Saturday night Sons of Bill and Los Lonely Boys took the stage for a pair of weekend concerts at Rams Head in Annapolis. Los Lonely Boys haven’t been very lonely lately having taken on a rigorous touring schedule with dates planned though August.
Opening for Los Lonely Boys were Charlotte, Virginia natives Sons of Bill. They are led by vocalist and guitarist James Wilson, Sam Wilson and Abe Wilson on keys. This is literally a band of brothers as James, Sam, and Abe’s are the three eldest sons of Bill Wilson. Two guys that may as well be family were Seth Green and Todd Wellons, the bassist and the drummer. Their sound is a country rock blend, Abe’s gospel keyboard really gives them a southern rock sound. James’ story telling ability on vocals adds a sense of heartfelt realism, just like a country singer. Their songs “Virginia Calling” and “Santa Ana Winds” are terrific personal portrayals of life on the road.
The Wilson brothers were followed by the Garza brothers, Los Lonely Boys. Their sound is very unique! I’ve never heard Texas blues accompanied with Tito Puente style timbales. It’s a great mix! The rhythm really adds to the positive feel of the show. There wasn’t one song they played tonight that wasn’t absolutely off the charts enjoyable. One song in particular, a Spencer Davis Group cover “I’m A Man,” is a show stopper! It’s an impromptu interpretation laced with an array of guitar, bass and drum solos. Their musicianship is astonishing! Henry Garza had a guitar technique where he would create reverb by pulling on the whammy bar and slapping on the neck of his guitar. Henry’s guitar playing is very inventive; it reminds me of a bluesy Tom Morello. All three Garza brothers are very instrumentally talented. Ringo Garza during “I’m A Man” did a solo where he played both a drum set and congas simultaneously by placing one of his drum sticks in his mouth while beating on the congas with his bare hand. JoJo Garza did this amazing technique where he played bass on Henry’s guitar while Henry was playing. JoJo plucked on the E and A strings while Henry whaled solos on the D,G,B and E strings. In addition to the instrumentals Henry and JoJo’s vocal harmony is magnificent! Their voices match so perfectly; it’s like hearing the same voice dubbed over. I guess that’s the advantage of being brothers. They closed out with “Heaven” and it was just as enjoyable as the rest of the set.
This concert was incredible – a great pairing of bands! The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation. Los lonely Boys definitely adds a WOW factor to their sets, and they’re a can’t miss for anybody who loves rock n’ roll.
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