Robert Pasenko
is one of the better drummers on the Chicago circuit, and he’s played with just about everyone, including gigs with Johnny Drummer at Lee’s Unleaded and as part of the revivalists Blue Plate Special. He’s also one of the premier blues photographers, and so his jam sessions at
Catcher’s Inn are well-documented and well-attended. Catcher’s is a friendly Bridgeport hangout, and owner
Bo keeps the atmosphere comfortable (even if you’re a Cubs fan). The blues jam often features a boiling pot of hot dogs alongside the stage, in keeping with its proximity to Sox Park.
Bo servin' up a cold one photo by Robert Pasenko
some happy customers photo by Robert Pasenko
This “
South Side Showcase” highlights the wealth of talent that resides in Chicago today, from rising underground stars like
Mz. Peachezto local veteran stalwarts like
Linsey Alexander and
Smilin’ Bobby. Several of the performers in this jam session will be part of the
Chicago Blues Festival in June, along with Li’l Ed, Johnny Drummer, and Vance Kelly.
Killer Ray Allison photo by Steve Pasek
Floyd Wilson & Smilin Bobby photo by Robert Pasenko
is a world-renowned drummer, including touring stints with Buddy Guy and other top-echelon acts, but in recent years he has turned to guitar with surprisingly good results. He was taught by Muddy Waters’ one-time guitarist Pee Wee Madison, and it shows up in his resonant playing. He’s also a husky vocalist, often roams the audience with a wireless axe, and he has a playful demeanor that often leads to rambunctious jamming.
Tré at Catchers jam photo by Robert Pasenko
Lady Kat
(he uses only a first name) is a second-generation bluesman, and one of several exciting guitarists on this tour. He alternates between melodic struts and explosive bursts of fretwork, a balancing act familiar to fans of Buddy Guy. When his band
The Blue Knights, backs up the sultry, feisty
Lady Kat, the result is always compelling, and sometimes ecstatic.
Mz. Peachez photo by Robert Pasenko
Mz. Peachez has turned some heads with a set of pipes that allows her to get away with covering Aretha and Tina, but she’s a fine raw talent who has become continually more nuanced in her approach. (8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.)
You might also want to click this link to read Frequently Asked Questions, or click this link to see the list of performers and clubs.
KILLER RAY VIDEO: click this link to see Killer Ray at his regular weekly set
TRE VIDEO: click this link to see Tré jamming at Lee’s Unleaded
