Roomful of Blues

Roomful of Blues. As a renowned blues ensemble, they have been actively performing and recording since 1967, sharing the stage with notable artists such as B.B. King, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. With their unique blend of blues, swing, and jazz, they have become a staple in the New England music scene, often performing at venues like the Scullers Jazz Club in Boston and the Tupelo Music Hall in Londonderry. Their music has been influenced by legendary artists such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong, and they have had the opportunity to collaborate with musicians like James Cotton, Junior Wells, and Pinetop Perkins.

History

The band's history dates back to 1967, when they were formed in West Greenwich, Rhode Island, by a group of blues enthusiasts, including Duke Robillard and Al Copley. Over the years, they have undergone several lineup changes, with members coming and going, but their commitment to the blues genre has remained unwavering. They have performed at numerous festivals, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Chicago Blues Festival, and the Montreal International Jazz Festival, sharing the stage with artists like Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, and Etta James. Their music has been praised by critics and fans alike, with reviews in publications like DownBeat, JazzTimes, and Blues Revue, and they have been nominated for several awards, including the Blues Music Award and the Grammy Award.

Band Members

The current lineup of the band includes Chris Vachon on guitar, Phil Pemberton on vocals, Rusty Scott on keyboards, John Turner on bass, Chris Rivelli on drums, and a horn section featuring Mark Earley on saxophone, Doug Woolverton on trumpet, and Carl Querfurth on trombone. Past members have included Duke Robillard, Al Copley, Ron Levy, and Greg Piccolo, among others. The band has also had the opportunity to collaborate with guest musicians, such as Scott Hamilton, Gray Sargent, and Jay McShann, and they have performed with other notable ensembles, including the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra and the Wycliffe Gordon Quintet.

Discography

The band's discography includes over 20 albums, released on labels such as Alligator Records, Black Top Records, and Rounder Records. Some of their notable albums include Roomful of Blues (1977), Let's Have a Party (1979), Dressed Up to Get Messed Up (1984), and 45 Live (2013). They have also released several live albums, including Live at Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel (1993) and Hook, Line and Sinker (1996), which feature performances at venues like the Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel in Providence and the House of Blues in Boston. Their music has been influenced by a wide range of artists, including T-Bone Walker, Louis Jordan, and Big Joe Turner, and they have been praised by critics for their energetic live performances, which often feature special guests like Kim Wilson and Rod Piazza.

Awards and Recognition

The band has received numerous awards and nominations throughout their career, including several Blues Music Awards and a Grammy Award nomination. They have been recognized for their contributions to the blues genre by organizations such as the Blues Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. In 2003, they were inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, and in 2011, they received a Proclamation from the State of Rhode Island in recognition of their 40th anniversary. They have also been featured in publications like The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The Providence Journal, and they have performed at events like the Presidential Inauguration and the Newport Jazz Festival.

Musical Style

The band's musical style is a unique blend of blues, swing, and jazz, with a strong emphasis on horn section arrangements and vocal harmonies. They are known for their energetic live performances, which often feature extended jam sessions and improvisations. Their music has been influenced by a wide range of artists, including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong, and they have been praised by critics for their ability to blend traditional blues with modern rock and R&B influences. They have also been influenced by other genres, such as gospel music and funk music, and they have collaborated with artists from a variety of backgrounds, including Al Green, Mavis Staples, and The Neville Brothers. With their diverse musical style and energetic live performances, they continue to be a popular and influential force in the blues and jazz scenes, performing at venues like the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City and the Green Mill Jazz Club in Chicago.