Dave Glannon is gearing up for one of the biggest events of his life. Glannon recently won the band competition in the Granite State Blues Society’s blues challenge. Glannon, and his band Downtown Dave And The Deep Pockets, were already doing well on their New Hampshire blues scene as well as making solid inroads into the Massachusetts scene. Then, he and his boys bested another top rated group of players to win the local contest.
Now, Glannon and his Deep Pockets need to polish the shine on the set they’ll playing when they compete in the International Blues Competition in Memphis this coming winter. To defray the costs of traveling to and staying in Memphis, his local blues organization is hosting The Road To Memphis Starts Here fundraiser at Tupelo Music Hall in Londonderry, New Hampshire on Sunday, November 22, 2015, at 6:00 p.m.
“I was thrilled that we won the Granite State Blues challenge,” Glannon said. “A lot of work and sacrifice has been involved to get to this point. Blues music is something that is truly sacred to me. This is not only an honor but an opportunity to play our music in front of people who share the same passion.” The atmosphere at the International Blues Competition has been likened to going to a huge convention where one can meet fellow fans of something they love.
“I would say that the most important thing will be to make contacts and connections with folks from all over the world,” Glannon said. “Music is an international language. I like to hear what other people are speaking.”
To prepare for the IBC, Downtown Dave And The Deep Pockets are doubling their efforts as well as their rehearsal time. “Things are super tight on our set list, and we are happy with the results,” he said. “We recently recorded a six song original EP, and it is being mastered as we speak. We wanted to have a high quality recording that best represents the band. It will be available soon.”
Downtown Dave And The Deep Pockets consist of Glannon on lead vocals and harmonica; Joe Zangri on bass; Rick King on drums; and Mike Rivela on guitar.
“Joe is one of the original Deep Pockets. His trademark tone and attention to detail, expression, and true music has greatly influenced the unique style and tasteful groove of the Pockets,” Glannon said.
Drummer Rick King has been a well-respected fixture in the New Hampshire blues scene for several years. Nobody messes with Rick King because he’s bigger than most barroom bouncers.
“Rick plays with dynamics, passion, and intensity, dead on time with powerful expression,” Glannon said. “Rick is the thread that keeps the fabric of the Pockets together.
A bit younger than the rest of the Deep Pockets, guitarist Mike Rivela has been making his mark with this band as well as through his incendiary performances at numerous blues jams.
“Mike is full of passion, soul, and energy,” Glannon said. “His love for the Blues can be heard in every note. His playing inspires and drives the spirit of the band.”
Glannon has been passionate about the blues and soul music since listening to Muddy Waters and Sam Cooke at a young age. ‘Everything I do is from the heart and soul,” the singer-harpist said. “I love to write and create original music because originality is a priceless thing. My goal is to keep the music honest, up-tempo, and fun.”
A supportive member of his local New Hampshire blues community, Glannon is also excited about other artists who will be representing the Granite State Blues Society. Delanie Pickering won the soloist category, and Veronica Lewis won the youth category.
Glannon said Pickering “is a very talented artist with an old soul. Her voice complements her playing perfectly and vice versa. Look for more great things from Delanie.”
Speaking about Veronica Lewis, Glannon was equally generous. “This young lady plays boogie woogie piano and writes her own music,” he said. “How could I not be a fan? It’s great to see these two keeping the music I love alive.”
Glannon is also a student of music history, so it wasn’t a surprise when he said he’d be doing the tour of Memphis’s music history when he’s down there for the competition.
“Sun studios will be the first place I would like to check out,” he began, “so much history, so many great artists recorded and passed through those doors. The Memphis Rock & Soul museum, and Stax Museum of American Soul music are also on the list. These come highly recommended from friends who have been to Memphis in the past.”
Glannon mirrors and reminds of the song “Walking In Memphis” as he talks excitedly, enthusiastically about his upcoming visit to the birth of rock and soul city.
“Just talking about this journey is making me excited,” he exclaimed. “So looking forward to playing our best and celebrating music and life with my band and the awesome friends who will be joining us. I have always wanted to walk on Beale Street. The fact that we will now be playing there is a dream come true.”
To support Glannon and the other local New Hampshire blues artists, attend The Road To Memphis Starts Here fundraiser at Tupelo Music Hall, Sunday, November 22, 2015, beginning at 6:00 p.m.
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