The Villages Blues Society upcoming events

The Cold Stares (09/24/2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Who are The Cold Stares?

For almost ten years, The Cold Stares had toured the world relentlessly as a duo, blowing away audiences across the US and Europe with a fierce, blistering live show that belied their bare bones, guitar-and-drums setup. In 2023 the band began embracing a whole new kind of chemistry and launched into their next chapter, adding a third member and channeling the classic power trio sound they grew up on with their explosive acclaimed album, “Voices.”

Working off the international success of “Voices” which was voted one of the best albums of 2023 by Classic Rock Magazine, The Cold Stares went into Memphis Magnetic Studio in Memphis Tennessee and recorded the band’s next chapter and progression, the sprawling album “The Southern,”
which is set for release spring of 2024.

The Cold Stares have created a buzz in the music world that has landed them on the road with the likes of Joe Bonamassa, Larkin Poe, Rival Sons, Reignwolf, Spoon, Grand Funk Railroad, and Thievery Corp, among many others. American Songwriter praised the group’s “hard-won commitment, honesty, and intensity,” while No Depression hailed their sound as a “roots rocking firestorm,” and tunes from their albums turned up everywhere from ESPN, Dodge, Chevy and TNT to the hit video game Cyberpunk 2077.

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Quinn Sullivan (10/14/2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

QuinnSullivanMusic.com

Who is Quinn Sullivan?

26 Year old Quinn Sullivan is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and guitarist who rose to prominence in the early 2000’s and continues to amaze audiences worldwide. Born and raised in New Bedford Massachusetts, Quinn grew up in a musical household listening to classic rock, jazz and blues. Quinn credits his early obsession with The Beatles as the impetus for him to pursue music as a career. He received his first guitar at the tender age of three and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. He gained national attention with appearances on afternoon and late night television shows (Tonight Show, Ellen, Jimmy Kimmell, and Conan O Brian). In 2007, Quinn met music legend Buddy Guy , who invited him onstage and would later invite him to tour and record with him throughout the next decade.

Over the years, Quinn has evolved from a remarkable young talent into a mature, emotive artist known for blending blues, rock, and classic influences. His discography includes multiple albums, with his fifth release, “Salvation,” recognized as his most personal work, exploring themes of loss, love, and resilience. He has been praised not only for his exceptional guitar skills but also for his songwriting, drawing inspiration from both his musical roots and his own life experiences.

Quinn’s personal journey profoundly influences his music and stage performance. His music reflects years of growth, resilience, and emotional depth shaped by life experiences including personal loss and soulful introspection. His recent albums explore themes of love, hardship, and redemption, which translate into performances full of honest emotion and at the same time full of raw energy and enthusiasm, making every concert not just a show but a personal and transformative experience.

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Jason Ricci and The Bad Kind (10/22/2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

JasonRicciMusic.com

Who Jason Ricci and The Bad Kind?

Jason Ricci stands as one of the most electrifying and boundary-pushing figures in modern blues. Know for his blazing harmonica technique and high-energy performances, Ricci blends traditional blues with rock, funk, punk, and even jam-band influences.

His playing is fast, inventive, and deeply expressive, often pushing the harmonica far beyond its expected limits while still honoring the emotional core of the blues.

For The Villages Blues Society, celebrating Ricci's music means embracing both the rich traditions of the blues and the exciting directions it continues to explore.

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Mathias Lattin (11/11/2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

MathiasLattin.com

Who Is Mathias Lattin

Mathias Lattin won the 2023 International Blues Challenge and Best Guitarist at the tender of 20-years old; conceivably making him the youngest to win both.

The grandson of NBA Hall of Famer, David “Big Daddy” Lattin, he displays his talent on the stage not the basketball court. He is a 2020 graduate of Houston’s acclaimed Kinder High School of Performing and Visual Arts. He began his foray into the Houston Blues scene when he was 12 years old. Jonn Del Toro Richardson invited him to attend the weekly Blues jam he hosted at The Big Easy. He garnered national attention when he joined the Keeshea Pratt Band (IBC 2018) in 2020. After touring with the Keeshea Pratt Band and joining Brazilian Bluesman Cris Crochemore for the 2022 IBC, Mathias decided to take a shot at the IBC as front man.

UP NEXT is the debut release of the emerging Texas musician. He wrote and produced the project which displays some of Lattin’s musical influences. The wealth and breadth of great music/musicians in the Houston music scene had a major impact on the 21-year-old Lattin. UP NEXT is proof that the music is alive and in capable hands.

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Big Al and The Heavyweights (11/21/2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

https://www.bigal.net

Who is Big Al and The Heavyweights?

Big Al and the Heavyweights originally formed in 1996 as the Unknown Blues Band, with founding members Al Lauro, Warren Haynes (Allman Brothers Band and Gov't Mule), and pianist Rick Gergen (Sweethearts of the Rodeo). Of course, Warren is no longer in the band. Still, Big Al has formed a solid array of musicians that features guitarist-vocalist extraordinaire Marcel Anton, Dave Mendez from New Orleans, and harp player and vocalist from Detroit, Dangerous Dale Robinson.

Blues Power is the eighth album from South Louisiana roots veterans Big Al and the Heavyweights, delivering a fiery mix of modern blues, funk, bayou soul, zydeco flavor, and high energy musicianship. Released via the VizzTone Label Group, the album marks a new chapter for the band with revitalized energy and a return to their original four piece format after the passing of longtime member Wayne Lohr. (americanbluesscene)

The record celebrates the group's signature Gulf Coast blues style while pushing forward with fresh compositions, rich grooves, and standout performances from longtime vocalist/guitarist Marcel Anton, bandleader/drummer Big Al Lauro, harmonica ace Dale Robertson, and bassist Dennis Cedeno. (bandcamp)

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Eric Johanson (12/22/2026)

Tue, 22 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

FOR MORE INFO:

https://www.ericjohanson.com/

Who is Eric Johanson

Eric Johanson blends sharp songwriting with a deep connection to the guitar, creating music that’s dynamic, soulful, and rooted in a mix of rock, blues, and modern influences.

His playing is expressive without being flashy—riff-driven and rhythmic one moment, fluid and melodic the next—always serving the song rather than overpowering it.

There’s a rawness to his sound, but also a sense of purpose, pulling from the weight of tradition while pushing toward something new.

Whether channeling the swampy pulse of his New Orleans home or leaning into heavier, fuzz-laden textures, Johanson’s music strikes a balance between grit and finesse, power and restraint.

As American Songwriter puts it, he “displays his guitar prowess but within the borders of melodies and lyrics that push the boundaries of blues/rock… searing guitar work, and persuasive songwriting.”

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Carolyn Wonderland (01/06/2027)

Wed, 06 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

CarolynWonderland.com

Who is Carolyn Wonderland?

The depths of the Texas blues tradition with the wit of a poet. She hits the stage with an unmatched presence, a true legend in her time.

She’d grown up the child of a singer in a band and began playing her mother’s vintage Martin guitar when other girls were dressing dolls. She’d gone from being the teenage toast of her hometown Houston to sleeping in her van in Austin amid heaps of critical acclaim for excellent recordings.

Along with the guitar and the multitude of other instruments she learned to play – trumpet, accordion, piano, mandolin, lap steel – Wonderland’s ability to whistle remains most unusual. Whistling is a uniquely vocal art seldom invoked in modern music, yet it’s among the most spectacular talents the human voice possesses.

Her music was played in television series such as “Time of Your Life” and NBC’s “Homicide.” The Lone Star State was as credible a proving ground for blues in the 1980s and 90s as existed, especially in Austin with Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Angela Strehli, Omar & the Howlers, and Lou Ann Barton all in their prime.

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DK Harrell (01/28/2027)

Thu, 28 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

DKBlues.com

Who is DK Harrell?

Guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter D.K. Harrell, one of the most formidable young stars of the current blues resurgence, sounds like no one else on the scene today. With his stinging, single-note string bending, deep soul vocals, and attention-grabbing original songs, the 27-year-old Harrell—a major draw at blues festivals worldwide—is already in a league of his own.

Now, with his Alligator Records debut album, Talkin’ Heavy, D.K. Harrell cements his place among the leading voices of the new generation of blues players. This Blues Music Award-winning guitarist with a soul man’s voice and a well-earned reputation as a mesmerizing live performer delivers fresh, emotion-packed blues informed by the tradition he loves and played with the foot-pounding fervor of a revival tent preacher.

Talkin’ Heavy continually surprises with twelve instantly memorable original songs filled with Harrell’s biting guitar work and authoritative, church-born vocals. Produced by studio wizard and musician Christoffer “Kid” Andersen and recorded at Andersen’s now-famous Greaseland Studio, the album shows Harrell as a generational guitar talent with a wide-eyed vision and a street-smart singing style bringing life to the timeless songs he’s writing. He goes deep on the title track, taking a hard look at his surroundings before declaring, “the world is just heavy with the blues.” From blazing album opener A Little Taste to the proudly taking-care-of-business Grown Now to the feel-good groove of Vibe With Meto the foot-stomping closer Praise These Blues, Talkin’ Heavy is an affirmation of the sheer power of modern blues.

D.K. Harrell was born D’Kieran Harrell in Ruston, Louisiana in 1998. He first heard B.B. King at age two and responded by singing along. He sang in his church choir as a boy while continuing to be drawn to the blues. Films like The Blues Brothers, Cadillac Records and Ray made him eager to sing and play. He received his first guitar at 12, and by 16 was writing his own songs. Initially inspired by B.B. King, the youthful Harrell spent hours studying every video of King he could find, learning not just King’s licks but ultimately his tone, his finesse, his stagecraft, and his band leadership skills. Harrell’s first paying gig was as a guest to the B.B. King Symposium in Indianola, Mississippi—where he played The Thrill Is Gone on King’s iconic guitar, Lucille—backed by members of King’s touring band.

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Rory Block (Listening Room) (02/04/2027)

Thu, 04 Feb 2027 23:00:00 GMT

For more info --> www.RoryBlock.com

Who is Rory Block

Rory Block is a legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, known for her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own original compositions. Born in Princeton, NJ, she grew up in Manhattan and was immersed in the Greenwich Village folk music scene, where she was surrounded by musical giants like Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix and more. At 15, she embarked on a journey to learn directly from blues legends like Son House, Skip James and Mississippi John Hurt, becoming a prominent figure in the blues world.

Rory's latest release, Heavy On The Blues, is on the New York-based M.C. Records label. The cd includes duets with Ronnie Earl, Jimmy Vivino, and Joanna Conner. Rory talks about the new recording:

“I am very excited to announce that I have recorded a brand new project for M.C. Records called Heavy On The Blues! I tapped into my lifelong love of American roots blues, celebrating the founders and best of the classic blues legends, and included some of my own originals. The recording Is filled with slide, overlapping acoustic parts, and funky rhythms. Can't wait for you to hear it!!”

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"She is a strong contender for the most influential acoustic artist of our time."

- Making A Scene

"She just may be the greatest acoustic blues guitarist alive."

- Donald Wilcock - Blues Music Magazine

“Rory Block is considered by many to be the finest acoustic blues interpreter alive today”

- Rock & Blues Muse

"... Rory Block is currently stretching the limits... hugely talented... She is one of our national treasures."
- The New York Blues & Jazz Society

“Rory Block is the blues... one of the music’s few living legends.”

- All Music Guide album pick

"A living landmark, the finest contemporary purveyor of the Mississippi Delta Country Blues tradition..."
- Berkeley Express

"...one of the world's most important preservers of the roots of American music... a national treasure in the form of an uncompromising mature blues artist."
- Guitar Extra

"Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends."
- The New York Times

"...Rory Block is one of the greatest living acoustic blues artists... she can hold her own with the legends who inspired her."
- Blues Revue

"If you like music steeped in tradition and genuine feeling, this is your woman."
- People Magazine

"Some of the most singular and affecting Country Blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years."

- Rolling Stone

"Rory Block has been an inspiration to me since we started out years ago. Her guitar playing, singing and songwriting are some of the most

soulful in traditional and modern blues."
- Bonnie Raitt

“Rory Block should have a Doctorate in my grandfather’s music.”

- Steven Johnson, grandson of Robert Johnson

“When I hear Rory Block’s music, it’s as if my grandfather is here all over again.”

- Greg Johnson, grandson of Robert Johnson

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Rick Estrin and the Nightcats (02/10/2027)

Wed, 10 Feb 2027 23:00:00 GMT

https://rickestrin.com

Who is Rick Estrin?

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats — Short Combined Bio

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats deliver one of the most entertaining and musically sharp shows in contemporary blues. Frontman Rick Estrin brings his signature humor, slick storytelling, and award‑winning harmonica chops, backed by a powerhouse band that defines their modern, high‑energy sound.

Guitarist Kid Andersen adds fearless creativity and electrifying solos, blending blues tradition with bold, genre‑bending flair. Lorenzo Farrell anchors the group with deep grooves on bass and rich textures on keys, giving the band its unmistakable depth. On drums, Derrick “D’Mar” Martin drives the rhythm with explosive energy, precision, and charismatic showmanship.

Together, they create a dynamic, original, and wildly fun blues experience that has earned them international acclaim and multiple Blues Music Awards.

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Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo (Listening Room) (02/15/2027)

Mon, 15 Feb 2027 23:00:00 GMT

For more info --> ErinHarpe.com

Who is Erin Harpe

Erin Harpe has been playing country blues since she was a little girl, getting her chops from her virtuoso dad, roots/blues musician & Stella guitar expert Neil Harpe.

The two-time “Blues Artist of the Year”, and leader of the band Erin Harpe & the Delta Swingers, has earned a reputation as a captivating performer, playing stages large and small throughout the US, UK and Europe, and opening for everyone from ZZTop to Honeyboy Edwards, Buddy Guy and James Cotton.

In Living Blues Magazine, Frank Matheis called Erin “one of the most dynamic, talented and exciting roots rocking blues women on the scene”, noting, “she has it all – a golden voice and guitar chops that dazzle!”

Her latest album – “Meet Me In The Middle” (self-produced by Harpe, along with her husband, bassist Jim Countryman) – won the prestigious “Album of the Year” from the New England Music Awards. Erin’s high-energy performances center around her exceptional finger-style and boogie blues guitar playing as well as her striking soulful vocals.

The sound she creates with her band harkens back to the time of juke joints – updated with more modern influences like funk, soul, rock, and reggae. Her music has drawn comparisons to Muddy Waters, Bonnie Raitt, Canned Heat and Maria Muldour.

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The Blues Beatles Band (02/25/2027)

Thu, 25 Feb 2027 23:00:00 GMT

BluesBeatles.com

Who are The Blues Beatles Band?

"It took one band member's love of The Beatles and the rest of the bands' love of the Blues to formulate one of the most entertaining Blues Outfits in the world today. Their sound is intimately appeasing but at the same time powerful and infectious. Often World Traveled, They have a clear direction and understand where it all originated, how the project was developed and why they are relevant as one of the most unique Blues Outfits in the business. This eccentric outfit has soaked up the musical ingredients of days long gone and has given it all the spice of today. Their magical musical gumbo can only be achieved when a band is so in tuned with each other that the back-and-forth interaction and instrumentation becomes a transcendent musical conversation that is forever engaging."

- Big Blues Bender Festival 2018, Las Vegas, USA

"The band was also on a sold out Danish tour in the spring, so something suggests it might be an experience worth spending an evening in company with it."

- Randers Antsavis Newspaper, 2018, Denmark.

Do you know the Blues Beatles ?

Blues Beatles is a Blues band that mixes the melodies of the Beatles with traditional Blues arrangements, a mix that has been winning in Brazil, USA and Europe. And they always become an "instant sensation" everywhere they go and play: New York City, Las Vegas, Chicago, Memphis, Orlando, Charlotte, Montgomery, Chattanooga, Aarhus, Randers, Esbjerg, Brasilia, Goiânia, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Belo Horizonte among other ... it´s a long list!

There are more than 200,000 fanpage followers (Facebook), more than 20 million views of your videos, Brazil Biggest TV shows (Altas Horas, Ronnie Von, Rede Vida), thousands of CD downloads, 4 international tours only in 2018: two in the USA, participating in the largest and most expressive festivals of the genre and two in Denmark, touring the entire country. The Blues Beatles is that band that you need to know!

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Derrick Dove and the Peacekeepers (03/10/2027)

Wed, 10 Mar 2027 23:00:00 GMT

For more info: DerrickDove.com

Who is Derrick Dove

Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers are an award-winning Southern-fried blues rock band rooted in the South Georgia pines (Tifton area). Fronted by dynamic guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader Derrick Dove, the group fuses gritty blues, soulful grooves, classic rock energy, and authentic Southern spirit for high-octane, crowd-pleasing performances.

In January 2026, they claimed victory as International Blues Challenge Band Champions in Memphis, with Derrick also earning Best Guitarist honors. The band has topped iTunes blues charts with multiple #1 albums and singles, including their acclaimed releases Rough Time (2023) with hits “When Did I Get Old” (over 15 million combined video views), and the title track and Burn It Down (2025), featuring standout tracks like "Comeback Kinda Love," "Just Walk Away," and "Can't Move On."

They've shared stages with icons such as ZZ Top, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Wallflowers, Jimmie Vaughan, and more, building a reputation for electrifying live shows that blend raw passion and powerhouse musicianship.

With a new album on the horizon and unstoppable momentum, Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers continue to keep the blues alive while rocking audiences worldwide.

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Damon Fowler & Jason Ricci (05/12/2027)

Wed, 12 May 2027 22:00:00 GMT

For More Info --> Damon-Fowler.com

JasonRicciMusic.com

Who are Damon Fowler and Jason Ricci?

Roots-blues guitar guru Damon Fowler’s music is steeped in soul and representative of the many styles that make up the roots of American music. He has gained the respect of his peers, given his featured slot in Allman Brothers alumni Butch Trucks' Freight Train band and his side gig as guitarist in the Dickey Betts band. Critics have compared Fowler’s guitar work to Johnny Winter and Jeff Beck, while his slide guitar is reminiscent of the late Duane Allman. Fowler can play fiery guitar runs with the best of them, and his lyrical work on lap steel and dobro makes him a standout performer among the legions of guitar heroes. His record, Alafia Moon, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart, spent four months in the Top 20, was nominated for a BMA, and combines all the influences that have shaped his distinctive roots-blues career.

Four-time Blues Music Award winner (Best Harmonica) Jason Ricci is living in his beloved city of New Orleans, sober, healthy, and touring with his many projects, including Jason Ricci and The Bad Kind and Desototo Tiger’s Testimony (w/Damon Fowler). Ricci has appeared as a guest harmonica player on albums with Johnny Winter, Ana Popovic, Joe Louis Walker, Cedric Burnside, Walter Trout, Mike Zito, Joanna Connor, JP Soars, Nick Moss, and many more. He’s toured or played on shows with John Fohl, The Iguanas, Damon Fowler, Papa Mali, Walter Trout, Nick Moss, JP Soars, Mike Zito, Eric Johanson, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Anders Osborne, Joe Krown and many others. Jason Ricci is one of the most influential, recorded, celebrated, interviewed, and famous harmonica players working in the world today.

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