The newly on-the-rise and New Orleans-based musician, Benjamin Booker, is carving out his own lane in the blues scene with his unique sound and style. He brings his expert guitar and vocals to Thalia Hall this week to rock his Chicago fans, bringing along She Keeps Bees.
Booker has been a native to the South his whole life. After being born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, his family relocated to Tampa, Florida. He attended college in Florida to start a career in music journalism, he turned a corner when he graduated. He headed to New Orleans, where he began creating and performing music. The Southern style has always been a part of Booker’s life, and it shines brightly through the music he makes.
The sound of the solo-act Benjamin Booker is as distinct as it is raw. While speaking on his newest album, Witness, Drew Blackburn from Pitchfork writes “…Benjamin Booker makes retro music feel modern, reflecting on racism in America while drawing on blues soul and gospel.” (Drew Blackburn). Booker unquestionably adds an interesting twist to blues that is very refreshing and pleasing to the ears.
His self-titled debut album, Benjamin Booker, was produced by Andrija Tokic. Tokic is a well-known producer that has also worked with big names such as Alabama Shakes, speaking to the type of sound that he was aiming for on his first official album. Popular tunes from this project that he will surely perform at Thalia Hall tonight include “Slow Coming”, “Wicked Waters”, and perhaps his biggest song “Violent Shiver”.
The LP that fans will most likely hear the most tracks from, is Booker’s 2017 album, Witness. This album was almost entirely written in Mexico City, when Booker relocated there in early 2016. Living in Mexico City gave Booker a new perspective, and helped give him inspiration for the album. Tracks from this album to look out for during his set are “Motivation”, “Believe”, and of course the title track, “Witness”.
Come witness Booker shake the stage with his take on blues/garage rock at Thalia Hall tonight. The energy and vibrations that he will be bringing are vibes that are rarely seen, and should not be missed.
Thalia Hall
October 16th @ 7:30 PM
Tickets start @ $22
For more information click here
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