A Hollywood Reporter writer went to Doheny and wrote a review “Derek Trucks outshines legends at blues fest” that I could not disagree with more.  I was looking forward to Derek Trucks and I agree that Elvin Bishop joining him on stage was a highlight, but I would not in any way put Trucks outshining almost anyone at the show.

I agreed that Kenny Neal was great as was Coco Montoya (they always are). Where we diverge opinions is the Buckwheat Zydeco part of his review… yes Buckwheat was forced by his doctor to not play accordion but he knew what the fans wanted and had his son filling in along with Nathan Williams (Nathan and the Zydeco Cha-Chas) - they were high energy and fantastic. Buckwheat is an old school showman and never disappoints even when he can’t do what he usually does. I have seen Buckwheat numerous time and this was one of my favorite shows.

The writer then goes on to bash B.B. King…  enough said, I won’t even justify that with a comment other than you are seeing B.B. friggin’ King, he’s not 20 years old and you should just be happy to have a chance to see him perform.

What amazes me is the shows he does not mention that were by far the standouts of the weekend (but I guess he only covered Sunday?)…  Sven Zetterberg from Sweden was the “European Act” this year and this theme booking has been great every year, Rick Estrin & the Nightcats were great, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals were amazing, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings and Ruthie Foster were perfect… and there were more.

I’m amazed the festival made it to be reviewed by the Hollywood Reporter, it’s a shame the reviewer is so off base. And no photos? We should talk…