by Joe Dolan
– Guest Columnist —
Back on April 5th, the multi-instrumentalist Bihlman Brothers, Jeff Jabo (Guitar) and Scot Little (Drums) appeared on stage at the Guitar Center Music Expo in Long Beach, CA with Kings X front man and bassist dUg Pinnick to introduce their new project titled Grinder Blues. A side project for Pinnick and the Bihlmans, the six songs they performed hinted to the CD that would follow on Megaforce Records.
On October 16th, 2014, the band took the stage at the world famous Viper Room in West Hollywood to offer a full set of music for fans that have long awaited the official CD release. It’s available now through Megaforce and on the band’s official website.
Opening the show was blues guitar hero Jared James Nichols and his three-piece band. Fans gathered early to enjoy a night riddled with string picking, bass thumping and foot stomping from the moment the doors opened. The Wisconsin born guitarist and singer planted his roots early in the vein of blues legendry emulating the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Attending Berklee College of Music for a short stay, Nichols followed the trail of other guitarists that have led the way and headed for the sunny coast where he truly spread his wings. Already having performed more than 500 gigs outside of California, Nichols instantly found himself a sought after success in the land of milk and honey where his work is revered as top tier by professionals on the scene. In 2012, Nichols celebrated the release of his well-received debut CD and he returned tonight to the same stage to showcase just why he is the artist he is.
Following Nichols, the Young Royals took the stage with their brand of original modern rock music. Formerly featuring Journey drummer Deen Catronovo while he was between touring, the band appeared with their permanent throne addition, drummer Scottie Carneghi. Also a treat in the line-up was Slunt bassist and co-vocalist Shannon Bizzy. With nearly an hour’s worth of show, it was proving to be a top-notch show for the Viper Room!
Grinder Blues came on stage to the low tones of Pinnick’s bass sound and showcased songs from the album as well as some personal faves that go hand in hand with their sound. This was the set list:
01. Don’t Go Home
02. Woke Up This Morning
03. Chuck Berry
04. Wild One (Sung by Jeff Jabo)
05. It Ain’t Easy
06. Worried Mind
07. Train
08. Grinder’s Blues
09. Jesus Just Left Chicago (ZZ Top Cover)
10. TX to CA
11. Burn the Bridge
12. Voodoo Child (Jimi Hendrix Cover)
The band followed this show with a performance at Brick By Brick in San Diego on the 17th. To see if the band is coming to your area, and to find out how you can support them, visit their official website at www.grinderblues.com and use the links on the homepage to connect with them on Social Media.
The new self-titled album is available through Megaforce Records, iTunes instant download, Amazon.com and Best Buy.
Jared James Nichols:
The Young Royals:
Grinder Blues
