The band is a monster with three heads. Hiro Suzuki sets up an arsenal of three guitars (what else but- Strat, Tele and 335,) played through a Marshall all tube combo that can level a small city with very little stress to the power transformers. He's got speed, technique, dynamics and an encyclopedic source of licks that had us left in the dust trying to figure out where they came from. He plays percussively, melodically, and with a continual source of zealous intensity that keeps everyone on their toes. He took a few chances and made good on every one. The crowd was enthusiastic with his every flourish. The band enjoyed his adventurous solos, and he enjoyed his own playing with a modest nod now and then as he drove those guitars through their paces.

Chulo Gatewood is a gifted bassist whose tonal expression is a soothing, comforting bed of runs that supports the other players like a security blanket, and when he solos, watch out! He pops and slams his way to another place that usually would be considered unconventional in the blues. But all is forgiven when he shows you the way back to the head in a solid, logical turnaround. Matt Mousseau is the consumate drummer. Solid, driving, and unrelenting, he carries his family around tempo changes and cut time extravaganzas that allow the listener to take a breath and appreciate the utter simplicity, but well placed embellishments, that make the arrangements fresh and full of life.

Mike Lattrell on keyboards is a standout. His New Orleans flavored bass lines and energetic soulful upper register voicings had that bawdyhouse flavor that could wake up the dead. His propulsive, over the top solos, as well as those quiet, pensive interludes, gave a smoky, eerie feeling to an already distinguished presence. When he left the stage during "Iko-Iko" and returned with a trombone, his mastery of the instrument brought the standing room crowd to another level.

And then there's Christine. I have never heard "Caledonia" sung with such sublime tonal quality and phrasing. Her vocal range is strong in all the right places and there's a smoldering sultry quality that begs to be noticed in every song she sings. "The Thrill Is Gone" is BB's own, but her moaning, sensual, and exceptional close miked breathing left everyone speachless. Here's a great new way to do this tune. She growls and purrs with cuts, stops and raspy upper register bends that make you glad you came out on a cold night such as this. She's a standout in every sense. A natural front person and a crowd pleaser. You'll definitely be hearing from her in the future.

 by Ira Bolterman

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