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| “CAJUN MAN WITH THE BLUES” |
Louisiana Bayou native Tab Benoit makes a highly long-awaited return to The Beaches International Jazz Festival after last thrilling the Kew Gardens crowd in 2001. Already well established on the Blues scene at that time, Benoit now returns a Grammy nominated artist, a Louisiana Wetlands activist, and a multi Blues Music Awards winner – most notable to date, a recipient of the 2007 B.B. King Entertainer of the Year Award.
The artist reaping the benefits of these accolades may seen far removed from the Tab Benoit who first entertained Blues fans at Tabby's Blues Box in Baton Rouge while earning the customary $13.00 a night. But, in reality, he isn't. Granted, Benoit's Bayou Blues have evolved to encompass a number of different genres while he pays homage to both his heroes and his Cajun roots; but he's essentially the same player in his approach and dedication now as he was then.
At the heart of Benoit's work remains the belief that Blues is a feeling of the moment and should be spontaneous. He continues to bring that notion not only to the stage but the studio as well where he insists on recording live with no overdubs. In doing so, Benoit – an intuitive player - conveys an emotional depth and reveals an innovative sense for the music. He employs an incisive rhythmic guitar style, convincing unmannered vocals, and an unwavering commitment to his musical roots that he shares frequently with North American audiences from coast to coast.
And when he's not on the road, you can find Benoit in the studio. A prolific recording artist, Benoit has just released his 13th album, Night Train To Nashville. The release catches Benoit recorded live in full flight and backed by Louisiana's Leroux – his partners on the Grammy nominated Brother To The Blues – plus some special guests to sweeten the pot.
"Night Train" is an outstanding recording but takes second place to the best way to appreciate Tab Benoit – experiencing his show in person. Fortunately, for the Beaches Jazz faithful, they will be able to do just that when Tab closes the historic 20th Anniversary of The Beaches International Jazz Festival on Sunday July 27th!
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