Europe Blues Train Festival 2018

Lady I Trio (CZ) (blues – soul)

For more than 20 years, the Lady I Trio has been an integral part of the Czech and international blues scenes. Their interpretations of blues music are contemporary, lively and full of energy. With her voice and blues harp with a vintage sound, Ivana Novotná recalls Janis Joplin. Their tunes feature elements of the blues, jazz, funk, swing and soul. Bass player Miroslav Vorlíček, the rhythmic pillar of the band, composed their original songs. Miloš Svoboda, excellent guitar player, singer and dedicated bluesman, makes the trio complete. The Lady I Trio impresses with their freshness and originality.  They bring the audience into a powerfully good mood. Pure energy! In the Czech Republic, Lady I have played as a support band for stars like B.B. King and Duke Robillard. In January 2018, they released their new CD “Lady I Trio – Live in Ponte Records.”

Jesse Ballard “Tribute to Ray Charles” (US/CZ/DE) (blues – R’n’B)

The musician, singer and composer from California with his distinctive voice is already well-known in the Czech Republic, especially after the recent collaboration with Czech rock violinist Jan Hrubý. From the start of his career he has impressed audiences with his original songs and lyrics, the poetry of which reflects his rich life experiences. His music captures the Californian sunshine and the influences of his musical heroes. The songs composed from this blending, enthrall the most fastidious music lovers. One of the artists who has influenced Jesse Ballard’s music the most is without a doubt Mr. Ray Charles. At the “Europe Blues Train 2018” he will present a variation of the program, "Tribute to Ray Charles". On the piano we will hear Stephan Hoppe whose Ray Charles style piano playing has already impressed audiences in many places. The trio will be sensitively completed by Joe Kučera (sax, fl), musical partner and friend of Jesse since the 1970ies and also the one to initiate this special program which is performed since the beginning of this century in many places around the world.

Jesse Ballard – voc, g; Joe Kučera – sax; Stephan Hoppe – p.

Whole evening admission: seating CZK 450, standing CZK 280. Seats reservation is possible only if you buy a ticket. Thank you for understanding.

Band website: www.ladyitrio.cz