This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Roomful of Blues has garnered significant acclaim over the decades. According to DownBeat magazine, they “are in a class by themselves.” Founded in 1967 and led by the masterful guitarist Chris Vachon for over thirty years, they offer a toe-tapping mix that encompasses jump, swing, blues, and the early flavors of rock ‘n’ roll. As noted by USA Today, their sound is effectively “high voltage, swinging jump blues and R&B.”
Rich Lataille has been a pillar of the band since 1970, leading the horn section and giving it an impeccable quality that has earned Roomful of Blues five GRAMMY Award nominations and seven Blues Music Awards. The band has even been recognized twice in the DownBeat International Critics’ Poll as Best Blues Band. Remarkably, after 19 albums and countless live performances, they continue to evolve and break new ground in their genre.
Tickets for their upcoming concert are priced at $70 and can be purchased online. The Lizzie Rose Music Room is situated at 217 E. Main Street in Tuckerton, NJ, with free parking available for concert-goers.
Produced by Chris Vachon, Steppin’ Out! features an exhilarating collection of 14 tracks that are both rollicking and house-rocking. The emotional connection between Bastos and her fellow musicians is clear from the very first note to the last. The album kicks off with a high-energy cover of Billy “The Kid” Emerson’s Satisfied, setting the tone for a memorable listening experience. It includes compelling reinterpretations of lesser-known tracks by legends like Big Mama Thornton (You Don’t Move Me No More), Big Maybelle (I’ve Got A Feeling and Tell Me Who), Etta James (Good Rocking Daddy), and Buddy & Ella Johnson (Why Don’t Cha Stop It), among others.
The current lineup of Roomful of Blues showcases the exceptional talents of guitarist and bandleader Chris Vachon, who has been at the helm since 1998. The distinct sound of the band continues to thrive thanks to the superb musicianship of its members. Rich Lataille’s legendary saxophone skills add a rich layer to their music, evoking everything from the bold tones of early rock to the sophisticated flair of big-band swing. Along with Vachon and Lataille, the band features the formidable D.D. Bastos, keyboardist Jeff Ceasrine, bassist John Turner, drummer Mike Coffey, baritone and tenor saxophonist Craig Thomas, and trumpeter Christopher Pratt.
Joyous and lively, Roomful of Blues thrives on delivering unforgettable performances night after night. Their signature blend of horn-driven jump, swing, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, R&B, and soul not only captivates audiences but also fills dance floors. “We always keep things fresh, and we keep the excitement level high,” Vachon explains. “Playing this music is an immense amount of fun for us. And it’s just as much fun for our audience.” With Bastos leading the charge with her dynamic vocals, the band appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. With Steppin’ Out!, Roomful of Blues continues to solidify its status as a defining force in the blues genre, marrying tradition with contemporary flair.
The Lizzie Rose Music Room is a non-profit organization established in 2014 to promote live music in Tuckerton and the surrounding Ocean County area. It functions as a “Listening Room,” prioritizing the music experience rather than serving as a bar or restaurant. The venue features a diverse array of genres, including Blues, Jazz, Bluegrass, Country, Rock, Soul, and Singer/Songwriters, providing a rich platform for artists and audiences alike.
