| DAY
2 - QUINCY AREA BLUES FEST |
Day
2 began with warm weather, and lots of sunshine. The
Stratocats, a local band, opened the day with a 2
guitar attack. Covers such as the Wolf's 'Killing
Floor' set the musical bar for the rest of the day.
Ben Bumbry and the Messengers were up next. Ben has
an award named after him here in Quincy, the Ben Bumbry
'Friend of the Fest' award, and this year's recipient
was Jon Barnard, a founding member of the QABF. Ben
originally hails from St. Louis, but Quincy has called
Ben their own since he relocated here in 1955. "I
was born at Barnes in 1931, and was a Sumntner Graduate.
I played with Dick Gregory - the comedian - in the
high school band." Ben led his band from
behind the drums, and was joined by vocalist Esther
Bassett for a jazzed up version of 'Stormy Monday'.
Following Ben to the stage was The Phillip Dale Durham
Band. Phillip has been performing since the 60's,
with his debut recording on the Moloch label. Along
the way, he's performed with names like Jerry Lee
Lewis, Jackie Wilson, Sleepy John Estes, and Furry
Lewis. Very much a Memphis sound, most notably in
his rendition of the Rufus Thomas classic 'Walkin'
the dog'.
Liz Mandville Greeson was up next. Liz holds the distinction
of being the only white vocalist to perform regularly
at the internationally known Blue Chicago nightclubs,
where she held court from 1994 to 1999. A 'Red Hot
Mama', her show never fails to ignite an audience,
as she had them join her in 'hip shake boogie'.
Closing the evening was the extreme vocal talent of
Curtis Salgado. His heartfelt approach to music has
won him starring roles as lead singer in bands led
by such starts as Robert Cray and Santana. The late
John Belushi was so inspired by Curtis that he developed
his Blues Brother character after him. Curtis' cover
of "All Night Long" ended the evening with
a spectacular crowd pleaser.
The Quincy Area Blues Festival - add it to your 2007
Midwest fest schedule!
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