Breaking news... Guitarist/vocalist Danny Draher took first place at the NY Blues and Jazz Society’s 5th annual Battle of the Bands in Teaneck NJ. Danny’s dynamic set was blistering from the moment he started his forty-five minute session, often receiving strong ovations from the mighty crowd and supporters at Mexicali Blues. Danny’s band members included Floyd Murphy on drums, Tim Tindell on bass, and Brian Charette on B3. A very special thank you goes to Jeremy Baum, who graciously left his Hammond B3 organ on stage for Charette to use for the eventual winning Danny Draher Band.

Strong performances were given by all the bands who competed, which included: The Shades, The East River Blues Band, Michael Packer’s band, and the aforementioned Jeremy Baum.

Many thanks to the illustrious group of judges who scored the battle, Ann Phillips, author Michael Lydon, Blues Leaf Records exec Joe Morabia, WBGO’s BobPorter, and guitarist extraordinaire Melvin Sparks who has been a judge for this society for the last three years consecutively.

This society’s first Battle of the Bands winner Dave Keyes, who went on to win The International Blues Competition in Memphis, was my co-emcee of the festivities. This was Dave’s third year as a co-emcee as well, thanks Dave!

Also kudos to Nikki Armstrong who coordinated the event and to Rich and Eileen Ludmerer who worked the door and sold merchandise.

Best wishes to Danny Draher and his band who will be competing in Memphis at the end of January 2004, wearing the NY Blues and Jazz Society colors.

There will be send off party for Danny and his band to help cover the cost of the trip to Memphis in early to mid January. Please continue to check our web site and your ebluesnews emails for updates as to when and where this event will take place.