this year, I've put three songs out on my website that you can download for free! They're great if you need some driving songs, or need music for radio- whatever! Enjoy.
You can find them here:
http://www.sonhenry.com/music.htm
Cheers!
Son
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Keighley Blues Club
Photos: Idris Richards
Well, it's settled. We can mix the acoustic and electric souls into one performance. Keighley approved.
Thanks to Paul Lester and Dino we held court at the Keighley Blues Club this weekend. What a great night, wonderful people and a fantastic room. Stuart did a great job with the live sound that opened the doors for us to really stretch out. If you missed it, well, shame on ya!
You can read more here:
Keighley Reviews
Thanks John and all the wonderful folks that made for such a memorable night! See you again soon-
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Don't Forget! Still time for Brit Blues Award Nominations!
www.britishbluesawards.com is the link!
It's that time of year when we all get to nominate our favourite blues artists for theBritish Blues Awards. The process is easy and if you follow that link that's the first step. Consider this a shameless request for your support in the 'Other' instrument category- Lap Steel Players need all the help we can get!
Thanks!
Son
Sunday, February 13, 2011
British Blues Award Nominations!
Hey gang- It's time once again for the British Blues Award nominations! There's a lot of very talented people around, so please be sure and get your vote in before March 31 so that it counts!
Here's what to do, start here:
www.britishbluesawards.com
Then go to the nominations tab. From there you can vote for your favorite artists.
As always, I'd appreciate your vote in the 'other instrument' category!
Thanks!
Here's what to do, start here:
www.britishbluesawards.com
Then go to the nominations tab. From there you can vote for your favorite artists.
As always, I'd appreciate your vote in the 'other instrument' category!
Thanks!
Best of the rest, again in 2011!
http://www.aberdeen-music.com/forums/fudgenet/63688-best-rest-2011-fudge-musi...
It's a win, for the second year in a row! Thanks to all of you that voted, the band won 'Best o the rest' in the Aberdeen Fudge Music Awards. We're stoked (which translates to psyched, chuffed, wowed, etc) Thanks to all of you that voted!
MALPASO GANG WINS!!!!
http://themalpasogang.posterous.com/the-malpaso-gang-wins-best-indie-band-in-the
Wow. What a great night. Too bad about all the van problems and other misadventures that kept me from getting there....
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Selling off some of my old gear..
It's true. The things that don't gig are all going, and this is the last of it. Yeah, ok, I'm a packrat and I've been dragging this stuff around for years. It all needs a new home now. Follow the link, and apologies for the photos- great photographer I am not. But you'll get the idea.
details here: http://vintageguitarsuk.blogspot.com/
And don't be shy, give me a shout if you have questions about some of this stuff. Some of it you won't ever see in the UK again, so this might be your only chance to own some of this old stuff!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Cafe Musa this saturday with the Malpaso's
Hey all-
Gonna be a great weekend! I'm gigging with the Malpaso Gang on Saturday night at Cafe Musa. The band starts around 8=9, and I'm going to start things off with a solo set. Yeah, I know I said that the gig I played at the Clubhouse was my last one ever. But this is different.
And stay tuned, the following weekend it's really back to work, with the Son Henry Band kicking off the new year at the Globe Inn (Friday the 28th) and the Moorings Bar (Saturday the 29th).
More later. Pictures even....
Sunday, January 09, 2011
A gig well played!
And there is the proof. Country music at a metal bar and they have Lone Star beer! Thanks Graham!
Saturday, January 08, 2011
Now on Twitter too
Hey, you can also follow the drama on Twitter- look for me by name or 'son_henry'...
Moorings Bar tonight, live with the Malpaso Gang-
Hey! I really am back to work, tonight with the Malpaso Gang at the Moorings Bar in Aberdeen. It's the first gig of the year, with the Country/Americana that picked up a nomination in the Aberdeen 'Fudge' Music Awards. I'm playing the steel guitar tonight with a little lap steel thrown in for good measure. Show starts around 11 pm, and is a mix of iriginals and old covers. It's a great band, and some great original songs.
Next gig after this is the Globe Inn, with the Son Henry Band. Fingers crossed, see you soon.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
lots to tell, but it's time to get back to work-
Yeah, it's my birthday tomorrow. And it's time to get back to work. Look for us to be on the road more in 2011, not playing locally as much. And, well, there is one great long story to tell!
Monday, January 03, 2011
Well, ok. Time to get back to work.
I'm back. The time off was great.
Here's where we're going. I've trimmed the size of my band back to a trio again. I've been writing songs that fit the trio format, but lean pretty heavily on the lap steel/pedal steel playing that I've been doing the last few weeks. No surprises there.
Here's where we're going. I've trimmed the size of my band back to a trio again. I've been writing songs that fit the trio format, but lean pretty heavily on the lap steel/pedal steel playing that I've been doing the last few weeks. No surprises there.
Monday, December 27, 2010
In our perfect world....
Music has dynamics.
Songs have meaning,
and that meaning is shared.
Art is valued and
innovation is the norm.
Genre boundaries are meaningless.
Music is art,
and I am an artist.
Stand back,
listen,
and make the most of the short time we have together.
Songs have meaning,
and that meaning is shared.
Art is valued and
innovation is the norm.
Genre boundaries are meaningless.
Music is art,
and I am an artist.
Stand back,
listen,
and make the most of the short time we have together.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Taking a break, walking a way....
I'm stepping away from the keyboard, the band and life in the electronic universe for a while. I'll be back after January 5th with more blues and stories, and more regular posting. For now I need to get out and play in the snow.
It's been an interesting and challenging year, with some real highs and lows. To my good friends that were there to get me through the low spots, and shared in the high spots all I can say is thanks- I wouldn't be here with out all your help. Daily, I remember that I'm forever in the debt of the Seven Sisters of Mercy in Rayong, and the arms of the Universe (whatever your concept of God is) that caught me when I fell and was second-chance-reborn with the dawn of 2010.
And so, with the close of the year, it's finally time to go away and think (or re-think) the music. Somehow it's become hard work, like walking the same ground over and over again. Different, urgent, personal, new, challenging are words I need to apply honestly to this again. How to get there? Moving. Different. How to get there?
I suppose that the simple answer is that it is time for change of instrumentation. More pedal steel. More something and less something else. That's too simple, however. It needs to be more transformational than that. I need some unstructured time to write and think and be, and emerge from this metamorphosis with something worth taking on the next few miles of the journey, as short or as long as this may be.
See you in the new year with something worth sharing.
Namaste
It's been an interesting and challenging year, with some real highs and lows. To my good friends that were there to get me through the low spots, and shared in the high spots all I can say is thanks- I wouldn't be here with out all your help. Daily, I remember that I'm forever in the debt of the Seven Sisters of Mercy in Rayong, and the arms of the Universe (whatever your concept of God is) that caught me when I fell and was second-chance-reborn with the dawn of 2010.
And so, with the close of the year, it's finally time to go away and think (or re-think) the music. Somehow it's become hard work, like walking the same ground over and over again. Different, urgent, personal, new, challenging are words I need to apply honestly to this again. How to get there? Moving. Different. How to get there?
I suppose that the simple answer is that it is time for change of instrumentation. More pedal steel. More something and less something else. That's too simple, however. It needs to be more transformational than that. I need some unstructured time to write and think and be, and emerge from this metamorphosis with something worth taking on the next few miles of the journey, as short or as long as this may be.
See you in the new year with something worth sharing.
Namaste
Sunday, November 14, 2010
On the fine art of selling downloads....
So, can you really get rich from selling music on the interwebs? Here's an analysis ofg how much you need to sell to hi the US minimum wage in a given month....
Click here to read
Click here to read
Changes in Son-Henry-Land
Well, my year-long adventure into the land of big band blues has come to an end. Given the pressures of the economy we've made the hard choice to drop back to a smaller more compact format. It's always hard to say goodbye to good players like Chris and Dave, but (and you may have heard me say this before) change is always good.
I had a chance to road-test the new line-up on Friday at the Globe Inn here in Aberdeen. How'd it go? Well, we settled right in and had the room jumping from the start. It's all that old-school stuff that I love that works so well in a guitar-driven format; John Lee Hooker, Guitar Slim, Lightning Slim and my own tunes. All works. And you need to see it to experience it!
And really, my measure is just this. I like it, its the perfect line-up for where my head is at these days. And on Friday we played well past the closing bell for a large group of women that just didn't want to stop dancing. There's all the proof I need.
See you soon-
I had a chance to road-test the new line-up on Friday at the Globe Inn here in Aberdeen. How'd it go? Well, we settled right in and had the room jumping from the start. It's all that old-school stuff that I love that works so well in a guitar-driven format; John Lee Hooker, Guitar Slim, Lightning Slim and my own tunes. All works. And you need to see it to experience it!
And really, my measure is just this. I like it, its the perfect line-up for where my head is at these days. And on Friday we played well past the closing bell for a large group of women that just didn't want to stop dancing. There's all the proof I need.
See you soon-
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
How to tour...
OK, someone finally said it. How to tour with a band. Everything you need to know in one place, it's simple, honest and should be read by everyone. Thor Harris, you nailed it.
Click Here to read it
Click Here to read it
Monday, October 25, 2010
New Press Kit available!
Hey all-
Promoter? Festival? Venue?
Drop me an email at info@sonhenry.com. IF you get me your address, I'll get you a press kit!
Son
Promoter? Festival? Venue?
Drop me an email at info@sonhenry.com. IF you get me your address, I'll get you a press kit!
Son
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Fall mini-tour....
Thanks to all of you that joined us for our quick trip down south! We had a great time, and we'll be back soon.
Although we missed the horns (and wish them well with their family crisis) this trip reinforced for me just how much I love to play the guitar. Especially when I get to play blues with a great rhythm section that can go with me when I abandon the set list early. Friday night we did away with the set list altogether and managed to cover a lot of ground- from old Texas shuffles, to some Gulf Coast Slim Harpo style, as well as a big chunk of original tunes and a bunch of steel guitar.
One of the changes that is coming from this trip came out of a conversation at a late night coffee session after that gig. We've been working up new tunes that are based on my pedal steel playing, rather than a straight lap steel (or lap steel/guitar combo) like we do now. It'll open some harmonic doors for us, give us some new challenges. All in all, a great choice.
So, looking ahead through the rest of the year, we have a few more gigs before we call an end to 2010, but we'll be filling the time writing and recording, booking 2011 and still arguing about where to get the best pizza on the road.
OK, I've got to unload the van. Cant put it off an longer.....
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Off on the road again...
Taking the band down to play the fantastic High Barn in Essex this week. If you're n the area, stop in and say hello.
Click Here to learn more about High Barn!
And then, it's off to Nottingham for the first Anniversary of the Nottingham Blues Society.
Read more here...
So, see you there!
Click Here to learn more about High Barn!
And then, it's off to Nottingham for the first Anniversary of the Nottingham Blues Society.
Read more here...
So, see you there!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Booking information for 2011!
If you're reading this, tell your friends, tell your local blues society and blues clubs that they should be booking this band! Help a starving artist, point them this way!
There is a complete press kit on the band web site and you can get there by clicking here
and, as always, thanks for your support!
Son
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Did you read that right?
Last solo gig ever?
Well, forever is a long time but yeah, for a bit. The solo material is getting moved into the normal set instead of taking a break.
Mooring's Residency coming to an end...
This coming Friday is it. The end of a month of mayhem and madness with all the denizens of the Moorings Bar, the best live music pub in Scotland....
So, we're going out in grand, blow-down-the-walls style. Special guests, things to give away, and an even longer show- Flash the owner says we can play as long as we want. Is he ever going to regret saying that! So don't miss it, it won't happen again this year, and there's not a snowball's chance in Mexico that you'll ever have this much fun on a Friday night.
Pictures to follow. You may end up in one too. That's a good thing....
So, we're going out in grand, blow-down-the-walls style. Special guests, things to give away, and an even longer show- Flash the owner says we can play as long as we want. Is he ever going to regret saying that! So don't miss it, it won't happen again this year, and there's not a snowball's chance in Mexico that you'll ever have this much fun on a Friday night.
Pictures to follow. You may end up in one too. That's a good thing....
Mooring's Residency coming to an end...
This coming Friday is it. The end of a month of mayhem and madness with all the denizens of the Moorings Bar, the best live music pub in Scotland....
So, we're going out in grand, blow-down-the-walls style. Special guests, things to give away, and an even longer show- Flash the owner says we can play as long as we want. Is he ever going to regret saying that! So don't miss it, it won't happen again this year, and there's not a snowball' chance in Mexico that you'll ever have this much fun on a Friday night.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Happy 50th Alan!
Happy 50th Alan! All the best, and fingers crossed that the effects of all the tequila were minor.....
Some photos from Newark...
Thanks Rob and Anne! They sent me these pictures, and they're right- this is one happy lap steel player.
Who says guitar players only pull tough-guy faces?
Monday, September 13, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
the new one on the bandstand
Well, we could use this to play country (and I do, BTW). It's an old triple neck Fender Stringmaster- 24 strings, 6 pickups, 4 legs and a very heavy case. Right now it's tuned to C6, A6 and E13, not sure if I'll stay with these or switch to some others.
It's a great guitar though, and opens a few harmonic doors for me and the band- in the E13 tuning I can play big fat chords like a horn section. Expect to see this and hear some new material where we push the steel boundaries in blues and in the band. It's time, and this big bit of lumber is the key!
You read it here first---
Not sure if it'll really be forever, but at last for a long time I'm taking a break from solo gigs.
We need to focus on getting this next band CD out, and really getting behind it with a serious tour or two in 2011. There's just no way to prepare for both the band tour
We need to focus on getting this next band CD out, and really getting behind it with a serious tour or two in 2011. There's just no way to prepare for both the band tour
Every Friday in September- the Moorings!
It's true. Trio starts around 9, all September long.
The last time we were there it was an amazing party, with too many shots of tequila. We'll probably go for a repeat performance on all fronts. Heres what the party looked like last time...
The last time we were there it was an amazing party, with too many shots of tequila. We'll probably go for a repeat performance on all fronts. Heres what the party looked like last time...
Monday, July 12, 2010
Moorings Bar?
Hey, we're back at the Moorings Bar on Saturday the 17th....
I'm taking the trio in for a loud set, mostly of some new lap steel stuff. And yeah, we're running every Friday night there in September too.....
I'm taking the trio in for a loud set, mostly of some new lap steel stuff. And yeah, we're running every Friday night there in September too.....
Thursday, June 03, 2010
British Blues Awards 2010-
Once again, thanks to all of you that voted for me during the nomination process!
You can find out more here:
http://www.britishbluesawards.com
Please cast a vote!
You can find out more here:
http://www.britishbluesawards.com
Please cast a vote!
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Recording on Tuesday...
Demos are done, rehearsals are winding down and we're off to the studio starting Tuesday. Finally, we're back in the studio.
The plan is to record a mixed bag of stuff- some vintage T-Bone Walker, a Guitar Slim cover, and a bunch of originals that span a range of styles. All in all this is going to be a pretty varied record, and it'll be the first time we've done one that way- the others have each focused on a narrow range of styles, one per record. But that's not where we're at these days, this band can cover the bases so we're recording it all. I'm really excited about this one.
It may be a prolific year for us too. The CD that we started in 2009 in Anchorage is almost finished too, goes off to mix at the end of the month. Lots of reasons for that one being held up, mostly they come back to me not being happy with the lap-steel tones. That's all sorted. And its almost done.
But first things first. Lets focus on the new record and get the first couple of tunes under our belt this week. Pictures to follow as we go...
The plan is to record a mixed bag of stuff- some vintage T-Bone Walker, a Guitar Slim cover, and a bunch of originals that span a range of styles. All in all this is going to be a pretty varied record, and it'll be the first time we've done one that way- the others have each focused on a narrow range of styles, one per record. But that's not where we're at these days, this band can cover the bases so we're recording it all. I'm really excited about this one.
It may be a prolific year for us too. The CD that we started in 2009 in Anchorage is almost finished too, goes off to mix at the end of the month. Lots of reasons for that one being held up, mostly they come back to me not being happy with the lap-steel tones. That's all sorted. And its almost done.
But first things first. Lets focus on the new record and get the first couple of tunes under our belt this week. Pictures to follow as we go...
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
ok, so this band is probably-
no, it's definitely the best band I've had since I've been in the UK. By quite a stretch. Lately we've been prepping for more studio time so we can get a new CD out before the summer. It's a great process, I take them rough ideas on sticky notes and talk them through the ideas. They turn it into something different, better. Damn.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
BB and Bobby.
Damn. I saw them together that year too. 1977. What a great pair. You gotta check this one out.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The International Cigar Box Orchestra
Some pictures taken in Dundee last year, these are of Nikolaj (the fantastic one-man band) and I playing some really raw stuff at Dexters. We'll be adding bass and drums this year and performing on mostly home-made instruments. Just think- musicians from three continents making great music on crap gear that really is crap gear- mine are all made from junk I found cleaning out a friends garage this weekend. Oil cans, broken bits of debris.
Roll on, Dundee! Can't wait!
Roll on, Dundee! Can't wait!
Grouchy old man emails?
Funny, I've heard from more people telling me what a grouchy old man I am.
First, I'm not old. Second, I'm not grouchy.
Look, you can take the post below in one of two ways- here's a guy who cares about the music, cares that the history of the blues continues to be important, and the contributes to the education of a younger generation of layers -OR- a grouchy old man. Take your pick.
N'uff said. But that post stays so I can refer back to it from time to time.
First, I'm not old. Second, I'm not grouchy.
Look, you can take the post below in one of two ways- here's a guy who cares about the music, cares that the history of the blues continues to be important, and the contributes to the education of a younger generation of layers -OR- a grouchy old man. Take your pick.
N'uff said. But that post stays so I can refer back to it from time to time.
Monday, April 19, 2010
take it somewhere...
Well, I had a talk with a young player over the weekend. And I heard it again. "I'm not a old-style player, I want to see the blues evolve, I want to take it somewhere- take what I've learned from the old masters and help the blues evolve."
And so I asked- who are your influences?
Well, SRV, Clapton, the White Stripes, Zepplin""
No BB King, no Buddy Guy, no Blind Willie Johnson, no Guitar Slim. Only post-modern rock players. No Earl King, or Charlie Patton, or Pee Wee Cayton or T-Bone Walker, Lowell Fulson, Albert King, Lightning Hopkins or Mance Lipscomb.
How best to put this and not sound like an old fart? This could lead one to dispair. You can't take music somewhere if you don't really understand where it's been. If you don't understand the basics of the language, haven't studied it. So please don't kid me that you're doing the music a service. All you're doing is skipping doing your homework and trying to excuse it. And you're not fooling anyone.
Hit the books. Study the records. Learn the language first, convince me that you know the basics. Then we'll talk about taking the music somewhere.
And so I asked- who are your influences?
Well, SRV, Clapton, the White Stripes, Zepplin""
No BB King, no Buddy Guy, no Blind Willie Johnson, no Guitar Slim. Only post-modern rock players. No Earl King, or Charlie Patton, or Pee Wee Cayton or T-Bone Walker, Lowell Fulson, Albert King, Lightning Hopkins or Mance Lipscomb.
How best to put this and not sound like an old fart? This could lead one to dispair. You can't take music somewhere if you don't really understand where it's been. If you don't understand the basics of the language, haven't studied it. So please don't kid me that you're doing the music a service. All you're doing is skipping doing your homework and trying to excuse it. And you're not fooling anyone.
Hit the books. Study the records. Learn the language first, convince me that you know the basics. Then we'll talk about taking the music somewhere.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Monday, April 05, 2010
T-Bone
Don't give up too early, there's a nasty horn solo you need to skip through, but there's a couple of nice tunes that follow.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Gang- Here's the schedule for the multi-band extravaganza, our benefit for the earthquake victims in Haiti. Lots of great bands and a great day out, including an electric stage and an acoustic stage. I'll be pacing myself, so I can fit in a gig on each stage and a gig at the Moorings Bar that night as well.
The schedule for the Cellar 35 acoustic gig is a little loose for now, but we'll get it tightened up in the next couple of days. It'll be great for anyone that loves acoustic blues and/or want's a quieter night out. I'll be there for sure with an acoustic lap steel.
Here's the official schedule-
---------------------------------
The Schedule for The Blue Lamp
12.00 – 12.30 Doors open
12.30 – 13.15 Juke Joint Rollers
13.30 – 14.15 Claude's Funky Taxi
14.30 – 15.30 Red Dawg
15.45 – 16.45 Hollowbody
17.00 – 17.45 Mr. Spider -------- Food
18.00 – 18.45 Wolftrain -------- Food
18.45 – 19.15 Raffle and Auction
19.15 – 20.00 Son Henry
20.15 – 21.00 The Fatbelly Blues Band
21.15 – 22.00 PapaMojo
22.15 – 23.00 Tupelo Town Assembly
23.15 – 24.00 Jerry Jablonski
24.00 Jam
Schedule for The Acoustic Stage at Cellar 35
The Schedule for the Acoustic Stage will have to remain loose
as some acts have still to confirm.
The schedule for the Cellar 35 acoustic gig is a little loose for now, but we'll get it tightened up in the next couple of days. It'll be great for anyone that loves acoustic blues and/or want's a quieter night out. I'll be there for sure with an acoustic lap steel.
Here's the official schedule-
---------------------------------
The Schedule for The Blue Lamp
12.00 – 12.30 Doors open
12.30 – 13.15 Juke Joint Rollers
13.30 – 14.15 Claude's Funky Taxi
14.30 – 15.30 Red Dawg
15.45 – 16.45 Hollowbody
17.00 – 17.45 Mr. Spider -------- Food
18.00 – 18.45 Wolftrain -------- Food
18.45 – 19.15 Raffle and Auction
19.15 – 20.00 Son Henry
20.15 – 21.00 The Fatbelly Blues Band
21.15 – 22.00 PapaMojo
22.15 – 23.00 Tupelo Town Assembly
23.15 – 24.00 Jerry Jablonski
24.00 Jam
Schedule for The Acoustic Stage at Cellar 35
The Schedule for the Acoustic Stage will have to remain loose
as some acts have still to confirm.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
updated web site
Hey, it was time....
New photos. New posters. Even the schedule is up to date. Finally!
And don't forget to come say hi on Facebook-
New photos. New posters. Even the schedule is up to date. Finally!
And don't forget to come say hi on Facebook-
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Fall Tour, need a band?
Looking ahead, we're hitting the road this fall. We have two dates still to fill, Saturday October 23 and Sunday October 24. Anyone have space for a great band? Anywhere in the UK is great.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Cellar 35, March 20
Hey Gang,
I talked to the band, and I know it's short notice but we're splitting the gig this coming Saturday. I'll play a solo lap steel set starting at 9, and the band will kick off around 10. Best of everything- some mellow blues to get started and get a few drinks in with friends, and then we clear the tables for dancing!
It'll be the full band with the horns! If you haven't heard this line up, well, it's jump and swing blues at it's best! These guys can really play...
I talked to the band, and I know it's short notice but we're splitting the gig this coming Saturday. I'll play a solo lap steel set starting at 9, and the band will kick off around 10. Best of everything- some mellow blues to get started and get a few drinks in with friends, and then we clear the tables for dancing!
It'll be the full band with the horns! If you haven't heard this line up, well, it's jump and swing blues at it's best! These guys can really play...
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Cellar 35, March 20th
As part of the blues nights at Cellar 35, I'll be covering the Saturday, March 20th slot. I had such a great time playing those solo gigs this past weekend that I've got the fire to do more. So I'll have the lap acoustic out, and the national and a couple of other guitars. Cellar 35 is the perfect place for an acoustic performance- it's small and cozy, the acoustics are pretty good and it's the only place in Aberdeen with that underground blues club vibe.
So, please tell your friends, drag them along. Blues on Saturdays at Cellar 35. performance starts at 9.
So, please tell your friends, drag them along. Blues on Saturdays at Cellar 35. performance starts at 9.
Alaska, 2010
Hey gang, looks like I'm heading back home for a couple of weeks! Alaska in summertime, great fishing, and some good gigs to play with my old band. Life doesn't get better...
Monday, March 08, 2010
still selling gear
Yeah, raising money to fund a few things, so there's a bunch of gear that's going. Check out my other blog for the details, more gear postings next weekend. Catch it before it goes on Ebay..
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Cellar 35
Hey all-
Great gig at Cellar 35 last night! Me and Dick Wardell playing solo, Papa Mojo wrapping up the night. It was the second solo outing in two days for me, nothing like getting right back to work after a long break. Last night was mostly lap slide and fingerpicking. Gave the national a break.
So, long story short, I'll be back there on the 20th as part of the rotating blues nights we're running on Saturdays. I'll probably be there solo again, unless I can talk the trio into a gig. Either way, it'll be fun, and a great place for a night out.
Please spread the word about these blues nights! Aberdeen really needs a regular blues night, and with your support we can make this one stick!
Great gig at Cellar 35 last night! Me and Dick Wardell playing solo, Papa Mojo wrapping up the night. It was the second solo outing in two days for me, nothing like getting right back to work after a long break. Last night was mostly lap slide and fingerpicking. Gave the national a break.
So, long story short, I'll be back there on the 20th as part of the rotating blues nights we're running on Saturdays. I'll probably be there solo again, unless I can talk the trio into a gig. Either way, it'll be fun, and a great place for a night out.
Please spread the word about these blues nights! Aberdeen really needs a regular blues night, and with your support we can make this one stick!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Haiti Benefit, April 10
Well, the Aberdeen musical community is coming together for a night of music spread over two venues on April 10th. Lots of the details still forthcoming, but here's what I know. There's going to be a bunch of electric blues bands at the Blue Lamp, along with great beer and food, and a couple of acoustic players (me included) at Cellar 35.
From what I hear, you can see Gerry Jablonski, Red Dawg, Tupelo Town Assembly, Mr Spider, Dick Wardell, Papa Mojo and probably a few others. One price gets you into both venues.
It'll be a great time, and it's al for a good cause. I'll post more details when I get them.
(oh, and I'm sneaking off later that night to play a wild gig at the Moorings Bar, shhhhh......)
From what I hear, you can see Gerry Jablonski, Red Dawg, Tupelo Town Assembly, Mr Spider, Dick Wardell, Papa Mojo and probably a few others. One price gets you into both venues.
It'll be a great time, and it's al for a good cause. I'll post more details when I get them.
(oh, and I'm sneaking off later that night to play a wild gig at the Moorings Bar, shhhhh......)
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Rance Allen
Years ago, my friend Big Mitch turned me on to Rance Allen, and to this day he's my favorite vocalist of all times. Check this out, what a great performance, no studio overdubs just a gifted singer and a song he believes.
Ok, this should be obvious....
I ran into a really unpleasant person yesterday at a gig in Dundee who seems to think the world is divided into 'lead' guitar players, and 'rhythm' guitar players. I'm generally nice to everyone, but the unreal level of ignorance he wanted to inflict on my band was so extreme that I was appalled. Horrified. And I fired back. And that, ladies and gents, never happens. Until Yesterday.
Here's the deal. If you're a musician in a band and you play the guitar, you can't get away with being one or the other, you've got to be both. And where most people get lost is that they forget that our most important job is supporting the groove of the tunes. That means you need to play rhythm. And as everyone in my band knows, we're all in the rhythm section. It's the engine room, what gets people dancing. It's what you get paid for. Being able to blow a solo over changes isn't music if that's all you can do. It's self-indulgence, period, the end.
So, while he may break the guitar world into two camps, lead and rhythm, I break the world down differently- into musicians and instrument owners. Just because you own an instrument doesn't mean you're a musician. Anyone can learn to play the guitar fast, that's just muscle memory. But to be able to engage in a meaningful musical conversation on stage with other musicians and hold an audience's attention? That takes a musician.
Gimme musicians to play with any day of the week.
You, sir, are uninformed, misguided and offensive to those of us that work hard at our craft.
Here's the deal. If you're a musician in a band and you play the guitar, you can't get away with being one or the other, you've got to be both. And where most people get lost is that they forget that our most important job is supporting the groove of the tunes. That means you need to play rhythm. And as everyone in my band knows, we're all in the rhythm section. It's the engine room, what gets people dancing. It's what you get paid for. Being able to blow a solo over changes isn't music if that's all you can do. It's self-indulgence, period, the end.
So, while he may break the guitar world into two camps, lead and rhythm, I break the world down differently- into musicians and instrument owners. Just because you own an instrument doesn't mean you're a musician. Anyone can learn to play the guitar fast, that's just muscle memory. But to be able to engage in a meaningful musical conversation on stage with other musicians and hold an audience's attention? That takes a musician.
Gimme musicians to play with any day of the week.
You, sir, are uninformed, misguided and offensive to those of us that work hard at our craft.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Apples and Trees
There's an old saying around here that apples don't fall far from the tree. And it must be true, here's my oldest surviving the worst blizzard in 90 years in Washington DC by hiding out in a recording studio.
Yeah, I know. No blues content. But a proud old man gets to crow a little every so often....
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Magic Sam on a borrowed guitar
Not sure what the story was, but that is Earl Hooker's guitar for sure...
My favorite youtube video
BB King and T-Bone Walker at the Hollywood Bowl, 1967. Can you imagine? Listen to the lines BB plays while T-Bone is getting set up. That was when he was really playing at the top of his game (it's my favorite vintage of BB). And T-Bone? Damn.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Home and Recovering
Some of you may have heard the news that I was taken ill while on holiday with the family.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Sample vids from the new DVD with T Rogers
Here's a couple of the tunes from the new T Rogers/Son Henry DVD that should be out pretty soon. They're from the Gastroblues festival in Paks this past summer. It was a great performance and although I can still hear the last touches of a sore throat in my singing it's still fun to watch- it's obvious we were having a great time (which we were).
Here's Can't be Satisfied...
And Richer than a Sheik...
And "Let me lay my head down"...
Hope you enjoy them!
Here's Can't be Satisfied...
And Richer than a Sheik...
And "Let me lay my head down"...
Hope you enjoy them!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Son Henry Live in B'Pest DVD
Coming soon to a bandstand near you! Live from Budapest with T Rogers, it's an hour of live music filmed at the Gastroblues festival. You can probably fget a c
Back on line!
Wow, who'd ever think that it could take 3 months to get an internet connection? But it's there, and I'm back on line again. More later....
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Off to Paks!
I think this images sums it all up! I'm off to Paks to play the DVD release party for the 2009 Gastroblues Festival and taking a great band with me. Tonight, the T Rogers Band and I are on around 8, headlining what promises to be another great night of loud, high energy blues!
Our gig last night in Budapest was another stormer. We played to a packed house at the Fregatt and then proceeded to drink and dance the rest of the night away. Coffee, a little petrol and we're off today. Oh, wait, there is still time for one more round of goulash before we leave....
Friday, December 04, 2009
Budapest, Fregatt tonight!
OK, short notice, but if by some chance you are in Budapest tonight, I 'm playing ath the Fregatte tonight with T Rogers. It is a warm up gig before we hit the road for our DVD release party gig on Saturday. Pictures to follow!
Answer- 3 months....
Question- How long can it take to get an internet connection?
Back on the web for a couple of short but wonderful days. More notes to follow...
Back on the web for a couple of short but wonderful days. More notes to follow...
Sunday, September 27, 2009
website is back up, email may be missing
OK, looks like everything is working again,website os back up.
If you sent me an email in the last 2 days, might be worth a re-send because not much came through!
If you sent me an email in the last 2 days, might be worth a re-send because not much came through!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Garage Sale time
Yep, having a MASSIVE clear out of old gear. So much stuff that I've created another blog to hold it all
http://vintageguitarsuk.blogspot.com
is the location of the new site. I'll post the for-sale stuff there and all the blues stuff here.
http://vintageguitarsuk.blogspot.com
is the location of the new site. I'll post the for-sale stuff there and all the blues stuff here.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Slowing down, changing pace
Well, with the recession in full force it was bound to happen.
I'm putting the brakes on life for a bit, cutting back on the travel to make a little more cash and spend some time close to home. But, even with the economy in the crapper, we're still making some changes.
We had a great couple of gigs over the weekend in some local venues. My favorite was the show at cellar 35, where we kicked back and played old-school jump and chicago blues for a couple of hours. Some of that carried over to the other gigs that weekend, particularly at the ballroom. But it needs to stick. It's a good change. It'll fit well with the newer lap steel tunes too, all as an integrated package.
So, yeah, we're cutting back for a while to make some changes and pay a few bills. But expect good things to happen over time.
I'm putting the brakes on life for a bit, cutting back on the travel to make a little more cash and spend some time close to home. But, even with the economy in the crapper, we're still making some changes.
We had a great couple of gigs over the weekend in some local venues. My favorite was the show at cellar 35, where we kicked back and played old-school jump and chicago blues for a couple of hours. Some of that carried over to the other gigs that weekend, particularly at the ballroom. But it needs to stick. It's a good change. It'll fit well with the newer lap steel tunes too, all as an integrated package.
So, yeah, we're cutting back for a while to make some changes and pay a few bills. But expect good things to happen over time.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
T Rogers and me, live in Hungary!
Hey, I was on Hungarian TV, with some great live audio and video of me playing with the T Rogers band. They killed that night, absolutely spot-on playing, great live show, fantastic sound. Here's the link....
CLICK HERE
CLICK HERE
The East Side Kings, Cellar 35, Thursday July 23
So, there's a new band that will be playing at Cellar 35 starting on Thursday the 23rd as part of the rotation of bands, it's called 'The East Side Kings'- it's me, Spider McKenzie, Mike Oxley, Duncan Stewart. It''s an old-school blues band- Old Muddy, Jump, Swing. No lap steel, no blues-rock, totally different than my normal band. It's a blues gig. We'll be calling standards and some new songs. We'll also be rotating other players in periodically to keep it different. This isn't a new version of the Son Henry band, it's a different style, a different set of tunes. Different.
My band isn't going away, btw. We're too loud for this room. As an alternative we'll try something a little different. So, this is a players night out thing to get together with some friends and play. I have a feeling it'll be a great gig! See you there, only at Cellar 35.
My band isn't going away, btw. We're too loud for this room. As an alternative we'll try something a little different. So, this is a players night out thing to get together with some friends and play. I have a feeling it'll be a great gig! See you there, only at Cellar 35.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Happy 4th!
So, Happy Independence Day to all!
Between 1927 and 1929 my grandparents fled poverty in Germany after living through the horror of World War one, which included one grandfather losing all his brothers in France, and my other grandmother being left an orphan reduced to scrubbing floors to survive as a 12 year old.
They came to the US with a one-way ticket and the promise of a better life. They had to work, but they found it. In actual fact they never rose very far above what we might consider poverty today, but eventually they owned a house (one that housed 3 families most of the time) and always had to share the things they had to make ends meet. At one point my grandparents lived in a house made from sod cuttings in North Dakota.
It was that promise of a better life for their kids that drove them on. My father's father died young from the years of painting other people's houses with lead-based paint. My uncles all died or were injured fighting for their new country in Europe or the Pacific. I don't think I ever heard them complain- it was the reward of seeing my father and his sister succeed; scholarships to university, having middle class jobs, raising their children in clean housing, escaping the horror of war.
I'm sure they did have their own heartbreak- they never saw the friends and relatives that they left behind again.
But they did send what little they had back to those in need. They sent tickets for passage to brothers and sisters, let them sleep on the sofa while they got started. And, in my fathers-fathers case, returning for a visit in the early 1930's and reading the handwriting on the wall with National Socialism and refusing to be part- returning instead to work on the other side and bear arms against the country of his birth to fight for what was right.
By my fathers account, it was a happy life, hard but meaningful. They were all working together towards a better lot in life.
So here's an offer of grateful thanks to those brave enough to leave everything behind, to make a better life for their familes. Of being unafraid of hard work and hunger, of lonelieness and want to reach a goal.
And here's to our new home that made all of this possible.
Today I'm not going to a flag waving parade. There won't be any celebrations like that in Europe today. Instead, I'll pray for all our safety in a crazy world, that that others will find the freedom and safe haven that my family found 80 years ago. And to the first thing they saw at Ellis Island.....
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles.
From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!"” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
“The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus
Between 1927 and 1929 my grandparents fled poverty in Germany after living through the horror of World War one, which included one grandfather losing all his brothers in France, and my other grandmother being left an orphan reduced to scrubbing floors to survive as a 12 year old.
They came to the US with a one-way ticket and the promise of a better life. They had to work, but they found it. In actual fact they never rose very far above what we might consider poverty today, but eventually they owned a house (one that housed 3 families most of the time) and always had to share the things they had to make ends meet. At one point my grandparents lived in a house made from sod cuttings in North Dakota.
It was that promise of a better life for their kids that drove them on. My father's father died young from the years of painting other people's houses with lead-based paint. My uncles all died or were injured fighting for their new country in Europe or the Pacific. I don't think I ever heard them complain- it was the reward of seeing my father and his sister succeed; scholarships to university, having middle class jobs, raising their children in clean housing, escaping the horror of war.
I'm sure they did have their own heartbreak- they never saw the friends and relatives that they left behind again.
But they did send what little they had back to those in need. They sent tickets for passage to brothers and sisters, let them sleep on the sofa while they got started. And, in my fathers-fathers case, returning for a visit in the early 1930's and reading the handwriting on the wall with National Socialism and refusing to be part- returning instead to work on the other side and bear arms against the country of his birth to fight for what was right.
By my fathers account, it was a happy life, hard but meaningful. They were all working together towards a better lot in life.
So here's an offer of grateful thanks to those brave enough to leave everything behind, to make a better life for their familes. Of being unafraid of hard work and hunger, of lonelieness and want to reach a goal.
And here's to our new home that made all of this possible.
Today I'm not going to a flag waving parade. There won't be any celebrations like that in Europe today. Instead, I'll pray for all our safety in a crazy world, that that others will find the freedom and safe haven that my family found 80 years ago. And to the first thing they saw at Ellis Island.....
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles.
From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!"” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
“The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus
Friday, July 03, 2009
Budapest, Paks Gastroblues, day 1
Well, off to a great start. There were supposed to be weather delays yesterday, thunderstorms in Budapest. We had none of it, buthe Danube is really at a very high flood stage from all the rain that they've been having. ű
So, spent the day in Budapest with Ferci and the gand from T. Rogers Blues band. Great rehearsal yesterday, too much to drink, and spicy cabbage and sausage for breakfast! It doesn't get any better than this! the best part of this trip (so far) has been hanging out at the Fregatt Blues Bar and getting caught up with these guys. That, and getting a chance to wander around Budapest some more, last trip I really didn't have time. We have tomorrow off, so I actually get to be a tourist for a chance.
But first things first. This afternoon we're off to Paks for the festival. Stay tuned for photos and details. But tell you what, we need to bring this band to Scotland for the blues bonanza, they're really that good. Funky, in a Robben Ford kind of vibe.
Video too, I think. Video for sure.
Oh, yeah, my voice is coming back fine. Singing today should be no problem. after a week of mumbling and whispering, I am ready to throw down tonight.
So, spent the day in Budapest with Ferci and the gand from T. Rogers Blues band. Great rehearsal yesterday, too much to drink, and spicy cabbage and sausage for breakfast! It doesn't get any better than this! the best part of this trip (so far) has been hanging out at the Fregatt Blues Bar and getting caught up with these guys. That, and getting a chance to wander around Budapest some more, last trip I really didn't have time. We have tomorrow off, so I actually get to be a tourist for a chance.
But first things first. This afternoon we're off to Paks for the festival. Stay tuned for photos and details. But tell you what, we need to bring this band to Scotland for the blues bonanza, they're really that good. Funky, in a Robben Ford kind of vibe.
Video too, I think. Video for sure.
Oh, yeah, my voice is coming back fine. Singing today should be no problem. after a week of mumbling and whispering, I am ready to throw down tonight.
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