Blues Traveler Delivers Memorable Performance at del Lago Resort & Casino
TYRE — Blues Traveler took the stage at The Vine showroom inside del Lago Resort and Casino last Friday, showcasing John Popper’s renowned harmonica skills alongside a tight-knit band delivering a jam-band experience. The evening saw Popper frequently stepping offstage, leaving guitarist Chan Kinchla, drummer Brendan Hall, keyboardist Ben Wilson, and bassist Tad Kinchla to explore extended improvisations, allowing the performance to transform dynamically.
Though Popper momentarily stepped back to address sound adjustments, his return was met with excitement as he wielded a special microphone that amplified his signature harmonica sound through guitar-like effects. Highlights included the band’s Grammy-winning hit “Run Around,” where Popper engaged the audience to sing along with infectious enthusiasm.
The setlist featured a blend of original songs, including “Sweet Talking Hippie,” “But Anyway,” and “Crash Burn,” alongside covers that ranged from Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs” to the Charlie Daniels Band’s “Devil Went Down to Georgia” — creatively replacing the fiddle with harmonica.
While the attendance was just shy of full capacity, the energy was palpable, resonating with faithful fans and new listeners alike. Blues Traveler reflects a natural evolution since the ’90s but continues to command attention in the music scene. Their album, “Traveler’s Blues,” earned a 2022 Grammy nomination for “Best Traditional Blues,” reinforcing the band’s enduring relevance.
As Friday’s concert wrapped up, Kinchla and Hall delighted attendees by taking time for photos and tossing guitar picks into the crowd. With an upcoming tour alongside the Gin Blossoms and the Spin Doctors, Blues Traveler proves they still have the magic that captivated fans decades ago.
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