BLUES CRUISE LEGENDARY

by Anita Schlank Images: Laura Carbone

Many were a bit hesitant to get back on a cruise ship during COVID times, but after being assured by the numerous precautions that were taken by the cruise staff, those who braved the 35th LRBC to the Southern Caribbean were greatly rewarded.

The wonderful sail-away party starring the soulful veteran Curtis Salgado began the adventure that provided blues fans with both the opportunity to see old favorites, (such as “bad boy” Johnny Rawls, singer songwriter Ruthie Foster, and accordion player J.R. Lauritsen), and to get introduced to some new rising stars. Many were previously unfamiliar with, but highly impressed by, the Ruf Records Blues Caravan, starring Jeremiah Johnson, Whitney Shay and Ryan Perry.

Equally impressive was Jonathan “Boogie” Long, whose reputation led to perhaps the largest number of the booked musicians sitting in his audience to witness him sing and play. Hector Anchondo, winner of both the 2020 Best Solo/Duo Award and the Memphis Cigar Box Award (for best guitarist) demonstrated how he earned those honors, and Tito Jackson shared songs from his recently released blues album. While all attendees were disappointed that Kenny Neal was unable to attend, they were soon excited about the unexpected opportunity to see his nephew, Tyree Neal, truly shine.

Blues Cruisers are regularly treated to Tommy Castro on every cruise, but it seemed extra special that he was joined by Deanna Bogart. And fans also got to witness Deanna and Vanessa Collier playing saxophone together with Castro’s band. In addition, it’s always fun to watch Albert Castiglia and Mike Zito play together because their exceptional talent is only matched by their great senses of humor. But the addition of Joanna Connor as a third master guitarist made their collaborations extra special.

It was Daryl Davis’ first blues cruise, and some attendees were stunned to learn that this talented pianist has also done extensive work bridging the gap between African-Americans and racists in the Ku Klux Klan. His workshop about breaking down racist barriers was well-attended, as was Bill Wax’s talk about his years interviewing the Mayor of Bluesville, B.B. King.

Of course, Curacao was quaint and inviting, and the beaches of Aruba were beautiful, but blues cruisers are mainly interested in the music. They were saddened to learn that Taj Mahal had suffered a serious dog bite injury that prevented him from playing his guitar. Luckily, however, Keb Mo was willing to not only play his own sets, but to join Taj Mahal as his guitarist. Keb Mo’s calming demeanor was matched only by that of the sweet and soulful late-night host, Chuk Barber. Every night, cruisers were treated to jam sessions with unexpected visits by such favorites as Ronnie Baker Brooks and Billy Branch.

One of the best moments of Chuk Barber’s Soul Lounge was when Tommy Castro channeled James Brown with his rendition of “Get On Up”. One would think seven days of nearly non-stop music would be enough, but blues cruisers left the ship anxious to book themselves on the very next cruise.