Walter Trout & the New Radicals- Auburn Hills, MI

On Thursday night, the lovely BLT and I were treated to a blues concert that "BLUE US AWAY". Our friend Barry had invited us to see "the 5th rated guitarist in history", Walter Trout at Callahan's. None of us were familiar with Walter Trout or this alleged high ranking. A little internet research verified the facts and a quick listen on You tube insured we were in for a special treat.

For those of you that have not been to Callahan's, it is the capital on The Michigan Blues Society and is frequented by International Blues artist's. Great sound, sight lines, and good service. I'd guess a full house would be 350-400. On Thursday the place was packed with blues loving diehards. The warm up act, Detroit and WCSX DJ, Mark Pasman and the Blues Session played an enjoyable, well played set. This was some southern style blues, crossed with a bit of Chicago. No drums; just a dude with a washboard, tamborine, and box! The fiddle player/singer, had blues to her core. Overall, we felt the blues and to us, that is the point.

Barry, Mike, Kelly, Brenda and I were ready for Trout! I've been bleesed to see Clapton, Gilmore, May, BB King, Knoephler, Steive Ray, Trower, Santana, Van Halen, Page, and literally a thousand other good to great guitar stars. None can keep up with Walter Trout! From the first song to the last, Walter displayed the most incredible speed, movement up and down the neck, clean, well spaced notes, and a keen ear for hittiing the right tempo and cord. From our second row perch (on lawn chairs), we bore witness to a great Blues and rock spectacle. The entire band performed flawlessly and were a tightly wound machine.

A highlight was a guitar war with Trout -vs- the keyboardist's 18 year old son. This epic battle was waged for at least 10 minutes, with Trout blowing him away with his last .45 second solo. Typical of a small venue, there were no special effects, special lighting, or vocal effects. this was stripped down rockin-blues at its finest. A more enjoyable listening night I can't recall. Walter Trout you have made a lifetime fan!

Weather C
Atmosphere A
Sound A Lighting/effects
C Crowd
A
Line up B

Overall an A show.