On a warm and cloudy day (perfect for festival goers), Mikey Junior hosted his third annual Bucks County Blues Festival on the scenic grounds of Snipes Farm, just across the river from Trenton in Morrisville PA. This nine-hour nonstop blues extravaganza featured seven bands, plus a quick set by “surprise guest” along with seven short acoustic performances by solo, duo or small groups of musicians. First up was solo artist, Christopher Dean, who was introduced by WCNI radio DJ and host of the “Morning MOJO” show, Alison Kaufman, who was the MC for the first half of the event. Next up were The Blues Reincarnation Project from Delaware, a power trio that really got the day off to a rousing start. Our own Carlotta Schmidt was supposed to be next up, but Gene Iadanza who was sitting with us remarked, “isn’t that Mike Zito” by the merch tent. Sure enough, a few minutes later, he and his band took the stage. They gave us a five-song set that all those who didn’t arrive early, later regretted. He stayed around long enough to sign some merch, then it was off to Long Island for a later gig.
I worried the he might take the air out of the space for the next performer, but my fears were allayed when the JSJBF’s own 17-year-old CarlottaSchmidt, wowed the crowd with her powerful four songset. She was then off to Asbury Park for an appearance at the Bread and Roses Film Festival fundraiser. She did the Foundation proud and continues to astound those who see her perform. Up next were our good friends and JSJBF members, Paul Boddy and the Slidewinder Blues Band. They captivated the crowd with both familiar tunes and choice cuts from their new CD which will be out soon. Grammy nominee Randy Lippincott entertained with a short solo set, followed by another JSJBF member, Austin based, but Jersey bred, Vin Mott and his Blues Band. Vin has blossomed into a strong singer and song writer, to go with his mastery of the harp. The band included Bob Lanza on guitar and the Fabulous Thunderbirds rhythm section of Steve Kirsty on bass and Nick Fishman on drums. This dream team really took the afternoon to another level.
Local blues legend Georgie Bonds was in fine voice for his short set, accompanied on guitar by Matt Daniels and Mark Margolies. Mark and I were wearing the same Big City Rhythm & Blues tee shirts in different colors, so we had to get a picture! Trenton’s own and the Foundation’s Joe Zook & Blues Deluxe, were introduced by JSJBF founding board member and host of WRSU’s “Low Budget Blues” program, Richard Skelly. Their big band horn-based sound was a welcome shift for a very attentive audience. Memphis based Max Kaplan, who’s band played last year’s festival, was joined by his dad Eric for a short but satisfying set, making way for Tony Holiday Music for which he played lead guitar. I wasn’t familiar with Tony, but I knew from the first note I liked his musical vibe. A gravelly voiced singer coupled with some nasty harmonica and great songs featured from his most recent collection “Motel Mississippi.” In keeping with the family friendly nature of this event, he arrived in a camper with his wife and three kids.
The next interlude was a staple at this event. The Robin Hudak Trio which started with Mikey’s step parents, Robin on Guitar, Mike Hudak on keyboards and Big Daddy Lamberson on harp, but soon Mikey’s son was up blowing some harmonica and his daughter was singing, while mom ran the merch tent. Talk about family values, this certainly embodied them, and on Robin’s birthday no less. Next, Washington D C’s Boneshakers hit the stage. Randy Jacobs the lead guitarist has a storied career and several years ago when he teamed up with Blues Hall of Famer, Jenny Langer, he knew he had found his musical soulmate. The blues/funk laden set showcased songs from their most recent work, “One Foot in the Groove.” Mikey introduced Dave Gross up to the stage to play some guitar. A multi-talented producer, arranger and musician, he has worked closely with Mikey on his most recent “Blues in the Barn” series. Following that, Richard Skelly returned to the stage to introduce Mikey Junior and the band. With long time members Jimmy Prichard on bass, Matt Daniels on guitar, Scott Stumpf on drums and more recent additions Zack Lees on guitar and Judd Neilson on keyboards, they did what they do best, bring the house down!
What a terrific day of music, fun and fellowship all in attendance had. Mikey really knows how to throw a party. Can’t wait to see what 2025 brings, but you don’t have to. Mikey and the band will be appearing at the Long Branch Jazz & Blues Festival on August 24th, with music from 1-9pm, followed by a fireworks display. Go to jsjbf.org for all the details. I hope the fireworks can match the display Mikey and the band will bring to the stage!
More information about Bucks County Blues Festival on www.BucksBluesFest.com