Listen & Be Heard Weekly Archives

Bluesy, jazzy sounds surrounding smooth contemporary lyrics are what Volker Strifler and Don Bassey will be offering as the play acoustic tunes from Volker Strifler Band CDs. These are expertly crafted songs that achieve the near-impossible feat of not only creeping into the brain but under the skin, borrowing from every decade, not just the classic blues era of the 1940s. A German-born singer/guitarist Volker Strifler has been a fixture on the West Coast blues scene for some time, as a member of the Ford Blues Band, side man to Robben Ford and guesting with any number of West Coast bluesmen. Always exploring new avenues for his interpretation of music, he uses a unique blend of styles and instruments that reach out and push the envelope of this vital music. Strifler has created an exciting and unique sound with his dynamic vocals, innovative songwriting, and instrumental expertise that ranges from jazzy and sophisticated to hard-edged and raw. Don Bassey began playing bass at sixteen back in his native Michigan, after a few years learning guitar basics, and hes been singing as long as he can remember. He spent the late Sixties and early Seventies touring in the Midwest with his band mates in Touchstone, performing with such Michigan rock stalwarts as Bob Seger, the Stooges, Alice Cooper, and the Pack (later Grand Funk), as well as acts including the Byrds, and NRBQ. He frequently works with producer/guitarist extraordinaire Kevin Russell, and talented singer/songwriters Jessie Turner and Ira Marlowe. Along the way, Don also logged time with such blues greats as Chris Cain, Daniel Castro, Steve Gornall, Ron Thompson, Bobby Walker, and Guy Arrostuto. On top of all their immense talents, Volker and Don have charm, charisma and chemistry. It is obvious that enjoy performing together and their enthusiasm is contagious.

Thursday, March 22, 8-11pm, $5, Listen & Be Heard Poetry Café, 818 Marin Street, Vallejo 707-554-4540.

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