Who: The Russell Jackson Band
Where: Merlins Wednesday, Feb. 11, 3-5 p.m.
Where: Moe Joes Wednesday, Feb. 11 (evening)
Vancouver-based blues bassist Russell Jackson will be the hardest workin musician in town this Wednesday.
Jackson swings by Merlins to deliver a mid-week, après-ski blues break for those coming off a hard day on the slopes. Hell show up again at Moe Joes in the evening for the clubs regular Wednesday live music night.
Born in Memphis, Tenn. and raised in Wichita, Kansas, Jackson took up the bass in his early 20s. Moving to Chicago, the "hot-bed of blues," he got the chance to play with renowned acts such as Buddy Guy and Junior Wells, before being hired by the legendary B.B. King in 1979, touring and recording with him for the next seven years.
Jackson ended up in Vancouver after a stint in Los Angeles, where he was given the opportunity to work with performers such as Charlie Musselwhite and Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones.
Along with countless contributions to other artists albums, he recorded two of his own albums Becoming Blue (1999) and The Alleyman (1994).
Currently based in Vancouver, Jackson is a fixture on the Western Canadian blues circuit and a regular visitor to Whistler.
There are two chances to catch his jazzy, funked-up blues bass this Wednesday: in the Blackcomb Benchlands at apres or down in Whistler Village in the evening.
Call 604-938-7700 for more information on Jacksons appearance at Merlins, 604-935-1152 for Moe Joes.