Pam Baker and the SG’s

Pam is one of Maine’s most well-known blues performers. One of the first Maine blues artists to receive steady FM air play with the release of her first CD, “Bakin’ the Blues”, Pam quickly established a loyal following. Her rich voice and winning stage presence continue to charm audiences throughout the region.

The Delta Knights

The Delta Knights were one of the first bands to represent the state of Maine in the International Blues Challenge in 1996. Led by founder Rob Babson and propelled by legendary blues drummer Larry Peterson, the Knights are one of the most sought-after bands in the state.

The Sensations

Drummer and bandleader Pepper was introduced to the rhythm and blues sounds of the early 1950s, when the backbeat was placed to make you shake your hips; it is in that spirit that Pepper has led the Sensations for over 10 years.

Lex and Joe Blueswing

Versatility is the keyword for this outfit. One minute they sound like the smooth swing bands of the 1930s and 40s; the next minute they sound like the “rave up” blues bands of the 50s and beyond.

Mark “Guitar” Miller

Mark Miller has been playing guitar and belting out the blues for decades. This legendary performer inspires and captivates audiences and musicians alike with dazzling and emotional guitar work that only comes from a true master.

Pat Colwell and the Soul Sensations

Pat Colwell and the Soul Sensations rock their way into the new millennium with a powerful, robust mix centered around bodacious renditions of the best soul, blues, and original music.

The Blind Lemons

With front man, multi-instrumentalist and all-around “Force of Nature” Tom Renino at the helm the ‘Lemons were there at the beginning of the blues scene at the now legendary Raoul’s Roadside Attraction. This band of seasoned pros helped kickstart the blues in Maine over 20 years ago!

The Mojomatics

Want authentic “Old School” Chicago blues and West Coast swing? This band is all about just that. Fronted by vocalist and harp virtuoso Tom O’Connell and directed by Maine blues mainstay Mike Hayward (“Red Light Revue”), this is the original stuff! (Minus the scratches on the 78s)

Luther James

Luther James is a master luthier (that’s a “guitar-maker”), custom blues harp microphone designer, and longtime blues jam host. When he performs at the Festival he steps out of the background with his own distinctive brand of “slow burn” electric blues.

Bonnie Edwards and the Practical Cats

Wanna dance? This is “jump-swing” blues in a six-piece band with a 20-piece attitude. Formed over 20 years ago, the ‘Cats have been featured in countless music and art festivals throughout the state and region. The wearing of zoot suits is encouraged.

The 50-50 Blues Band

“50-50” brings a very unique acoustic approach to both traditional and modern blues. The five-piece band was formed after two of its members decided that “after being on this wonderful planet for 50 years it was time to share our love for this music with the public.”

The Mojo Romeos

Originally called “The Shackdaddies”, the ‘Romeos are a semi-acoustic drummerless blues band that feature four accomplished instrumentalists, two of whom are frontmen in other bands. Think John Mayall’s “Turning Point” album.

Tiger, Tiger

This is Ed Murphy (the Bar BQ Blues Boys) on 12- and 6- string guitar and resonator, and flat top picker extraordinaire Barry Dumper. This acoustic duo serves up authentic Delta and Piedmont style blues – the real roots of the blues.

Dave Mello

Dave Mello has been performing professionally for over 40 years including tours in the 1970s with Buddy Guy, Junior Wells, and the Staples Singers. His unique style of acoustic blues is marked by meticulous guitar work matched with spot-on passionate vocals.

The Steve Bailey Blues Band

A long established performer in the Portland area, Steve Bailey is all about playing and singing the blues right and with respect! At the same time, he’s also just as likely to infuse his high-octane performance and soaring guitar work with the understated yet hilarious wit that has become his trademark, so watch out!

Meantone

Meantone is “Original Graveyard Blues”, a duo comprised of Meantone on fretless slide guitar and throat and Young Bret on drums and percussion. Meantone’s unique guitar tuning along with Young Bret’s maximal playing of his minimalist drum kit make you think there are four or more people in the band!

Matt and the Barnburners

Matt Bilodeau has been a longtime fixture in the Maine blues scene, backing up other Maine blues acts on harp and vocals. Now fronting his own band, Matt brings to the stage an absolute passion and sincere commitment to the blues that is irresistible.

The Blueshounds

The Blueshounds are blues favorites from the Lakes Region. They feature tight arrangements of modern blues and surprising interpretations of classic blues. In addition, they personify the concept of a “blues party!”

Roundhouse

Roundhouse combines the Memphis blues with New Orleans Zydeco plus a bit of the Chicago sound to create a gumbo of jump blues and swing. The band’s original material draws on influences such as the Neville Brothers and Roomful of Blues, producing grooves that make you want to groove.

The Don Brewer Blues Project

The Don Brewer Blues Project is an all-original blues band from the Boothbay Harbor region. Incorporating both West Coast blues and Chicago styles into an original sound, the end product is a gritty, swinging, juke-joint high energy blues music.

Trailer Trash

Over the years, Trailer Trash has developed its own unique sound, reminiscent of the raw energy a roadhouse band of another era. A well-oiled combination of acoustic guitar, electric bass, blues harp, and drums along with high-caliber music craft and sly humor, when these guys play you can almost see the chicken-wire!

The Roy-Hudson Band

The Roy-Hudson Band is all about roadhouse boogie on a Saturday night. Led by veteran musicians Linda Roy on keyboards and vocals and Dan Hudson on guitar, slide guitar and vocals, this outfit is “blues with the bark still on!” Longtime favorites in west central Maine, the Roy-Hudson Band will boogie until YOU drop!

Kevin and the Steeldrivers

This is raw, urban blues, straight up, no chaser. Comprised of slide guitarist and vocalist Kevin Kimball, master drummer Bub Lynch, and Don Whitcomb, “the bass player’s bass player.” The Steeldrivers feature slash-and-burn bottleneck blues and explosive arrangements. Wear loose clothing!

Pat Pepin and Tom O’Connell

Vocalist, guitarist, and sax virtuoso Pat Pepin and vocalist and harp master Tom O’Connell are this year’s Road to Memphis winners. Together they will represent the state of Maine in the solo/duo category in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tenn. in February 2008. Both Pat and Tom front their own bands, and their respective talents combined with their own brand of wry humor make for truly remarkable match-up.

Pat Pepin – Children’s Program

Pat Pepin is also a long-time educator, and here she combines her love of the blues with her talent as a teacher to present a unique, fun program for young future blues enthusiasts. (Grownups will be allowed to attend!)

New Blues Revue

All-Star Jam host Jerry Smith steps to the front of the stage with his own blues line-up this year. The Canadian-born Smith moved to Maine at an early age and spent his childhood surrounded by some of Maine’s greatest musicians. Today, Jerry’s playing style (using banjo picks on a Telecaster!) is truly unique among guitarists.

Samuel James

Samuel James brings a rare level of authenticity to blues performance that makes the audience almost forget that this is the 21st century. Close your eyes and you’ll begin to believe you’re in a 1930s juke joint listening to Robert Johnson-LIVE! Open your eyes and you’ll do a double-take! This is as real as it gets!

DW Gill and the Blues Prophets

Harp wizard, sax player, and on-fire front man DW Gill returns to the Maine blues scene with the legendary Blues Prophets, one of Maine’s first major blues acts. Formed in the early 70s, DW and the Prophets blazed the blues trail throughout the state, and their reunion at this year’s festival promises to be explosive!

Denny Breau (Guitar Clinic)

Legendary guitar master Denny Breau is the gold-standard by which other guitarists measure themselves. Yeah, he’s that good! His recording credits include numerous appearances on albums by national blues acts, and is one of the most in-demand guitar teachers in the state. This year Denny, along with a top-shelf rhythm section, offers a free live-performance seminar that is a must-see for musicians and fans alike.

DEJA BLUE

Deja Blue is another new addition to the Festival line-up. Originally formed in 1999, this Bangor-based quartet re-formed in 2005 and has honed its chops into a well-oiled, classic blues machine. With charismatic front man Dan-O on vocals, immaculate guitar work from Toby Williams, and a rock-solid rhythm section comprised of Jimmy Rorden and bassist Bill Branca, Deja Blues were semi-finalists in this year’s Road to Memphis state blues competition.

BLUES STREET STATION

Blues Street Station is a newcomer to the Maine blues scene. This father-son duo features senior member David Francis on rhythm guitar and vocals and junior member Matt David on lead guitar. Their music is heavily influenced original blues masters as well 60s-era British and Southern blues styles. They will be joined on stage by blues veterans Don Whitcomb on upright bass and master drummer Bub Lynch.

SHAWN MERCER AND THE BOONDOCKS BLUES BAND

This unique band was spotted by one of the festival organizers during a performance in Rockland, and was booked on the spot for the Festival. Playing exclusively original material, the ‘Boondocks deliver a fresh-yet-timeless version of American Blues. Perhaps best of all, with dynamic front man/ bandleader Shawn Mercer leading his crew through their high-energy set, these guys are just plain fun to watch!

BIG CHIEF

Like a good wine, Big Chief has grown better with age. Originally founded in 1989, this quartet has been a mainstay in Maine music ever since. Founder and drummer Jeff Davison, guitarist Steve Lynnworth, bassist Dave Thibodeau, and sax player Sam Hall are each among the most “pedigreed” professional musicians in the state with extensive recording and touring credentials with some of the greatest legends in blues.

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