Pensacola Welcomes Joe Bonamassa to the Saenger

I knew this was going to be quite a show when I drove by the Saenger Theater at about noon. I couldn't believe the entourage Joe was bringing to our fair city! I counted 3 semi tractor trailers and 2 massive mobile campers, which grew to 4 mobile campers by the evening! Local law enforcement had to block the street off to allow for this huge crew to park.

Needless to say, it was sizing up to be a night full of high energy, quality entertainment in Pensacola, Florida!

Denise and I arrived about 20 minutes before show start. I picked up my press credentials, set list and badge and we headed for the main, ground floor entrance. We were greeted by the house manager and escorted to our seats, which was row 78, main floor, on the isle. The crowd was electric and waiting with baited anticipation for the show that was about to begin.

The stage came alive as the lights glowed and the band took the conn. Joe's road band consisted of 2 guitars, Bass, Drums, Keys, and a smokin' backing vocal pair of songbird women. I'll introduce them all to you later.

Joe busted out of the dark to his first number, HOPE YOU REALIZE IT, as the audience roared with a Pensacola welcome. The house was full of energy as Joe demonstrated his ability to please the ear with his unique brand of rockin' blues. Joe's showmanship is like non-other when he entertains a crowd as he proved he is at the very top of his musical game. In the very first song, he ripped into runs and riffs only Joe Bonamassa is famous for.

Joe played 3 numbers back-to-back in his opening offering, which consisted of Hope You Realize It, 24 Hour Blues, and Well I Done Got Over. Then followed Self Inflicted Wounds, Shout About It, and Last Matador of Bayonne. The captivated crowd had eyes locked on the stage and everyone was enjoying this auspicious night of high quality musical entertainment. After Breakin Up Someone's Home it was time to introduce Joe's outstanding band.

On keys, Reese Wynans demonstrated his ability to provide a variety of keyboard sounds including his Hammond B-3. It permeated the theater with a sound recognized by many. Lemar Carter, Joe's drummer, kept the engine rolling all the way through the entire concert. It really helps to have a player like Lamar holding down the beat. Josh Smith, the rhythm and alternate lead man, gave an outstanding performance.

Calvin Turner held down the bottom with relative ease through his iconic bass runs and riffs. He was solid all the way. Backup consisted of two very fine and well performed seasoned singers, Jade MacRae and Mahalia Barnes. These ladies belted out harmonies that sent me to the roof! Both of them gave tremendous performances that the audience appreciated with resounding applause.

As the night progressed, we all enjoyed the non-stop music on display as we listened to Heart That Never Waits, Is It Safe To Go Home, and Lazy Poker Blues.

The night was filled with Joe's special brand of blues and rock. I observed the audience on their feet at times reveling in the tones and tunes presented on this calm Pensacola evening. Joe Bonamassa proves time and time again that he knows how to put on a show like none other. No crazy special effects, digital doings and the like. No sir, Joe plays pure music with nothing more than instruments and vocals. The way music should be played.

As Joe Bonamassa's band finishes their time in Pensacola, they prepare to embark on the remainder of their Spring 2024 tour, culminating in the KTBA At Sea IX Caribbean Cruise 2024 performance from March 18th to March 22nd. Following only a brief respite, they will swiftly transition into their Europe Spring Tour. With any luck, Joe Bonamassa will grace the Gulf Coast once more in the future.

Links:

Joe Bonamassa - Website, Facebook, Instagram
Saenger Theater - Website, Facebook