Inspired by the Blues, infused with the funk rhythms of New Orleans and topped-off by the virtuoso musicianship of Jazz, Matt Schofield is being talked of as the finest Blues guitarist to have emerged in Europe for several generations, perhaps even in the World. His latest album “Siftin Thru Ashes� has received rave reviews on both sides of the Atlantic.
Britain’s Guitarist magazine describes Schofield’s guitar playing as “Dynamiteâ€?, while America’s Blues Revue calls him “The entire package — a singer with range and soul, and a guitarist who delivers with devastating tone and superb dynamics.â€? BBC national radio Blues presenter Paul Jones picked Schofield as one of his highlights of 2005, commenting “I think it’s time he became a big star.â€?
The LA Daily News describes Schofield as “Head and shoulders above the herd� while music bible AllMusic.com marks Schofield’s approach “an enjoyable demonstration of what can happen when blues-rock and blues-jazz are united.� The industry benchmark magazine, MOJO, gave the album a four star (excellent) rating, something rarely given to UK Blues artists.
The band line-up harks back to the classic organ trios of the fifties and sixties. Jonny Henderson on Hammond organ gives sleazy texture and dynamics while holding down left hand bass lines, and talented Kiwi Evan Jenkins occupies the drum chair. But that’s where any comparison with a traditional organ trio ends. With their huge multi-layered and rhythmically infectious sound this band redefines the meaning of “power trio� and are unlike anything else on the Blues scene today.
Plus support from THE AMEN BOOGIE BLUES BAND. “Chicago Blues from the Medina Delta”
Amen Boogie have been gaining momentum as one of the Island’s top Rhythm & Blues bands, playing a wide range of blues from artists such as Muddy Waters, Elmore James, John Mayall, ‘The Blues Band’ and Dr.Feelgood.
The band line-up is a strong four piece fronted by Dave Hollis (lead vocal/guitar/harmonica), Ross Honeybourne (lead guitar/slide guitar) and a solid rhythm section comprising Tim Hollis (Bass) and Mick Fairservice (drums/vocals).
Admission: Tickets £10 on door or in advance from Ottakars bookshop, Newport.
Doors open: 8pm
The Riverside Centre, Newport, Isle of Wight. PO30 2QR
