Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival
Westland, MI
Contact: [email protected]
Web: elizaneals.com
Players: Eliza Neals, vocals, piano; Joe Stanley, guitar, backup vocals; Tye Mayhem, bass guitar; Mark LoDuca Sr., organ; Eugene McBride, drums, backup vocals
Material: Contemporary blues, with a heavy slab of rock and soul is on the menu at this cookout. The strikingly blonde-coiffed Neals leads a crack veteran ensemble through a litany of classics and Sirius XM “Bluesville” channel—crafted original hits like her “Living With Your Mama” and “Candystore.” Her latest single, the groove-alicious “Something is Better Than Nothing,” a collaboration with the late legendary Barrett Strong, is especially indicative of her deep Motown roots.
Musicianship: The cream of Detroit’s blues and session players show up and show out in a star set that’s flawless in every way. Stanley leads the pack on gritty string bending solos and slide work. Mayhem locks in seamlessly with McBride for a sound that cradles the backdrop in a full and warmly rich fashion. LoDuca Sr. plays a modified organ which dovetails nicely with Neals’ steady piano accompaniment. Collectively, the band shares camaraderie in support of Neals’ powerhouse four octave range and dynamic stage persona.
Performance: The sky was clear and the air was slightly humid and filled with the ambience of fresh barbecue and summer fun. The audience was primed for Neals’ hometown return, of sorts, and the band delivered on all fronts. The “Detroit Diva” is a great communicator and bandleader.
She knows how to keep the party going with the crowd while visually and vocally relaying solo cues and breaks with the band. Stellar moments included Neals’ spot on rendition of Etta James’ “I’d Rather Go Blind” and the heartfelt socially relevant title track of her latest album Colorcrimes. Granted, Neals’ name was on the festival marquee, but she was more than gracious in spreading the love and featuring each member of the band in an extended solo spot.
Summary: Musical luminaries as prominent as Buddy Guy and Mick Jagger have been quoted as singing the praises of singer-songwriter Neals. And it’s easy to see why. She knows how to amp up the crowd and engender group participation. And she has a track record of successful festival dates across the country to prove it. Eliza Neals is one of an exciting breed of contemporary artists that is redefining rock, blues and soul for a modern generation
