Blues Society of Western PA - Newsletter

If there were a college course called “Blues 101” Kenny Tsak would most certainly get an A++. His debut album “Like I Do” is a classic showcase of classic blues guitar riffs and themes perfect for a night out with the gang or relaxing at home. Kenny Tsakanikis, actually his real name, has a classic blues voice that brings to mind visions of a smoky roadside blues bar. His style is easy to swallow and simple and he does not deviate from the standard guitar riffs. His use of Vintage Fender Stratocasters, Vintage Gibson Firebirds, Vintage Fender Bassman and Vintage Analog effects makes the music perfect for live performances.

Highlights of the album include “Like I Do”, the album title track and “Stoop Down Baby”, a duet with Joey Gilmore. In fact, Kenny considers Joey a major influence on his music and is very close to him. In a MySpace interview, Kenny states:“…last year 56 Deluxe Productions produced and recorded Joey Gilmore's Bluesman CD at JBP studios in Wilton Manors we both used the same engineer "Joe Beard Jr.".....its one of those all in the family things.....Joey and I are managed by the same company …we do many shows together..... he plays on one track with me on the "Like I Do" CD track #6 ..a Chick Willis tune... I call Joey My Blues Father....we are close friends...”

My personal favorite…”12 Step Boogie” is a humorous track about Alcoholics Anonymous through the eyes of a frustrated drunk as he states: “Now that we got sober…All the fun is over!” This is the debut release from Kenny Tsak and 56 Deluxe and was listed as number 39 in the top new releases from “Real Blues” Magazine. It is sure a rocker and a must for any blues lover’s record collection!