Toronto meets Naples in North Bay,

The real blues on the world stage

by Bear Claw Bob

OCTOBER 13, 2006 - Toronto's David Rotundo has been putting out some of the most authentic-sounding harp blues stylings in Central Canda for the past half dozen years, capturing Maple Blues and other prestigious awards in the process. Meanwhile, Enrico Crivellaro, out of Naples, Italy, has been gaining recognition as a premier blues guitar player. When these two team up, the output is dynamite, plain and simple.

Such was the mix that provoked a wang dang doodle of a doo on October 13 at North Bay's 100 Georges. Backed by bassist Shane Scott and other members of Rotundo's lastest touring band, David and Enrico got "The Georges" patrons up on their feet for three solid hours of no-nonsense gettin' down. The boys know how to put out music that lifts people up from their work-a-day routine and transports them to a place where there's no beginning and no end.

I was impressed by the growing maturity and resonance of Rotundo's vocal work. He was always a fine blues harp player, steeped in the influence of Sonny Boy, Junior Wells and James Cotton, but on that night I heard shades of Little Walter in his singing. Shades that made me feel real good.

Enrico is always a pleasure to listen to and watch play. Although he wasn't sure that his equipment was giving him the growl that he likes on the bottom end, he once again demonstrated an ability to coax voices from his guitar that are downright awe-inspiring. There's not too many guitarists who can bring you to tears with a simple pull-off and slide, but Enrico is surely one of these.

Enrico is touring around Canada now after a trip to the far reaches of the planet - Singapore, Australia, the U.S. Watch for more exciting innovations from this world-class bluesman.

To the credit of the band, the sound mix was superb - the best I've ever heard at The George. Maybe because they restrained the volume in fovour of clarity. It was a great night, and I wish everyone had been able to be there.

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