By, Tina LoBosco
Each month we like to introduce you to one of our member bands. This month Tina had a conversation with Slim and the Perkolators.
How did the band meet or come together?
I met Derek (our harp player) when he came to a gig that I was playing with another band. He sat in with the band and was clearly very good. We met again shortly after this at an open mic night blues jam, and we got talking about the possibility of starting something different. That was over six years ago and hundreds of gigs later. Our rhythm sections have changed a couple of times, but the core of the band is me and Derek.
Who are your biggest influences?
Traditional Chicago blues…Eddie Taylor, Jimmy Reed, Magic Sam, Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson 2, Big Walter, Elmore James, Chuck Berry, T Bone Walker, BB King.
What’s the craziest thing that happened to you while performing?
Nothing springs to mind except playing to a large festival crowd of dancing, cheering supporters.
What is your creative process like?
As far as songwriting goes, I try to draw on life experiences but musically we develop everything on the bandstand at gigs.
If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?
Rick Estrin and the Nightcats.
Anything else you would like to mention?
We are heading to Florida next week for a few shows:
Feb. 23rd – Englewood’s in Dearborn.
Feb. 24th – Celtic Rays in Punta Gorda.
Feb. 25th – Cottonmouth Southern Soul Food Restaurant in Bradenton, FL.
We would like to thank the JSJBF for their tireless support of both us and the many other local, regional, and national bands in helping keep the blues alive. It was an honor and pleasure to play at one of your events at the Chubby Pickle last year and would love to do it again.