Tom Principato Band

Tom Principato "A Part Of Me" Press Quotes

Principato plays a wonderful electric guitar throughout the stompin’ with fantastic lead interludes and Chuck Leavell’s Hammond work makes the entire effort a veritable Mardi Gras. Bottom line - this is great stuff. Looking back I have come to one ultimate truth that arose from our attempt to categorize guitarists. We all must find our own guitar “Gods.”  This week Tom Principato is mine. http://ripplemusic.blogspot.com

Tom Principato is one of those excellent guitarists who plays great music that just happens to be deeply rooted in the blues, even though it may not always sound like classic blues music. The Washington D.C.-based musician has a new album, "A Part of Me" which brings in great sounds from all over the musical map in eight original songs, from flowing liquid jazz licks to fiery, bluesy solos and it all comes together in a package that showcase Principato's songwriting skills and guitar excellence. If you'd like a change-up from straight blues, you should check this out for its pure musicality and great musicianship. Jim White Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Styles may come and go but Principato has been the lynch pin of the DC music scene for over 30 years and now he comes along with a new kick ass guitar slinger set that has all his  first call pals on board for an unbridled hot time in the old time tonight.  Roots music from the next dimension, this gang is here to rock it out in an organic, electrically charged fashion.  A chops powered session, this is the real deal offering up classic styled rock with an ear toward the future.Certainly not a fashion statement, this is purely a can of whoop ass, sealed under pressure.  Check it out. Chris Spector   MIDWEST RECORD

...whether he's singing or playing or just abusing his fretboard on "A Part Of Me", Tom Principato proves to be a soulfully charismatic and veteran journeyman of the highest order. Brian M. Owens Metronome Magazine

The first of Principato's many CD's to feature all original songs is a blues flavored groove thing that's packed with soulful guitar playing, and the result is a great audio hang for any rhythm & blues fan. Art Thompson Guitar Player Magazine

Tom Principato has built himself a huge and somewhat legendary status as one of the best Guitarists in the biz. Now with the release of  "A Part Of Me" we all get a great opportunity to get acquainted with the magic that is, Tom Principato. All in all, "A Part Of Me" is an extremely well rounded offering from an Artist that has learned his trade very well over the last 40 years. Greats lyrics and great music all rolled together into one of the finest releases so far this year and although it may be early in the New Year, I got a feeling that this Album will still be on a lot of our minds at years end. "A Part Of Me" was a thoroughly enjoyable listen and an Album that I will be listening to plenty. For fans of extraordinary guitar playing, with a lot of extra goodies thrown in for good measure, "A Part Of Me" is a must have Album. John Vermilyea (Blues Underground Network)

Principato is a blues veteran with better than 40 years experience under his belt, a talented guitarist and songwriter who has quietly forged an impressive musical legacy. A great collection of blues and rock with stellar fretwork and inspired performances, A Part Of Me is short (eight songs) but entirely satisfying. Rev. Keith A. Gordon http://blues.about.com

Washington DC based guitarist and vocalist Tom Principato has a forty year plus career and jam-packed resume to his credit. This new disc finds him in possession of a full slate of original material and surrounded by musical royalty. From the first wailing notes and hot-wired guitar duel with Sonny Landreth on Don’t Wanna Do It there is little doubt that Principato is still playing for keeps and has no use for recycling tired old riffs or letting his guests do the heavy lifting. He also has no use for musical ruts. The horn-driven Part of Me sounds like a lost soul classic, while Back Again & Gone, Down the Road and Stranger’s Eyes Pt. 2 are inventive, jazzy instrumentals. Down In Lou’siana is a hard-chugging rocker with second line grooves propelled by Leavell’s greasy b3 and Principato’s dazzling fretwork: his solos before the last chorus and on the fade out are pure electric guitar bliss. This is a terrific disc from a musician deserving of wider acclaim. Mark Smith Jazz & Blues Report

A Part Of Me is not by any means a straight blues album. Principato is so talented and versatile that he never confines himself to just one style, resulting in an album that is a delightful blend of his diverse musical influences.--- Bill Mitchell http://www.bluenight.com/BluesBytes/

Tom Principato has always found himself associated with any number of superlative labels; blues legend, guitar master, telecaster phenom, etc. Principato has finished recording what many consider to be his best recording yet...M - Various

Principato has long been known as a fine guitar player, but here production and vocals take him to a new level.There's plenty of the stuff you expect from Principato, including funky New Orleans-style rock like "Lock and Key," with horns, organ and precise chording; Fender heaven on the solos. The good news is, with releases like this one, Tom's bringing new and varied music to that realm. -John Heidt  Vintage Guitar Magazine

...Principato is sure talented enough and he's been leaving mouths agape with his classy yet searing guitar pyrotechnics over the United States and Europe for the better part of four decades. A solid new album, appropriately titled "Raising The Roof!", might help spread the word, but he's most at home when peeling the paint from Blind Willie's walls with his slashing solos. Hal Horowitz-Atlanta Creative Loafing

Tom Principato is one of a few naturally gifted guitarists who just plain know how to sing via the instrument – Beck, Clapton, Hendrix, Santana, and Vaughn are others who quickly come to mind. And a little ways into this disc, you know why he named it Raising the Roof. If your tastes turn to masterful R&B with strong jazz, funk, and New Orleans accents, don’t let Raising the Roof pass you by. David J. Cantor Soundstage

All hail the blue Wammy king. And king he is, as Washington D.C.'s longstanding blues fixture. Tom Principato has garnered a truckload of those local WAMA awards in recognition of excellence for everything from "Best Instrumentalist" and "Best Blues Vocalist" to "Best Blues Album" and "Best Blues Group". To date, it's a dynasty built on 22 so-called Wammies--but there's always room for more on the mantle. So all you Capital area bands, beware--consider Raising The Roof! as a current nomination package. Dennis Rozanski  Baltimore Blues Society-Bluesrag

Ask any successful blues guitarist to identify his or her favorite peers, and Tom Principato’s name will likely get mentioned. Principato has many fans in Europe, and at 55, he's the rare artist whose musicianship, singing and songwriting continue to improve with age.  Raising the Roof! is one of the best recordings yet from the guitarist-vocalist.  Ed Kopp Jazziz Magazine

On his latest release,  Principato continues to demonstrate his versatility, with a well-rounded set of nine tracks that showcase his fluid playing and vocals. Whether he is laying down Latin rhythms on the catchy Santana-like instrumental cut Bo Bo's Groove featuring absolutely mesmerizing soaring solos, or re-working a jump blues classic such as Louis Jordan's Saturday Night Fish Fry,  Principato hits the mark repeatedly. Raising The Roof! is another in a long line of solid efforts from Principato, an artist deserving of far greater recognition. Dave Ruthenberg Living Blues magazine April 2008

DC based bluesman Tom Principato comes out swinging straight from note 1. The band is on fire and burning as they crank out blues tinged funk, jazz rock and straight blues. They jam like Jeff Beck and Elvin Bishop and Principato can unleash Latin spice like Santana.  Everything they do is done with a tasty flair and that includes a moving tribute to NOLA called “Fish Fry” and his equally feeling tribute to LA women in “Lock and Key.” Hoo-hah, this Washington legend belts one past the Beltway in a home run.  9 snaves Doctor Blues – Long Island Blues Society – March 24, 2008

Tom Principato is one of the most exciting guitarists on the contemporary scene today.  Hailing from Washington, DC, he has won just about every award given out by the Washington Area Music Association, and he's played with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy Thackery, and Danny Gatton.  His Powerhouse Records release of "Raising The Roof" is an adventurous romp thru nine cuts, (six originals) of a gorgeous gumbo of blues, soul, funk, reggae, and general good times a-rollin'!   Get your copy today and ENJOY!!! Sheryl and Don Crow. Music City Blues Soc. newsletter

Don’t be surprised if "Raising the Roof!" also raises the number of Wammie Awards that blues guitarist Tom Principato has collected over the years -- more than a dozen at last count. Principato's new album is a rocking, grooving session featuring Hammond B-3 organist Tommy Lepson. -- Mike Joyce The Washington Post

Principato, a long-established guitarist in the Washington, DC area, works off a diverse musical palette with blues, and complements of funk, jazz, latin rock and New Orleans R&B. To his credit he projects ease of delivery and gives shape and logic to even his most fierce playing. The former Powerhouse bandleader locates the joy in songs from J.J. Cale, Louis Jordan, and Jimmy Smith, respectively. Frank-John Hadley Down Beat magazine  May, 2008

- Various

Principato has long been known as a fine guitar player, but here production and vocals take him to a new level.There's plenty of the stuff you expect from Principato, including funky New Orleans-style rock like "Lock and Key," with horns, organ and precise chording; Fender heaven on the solos. The good news is, with releases like this one, Tom's bringing new and varied music to that realm. -John Heidt  Vintage Guitar Magazine

...Principato is sure talented enough and he's been leaving mouths agape with his classy yet searing guitar pyrotechnics over the United States and Europe for the better part of four decades. A solid new album, appropriately titled "Raising The Roof!", might help spread the word, but he's most at home when peeling the paint from Blind Willie's walls with his slashing solos. Hal Horowitz-Atlanta Creative Loafing

Tom Principato is one of a few naturally gifted guitarists who just plain know how to sing via the instrument – Beck, Clapton, Hendrix, Santana, and Vaughn are others who quickly come to mind. And a little ways into this disc, you know why he named it Raising the Roof. If your tastes turn to masterful R&B with strong jazz, funk, and New Orleans accents, don’t let Raising the Roof pass you by. David J. Cantor Soundstage

All hail the blue Wammy king. And king he is, as Washington D.C.'s longstanding blues fixture. Tom Principato has garnered a truckload of those local WAMA awards in recognition of excellence for everything from "Best Instrumentalist" and "Best Blues Vocalist" to "Best Blues Album" and "Best Blues Group". To date, it's a dynasty built on 22 so-called Wammies--but there's always room for more on the mantle. So all you Capital area bands, beware--consider Raising The Roof! as a current nomination package. Dennis Rozanski  Baltimore Blues Society-Bluesrag

Ask any successful blues guitarist to identify his or her favorite peers, and Tom Principato’s name will likely get mentioned. Principato has many fans in Europe, and at 55, he's the rare artist whose musicianship, singing and songwriting continue to improve with age.  Raising the Roof! is one of the best recordings yet from the guitarist-vocalist.  Ed Kopp Jazziz Magazine

On his latest release,  Principato continues to demonstrate his versatility, with a well-rounded set of nine tracks that showcase his fluid playing and vocals. Whether he is laying down Latin rhythms on the catchy Santana-like instrumental cut Bo Bo's Groove featuring absolutely mesmerizing soaring solos, or re-working a jump blues classic such as Louis Jordan's Saturday Night Fish Fry,  Principato hits the mark repeatedly. Raising The Roof! is another in a long line of solid efforts from Principato, an artist deserving of far greater recognition. Dave Ruthenberg Living Blues magazine April 2008

DC based bluesman Tom Principato comes out swinging straight from note 1. The band is on fire and burning as they crank out blues tinged funk, jazz rock and straight blues. They jam like Jeff Beck and Elvin Bishop and Principato can unleash Latin spice like Santana.  Everything they do is done with a tasty flair and that includes a moving tribute to NOLA called “Fish Fry” and his equally feeling tribute to LA women in “Lock and Key.” Hoo-hah, this Washington legend belts one past the Beltway in a home run.  9 snaves Doctor Blues – Long Island Blues Society – March 24, 2008

Tom Principato is one of the most exciting guitarists on the contemporary scene today.  Hailing from Washington, DC, he has won just about every award given out by the Washington Area Music Association, and he's played with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy Thackery, and Danny Gatton.  His Powerhouse Records release of "Raising The Roof" is an adventurous romp thru nine cuts, (six originals) of a gorgeous gumbo of blues, soul, funk, reggae, and general good times a-rollin'!   Get your copy today and ENJOY!!! Sheryl and Don Crow. Music City Blues Soc. newsletter

Don’t be surprised if "Raising the Roof!" also raises the number of Wammie Awards that blues guitarist Tom Principato has collected over the years -- more than a dozen at last count. Principato's new album is a rocking, grooving session featuring Hammond B-3 organist Tommy Lepson. -- Mike Joyce The Washington Post

Principato, a long-established guitarist in the Washington, DC area, works off a diverse musical palette with blues, and complements of funk, jazz, latin rock and New Orleans R&B. To his credit he projects ease of delivery and gives shape and logic to even his most fierce playing. The former Powerhouse bandleader locates the joy in songs from J.J. Cale, Louis Jordan, and Jimmy Smith, respectively. Frank-John Hadley Down Beat magazine  May, 2008

- Various

"Principato plays with pristine beauty and riveting emotional power; he's quite remarkable, and his meaty blend of blues, R&B, and rock will restore your soul." Dave Richards-Erie, Pa. Times

..."Excellent! He has an enormous talent at telling stories in his solos, he doesn't play only 'standard' licks."  Guitarist Pat Metheny in an interview with "Guitarist" Magazine (Paris, France) upon hearing "In The Clouds".

"In The Clouds" contains large helpings of Principato's patented rocking blues numbers, but there is much more, just as there is to the guitarists talents. More than half the selections are instrumental, and all are more than a little impressive...New fans may well be amazed at the depth and diversity of Principato's guitar mastery." Michael Point-Austin American Statesman

"His instrumental voice is original, as he juxtaposes exciting chording with sharp, sometimes gleefully wild and winding single note runs that always offer surprises. And, unlike most blues players, he can play a lyric line." Michael Drexler-The Plain Dealer Cleveland, Ohio

"At his best, Tom Principato is a terror, a master of touch and tone, equal parts craftsman and creator. Principato is at his best throughout most of Really Blue, a versatile effort that showcases the guitarist's facility for blues, jazz, rock and more....there are more fresh, original ideas on Really Blue than one is likely to hear in an entire stack of new releases by most contemporary artists. Play on Mr. Principato!"  Bryan Powell   Blues Access Mag.                                                                          
     
"Upon an initial listen, D.C.-based guitarist and vocalist Tom Principato seems to fit nicely into the powerbooster blues-rock niche of fellow fingermen like onetime-bandmate Jimmy Thackery or Tinsley Ellis. But a closer inspection reveals a subtle melodicism, a half-heard fill note or understated trill that marks a craftsman. Principato's instrumental work remains mesmerizing, his control and taste meld effortlessly." Greg Land   Atlanta Creative Loafing

"After over 20 records, either solo or band projects, Tom Principato remains one of America's most gifted guitarists and a member of my top ten of all time. Be careful, or he could easily topple one of your current guitar heroes from their lofty pedestal."  Beardo (Ted Dames)  Blueswax E-zine
                                                  
"Tom Principato invests "Tip Of The Iceberg" with a tremendous swell of enthusiasm that marks his fifth effort as one of the high spots of blues-based guitar rock this decade or last.  ...his solos are models of emotional clarity and purposeful facility even as they skyrocket into dizzying realms."   Frank John Hadley  Down Beat Magazine June, 1993

"He works harder for the music he loves than anyone I know...and if you've never heard him, Tom Principato is a more amazing guitar player than you can imagine."  Bob Margolin  Blues Review Magazine

"Let me tell you what I felt. Exhiliration! Exuberation! I sat wide eyed and slack jawed as Tom enchanted me with his talent and his fine, fine playing. What impressed me most about Tom's performance was the level of emotion his guitar playing and singing were infused with. "Virtuoso" is a word too easily applied to the undeserving theses days, but it's a word that fits this guitar master perfectly. I'm willing to say that Tom Principato is destined to achieve legend status." Layla Ferrante The Musicians Exchange                        

"It's a pleasure to hear a guitarist with such formidable ability play with true grace and style; using his most stinging licks sparingly and with maximum effect."Dave Clingan Blues Notes Portland, Oregon

"He's an excellent note bender and a concise, gritty player with an experienced ear for building to multiple climaxes in his solos."
  Dave Hiltbrand People Magazine

"Covering the breadth of ensemble blues styles, he's smarter and more entertaining and honor-bound than the general lot of blues-oriented guitarists active today." Frank John Hadley (4 stars) Down Beat Magazine May 2005

"With Blue Lights he pushes all the right buttons before digging in with some seriously gritty and impassioned playing. He gets such a beautiful distillation of the blues essence you're left wondering, "Haven't I heard that before?" The answer is "no" because this is not a copy of anything else, and "yes" if you've ever traveled to the heart of the collective blues unconscious." Cary Wolfson Blues Access

- Various

"Principato plays with pristine beauty and riveting emotional power; he's quite remarkable, and his meaty blend of blues, R&B, and rock will restore your soul." Dave Richards-Erie, Pa. Times

..."Excellent! He has an enormous talent at telling stories in his solos, he doesn't play only 'standard' licks."  Guitarist Pat Metheny in an interview with "Guitarist" Magazine (Paris, France) upon hearing "In The Clouds".

"In The Clouds" contains large helpings of Principato's patented rocking blues numbers, but there is much more, just as there is to the guitarists talents. More than half the selections are instrumental, and all are more than a little impressive...New fans may well be amazed at the depth and diversity of Principato's guitar mastery." Michael Point-Austin American Statesman

"His instrumental voice is original, as he juxtaposes exciting chording with sharp, sometimes gleefully wild and winding single note runs that always offer surprises. And, unlike most blues players, he can play a lyric line." Michael Drexler-The Plain Dealer Cleveland, Ohio

"At his best, Tom Principato is a terror, a master of touch and tone, equal parts craftsman and creator. Principato is at his best throughout most of Really Blue, a versatile effort that showcases the guitarist's facility for blues, jazz, rock and more....there are more fresh, original ideas on Really Blue than one is likely to hear in an entire stack of new releases by most contemporary artists. Play on Mr. Principato!"  Bryan Powell   Blues Access Mag.                                                                          
     
"Upon an initial listen, D.C.-based guitarist and vocalist Tom Principato seems to fit nicely into the powerbooster blues-rock niche of fellow fingermen like onetime-bandmate Jimmy Thackery or Tinsley Ellis. But a closer inspection reveals a subtle melodicism, a half-heard fill note or understated trill that marks a craftsman. Principato's instrumental work remains mesmerizing, his control and taste meld effortlessly." Greg Land   Atlanta Creative Loafing

"After over 20 records, either solo or band projects, Tom Principato remains one of America's most gifted guitarists and a member of my top ten of all time. Be careful, or he could easily topple one of your current guitar heroes from their lofty pedestal."  Beardo (Ted Dames)  Blueswax E-zine
                                                  
"Tom Principato invests "Tip Of The Iceberg" with a tremendous swell of enthusiasm that marks his fifth effort as one of the high spots of blues-based guitar rock this decade or last.  ...his solos are models of emotional clarity and purposeful facility even as they skyrocket into dizzying realms."   Frank John Hadley  Down Beat Magazine June, 1993

"He works harder for the music he loves than anyone I know...and if you've never heard him, Tom Principato is a more amazing guitar player than you can imagine."  Bob Margolin  Blues Review Magazine

"Let me tell you what I felt. Exhiliration! Exuberation! I sat wide eyed and slack jawed as Tom enchanted me with his talent and his fine, fine playing. What impressed me most about Tom's performance was the level of emotion his guitar playing and singing were infused with. "Virtuoso" is a word too easily applied to the undeserving theses days, but it's a word that fits this guitar master perfectly. I'm willing to say that Tom Principato is destined to achieve legend status." Layla Ferrante The Musicians Exchange                        

"It's a pleasure to hear a guitarist with such formidable ability play with true grace and style; using his most stinging licks sparingly and with maximum effect."Dave Clingan Blues Notes Portland, Oregon

"He's an excellent note bender and a concise, gritty player with an experienced ear for building to multiple climaxes in his solos."
  Dave Hiltbrand People Magazine

"Covering the breadth of ensemble blues styles, he's smarter and more entertaining and honor-bound than the general lot of blues-oriented guitarists active today." Frank John Hadley (4 stars) Down Beat Magazine May 2005

"With Blue Lights he pushes all the right buttons before digging in with some seriously gritty and impassioned playing. He gets such a beautiful distillation of the blues essence you're left wondering, "Haven't I heard that before?" The answer is "no" because this is not a copy of anything else, and "yes" if you've ever traveled to the heart of the collective blues unconscious." Cary Wolfson Blues Access

- Various

A BluesWax Reprint

This review originally ran in
BluesWax on February 16, 2006

Tom Principato
Guitar Gumbo

BluesWax Rating: 9 out of 10


One of America’s Most Gifted Guitarists

Long-time Tom Principato fans (yours truly included) will not be disappointed with Guitar Gumbo, his latest Powerhouse Records release. Ironically, recorded months before the hurricane Katrina disaster as part homage to one of TP's favorite places on the planet, the CD is an Americana exploration and experimental Telecaster proving ground. In other words, a real "gumbo" of musical styles and tastes.

The first, and arguably the best track, "Louisiana (Been Callin' Me)," deploys a sinister Congo Square hoodoo feel as Tommy Lepson (former Assassin and Root Boy Slim band member) further proves he is the best Hammond organ player in Washington, D.C., and a potent Blues singer to boot. The Nighthawks' Mark Wenner also re-validates his title "the most original rhythm harmonica man on the planet" as he becomes the engine driving this composition.

Another welcome addition is former Principato band member Kevin McKendree (Delbert McClinton's band now) hammering a piano to pieces on Dave Kitchen's rockin' "If Love Is Blind" (whose best line remains, "if love is blind, I hope I never see you again"), "They Took My Money," and the classic "Drinkin' Wine Spo-dee-o-dee." Add Pato's road rhythm section for the last few years, John Perry on bass and Joe Wells on drums, and you have an airtight machine.

Horns stamp their impression on "Drinkin' Wine" and the TP original "Helping Hand," the latter having eerie post-Katrina lyrics. Of course, Hank Williams' "Jambalaya (On The Bayou)" and Roy Byrd's "Hey Now Baby" fit the overall Big Easy flavor. The requisite instrumentals that all Pato fans look forward to, "Return Of The Voodoo Thing," "Tango'd Up In The Blues," and "Tipsy," sequence brilliantly as Tom quite frankly, tears it a new one. Nobody imposes his will over the wild Telecaster quite like Tom Principato.

After over 20 records, either solo or band projects, Tom Principato remains one of America's most gifted guitarists and a member of my top ten of all time. Be careful, or he could easily topple one of your current guitar heroes from their lofty pedestal.

- Blueswax Ezine

A BluesWax Reprint

This review originally ran in
BluesWax on February 16, 2006

Tom Principato
Guitar Gumbo

BluesWax Rating: 9 out of 10


One of America’s Most Gifted Guitarists

Long-time Tom Principato fans (yours truly included) will not be disappointed with Guitar Gumbo, his latest Powerhouse Records release. Ironically, recorded months before the hurricane Katrina disaster as part homage to one of TP's favorite places on the planet, the CD is an Americana exploration and experimental Telecaster proving ground. In other words, a real "gumbo" of musical styles and tastes.

The first, and arguably the best track, "Louisiana (Been Callin' Me)," deploys a sinister Congo Square hoodoo feel as Tommy Lepson (former Assassin and Root Boy Slim band member) further proves he is the best Hammond organ player in Washington, D.C., and a potent Blues singer to boot. The Nighthawks' Mark Wenner also re-validates his title "the most original rhythm harmonica man on the planet" as he becomes the engine driving this composition.

Another welcome addition is former Principato band member Kevin McKendree (Delbert McClinton's band now) hammering a piano to pieces on Dave Kitchen's rockin' "If Love Is Blind" (whose best line remains, "if love is blind, I hope I never see you again"), "They Took My Money," and the classic "Drinkin' Wine Spo-dee-o-dee." Add Pato's road rhythm section for the last few years, John Perry on bass and Joe Wells on drums, and you have an airtight machine.

Horns stamp their impression on "Drinkin' Wine" and the TP original "Helping Hand," the latter having eerie post-Katrina lyrics. Of course, Hank Williams' "Jambalaya (On The Bayou)" and Roy Byrd's "Hey Now Baby" fit the overall Big Easy flavor. The requisite instrumentals that all Pato fans look forward to, "Return Of The Voodoo Thing," "Tango'd Up In The Blues," and "Tipsy," sequence brilliantly as Tom quite frankly, tears it a new one. Nobody imposes his will over the wild Telecaster quite like Tom Principato.

After over 20 records, either solo or band projects, Tom Principato remains one of America's most gifted guitarists and a member of my top ten of all time. Be careful, or he could easily topple one of your current guitar heroes from their lofty pedestal.

- Blueswax Ezine

Tom Principato and Powerhouse
Famous Monday Blues, Oxford
16th November 2009


There had been a lot of pre-show publicity about this guitarist and his band in the press, blues magazines, emails and a track played on Paul Jones’s BBC Radio 2 show. This popular artist from the USA was pulled away from our shores back home after an extensive tour of mainland Europe, which meant we only got two shots at seeing him play in this country. After what I understand to have been a cracking gig at the Carlisle Blues Festival the night before, Tom Principato and his band Powerhouse arrived at The Famous Monday Blues Club in Oxford to an audience full of enthusiasm and anticipation. We were not disappointed. They started the set, with Tom sporting his trademark hat and a Black Fender Stratocaster, and got straight into the groove, with “Hey Now Baby” during which, each of the band members were able to stretch out with a solo. The band was: Tom Principato, guitar and vocals, Jay Turner, bass and John Tracey, drums. Barely had the applause subsided than they were straight into “If Love Is Blind”, which had the dancers in action. The set naturally included tracks from the current CD “Raising The Roof”, we heard a refreshing version of JJ Cale’s “Lies”, and “Too Damn Funky” inspired by The Meters, Prof. Longhair et al. in which solos abound. Time to slow things down with a bluesy ballad called “You’ll Always Be A Part Of Me” which will feature on the new CD available next year. Now it was “Time to unleash the chickens” as Tom switched to a white Telecaster and produced the most amazing sounds with what Tom calls the “Chicken pickin’” style, needless to say sounding exactly like chickens and was very successfully applied to the Jimmy Smith song “8 Counts for Rita”. A reggae based track followed with “In The Middle Of The Night” again from the current CD. By now the non-dancing section of the audience were mesmerised by Tom’s superb fingerboard work and astounding guitar technique and you can certainly see why fans around the world say he is one of “America’s Most Gifted Guitarists”. It was a power rocking blues track to close the first half but after the break they came back with that characteristic New Orleans Beat/Groove with their version of Louis Jordan’s “Saturday Night Fish Fry”, which of course set the dancers loose. Blistering guitar solos on the black Strat. followed in “Call The Law” from the forthcoming album. As Tom said – “we continue with the thrashing” and they did with an instrumental track. The South American influences came out in the very soulful and Santanaesque “Tango’d Up In Blues”. To wind up, those New Orleans beats were back in a cover of a Sonny Landreth composition, previously done by amongst others John Mayall, “Congo Square”. They closed with an encore of the Dave Edmunds hit, although originally written by Fats Domino “I Hear You Knockin’”. All in all a great night and it’s easy to see Tom’s musical influences ranging from blues, jazz and rock, to funk, reggae and New Orleans rhythms and the guitar playing is a delight to watch. By popular request Tom Principato will return to the Famous Monday Blues make sure he plays your club/festival next year too, you won’t be disappointed.



Paul Stiles
oxfordblues.info
tomprincipato.com
- Paul Stiles/Oxford paper

Tom Principato and Powerhouse
Famous Monday Blues, Oxford
16th November 2009


There had been a lot of pre-show publicity about this guitarist and his band in the press, blues magazines, emails and a track played on Paul Jones’s BBC Radio 2 show. This popular artist from the USA was pulled away from our shores back home after an extensive tour of mainland Europe, which meant we only got two shots at seeing him play in this country. After what I understand to have been a cracking gig at the Carlisle Blues Festival the night before, Tom Principato and his band Powerhouse arrived at The Famous Monday Blues Club in Oxford to an audience full of enthusiasm and anticipation. We were not disappointed. They started the set, with Tom sporting his trademark hat and a Black Fender Stratocaster, and got straight into the groove, with “Hey Now Baby” during which, each of the band members were able to stretch out with a solo. The band was: Tom Principato, guitar and vocals, Jay Turner, bass and John Tracey, drums. Barely had the applause subsided than they were straight into “If Love Is Blind”, which had the dancers in action. The set naturally included tracks from the current CD “Raising The Roof”, we heard a refreshing version of JJ Cale’s “Lies”, and “Too Damn Funky” inspired by The Meters, Prof. Longhair et al. in which solos abound. Time to slow things down with a bluesy ballad called “You’ll Always Be A Part Of Me” which will feature on the new CD available next year. Now it was “Time to unleash the chickens” as Tom switched to a white Telecaster and produced the most amazing sounds with what Tom calls the “Chicken pickin’” style, needless to say sounding exactly like chickens and was very successfully applied to the Jimmy Smith song “8 Counts for Rita”. A reggae based track followed with “In The Middle Of The Night” again from the current CD. By now the non-dancing section of the audience were mesmerised by Tom’s superb fingerboard work and astounding guitar technique and you can certainly see why fans around the world say he is one of “America’s Most Gifted Guitarists”. It was a power rocking blues track to close the first half but after the break they came back with that characteristic New Orleans Beat/Groove with their version of Louis Jordan’s “Saturday Night Fish Fry”, which of course set the dancers loose. Blistering guitar solos on the black Strat. followed in “Call The Law” from the forthcoming album. As Tom said – “we continue with the thrashing” and they did with an instrumental track. The South American influences came out in the very soulful and Santanaesque “Tango’d Up In Blues”. To wind up, those New Orleans beats were back in a cover of a Sonny Landreth composition, previously done by amongst others John Mayall, “Congo Square”. They closed with an encore of the Dave Edmunds hit, although originally written by Fats Domino “I Hear You Knockin’”. All in all a great night and it’s easy to see Tom’s musical influences ranging from blues, jazz and rock, to funk, reggae and New Orleans rhythms and the guitar playing is a delight to watch. By popular request Tom Principato will return to the Famous Monday Blues make sure he plays your club/festival next year too, you won’t be disappointed.



Paul Stiles
oxfordblues.info
tomprincipato.com
- Paul Stiles/Oxford paper

This review originally ran in Vintage Guitar Magazine June, 2008

TOM PRINCIPATO BAND
Raising The Roof!
Powerhouse Records

Principato has long been known as a fine guitar player, but here production and vocals take him to a new level.There's plenty of the stuff you expect from Principato, including funky New Orleans-style rock like "Lock and Key," with horns, organ and precise chording; Fender heaven on the solos. "Too Damn Funky" is exactly that, with a nasty solo and cool chordal work on the outro. "Mi Solea" is an emotional instrumental that gives Principato a chance to show his stuff. His soloing is as clever and on-the-money as you want. The same goes for the workout on Jimmy Smith's "8 Counts For Rita." It's old fashioned greasy, funky soul feel lets Principato show off nice changes and great licks. And the closer, "They Called For Stormy Monday (But Mustang Sally Is Just As Bad!)" will definately find a sympathetic ear in every working musician. Recorded live and with a perfect rendition of the Bobby "Blue" Bland/Allman Brothers versions of "Stormy Monday," it's lyrics have been adapted to include every song and in some cases every band any musician over the age of 30 is sick of playing.
The good news is, with releases like this one, Tom's bringing new and varied music to that
realm. -John Heidt
- Vintage Guitar Magazine

This review originally ran in Vintage Guitar Magazine June, 2008

TOM PRINCIPATO BAND
Raising The Roof!
Powerhouse Records

Principato has long been known as a fine guitar player, but here production and vocals take him to a new level.There's plenty of the stuff you expect from Principato, including funky New Orleans-style rock like "Lock and Key," with horns, organ and precise chording; Fender heaven on the solos. "Too Damn Funky" is exactly that, with a nasty solo and cool chordal work on the outro. "Mi Solea" is an emotional instrumental that gives Principato a chance to show his stuff. His soloing is as clever and on-the-money as you want. The same goes for the workout on Jimmy Smith's "8 Counts For Rita." It's old fashioned greasy, funky soul feel lets Principato show off nice changes and great licks. And the closer, "They Called For Stormy Monday (But Mustang Sally Is Just As Bad!)" will definately find a sympathetic ear in every working musician. Recorded live and with a perfect rendition of the Bobby "Blue" Bland/Allman Brothers versions of "Stormy Monday," it's lyrics have been adapted to include every song and in some cases every band any musician over the age of 30 is sick of playing.
The good news is, with releases like this one, Tom's bringing new and varied music to that
realm. -John Heidt
- Vintage Guitar Magazine

"Rheinpfalz, Germany Saturday, October, 4th 2008"
Obviously wild in their prime age
Opening Day of the Kammgarn Blues Festival

It was an extraordinary start of the 8th Kammgarn International Blues Festival on Thursday. With overwhelming delight in playing and power the bands "Tom Principato & Powerhouse" and "Eric Sardinas & Big Motor" swept away any melancholy of the beginning autumn time and raised the roof of the packed Cotton Club. Four hours of a great blues experience that affects you directly.

Obviously wild in their prime age: Tom Principato and his three pyrotechnicians rocked the stage of the cellar vault like a hurricane. How powerful that was! It sounded like the blues was scratching the surface, so genuine. The gang of four presented tough Chicago Blues.
The audience get to know why the 55-year old band leader was twice on a shortlist for a Grammy award. Scarcely anybody ever left here such a mark of dramatic art and straight forwardness. Scarcely anybody ever played with such richness in modulation and nuances. The blues is not just in his fingers, but in his heart. He is like a piano-man on a six string, his fingers slide with enormous speed up and down the fingerboard, creating adorable glissando and vibrato effects. In doing so the guitar is hammering like an old diesel-engine, whining and begging for mercy. Single notes heighten in an orchestral sound. He let the guitar sing sexily, bending the tones, sometimes lowering the volume to dam the tension.
Interlaced killer-grooves came from the George-Clooney-look-a-like guy named John Perry (Bass), the thundering Cerberus El Torro Gamble (Drums) in the background ties the sound together. Josh Howell performed breath-taking sleight of hands on the Congas. And it got funky when Celia Baron joined the band with her Alto Saxophone. Like a German Candy Dulfer."
- Kaiserslautern newspaper

"Rheinpfalz, Germany Saturday, October, 4th 2008"
Obviously wild in their prime age
Opening Day of the Kammgarn Blues Festival

It was an extraordinary start of the 8th Kammgarn International Blues Festival on Thursday. With overwhelming delight in playing and power the bands "Tom Principato & Powerhouse" and "Eric Sardinas & Big Motor" swept away any melancholy of the beginning autumn time and raised the roof of the packed Cotton Club. Four hours of a great blues experience that affects you directly.

Obviously wild in their prime age: Tom Principato and his three pyrotechnicians rocked the stage of the cellar vault like a hurricane. How powerful that was! It sounded like the blues was scratching the surface, so genuine. The gang of four presented tough Chicago Blues.
The audience get to know why the 55-year old band leader was twice on a shortlist for a Grammy award. Scarcely anybody ever left here such a mark of dramatic art and straight forwardness. Scarcely anybody ever played with such richness in modulation and nuances. The blues is not just in his fingers, but in his heart. He is like a piano-man on a six string, his fingers slide with enormous speed up and down the fingerboard, creating adorable glissando and vibrato effects. In doing so the guitar is hammering like an old diesel-engine, whining and begging for mercy. Single notes heighten in an orchestral sound. He let the guitar sing sexily, bending the tones, sometimes lowering the volume to dam the tension.
Interlaced killer-grooves came from the George-Clooney-look-a-like guy named John Perry (Bass), the thundering Cerberus El Torro Gamble (Drums) in the background ties the sound together. Josh Howell performed breath-taking sleight of hands on the Congas. And it got funky when Celia Baron joined the band with her Alto Saxophone. Like a German Candy Dulfer."
- Kaiserslautern newspaper

Music City Blues Soc. newsletter
Nashville, Tenn.
Tuesday, 29 January 2008
TOM PRINCIPATO
RAISING THE ROOF!
POWERHOUSE RECORDS 125

LOCK AND KEY--TOO DAMN FUNKY--IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT--LIES--BO BO'S GROOVE--FISH FRY--MI SOLEA--8 COUNTS FOR RITA--THEY CALLED FOR STORMY MONDAY (BUT MUSTANG SALLY IS JUST AS BAD!)

     Tom Principato is one of the most exciting guitarists on the contemporary scene today.  Hailing from Washington, DC, he has won just about every award given out by the Washington Area Music Association, and he's played with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy Thackery, and Danny Gatton.  His Powerhouse Records release of "Raising The Roof" is an adventurous romp thru nine cuts, (six originals) of a gorgeous gumbo of blues, soul, funk, reggae, and general good times a-rollin'! 

     The backing musicians on this set are great players in their own right, as well.  Tommy Lepson's B-3 work adds the spice to this mix, along with John Perry on bass, Joe Wells on drums, and Josh Howell on percussion.  There is a huge New Orleans influence on this CD, from the polyrhythms played among the musicians, and Tom's passionate vocals and guitar lines.  A good example of this is the downright-fonky groove set up in Tom's version of Louis Jordan's "Fish Fry," stripped down to a cool second-line beat, vastly different from the original.  The instrumental "Too Damn Funky" further explores this groove, and everyone gets a chance to shine on this one.  Tom goes a wee bit south of N'Awlins to bring a reggae-fied approach to the excellent "In The Middle Of The Night."  The percussion and organ fuel Tom's vocals in "Lies," while "BoBo's Groove" has a Latin-tinged, Santana feel to it.

     However, nothing tops our favorite, the hilarious tale of songs played about one billion times too many.  It's called "They Called For 'Stormy Monday', But 'Mustang Sally' Is Just As Bad," where we learn that the "Free Bird flies on Friday," and, as far as requests for Jimmy Buffett songs....NO WAY!!

     We had the great pleasure to meet Tom Principato and the band down in Atlanta in October 2007 at Blind Willie's.  They debuted some of these songs at that time, and were definitely "Raising The Roof!!!"  Get your copy today and ENJOY!!!    Until next time....Sheryl and Don Crow.
- Music City Blues Sos. newsletter

Music City Blues Soc. newsletter
Nashville, Tenn.
Tuesday, 29 January 2008
TOM PRINCIPATO
RAISING THE ROOF!
POWERHOUSE RECORDS 125

LOCK AND KEY--TOO DAMN FUNKY--IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT--LIES--BO BO'S GROOVE--FISH FRY--MI SOLEA--8 COUNTS FOR RITA--THEY CALLED FOR STORMY MONDAY (BUT MUSTANG SALLY IS JUST AS BAD!)

     Tom Principato is one of the most exciting guitarists on the contemporary scene today.  Hailing from Washington, DC, he has won just about every award given out by the Washington Area Music Association, and he's played with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy Thackery, and Danny Gatton.  His Powerhouse Records release of "Raising The Roof" is an adventurous romp thru nine cuts, (six originals) of a gorgeous gumbo of blues, soul, funk, reggae, and general good times a-rollin'! 

     The backing musicians on this set are great players in their own right, as well.  Tommy Lepson's B-3 work adds the spice to this mix, along with John Perry on bass, Joe Wells on drums, and Josh Howell on percussion.  There is a huge New Orleans influence on this CD, from the polyrhythms played among the musicians, and Tom's passionate vocals and guitar lines.  A good example of this is the downright-fonky groove set up in Tom's version of Louis Jordan's "Fish Fry," stripped down to a cool second-line beat, vastly different from the original.  The instrumental "Too Damn Funky" further explores this groove, and everyone gets a chance to shine on this one.  Tom goes a wee bit south of N'Awlins to bring a reggae-fied approach to the excellent "In The Middle Of The Night."  The percussion and organ fuel Tom's vocals in "Lies," while "BoBo's Groove" has a Latin-tinged, Santana feel to it.

     However, nothing tops our favorite, the hilarious tale of songs played about one billion times too many.  It's called "They Called For 'Stormy Monday', But 'Mustang Sally' Is Just As Bad," where we learn that the "Free Bird flies on Friday," and, as far as requests for Jimmy Buffett songs....NO WAY!!

     We had the great pleasure to meet Tom Principato and the band down in Atlanta in October 2007 at Blind Willie's.  They debuted some of these songs at that time, and were definitely "Raising The Roof!!!"  Get your copy today and ENJOY!!!    Until next time....Sheryl and Don Crow.
- Music City Blues Sos. newsletter