Field of Blues, Weathers Severe Weather Threat; Byron Crossroads Blues Festival in the Spotlight
It started to rain late on Friday, June 21st. Two and a half inches of rain fell from the sky in about 10 hours. In the morning hours of Saturday, June 22nd, the skies hazed over and kept the sun from baking the Rockford area to 93 degrees. The rains stayed away, the grounds dried up a bit, and the winds (despite one 40+ mph front that went through) were gusty but not a problem. 81 degrees and steady breezes made the humid air feel quite passable. The Inaugural Field of Blues Festival opened on time and each of the six bands made their way to the stage pretty much on schedule. Muddy field conditions precluded cars and trucks so we used a gator and a golf cart to initially shuttle equipment and bands in and out. We all persevered and things went off with out many really big issues, a testament to planning, hard work and creativity! The crowds may have been limited because of the weath-
er but those who came enjoyed a spectacular day of music. The Flaming Mudcats started things off with a rousing set of tunes, playing many of the great cuts from their 2011 album that got them noticed by Crossroads. Craig Bracken fronts the band, singing and playing harp. He was spot on leading things in their bluesy and soulful approach. He and the band are the pride of Auckland, New Zealand. Doug Bygrave on guitar was impressive and had great tone and phrasing. Sean McCarthy on bass and Ian Thomson on drums are a solid backdrop to this outstanding foursome. Their first US festival appearance was a huge, huge success and the boys hung out until the final notes were played so they could commune with their US brethren. Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo gave it their all, delivering high
energy and rocking great blues. They played to the crowd well and their finale of “Drinkin’ Blues” with the band working through the assembled people on field was excellent! Toronzo Cannon defines the new breed of Chicago bluesmen. His songs are sometimes dark, real and poignant, as is his stellar guitar work. What a super set of music he delivered for all to appreciate. His impeccable look was also appreciated, but it was what he did on stage that was most impressive! Dave Weld and the Imperial Flames provided their usually level of raw energy and outstanding blues. Led by Dave on vocals and guitar (who testified to the assemblage of blues fans), the band put on a stellar show. Monica Myhre on vocals, Abb Locke on sax, Jeff Taylor on drums and vocals, Dave Kaye on bass and Harry Yaseen was on the keys joining in for the festival. Dave worked the crowd well and the band was incredible!
July-August 2013
Keeping the Blues Alive 2013 FOBF Facts
2.5 inches of rain fell in he morning before the inaugural festival A huge and ominous front with 40+ mph winds blew through the Stateline area barely an hour before the gates opened Despite the weather, 600 faithful blues fans came out to the ball park and witnessed a memorable event. Despite the weather, the festival opened on time and each act started on schedule. 38 volunteers and the staff of the Aviators gave their all making this an event that all who were there wil remember– our thanks go out to each and everyone who helped. Sponsorship received totaled over $8,000 which helped make the planning of the event and scheduling of the acts so much easier for us. Thanks to all our sponsors for their support!
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