The Cat Daddy Blues Band Rocks The Blues at Tracy B Gallery

The Pensacola music community got a huge dose of the blues on Friday, the 26th of January when The Cat Daddy Blues Band graced the stage at 1216 North.

The Cat Daddy Blues Band banner

1216 North, or commonly known as The Tracy B Gallery, sits just north of Cervantes on the east side of 9th. What may appear as a former filling station is now the home of new and exciting entertainment here in Pensacola, Florida. Tommy and Tracy have built themselves an awesome, though intimate venue not far from downtown in the historic East Hill district. Adorned with high class art and decorations, the interior boasts of cloth covered tables, candle lit with mood lights behind the stage. Even the outdoor lounge is comfortable with plush seating and side tables.

Dee and I arrived a bit after 8pm. We could hear the sound of blues music playing inside as we approached the front door. Upon entering, the energy in the building was electric! Folks smiling, having a good time, eating, drinking and anticipating a night of quality musical entertainment.

The Cat Daddy Blues Band was already in full force playing their version of RACK EM UP. Now, I must tell you that this is not the first time I've had the pleasure of seeing them. This talented blues band currently plays all up and down the emerald coast. I've been down to Seville on a Monday when The Blues Society of Northwest Florida hosts the blues jam and open mic. Jim, a long time standing member is usually there when blues legends from all around come to play and jam with the locals. One Monday night I had the pure pleasure of playing with Jim and several local musicians. What a night, what a jam. I even got to play Jim George's monster PDP kit!

Well, this particular Friday night was absolutely no exception. These consummate professionals showed everyone in the room that they are serious blues men. When they ripped into YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO, and followed that up with LOAN ME A DIME.

I must say, watching and listening to The Cat Daddy Blues Band is always a treat for me as a musician. I get a drum lesson every time I see Jim George on the skins. His versatility and technique are among the very best of my most respected and honored drummers. Jim's earned that moniker with performances that have left crowds, and drummers speechless! Because his rep. as a drummer is so well known, Jim plays with a variety of bands in Pensacola and the Gulf coast region. His main band Harrison Avenue, an outstanding trio, has made a name for itself in a very short period of time around the venue circuit. Jim's played with so many bands that I always lose count!

Howard Erskine, the band's bass man, shows his prowess on the bass guitar. "Howie" as he's affectionately known, is a seasoned professional and has played with many in our Emerald Coast music community. His style and playing ability proves he can hang with ANYONE! I was amazed as he walked up, down and all over that low end axe. Howie also has a style sense like no other. Nice hat Howie!

Rounding out the mix with his wailing riffs on the keys, Ronnie Taylor entertains the crowd . Ronnie's rather reserved most of the time, except when he's pounding out rhythms and riffs indicative of his years as a professional keyboard player. I've had the pleasure of playing with Ronnie at Goatlips Chew And Brew on occasion and always enjoy his demeanor and grace as he glides along the keyboard. A true blues man with a heart for the music he offers. You can tell Ronnie loves to play!

My recommendation would be to go and experience a night of pure, southern blues excitement when you next can arrange it. Where ever, and whenever these master bluesmen command the stage, they never cease to entertain! I'm sure The Cat Daddy Blues Band will leave a lasting impression on you that will leave you wanting more, and more, AND MORE!

Catch the band at their next event by checking out their official page https://www.thecatdaddybluesband.com/new-event