Popa Chubby and The Beast Band – Live at G. Bluey’s Juke Joint NYC
19 tracks – 135 minutes
In the heart of New York City, where the neon lights dance to the rhythm of the streets, Popa Chubby and The Beast Band recently unleashed a sonic storm at the legendary G. Bluey’s Juke Joint. Capturing the raw energy and electrifying blues rock that defines Popa Chubby's illustrious career, the two-night live recording has emerged as a powerhouse testament to his enduring musical prowess.
Popa Chubby, also known as The Capo of Love in his own words, has been a force in the New York music scene for over three decades. His latest offering, "Live at G. Bluey’s Juke Joint NYC," is a marathon of 19 tracks spread across a staggering 135 minutes. This musical extravaganza, released under Gulf Coast Records, serves as a testament to Popa's unwavering commitment to the blues, blending it seamlessly with the unbridled energy of rock.
The album kicks off with a searing rendition of Neil Young's "Motorcycle Mama," setting the stage for a rollercoaster ride through Popa Chubby's eclectic discography. With his powerhouse vocals and blistering guitar solos, Popa Chubby takes the listener on a journey that spans his extensive career. From the introspective "Another Ten Years Gone" to the timeless "Hey Joe," the setlist is a carefully curated collection of Popa's originals and classic covers.
What makes this live album truly special is its authenticity. Recorded over two nights at the mythical G. Bluey’s, a venue that exists in the realm of Popa Chubby's creativity rather than on a city street, the performances are drenched in the genuine fervor of live music. The interaction between Popa and The Beast Band—comprising Michael Merrit on bass, Mike Dimeo on keyboards, and Stefano Giudici on drums—creates a dynamic synergy that fuels the fiery blues rock atmosphere.
The second disc of the album dives deeper into Popa Chubby's repertoire, featuring tracks from his 2022 release "It's A Mighty Hard Road" and revisiting gems like "I Don’t Want Nobody" and "I Can’t See the Light of Day." The setlist ebbs and flows, showcasing the band's versatility, from the poignant ballad "Embee’s Song" to the powerful rendition of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah."
Popa Chubby's prowess as a storyteller shines through in his performance of Tom Waits' "Heart Attack and Vine" and his original narrative piece "Sweat." The album concludes with a monumental finale, intertwining a cover of The Rolling Stones' "Sympathy for the Devil" with Chubby's own storytelling in "Chubby’s Story," paying homage to Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground.
"Live at G. Bluey’s Juke Joint NYC" encapsulates the essence of Popa Chubby's live experience—an unapologetic celebration of blues, rock, and everything in between. As the guitars wail and the rhythm section grooves, Popa Chubby reminds us that the blues isn't just a genre; it's a living, breathing force that continues to evolve through artists like him.
So, if you're ready for a musical journey that transcends time and genre, buckle up and join Popa Chubby and The Beast Band on this electrifying ride through the heart of New York City's blues-soaked nights.
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