Blues Society of Western PA - Newsletter

Good food, great atmosphere, beautiful weather and a sweet mix of blues music were thrown together. Our first annual picnic was held at the Boston Waterfront. It was as good a day as anyone could ask for. What a great way to debut the BSWPA picnic. The Waterfront was chosen for several reasons: the riverfront view, the fact that they have an outdoor stage AND a large one inside in case of rain and they do all of the cooking. It was nice not having to worry about the food or working a booth for a change. After a few early set-up details, it was eat, drink and listen to some tunes. It was especially nice to have members and musicians alike thanking us for the picnic and for the work that we have done all year.

You know what else was nice? Our opening band was Pamela Bick and the Warehouse Blues Band. It was great to hear them for the first time. I liked what I heard and I guess that I am not he only one. Harvey from Harvey’s Village Tavern in West Mifflin saw them and booked them. Way to go, Pamela! Pamela had powerful vocals accompanied by a great sound from the band led by John Delo on guitar.

Our second act was Shot O’ Soul who sound better and better every time that I hear them. This band is starting to gel nicely. Ian Arthurs came next. Those young guys were the fan favorite at the 2008 IBC. I cannot believe all that sound comes out of such three young guys. It is great to hear Blues from a younger generation. I know that those guys play in the South Hills. Go Catch Them! Warren King and Chizmo Charles joined them later. What a mix! Not to be a smart-ass but Chizmo is old enough to be the group’s great-grandfather (do the math). Rich Kacin also made a guest appearance. He did a great little improvisational ditty asking someone to move their car!

The Mystic Knights who are always a treat to see and hear performed the finale. It was nice to see Gil Snyder in conservative attire for a change. He wore a two-toned orange silk shirt with a tiger on it, well maybe a leopard. Once again, Chizmo joined the Knights and stole the show. He circulated through the crowd and flirted with the ladies (but claimed that he could not remember why). The highlight came while he was working the crowd. He found someone on their cell phone. He took the cell phone from them and began singing to whoever was on the other end. I can picture the person on the other end wondering if their medication was kicking in.

I hope that you all made it there. If not, please make it next year. Here is the best part…we made enough money that day to cover the picnic. We are using that money a great Christmas party for all of you. Make it out, will ya? Details about the party will be in this issue. See you all there, I hope! If you cannot make it, at least send me a pie. Apple, cherry or peach are my favorites.

–Don Vecchio