The Spa City Blues Society of Hot Springs will present contemporary blues act Selwyn Birchwood Band at The Big Chill from 8 p.m. to midnight June 23. Admission is $8.
Sponsored by The Big Chill, Oak Park Pharmacy, National Park Pharmacy and Wendell's Family Drug Stores, listeners will witness the versatile styles, sounds and improvisational techniques the members of the band bring forth to every live concert and hear the incomparable sounds of the 2013 International Blues Challenge winners.
Currently signed to Alligator Records, 2013 Albert King Guitarist of the Year winner Birchwood, along with saxophonist Regi Oliver, bassist Donald "Huff" Wright and drummer Courtney Girlie, would see much success with their 2014 release "Don't Call No Ambulance." The album would peak at No. 6 on Billboard's Top Blues Albums charts while also winning New Recordings/Best Debut for the album at the 2015 Living Blues Awards. During the same year, the band won Best New Artist Debut at the Blues Music Awards.
During the 2013 International Blues Challenge, audiences were mesmerized with the onstage persona of the young guitar and lap steel player. Often roaming the stage barefoot, many audiences are mesmerized by Birchwood's high energy shown through each live performance. Many recalled Birchwood's 2013 IBC performance as he slid across the stage on his knees while playing guitar. Since winning the 2013 International Blues Challenge held in Memphis, Tenn., the band has had the opportunity to open for legendary blues acts including Buddy Guy, Joe Louis Walker and Robert Cray.
Since winning the IBC competition, the Selwyn Birchwood Band has been a hot commodity across the world. The band has played many large festivals that have drawn massive audiences including the King Biscuit Blues Festival, the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival and the Hot Springs Blues Festival.
Born in Orlando, Fla., in 1985, Birchwood first picked up a guitar at the age of 13. First inspired by Jimi Hendrix, Birchwood felt blues was his true calling. Just a short time later, the young musician would study and appreciate more of the deeper blues while listening to legends including Albert King and Muddy Waters. This deep fondness led Birchwood to form his own band, eventually releasing the band's debut album "FL Boy" in 2011. After winning the International Blues Challenge, the band would release its sophomore album, 2014's "Road Worn." During the same year, the band would sign with popular booking agency Intrepid Artists and Chicago-based Alligator Records.
Call The Big Chill at 624-5185 for reserved tickets and seating. No refunds or exchanges will be granted unless show is canceled. Visit http://www.selwynbirchwood.com for more information about the band.
Entertainment on 06/12/2016