shemekia copeland - blues society of omaha · friday – 4:30-6:00pm “highway blues ... der foot...

Volume TwenTy-one, number one • January 2016

Dec. 31st (N.Y.E.- 9 pm) .......................Moreland and Arbuckle ($15)Jan. 2nd (Sat. 8 pm) ...... Backfire with the McLaughlin Brothers ($5)Jan. 7th .................................................... Danielle Nicole Band ($10)Jan. 9th (Sat. 8 pm) ...................Hamilton Loomis ($12 adv./$15 dos) Adv. tickets @ www.hamiltonloomis.comJan. 14th .................................................... The Nace Brothers ($10)Jan. 16th (Sat. 6 pm) .....The Bel Airs with Electric Church @ 9:30 ($5) Jan. 17th (Sun. 6 pm) ........................Drew Jude and the Cool Tones CD Release Party with the Rex Granite Band feat. Sarah Benck Jan. 21st ................................................. IBC Send Off Party with the Hector Anchondo Band and Gina Sicilia ($10)Jan. 28th ............................................... Biscuit Miller & the Mix ($10)Feb. 4th ................................................ Nick Schnebelen Band ($10)Feb. 6th (Sat. 8 pm) .................................................. Dax’s Band ($5)Feb. 11th ................................................................. Kelley Hunt ($15)Feb. 18th ...............................Studebaker John and the Hawks ($10)

SWAMPBOY BLUES JAMWeekly Open Blues Jam

Wednesdays 8 pm to 11 pmBlack Eye Dive • 72nd & Harrison, Omaha

THE DANIELLE NICOLE BANDWednesday, Jan. 6th @ 6 pm

$10 adv., $12 dosZoo Bar, Lincoln

Thursday, Jan 7th @ 6 pm • $1021st Saloon, Omaha

SHEMEKIA COPELANDSaturday, Jan. 30th @ 8 pm

Holland Performing Arts Centerwww.ticketomaha.com

SHEMEKIA COPELANDSaturday, Jan. 30th @ 8 pm

Holland Performing Arts Centerwww.ticketomaha.com

IBC Send Off Party for Hector Anchondo BandSpecial Guest Gina Sicilia

Thursday, Jan. 21st @ 6pm $1021st Saloon, Omaha

BLUES NEWS • BLUES SOCIETY OF OMAHA

Please consider switching to the GREEN VERSION of Blues Notes. You will be saving the planet while saving BSO some expense. Contact Sher Dostal at [email protected]

to switch to e-mail delivery and get the scoop days before snail mail members!

BLUES ON THE RADIO:Mondays 1pm-3pm on KIOS 91.5 “Blues in the Afternoon” with Mike Jacobs

You can listen to the live stream at www.kios.org

Sundays 9am-Noon on KIWR 89.7 Rick Galusha’s “PS Blues” Pacific Street Blues & Americana podcast:

http://kiwrblues.podOmatic.com/entry/2010-02-03T11_00_49-08_00

Lincoln’s KZUM Radio - Nebraska’s only community radio, and you can listen to it on the web at KZUM.org.

Monday – 3:00-6:00pm “World Gone Wrong Blues”Tuesday – 3:00-6:00pm “Group W Blues”

Wednesday – 3:00-6:00pm “My Deja Blues”Thursday – 3:00-6:00pm “Every Kind of Blue”

Friday – 1:00-3:00pm “Women’s Blues & Boogie” • 3:00-4:30pm “Hudson Blues”Friday – 4:30-6:00pm “Highway Blues”

BLUES NEWS • BLUES SOCIETY OF OMAHA PAGE 3

BSO CORPORATE SPONSORSBLUE CLUB

Dan and Lanae Grieb Kit & Pam Kelley

Royce M Kreitman Terry O’Halloran

CORPORATEMitch Bolte

Jim Bradford, Jr.Chick Ganz

Conrad GoodPaul Scott Hoagbin Blues Band

Craig Kelley, Inserra & Kelley Law Firm

Steve & Lisa Krueger Roger & Sheri Slosson

Dan Van Houten Richard Wolken

Bel Air Merchant’s Association Christy Rossiter & 112 North Duck

Mama’s Pizza WestRa Neurological – RDS Skin Care

West Point Rack

SPECIALBill Bahrke

Matthew Barges

Mo Barry Glenn Bauer

Kenny & Linda Benton John Campbell

Geoff Clark Jerry Cyza

David & Kristine Evans Paul Gerber

Mike & Sally Hansen Rick Hillyard

Troy & Susan Krupicka Jo Mach

Vanessa Marie Daniel Meyer

Greg and Leslie Nichols John Pollack & Karen Berry

Mikel Schmidt & Leslie EurekAnn Scolaro Sid Sidner Tim Sorrell

Ernest Sutherlin Bob & Becky Swift Rodney Thorngate

Greg Virant & Lynn Kost Virant Down Under Lounge

Hawk’s BBQ, Chris & Brenda Hawkinson

As a founding member and bass player for Kansas City blues-rock band Trampled Under Foot, Danielle Nicole has spent years growing her fan base around the world. In 2014 she decided to push her musical boundaries further by forming the Danielle Nicole Band, which also features Mike “Shinetop” Sedovic (key-board), Jan Faircloth (drums) and Brandon Miller (guitar). Born a natural performer, Danielle got her start singing in coffee-houses and at open mic events while growing up immersed in the local Kansas City blues scene. Her talent and on stage charisma played a major role in the success of Trampled Under Foot and helped the band earn numerous awards and nominations over the years, including multiple Blues Music Award nominations for “Band of the Year” and a two nominations recognizing her individual accomplishments as a musician for “Bass Player of the Year”. Drawing compar-isons to Susan Tedeschi and Etta James, Danielle delivers a sweeping vocal range and powerful telling of her lyrics every time she hits the stage.

Danielle comes from generations of singers. Her grand-mother, Evelyn Skinner, was a big band singer. Her moth-er, Lisa Swedlund, taught her everything she knew while growing up, listening to all different kinds of music from the Everly Brothers to the B-52s.

It wasn’t until she was 12 that Danielle took to the stage for the first time singing, Koko Taylor’s “Never Trust a Man” at a Blues for Schools program that her parents were playing at Englewood Elementary. From then on, she knew music would be her passion for the rest of her life.

Danielle began singing in coffeehouses and at open mic events at age 14, jamming with her parents whenever she

THE DANIELLE NICOLE BANDWednesday, Jan. 6th @ 6 pm • $10 adv., $12 d.o.s. • Zoo Bar, 136 N. 14th Street, Lincoln, NE

Thursday, Jan. 7th @ 6 pm • $10 cover • 21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

could at clubs that would allow minors. At 16, she began sing-ing lead in her father’s band, Little Eva and the Works – un-til he became too sick to play. In March of 1999, she start-ed her own band, Fresh Brew, with Kansas City music veterans Steve Gronemeyer, Steve Hicks, Chuck Payne and Terry Roney. They performed for four years and even represented Kansas

City in the International Blues Challenge.

During this time that Danielle and her brothers Nick and Kris began talking about a family band that would eventually become Trampled Under Foot. Not only did she and Kris have to move to Philadelphia (where Nick was living), but she would have to learn the bass guitar to keep it a family band. It took a few years of lessons and saving money be-fore that could become reality.

After several acclaimed self-released albums, Trampled Un-der Foot released Badlands on July 9, 2013 on Telarc, a di-vision of Concord Music Group. Toughened by years of non-stop roadwork, Badlands revealed a musical sophistication well beyond the band’s years. Badlands debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Blues Chart and Trampled Under Foot performed live throughout the United States and Europe in support of the album.

As Trampled Under Foot wound down, Danielle formed her own band and now makes her Concord Records solo debut with the September, 2015 release of a New Orle-ans-flavored, blues-soul based album Wolf Den, featuring Grammy® winning producer and guitarist Anders Osborne, Galactic’s co-founding drummer Stanton Moore and her regular keyboardist Mike “Shinetop, Jr.” Sedovic.

From the Danielle Nicole artist website


What’s New with BluesEd?2016 is an exciting year for BluesEd as we celebrate our 15th year! Many thanks to Doug Backer who had the fore-sight and determination to start BluesEd in 2001 as the youth outreach program of the Blues Society of Omaha. We have since grown to six performance bands with nearly 200 students involved in the program through the years. Many of our alumni have stated that BluesEd was one of the high-lights of their years in middle school and high school.

In January we are sending one of our bands, Voodoo Vinyl, to Memphis for the International Blues Challenge. Keep an eye on the BluesEd Facebook page for their venue and time as they perform in the Youth Showcase. Voodoo Vinyl is a seven piece band featuring students ages 14-18. Audiences love their energy and enthusiasm. They will be sure to rep-resent Omaha, BluesEd and the BSO very well.

We are in the process of registering stu-dents for Auditions to be held in February. Vocalists and instru-mentalists that are proficient in their instrument and are ready to

perform in a band are requested to register on our website: www.BluesEd.com. 2016 promises to be packed with per-formance opportunities for our bands at many great area venues.

Some of our BluesEd alumni from various years have formed the band Electric Church. Their next show is at the 21st Sa-loon on January 16th following the Bel Airs. This will be a great chance to hear these now grown men put their years of experience together in an unique sound.

We would like to hear from all of our Alumni as we celebrate our 15th year. We hope to have a reunion this spring or summer and would like BluesEd alumni (and alumni par-ents too!) contact us so we have your current email address. Please send us an email at [email protected].

--Kevin & Chris Shouse, BluesEd Directors


“If blues, soul, and rock can be said to form a triangle, you’ll find Hamilton Loomis right in the center of it”, says Guitar Player Magazine.

An apt description, as young Loomis is one of the young artists at the forefront of bringing blues based American music into the 21st century and redefining it for a contemporary audience. Spanning youth and tradition, Loomis bridges the gap between generations of music-lovers both in the U.S. and around the world.

Below the musical notes on GIVE IT BACK, the latest release from Hamilton Loomis, lies an altruistic message; show-casing a “pay it forward” philosophy, Loomis states his goal to share the knowledge and information that was given to him as a young musician. In a musical tribute to his mentors, the title track, which features Victor Wooten (Béla Fleck and the Flecktones) on bass and vocals, explains this mission and provides the backdrop as Loomis reaches new musical heights on a record that will ignite fires in those who live for funk & soul, rock, and a satisfying dose of the blues.

“When I was coming up in the music scene, I was lucky to have musical mentors like Joe ‘Guitar’ Hughes, Johnny ‘Clyde’ Copeland, and of course, rock icon Bo Diddley,” stat-ed Loomis. “These ‘veterans’ took the time to teach and give advice to us youngsters, as if ‘passing the torch.’ Now that they have passed, it’s my duty, not just an obligation, to do the same with this generation’s young musicians. That’s giving it back, handing it down, passing it on, like the song says”

Born and raised in Galveston, Texas, Loomis is the son of musician parents who listened to blues, rock and soul. Mu-sic ran in his veins and, with instruments readily available around the house, he picked up drums, piano, guitar and harmonica, honing his multi-instrumental talent in addi-tion to performing regularly as part of his family’s doo-wop group.

“My parents had a fantastic record collection and, when I started writing, I gravitated towards what I’d been listening to all my life. I have a huge reverence for the blues and all it encompasses, but I’ve always been fond of R&B and funky music.”

A protégé of Bo Diddley, Loomis met the icon backstage at the age of 16 at Houston’s famed venue Rockefeller’s. Before the night was over, Loomis was onstage playing guitar with the legend. Diddley quickly became friend, mentor, collab-orator and supporter, appearing on two of Loomis’ albums and presenting a cherished red guitar that he still plays.

Complimenting this sentiment, the musical foundation of GIVE IT BACK is Loomis’ most mature and progressive to date. A diverse collection that No Depression says can “ex-pand the vocabulary of the blues,” Loomis is further ap-

HAMILTON LOOMISSaturday, Jan. 9th @ 8 pm • $12 adv. $15 day of show

Adv. tickets @ www.hamiltonloomis.com21st Saloon, 96th L Street, Omaha

plauded for being able to jam in several music worlds, “comfortably, crossing sty-listic boundaries with effortless precision. There’s no reason to limit the man with a genre classification or tie him down with old-school rules.”

Bridging the gap between generations of music-lovers and redefining blues-based American music for a contemporary audi-ence, Loomis created his own path and built a loyal following by blending myri-ad of influences, clever songwriting, and an expressive voice into a sound that de-fies description. Feeling his current style, layered onto his bluesy foundation, will

attract a new generation of fans, Loomis looks forward to the appeal GIVE IT BACK will have on today’s young lis-teners.

“I’ve struck on a style that works, and I’m adding to it. I don’t purposely set out to create one type of song; it’s really just a hybrid. One of the by-products of it all is that it can appeal to all generations.”

“That one night began my education and I spent a lot of time with Bo over the years listening to him tell so many stories,” said Loomis. “He was so generous and most peo-ple don’t know that he was really philanthropic. He played free concerts around his hometown for homeless shelters, schools and anyone that just needed help. He was always giving! That’s another thing that planted the GIVE IT BACK seed in my mind. It’s all coming full circle.”

Loomis and crew shine on stage proving his music is best experienced in person, where one can see and hear its in-tended splendor. Described by Blues Blast Magazine as “a non-stop turbo of power, one minute moving from side to side of the stage, and then taking on his horn player in a head-cutting contest on the apron of the stage the next minute.” Loomis’ energetic, get-in-with–the-crowd antics are infectious. The swaying and clapping are just as he en-visioned.

“Being comfortable on stage is something that comes com-pletely natural to me,” he says. “I feel joy when I play music and it literally moves me. It moves my body. I learned long ago that whenever music is coming from you, from deep in-side your soul and from the right place, people will feel that on a deeper level and might not even know what’s going on inside of themselves. I enjoy engaging the crowd and feel a show should be an interactive experience.”

Showing no signs of stopping, and always aiming to follow advice from Bo Diddley to “innovate, don’t imitate,” GIVE IT BACK paves the way for Hamilton Loomis to introduce more of his modern sound and energetic musical style. It also pro-vides a glimpse into this talented artist’s philosophy on life, a message alone that is worth its weight in gold records!

From the Hamilton Loomis artist website


Saturday, Jan. 2nd @ 9 pm, $6Lil’ Slim Blues Band

Wednesday, Jan. 6th @ 6 pm$10 adv., $12 dos

Danielle Nicole BandWednesday, Jan. 13 @ 6 pm

Chicago’s Rockin’ Johnny BurginSaturday, Jan. 30th @ 9 pm, $10Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal

and Kris Lager Band


“The Nace brothers each got half of their late father Johnny’s genetic gifts: Jimmy Nace is the songwriter and older brother Dave is the singer.”

John Hansen - Sedalia Democrat

The Nace Brothers feature expressive vocals and stunning guitar complimented by their longtime rhythm section. To-gether they’ve created a body of work that appeals to a broad audience.

Seasoned professionals, they’ve earned the respect of promoters, club owners, producers and peers for their dedica-tion to their craft, easy going confidence and their refreshing lack of pretense. A testimony to their affability lies in the fact the Brothers David and Jimmy have been performing together over 30 years. Along with T.J. Erhardt who has been with the band 15 years, and their newest addition, groovemaster Paul Greenlease on Bass, they are stronger than ever. In 1993 the title track of their c.d. “Club 15” was also on the compilation c.d. “Margaritaville Cafe - Late Night Menu” on MCA Records featuring Jim-my Buffett and various other artists. Fourth generation performers their mu-sical heritage began in the latter part of the 19th century with their great-great grandfather the classically trained vi-olinist Valandingham Nace. The legacy continued in the 1920’s and 30’s with their grandfather Percy a multi-instru-mentalist and square dance caller. By the

THE NACE BROTHERSThursday, Jan. 14th @ 6 pm • $10 • 21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

late 40’s their father was playing box suppers and square dances. Johnny Nace progressed from playing rural danc-es to leading the house bands on the regional radio and television programs “Hillbilly Jamboree” and “Circle Six Ranch”. He recorded rockabilly in the late 50’s before find-ing his musical home during the golden age of honky-tonk. An astute songwriter he led a top notch band to region-al success with songs like “Sing me the blues” and “Blue Notes”. Their 1997 release “Roots of Steel” is a tribute to their father and the lessons he taught them.

Nearing their 31st year as a touring group the Nace Broth-ers are poised for a larger audience. Brilliant songwriting, expressive vocals, soaring guitar and a rock solid rhythm section combine for entertainment at its best.

Well Traveled Road is their seventh c.d. and continues that tradition with a collection of thirteen well-crafted songs. “Temptation” digs a groove and allows a flowing melody to intertwine with soulful slide guitar riffs while “Let Me Down Easy” and “Sunday Afternoon” taps into the band’s bluesy side.

From the Nace Brothers artist website

With 7 CD’s and countless shows the Nace Brothers always bring a great show to the 21st Saloon.


The 10th Annual Omaha Entertainment & Arts Awards

January 17, 2016 at the Downtown Omaha DoubleTree

BEST BLUES NOMINEESChristy Rossiter & 112 North Duck

Clark & CompanyHector Anchondo Band

Mojo Bag • Steve Byam • Steve Lovett

BEST R&B/SOUL NOMINEESDani Cleveland • Dominique MorganEdem • Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal

Jus.B • TJ Saddler

WELCOME TO OUR NEW BSO MEMBERS!Thank you to these donors for joining

BSO as brand new members:

Enzo & Steph Floridia Linda Bauer • Deb Young

Rick Hague • Curt MentzerTerri Incontro • Mark Rhoades

Bruce Barnhart • Johna DuelingElspeth McKeon • Gayle Townsend

Doug & Kim LaursenDoug Johns

Cathy Bashami & Richard HalamaMitchell Pinkard • Michele McKelvy

Mike Osborn • Ann Scolaro

BSO MEMBERSHIP RENEWALSThank you to these donors for their ongoing support of BSO by renewing membership:

Carlos & Kris ChavezVikki Frank • Ron Sobczyk

Gary McMillan • Jodi NelsonDaniel Meyer


blues in January & February

HEY BANDS & BARSIf you want your schedule printed monthly in

BLUES NOTES, e-mail to [email protected] schedules must be received by the 23rd of each month.

Get calendar updates @ www.omahablues.com

Thu Dec 31New Year’s Eve FAC with the Tijuana Gigolos (5:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Swampboy Blues Trio (9:00 pm) (Havana Garage)Moreland and Arbuckle (9:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)New Year’s Eve with Lloyd McCarter (9:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Sat Jan 02Steve Lovett Blues Band (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Backfire with the McLaughlin Brothers ($5) (8:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Ed Archibald, John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Band (8:00 pm) (Havana Garage)Lil’ Slim Blues Band (9:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Mon Jan 04Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Tue Jan 05Brad Cordle & Friends – Blues Vocalist (7:30 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Wed Jan 06Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Danielle Nicole Band (6:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Jan 07Danielle Nicole (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Steve Lovett Solo (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Fri Jan 08John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)The Dust Jackets (9:00 pm) (The Harney Street Tavern)Sat Jan 09Hamilton Loomis (8:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)The Dust Jackets (9:30 pm) (The Keg) (Lincoln)Mon Jan 11Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Tue Jan 12Brad Cordle & Friends – Blues Vocalist (7:30 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Wed Jan 13Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Hector Anchondo (9:00 pm) (Saloon No 10)Thu Jan 14The Nace Brothers (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Hector Anchondo (9:00 pm) (Saloon No 10) (Deadwood, SD)

Fri Jan 15John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Hector Anchondo (9:00 pm) (Saloon No 10) (Deadwood, SD)Sat Jan 16The Bel Airs 6-9 pm & Electric Church 9:30 pm (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Hector Anchondo (9:00 pm) (Saloon No 10) (Deadwood, SD)Harper and Midwest Kind (9:00 pm) (The Corner Bar)Steve Lovett Blues Band (9:00 pm) (The Harney Street Tavern)Sun Jan 17Tim Koehn Solo (2:00 pm) (Soaring Wings Winery)Drew Jude & the Cool Tones CD Release Party with Special Guest The Rex Granite Band featuring Sarah Benck (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Mon Jan 18Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Tue Jan 19Brad Cordle & Friends – Blues Vocalist (7:30 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Wed Jan 20Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Jan 21Hector Anchondo – IBC send off party w/Gina Sicilia! (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Fri Jan 22John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Sat Jan 23Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Mon Jan 25Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Tue Jan 26Brad Cordle & Friends – Blues Vocalist (7:30 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Wed Jan 27Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Jan 28Biscuit Miller (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Tim Koehn Solo (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Fri Jan 29Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Sat Jan 30Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Shemekia Copeland at the Holland Center (8:00 pm) (Holland Center)Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal AND Kris Lager Band! (9:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)


blues in January & February

FIRST TUESDAY JAMWith Da Crabby Blues Band featuring

Bucky McCannTuesday, January 5th from 6 to 9 pm

Shucks, 119th and Pacific, OmahaAll proceeds to benefit QLI

7:00PM-10:00PMTHE ZOO BAR HOUSE

BAND • $300

Mon Feb 01Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Wed Feb 03Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Big Head Todd and the Monsters (7:30 pm) (Whiskey Roadhouse)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Feb 04Nick Schnebelen Band (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Fri Feb 05John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal (9:00 pm) (The Harney Street Tavern)Sat Feb 06Dax’s Band (8:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal (9:00 pm) (The Corner Bar)Swampboy Blues Band (9:00 pm) (Havana Garage)Mon Feb 08Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Tue Feb 09Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Swampboy Blues Band (9:00 pm) (Havana Garage)Wed Feb 10Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)

Thu Feb 11Kelley Hunt (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Fri Feb 12Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Sat Feb 13Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Mon Feb 15Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Wed Feb 17Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Feb 18Studebaker John and the Hawks (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Fri Feb 19John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Sat Feb 20Swampboy Acoustic Trio (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Mon Feb 22Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)Wed Feb 24Matthew Amandus & Friends Piano & Guitar or Sax combo (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Jam (8:00 pm) (Black Eye Dive)Thu Feb 25Randy McAllister (6:00 pm) (The 21st Saloon)Tim Koehn Solo (6:00 pm) (Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen)Fri Feb 26John Mertz, Terry Parker, and Thomas Wells (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Sat Feb 27Ed Archibald , John Mertz & Friends Sax, Guitar &Vocals (blues & smooth jazz) (8:00 pm) (The Omaha Lounge)Swampboy Blues Band (9:00 pm) (Lightning Bowl)Mon Feb 29Michael Walker (Big Band /American Song Book) (7:30 am) (The Omaha Lounge)Gooch and His Las Vegas Big Band (6:30 pm) (Ozone)Zoo Bar House Band (7:00 pm) (Zoo Bar)


“Deeply satisfying...gritty soul and blues with garage overtones and fire-and-brimstone vocals”

--Living Blues

Alligator Records is pleased to announce the signing of roots rock/blues band Moreland & Arbuckle. The self-de-scribed “roots and blues from the heartland” group (guitarist Aaron Moreland, harpist/vocalist Dustin Arbuckle and drum-mer Kendall Newby) will release their as yet untitled label debut – produced by Matt Bayles (Mastodon, The Sword) – in Spring, 2016. Accord-ing to Moreland, “The new album is consciously more traditional than our last two, but still has the sig-nature grit and power that we have crafted the past 13 years. We achieved that beautifully.”

Since first joining forces in Wichita, Kansas in 2001, Moreland & Arbuckle have created an impressive body of work, releasing six critically acclaimed albums. With a broad musical vision and a deep sense of history, the band plays smartly written contemporary songs delivered with musical muscle and fifth-gear urgency. Relentlessly merging raw Delta and Mississippi Hill Country blues, folk, and traditional country with energetic rock and soul, Moreland & Arbuckle continually take their music in new, unexpected directions. No Depression says, “These guys have kegs full of talent. Their songs will keep you driving fast and long.”

From the 2005 self-release of their first album, Caney Valley Blues to 2013’s 7 Cities (also produced by Bayles) on Telarc, Moreland & Arbuckle have grown from a fiery, crowd-pleasing duo to a genre-smashing three-piece band impossible to categorize but rooted deep in the blues. To-gether, Moreland’s rhythmic and propulsive guitar work and Arbuckle’s emotionally-charged harmonica and edgy vocals -- supported by Newby’s tough drumming -- create a sound that is forceful enough to grab a listener’s attention and nuanced enough to hold it. American Songwriter says the group’s music is “swampy, sweaty and muggy....mixing a bluesy foundation with bits of country, folk and squawking American rock and roll.” WNYC’s Soundcheck says the band plays “gritty blues with a thoroughly contemporary bite.”

Moreland says signing with Alligator is a perfect fit. “We are very happy to work with the Alligator team. To the best of

New Year’s Eve at the 21st Saloon MORELAND & ARBUCKLE

Thursday, Dec. 31st @ 9 pm • $15

my knowledge, there isn’t a single independent label on the planet who has been as successful for 45 years. That speaks volumes. One of our biggest influences ever, Hound Dog Taylor, was the very first Alligator artist. One of the reasons we have the non-traditional lineup of no bass play-er was inspired by listening to Hound Dog’s music as we were coming up.”

According to Alligator president Bruce Iglauer, signing Mo-reland & Arbuckle to the label known for its Genuine Hou-

serockin’ Music was an easy choice. “I’ve watched this band grow from tal-ented interpreters of raw, traditional blues into cre-ators of fresh, original roots-based songs. Live, the energy just pours out of them.”

Upon first meeting at an open-mic jam in Wichita, Moreland and Arbuckle made an immediate blues connection, and soon after began making music together. They formed The Kingsnakes, a four piece unit, but couldn’t keep a

steady bass player. They soon found they made a better sound without one, as Moreland kept the rhythm thumping on his guitar while Arbuckle took the music into overdrive with his harmonica and vocals. The band quickly became local heroes, filling clubs beyond capacity. It wasn’t long before they started touring larger cities around the country, earning new fans with every performance.

After three self-released albums and countless roof-raising tour dates, Moreland & Arbuckle signed with Telarc in 2010, releasing three more critically acclaimed CDs. They have logged hundreds of thousands of road miles (they recent-ly replaced their van after driving it over 400,000 miles), performing in the United States, Canada and across Europe. In 2008 they spent 10 days in Iraq, playing for the troops. They’ve shared stages with ZZ Top, George Thorogood, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray and Los Lonely Boys. They’ll return to the road in support of the new album in 2016, with dates in the United States and Europe already set.

From the Alligator Records website

THE 21ST SALOON WILL HAVE CHAMPAGNE AVAILABLE FOR A TOAST TO THE NEW YEAR.


2014 Nebraska Blues Challenge Finalists

LOOKING FOR BSO MERCHANDISE COORDINATOR/ASSISTANTBSO is seeking a volunteer to either take over the Merchandise Coordinator position, or, work as an assistant with our current Merchandise Coordinator.

JOB DESCRIPTION/DUTIESMerchandise Coordinator-Order and maintain inventory • Stock displays / manage storage / manage event set-upsCoordinate merchandise volunteers for events • Manage receipts and report to Treasurer-Report at BSO meetings

Merchandise Assistant-Stock displays / manage storage / manage event set-ups • Coordinate merchandise volunteers for eventsManage receipts and report to Merchandise Coordinator

If you are interested in volunteering, or, if you have any questions, please contact Jeff Malloy at [email protected] or call 402-536-0739. Training will be provided.


Check out B.J. Huchtemann’s column Hoodoo Blues each week in the Omaha READER for info on upcoming shows and other news in the roots-blues music scene.

Look for B.J.’s byline under the Music tab at thereader.com

The Toy Drive for Pine Ridge fundraiser at the 21st Saloon on Sunday Dec. 6th packed the house. With the contributions from the door, raffle tickets, and the pot luck dinner $1950 and numerous toys were donated to the Toy Drive. The BSO sends a big Thank You to everyone for coming out to support a great cause. Many thanks to the bands for contributing their time and talent for this event.

BSO member Paul Gerber won a set of Shemekia Copeland tickets donated to the raffle by Mary Elofson, and BSO member-ship coordinator Sher Dostal won a handmade Fender Telecaster guitar donated to the raffle by Dennis Mixan.


BSO BAND DIRECTORYBand Contact Phone # / EmailCOUNCIL BLUFFSThe Packages..................................................................................Rick Hillyard ...........................................................................................712-420-1232Street Level Band ...........................................................................Steven Rains ...................................................... 402-980-7898 / [email protected]

FREMONTPunching Puppets ...........................................................................Lance Clark ................................................402-727-1999 / [email protected]

HASTINGSPeace Hogs .....................................................................................Rich Mattison ................................................402-469-5818 / [email protected] B. and the XYZ’s ..............................................................Byron Starr .............................................................................................402- 462-5879

KEARNEYKate Fly ...............................................................................................................................................................308-627-3021 / [email protected]

LINCOLNBlues Messengers ...........................................................................Jake Wiese ...............................................................................................402-601-4959Church House Blues Band .............................................................Danny Dakan................................................. 402-890-2533 / [email protected] Dust Jackets ............................................................................Travis Koester ....................................................402 560 8415 / www.dustjackets.comJared’s GoodTime BluesParty ........................................................Jared Alberico .........................................................................................402-474-2473John Walker and the New Hokum Boys.........................................John Walker .............................................................................................402-466-7254Josh Hoyer & the Soul Colossal .....................................................Josh Hoyer ............................402-416-3846 / [email protected]. Stephens Blues Project ..............................................................Lary Lehman ........................................................................................1-800-422-1340Levi William ..................................................................................Levi William 402-310-2681, Cindy Patton 402-850-8549 / [email protected] Mezcal Brothers ......................................................................Gerado Meza ...........................................................................................402-438-5120The Tijuana Gigolos .......................................................................Marty Steinhousen ..................................................................................402-742-5892Tim Budig Band ........................................................................................................................................................503-719-3969 / [email protected] Blues Band .......................................................................Caleb Long ..............................................................................................402-430-1792

OMAHA112 North Duck .............................................................................Michelle .......................................................... 402-210-9378 / [email protected] Alley Blues ............................................................................Craig A. Hassa ........................................................................................402-594-9147Backer’s Blues ................................................................................Jeff Kangas ..............................................................................................402-650-8580Banjo Loco .....................................................................................Blind Burrito ...........................................................................................402-850-0245Blue House with the Rent to Own Horns ......................................Joe Putjenter ........................................................402- 658-2222 / [email protected] The Blues Explosion ......................................................................Dave Skinner ...........................................................................................402-330-7366BluesEd ..........................................................................................Chris Shouse ...................................................... [email protected] / 402-578-3133Brad Cordle Band ..........................................................................Brad Cordle ...................................................... 702-533-2427 / [email protected] Brown and the Basement Devils .........................................Chuck Brown ..........................................................................................402-610-1522Dilemma .........................................................................................Chris Shouse .................................................... [email protected] / 402-578-3133Drew Jude and the Cool Tones .......................................................Drew Jude ...............................................................................................402-714-1244Elwin James and the Way Outs ......................................................Patrick Peters ..................................................402-292-6435 / [email protected] Walker ................................................................................George Walker .........................................................................................402-871-1469Hector Anchondo Band ..................................................................Hector Anchondo ...................................402-215-3956 / [email protected] Crews Blues ...........................................................................John Crews ..............................................................................................402-714-7634Johnny Reef & the Shipwrecks ......................................................Tommy Kriegshauser ................................402-517-8248 / [email protected] Nila and the Jazz Ninjas .......................................................Jorge Nila ...............................................................................................402-932-JAZZThe Kris Lager Band ......................................................................Kris Lager ...............................................................................................402-304-7269Life of Riley ...................................................................................Rebecca Packard ................................................. 402-699-0958 / [email protected] Joe and Big Trouble ..............................................................Little Joe McCarthy ................................................. 402-680-2924 / [email protected] De Luca & the R & M Blues Band .........................................Lou De Luca ...................................................... 402-677-7156 / [email protected] James Band .........................................................................L.J. Johnson ................................................................ 402-213-5234 / [email protected] Matt Gagne Blues Experience ................................................Matt Gagne .............................................................402-212-0694 / [email protected] Mighty Sapphire Kings ...........................................................Bill Ferleman ...........................................................................................402-658-1785Mojo Bag .......................................................................................Barb Fisher ..............................................................................................402-968-1127Neptunes ........................................................................................John Hartley ................................................................402-995-2926 or 402-391-4762The Omaha Blues Society All-Stars ..............................................Craig Balderston ........................................................ 402-208-1068 / [email protected] Scott Hoagbin Blues Band .....................................................Paul Scott Hoagbin ................................... 402-689-1183 / [email protected] Rex Granite Band....................................................................Kevin Loomis ....................................................... 402-306-9342 / rexgranite@cox,netRhythm Collective Reggae .............................................................Frank Fong ..............................................................................................402-556-3568Rich Patton Blues and more ...........................................................Rich Patton ..................................................402- 841-1110 / [email protected] Mattison and the Peace Hogs .................................................Rich Mattison ..........................................................................................402-469-5818Sailing In Soup ...............................................................................Gunnar Guenette ..................................................................................... 402 599-9255Soulfinger .......................................................................................Barry Clark ...................................................................................... [email protected] Nelson Trio ...........................................................................Mike Nelson ............................................................................................402-612-1250Stephen Monroe .............................................................................Stephen Monroe ......................................................................................402-699-5905Steve Lovett Blues Band AND Steve Lovett-Solo Acoustic Blues .....Steve Lovett ............................................................402-660-7146 / [email protected] Stimulus Packages ..................................................................Rick Hillyard ........................................................................................... 712-420 1232Sue Murray / The WILDFIRE Band ..............................................Sue Murray .................................................. 402-533-4791 / [email protected] Thorne Group ......................................................................Susan Thorne ........................................................................................... 402 968-4991Swampboy ......................................................................................Tim Koehn .........................................402-830-0021 / [email protected] Shop Radio ..........................................................................K.C. Kelley .............................................................................................319-431-3508Vintage ...........................................................................................Charlie Ames ....................................816-678-8360 / [email protected]


“One of the best undiscovered musical treasures in the country.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch

“The BelAirs deliver killer dance grooves, seamless medleys, and a contagious, unpretentious party spirit.” Twin Cities Reader

“A knockout blend of excellent musicianship, solid vo-cals and pure showmanship whenever the BelAirs take the stage.” Kansas City Times

Fronted by brothers Dick and Dave Pruitt on bass and electric guitars, with Michael Cherry on drums, the Bel Airs play a danceable mix with an authentic but eclectic bluesy-coun-try-soul-and-rock-n-roll sound influenced by the likes of Wilson Picket, Slim Harpo, Howlin’ Wolf and Johnny Cash.

The Pruitt brothers’ harmony vocal style sets them apart in the contemporary music scene--leading one reviewer to refer to them as the “Everly Brothers of Blues”. David’s “big guitar” and Dick’s howling vocals over soulful, right-on rhythm playing make this trio a powerhouse.

Formed in 1981, the original incarnation of the Bel Airs in-cluded the Pruitt brothers, harp player Michael Henderson and drummer Pat O’Connor. In those days, rumor has it that in addition to playing guitar behind his head, little David Pruitt occasionally rode on Henderson’s shoulders at the end of an especially raucous set.

Back in the days of vinyl, the original four members of the band released the Bel Airs’ first recording NEED ME A CAR on Blind Pig Records in 1984. Later, Henderson moved to Nashville and played with the Snakes and toured with Mark Knopfler.

In 1991, the Bel Airs released DANGEROUS CURVES, record-ed at Lou Whitney’s studio in Springfield, Missouri, as a trio. Later that year, when David moved temporarily to southern California, drummer Pat O’Connor left for Nashville as well, and in 1995, brothers Dick and David recruited Indianapolis native Michael Cherry, a veteran of the Paladins and the James Harman Band, to return to the midwest to take the helm of the rhythm section. The association has proven to be a fruitful one. The current line-up has been together over ten years, and has released two recordings. HOODOO PARTY

The Bel Airs with The Electric ChurchSaturday, Jan. 16th @ 6 pm • $5.00 • BelAirs @ 6 pm, Electric Church @ 9:30 pm

21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

(1999) was recorded in St. Louis and among the guest mu-sicians featured is late-great pianist Johnnie Johnson, who emerged from Chuck Berry’s shadow during the 1990’s and often joined the Bel Airs on stage at St. Louis’ legendary Off Broadway.

Their most recent recording effort is GOT LOVE on High-tone Records. Recorded at The Studio with Lou Whitney in Springfield, GOT LOVE features the intensity of the live shows that loyal fans know and love, with guests Jimmy Carpenter on horn and Joe Terry on hammond organ adding depth and polish in just the right places.

Now based in Columbia, Missouri, the Bel Airs are easily one of the hardest working and most entertaining blues bands in the country. These veterans have delivered some of the hottest dates at legendary clubs, many of which the Bel Airs have outlasted, like JB Huttos and Roger Nabor’s late great Grand Emporium, and they continue to win over audiences from Southern California to the DC Metro area and all parts in between. They are perennial favorites in the US and Brit-ish Virgin Islands and recently began building a following in Europe with performances in France, Corsica, Belgium and the UK. Their musical approach and superbly crafted showmanship make for a more than memorable concert wherever they appear.

From the Bel Airs artist website

ELECTRIC CHURCHWe are The Electric Church. We have all performed in different bands with varying influences and have taken these experienc-es to create The Elec-tric Church, a unique sound that everyone can enjoy. Our group of BluesEd Alumni consist of Elliott Torrez, Ben Curran, Alex Wattenhoffer, Nick Stepanek, and Kevin Fries.

Elliott Torrez’s eclectic and creative guitar work combined with his powerful vocals embody his entertaining presence. Meanwhile, Ben Curran’s expressive melodies enhance the atmosphere of our band. Alex Wattenhoffer’s musical knowledge adds a fundamental layer to our sound. While, Nick (The Duke) Stepanek’s rock solid grooves together with Kevin Fries’ rhythmic prowess simultaneously create the foundation for the band.

Despite our young age, we have vast experience in perform-ing. We will continue to progress and evolve as we strive to become a prominent force that will play for numerous audiences across the nation for years to come.

From the Electric Church Facebook page


Matt Woods • Rob Lumbard • Tina & Brandon Findlay Sweet Tea • Hector Anchondo • Jason Vivone Scotty & the Wingtips • The Soul Searchers

Buttercow Blues Band • Candye Kane • The Blue Band Danielle Nicole Band • Chris O’Leary Band

Schedule will be posted when finalized

TICKETSFRIDAY ONLY $20 • FRIDAY ONLY + BUFFET (CIBS members) $45

SATURDAY ONLY $25 • FRIDAY & SATURDAY $40 (save $5)FRIDAY + BUFFET & SATURDAY (CIBS members) $65 (save $5)

BUFFET ONLY (IBHOF members w/VIP pass) $25Please note: Children 12 and under free if accompanied by an adult. Two-day tickets and Buffet tickets are only available for purchase in advance. Admission at the door is $20 Friday and $25 Saturday. Buffet ticket purchase is restricted to CIBS and IBHOF members and the invited guests of inductees and must be purchased by Friday, Feb-ruary 5, 2016. CIBS membership can also be purchased at the CIBS website. Advance ticket sales will end at 5 pm on Thursday, February 11, 2016. Advance tickets will be available for pickup at the Will Call table beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday (3rd floor in front of Des Moines room) or at 4 pm on Saturday (2nd floor near Salon D). Please bring a copy of your receipt, paper printout or digital copy on your phone, or be prepared to show a photo ID. If you are purchasing tickets as a gift, please list the name of the authorized recipient in the comments section when placing your order. Advance tickets are only refundable in the case of event cancellation.

HOTEL ROOMSSpecial group rates at the Downtown Marriott for this event are just $115 per night. To make room reservations call 1-800-514-4681 or book them online athttp://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/dsmia-des-moines-marriott-down-town/. Be sure to tell them you are coming for the Winter Blues Fest

The Blues Society of Omaha is always a big supporter of this event, with enough members going to occupy 3 or 4 floors of the Hotel. It is the Central Iowa Blues Society’s yearly fundraiser, and also the best party in town!! Hard to beat 13 bands for $25 and discounted rooms for the event. The Marriott is a 1000 room Hotel, and sells out every year for this event.


C D R e v i e w

“Bounding Energy and Funk....Loaded with Charisma!” -Southwest Blues Magazine

“Miller has one of the best smiles in the blues.”-Big City Blues Magazine

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago by his Grandmother; he was giv-en his childhood nickname, Biscuit, after always being in the kitchen and under-foot while she was trying to cook. Growing up at Grand-ma’s house also gave Biscuit his love and appreciation for music, as gospel and soul were played in the home on a regular basis.

While visiting his friend Dat-rick’s house one afternoon, Biscuit spotted a four string

electric bass sitting in a corner collecting dust and decided to check it out. The bass belonged to Datrick’s older brother, Darnell, who taught him a couple of songs and Biscuit took to it like a fish in water. “It was easy to play and I fell in love with it immediately.” So at the tender age of eleven years old, Biscuit Miller was born into the “Blues”. It didn’t take long till he formed his first band, Clever, with Ivan Wal-lace, his childhood friend and they moved to Minneapolis in 1982. Soon after, a mutual friend, Joe Rowe introduced Biscuit to Sonny Rogers who taught him a lot about play-ing basic blues. During his time with Rogers, they recorded “They Call Me the Cat Daddy”, which won Rogers a Handy Award for Best New Artist. Unfortunately, Sonny passed away before he was able to accept the award. Biscuit then went on to play with other respected blues artists such as, Mojo Buford (formerly with Muddy Waters) and Lady Blue (backup vocalist for Ike and Tina Turner).

One day, Biscuit received a phone call requesting him to come back home to sub for Chicago’s own legendary Lonnie Brooks who needed a bass player for one night. That one night lasted for over ten years as Biscuit became the per-manent bass player for the Lonnie Brooks Band. “The years I spent with Lonnie were invaluable to me as a musician. I learned so much about the music business and being on the road – we played some incredible gigs such as Presi-dent Clinton’s inauguration and I met and performed with many of my own idols while traveling with Lonnie and the band. During the winter months, we didn’t tour as much, so I spent time sitting in with various musicians and in 2000 I formed Biscuit and the Mix to fill up some of the down-time”. During this time, he recorded a CD “Come Together”. One of

Biscuit Miller and the MixThursday, Jan. 28th @ 6 pm • $10 • 21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

the bands Biscuit frequently sat in with was the up and coming Anthony Gomes Band. During one of those sessions, he was asked to join the band full time and he decided to take Anthony up on his offer. During the five years with the Anthony Gomes Band, they released five CD’s, Unity, Sweet Stringin’ Soul, Long Way Home, Music is the Medicine, and the latest, Live at the Triple Door.

A heavy touring schedule of over 250 gigs a year in the US and abroad, led to a dedicated fan base, not only for the Anthony Gomes Band, but also for Biscuit’s fun and funky style of bass playing and his great rapport with his many fans and friends around the world. Biscuit Miller and The Mix are once again on the road with his new CD “BLUES WITH A SMILE” and ready to bring a smorgasbord of fun to your party.

On May 10, 2012, Biscuit won the Blues Music Award for “Instrumentalist-Bass”!

What’s better than a bowlful of Soulful, Funky Blues stew? A pipin’ hot Biscuit, of course!

From the Biscuit Miller artist website

Charlie MusselwhiteI Ain’t Lyin’

Henrietta Records

Charlie Musselwhite is a living legend in the blues. He has been recording and touring for over 50 years. He has won the Blues Music Award for best harmonica player an unbelievable 25 times! This cd demonstrates that he is only getting better after all these years.

This is a live recording that was made at two different venues with the majority penned by Mus-selwhite. It is recorded so well that it is difficult to recognize that this is a live cd.

My Kinda Gal is a great cut that has an extended harp intro done expertly by Musselwhite. It has a bit of a train song feel that is very appealing. The great jazz instrumental, Cristo Redentor, that Charlie is well known for, is included. It wouldn’t be a Charlie Musselwhite concert without it.

This is another outstanding cd in a long line of them from Musselwhite. With his usual wonderful backup band, Mus-selwhite displays that he is the standard for Chicago blues music.

--A. J. Foyt


Come out and catch the Hector Anchondo band as they head to the 2016 International Blues Challenge in Mem-phis for the second time. In 2015 the band advanced to the semi-finals, and as the winner of the 2015 Nebras-ka Blues Challenge will be representing Nebraska again this year.

His slide guitar is impeccable and voice, well for a 30-something, it’s mature for a blues singer

–Kyle Eustice of The Reader

Omaha’s Hector Anchondo plays the guitar like a boss. –Kevin Krauskopf of Saint Joseph News Press

Hector Anchondo doesn’t just play the blues — he lives and breathes the blues. At 16-years-old, the budding musician picked up his first guitar and never looked back. He be-gan an instant love affair with the instrument, especially Fenders. Born in Omaha, but raised seven miles outside of Salem, Missouri, Anchondo was able to take advantage of the tranquil farm life and learn guitar at a steady pace. He was drawn to those artists who played Fender Stratocasters like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn and Eric Clapton, but also respected the country greats such as Johnny Cash and Hank Williams Sr. As he got older, his propensity for mu-sic only intensified. After playing countless shows at family gatherings and hole-in-the-wall dive bars, Anchondo made the move back to Omaha, Nebraska in 2000. His first offi-cial recording, Rookies of the Year, was with his first band, Anchondo, and featured more energetic, Latin-influenced grooves. Recorded by the infamous A.J. Mogis of Presto! Studios (and later Saddle Creek Records), the album funded any touring for the next few years. With a home base in Omaha, it made traveling much easier.

“At the time there was really huge radio support, area wide album distribution, and a huge local music support that I’ve never come across in any other city I’ve ever traveled to,” Anchondo recalls. “Omaha is still a great city to get your legs, but 10 years ago it was unmatched. Omaha has played a huge roll in propelling me forward and I owe a lot to this city.”

In 2002, Anchondo and cousin George Keele released an

2016 International Blues Challenge Send Off Party for

HECTOR ANCHONDO BANDspecial guest GINA SICILIA

Thursday, Jan. 21st @ 6 pm • $10 • 21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

acoustic rock album, Somewhere in Middle America, and followed up with 2004’s The Audience is Waiting and an EP, 2006’s North of the Border. After years of touring and living on Ramen Noodles, Kings of Nowhere was re-leased in 2008. At the time, Anchondo had gained sig-nificant amounts of traction and even without promotion, would sell out shows. However, once the economy crashed, people suddenly stopped going to shows so around 2010, Anchondo made the brave decision to take the solo route. Only this time, his focus was on the blues, which didn’t happen by accident. Friend Tim Convy and owner of the St. Louis-based label, Red Bird Records, contacted Anchon-do about recording a blues album. He jumped at the op-portunity. In 2012, he released the Kickin’ Up Dust EP and hasn’t looked back. Sharing the stage with notable artists such as Mato Nanji of Indigenous, Magic Slim, Royal South-ern Brotherhood, Hamilton Loomis, and Coco Montoya, and getting private guitar lessons from James Brown’s guitarist Damen Wood, gave Anchondo the confidence to pursue his dream. He’s currently writing material for his next album. With shows booked until the end of the year, Anchondo is on his way to becoming an established blues vet, and it won’t be long before he’s up there with his heroes.

“I’ve been actively working on guitar to get to the point where I could hang with Jimi or Stevie,” he says. “I want to be able to take the stage with any guitar great and be able to hold my own. It’s things like that that keep me pushing to play better, faster and with style. I knew at a young age that I loved everything about music and I want to do it pro-fessionally for the rest of my life.”

From the Hector Anchondo Band website

GINA SICILIA“...impressive range and depth ...she’s going to get even better with age.”

–Philadelphia Inquirer

“Not since Susan Tedeschi has a young female blues singer made such a strong impression...remarkable voice”

–Blues Revue

“Gina Sicilia’s voice possesses such depth and breadth that she may indeed one day be mentioned alongside the giants in the blues idiom.”

–Music City Blues

To be sure, Philadelphia-based vocalist and songwriter Gina Si-cilia has come a long way in a relatively short time in the blues


world. This is not to say that she’s some new up-and-comer, either, as this woman in her mid-twenties has been actively singing the blues and writing her own songs since she was an adolescent.

Exposed to blues and roots music by her parents, Sicil-ia began writing her own songs as a 12-year-old. By the time she was 16, she would have some of the songs that would be included on her debut album. She graduated in 2007 from Temple University in Philadelphia with a degree in journalism. It was during her sophomore year in college that she began attending the weekly blues jams at Warm-daddy’s in Philadelphia. She cut her teeth there and began to learn and develop as she associated with blues veterans, some of whom would help her record her first few demo discs. When her debut album, Allow Me to Confess, was

Nick Schnebelen grew up with parents who played music full time in the Kansas City Blues scene. In 1997, he moved to Philadelphia to experience music on a larger scale and started his own band. K-Floor quickly became one of Philly’s favorite early 2000’s Blues/Jam bands known for their high energy funk/ blues. His music thrived with K-Floor for the next five years until he had an opportunity to get back to his family and roots.

In 2004, his siblings, Danielle and Kris, left Kansas City and moved up to Philadelphia to form the family blues power trio “Trampled Under Foot”. For the next year and a half the trio travelled between the two cities until they returned to KC and cultivated a large fan base in the Midwest.

In 2008, Trampled Under Foot won the International Blues Competition and Nick won the prestigious Albert King Award for “Best Guitarist”. This propelled TUF to begin touring and recording in Los Angeles with Tony Brauna-gel. Tony produced two records for TUF, “Wrong Side of the Blues”, and “Badlands”, which debuted #1 on Billboard and won “Best Contemporary Blues Album of the Year” at the Blues Music Awards in 2014. Ending the band on a high note, Trampled Under Foot decided to stop performing sole-ly as a group and now intends to have a select few reunion shows in 2016.

During his years with TUF, Nick worked up a unique one man band performance which allowed for a mellow yet exciting set change. The simplicity of the kick drum and high hat worked together with just one guitar and helped to create an old school blues sound. He began to use a va-

The Nick Schnebelen BandThursday, Feb. 4th @ 6 pm • $10 • 21st Saloon, 96th & L Street, Omaha, NE

released in 2007, the critical reaction was positive. She was talked about as an important new voice in the blues with a maturity far beyond her years, evident in her choice of cov-ers, where she interpreted oft-overlooked rhythm & blues classics. In the spring of 2008, her album was nominated for “Best New Artist Debut” at the W.C. Handy/Blues Music Awards in Memphis.

Blues Revue magazine said of Sicilia’s 2007 debut, “Not since Susan Tedeschi has a young female blues singer made such a strong impression….a remarkable voice.” Coupled with good management and a good booking agency, Sicil-ia should be touring the U.S., Canada, and Europe for years to come. And given the current paucity of truly good female blues singers, this would not be a bad thing.

From www.allmusic.com

riety of guitars such as elec-tric, acoustic, Dobro, cigar box guitar, and lap steel to mix up his show.

Nick formed the Nick Schne-belen Band in early 2015, with Nick on guitar and vo-cals, Heather Newman on guitar and vocals, Joe Voye on Drums, and Cliff Moore on Bass. The Nick Schnebelen band plays a variety of blues and roots music styles and with two strong front vocal-ists, NSB hits classic electric blues, dirty stomp blues, funk

and jazz. Nick continues to feature many different types of guitars during his shows to vary tones. Often during the middle of a set, Nick heads behind the kick drum and high hat with a guitar in hand while Heather Newman grabs her acoustic guitar for a short rootsy breakdown.

Heather Newman has been singing all her life and has been a force of nature since she was young. When she was 11 years old she joined the BluesEd program in Omaha as a singer, where she had amazing opportunities to open for and play with many great national blues artists such as Toni Lynn Washington, Sonny Landreth, Anthony Gomes, Corky Segal, Curtis Salgado as well as many others. With the help of the Blues Society of Omaha and BluesEd, she performed at venues such as The Playing with Fire Concert Series at Lewis and Clark Landing, The Holland Perform-ing Arts Center Auditorium as well as Holland’s 1200 Club winter series. Today, she is living in Kansas City and tour-ing with the Nick Schnebelen Band.

From the Nick Schnebelen Band website and Heather Newman Music Facebook page

blues socieTy oF omahaPresident ...............Mark Grubbs - [email protected] - 402-598-8644Vice President ............................................. Glenn Bauer - [email protected] ............................................................ Kit Kelley - [email protected] Treasurer ....................................................Ric Cowger - [email protected] ....................................... Bonnie Mercer - [email protected] Coordinators ...........................Lisa & Steve Krueger - 402-619-0309Membership Coordinator .............Sher Dostal - [email protected] Coordinator ............................................................................. pendingAdvertising Coordinator ................................. Dave Heuton - [email protected] Coordinator ...........................................Cinda Tully - [email protected] Lincoln Representative .... Moe Jasinski - [email protected] - 402-489-9033

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Renewal Brand New Donor________ General Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25

• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 1 Membership Card• Plus various venue specials

________ Family Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes

• 2 Membership Cards• Plus various venue specials

________ Special Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 2 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter

• Plus various venue specials

________ Corporate Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 3 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter


________ Blue Club Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 5 Membership Cards• 1st Month Free Business Card Advertisement• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter


If this donation is a gift, BSO gladly will notify the recipient of your gift.Your name _________________________________________________________________________

Your address _______________________________________________________________________Your phone # and email: ______________________________________________________________

_________ Volunteers are always needed. Check here if you are not interested.

Credit cards also accepted on line at www.omahablues.com or at most of our BSO events.

Thank you for your generous support and for helping us Keep the Blues Alive here in Nebraska !!!

GO GREEN!!!

YES!I would like to receive

my newsletter by email.

No need to mail me anewsletter.

Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Corporation Keepin’ the Blues Alive!


or mail this Application Form to: Blues Society of Omaha, Inc.

P.O. Box 241698Omaha, NE 68124

Name _______________________________________Address _____________________________________City _____________________ State ___ Zip ________Phone ______________________________________ E-mail ______________________________________


• Monthly Newsletter – Blue Notes• 1 Membership Card• Plus various venue specials

________ Family Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40• Monthly Newsletter – Blue Notes• 2 Membership Cards


________ Special Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75• Monthly Newsletter – Blue Notes• 2 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter• Plus various venue specials

________ Corporate Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125• Monthly Newsletter – Blue Notes

• 3 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter• Plus various venue specials

________ Blue Club Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250• Monthly Newsletter – Blue Notes

• 5 Membership Cards• 1st Month Free Business Card Advertisement• Name Listed in Blues Notes newsletter• Plus various venue specials



Thank you for your generous support and for helping us Keep the Blues Allive here in Nebraska !!!

GO GREEN!!!


my newsletter ONLY

via the BSO Website.



















GO GREEN!!!


my newsletter ONLY


No need to mail me anewsletter.DONOR APPLICATION

Donate online at www.omahablues.com or mail this Application Form to:Blues Society of Omaha, Inc.


Name __________________________________________________Address ________________________________________________City ________________________ State ______ Zip ___________Phone _________________________________________________E-mail _________________________________________________

If this donation is a gift, BSO gladly will notify the recipient of your gift.Your name _________________________________________________________________________Your address _______________________________________________________________________Your phone # and email: _______________________________________________________________

Credit cards also accepted on line at www.omahablues.com or at most of our BSO events.Thank you for your generous support and for helping us Keep the Blues Alive here in Nebraska !!!

¨ Renewal ¨ Brand New Donor________ General Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25

• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 1 Membership Card

________ Family Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 2 Membership Cards

________ Special Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 2 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter

________ Corporate Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 3 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter

________ Blue Club Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 5 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter• 1st Month Free Business Card Advertisement


or mail this Application Form to:Blues Society of Omaha, Inc.


Name __________________________________________________Address ________________________________________________City ________________________ State ______ Zip ___________Phone _________________________________________________E-mail _________________________________________________

If this donation is a gift, BSO gladly will notify the recipient of your gift.Your name _________________________________________________________________________Your address _______________________________________________________________________Your phone # and email: _______________________________________________________________

Credit cards also accepted on line at www.omahablues.com or at most of our BSO events.Thank you for your generous support and for helping us Keep the Blues Alive here in Nebraska !!!

¨ Renewal ¨ Brand New Donor________ General Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25

• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 1 Membership Card

________ Family Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 2 Membership Cards

________ Special Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 2 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter

________ Corporate Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 3 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter

________ Blue Club Donor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250• Monthly Newsletter – Blues Notes• 5 Membership Cards• Name Listed in Blues Notes Newsletter• 1st Month Free Business Card Advertisement


















GO GREEN!!!


my newsletter ONLY



I would like to receive mynewsletter by email.No need to mail me

a newsletter.


















GO GREEN!!!


my newsletter ONLY



I would like to receive mynewsletter by email.No need to mail me

a newsletter.

KELLEY HUNTThursday, Feb. 11th @ 6 pm • $15 • 21st Saloon

96th & L Street, Omaha, NEKelley Hunt remains an astonishingly well-kept secret on the blues circuit. She’s a powerful singer with a huge reservoir of blues and R&B muscle and can singe your eyebrows with a ballad or full-tilt boogie. She’s also a rollicking pianist... and a superior songwriter with a knack for going for the

musical jugular. Hunt’s latest album, ‘Inspiration’ (88 Records) is a swaggering live slab of smokin’ blues,

high-energy swing and boogie-woogie.” -CITY PAGES Twin Cities

“One of the best new songwriters in the genre.” -Seattle Times

shemekia copeland - blues society of omaha · friday – 4:30-6:00pm “highway blues ... der foot...

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