Blues Caravan 2024: A Night of Electrifying Talent Soulful

Reigen-Life Club [ENA] On the electrifying night of April 23rd, 2024, Reigen Club in Vienna played host to the legendary Blues Caravan, featuring an ensemble of exceptional musicians: Katarina Pejak, Eric Johanson, and Alastair Greene. This annual event, now in its 19th world tour, continues to exemplify the brilliance of its concept—a showcase where each headliner performs a full set before culminating in an exhilarating jam session.

Alastair Greene, a blues-rock virtuoso hailing from California, may not be a household name to everyone, but within the music industry, his illustrious 25-year career speaks volumes. Described as a "skilled, articulate songwriter and equally gifted vocalist and guitar talent" (Rock & Blues Muse), Greene's guitar prowess is hailed as second to none, surpassing the abilities of most. With a resume that includes a decade as a touring guitarist for the Alan Parsons Project, stints as a sideman to award-winning blues singer Sugaray Rayford, and opening for Walter Trout, Greene has now focused on his own power trio, releasing acclaimed albums like "The New World Blues" and "Alive In The New World."

Similarly captivating is Eric Johanson, an emerging star whose latest album "The Deep & The Dirty" stormed into the Billboard Blues Charts at number one upon its 2023 release. Johanson's groundbreaking blend of blues incorporates elements of hard rock, Americana, New Orleans funk, and country—a fusion that resonates with a diverse audience. Describing his music, Johanson says, "I love listening to old blues and country, but I love hard rock just as much." Reviewers have likened Johanson's intense blues performances to rock legend Alvin Lee, with Marc Dorian of Rock & Blues Muse going so far as to proclaim, "Eric Johanson could be the modern hero that the blues world needs to expand the genre's reach."

Of course, no Blues Caravan would be complete without a touch of style and class to complement the guitar-driven powerhouses. Enter Katarina Pejak, a Serbian-born singer, songwriter, and pianist whose influences range from Tom Waits and Otis Spann to Bessie Smith. Pejak made a memorable impression on the Caravan audience during the 2019 tour, showcasing her strong original songs from her Ruf Records debut "Roads That Cross" (produced by Mike Zito). Allmusic.com lauded her "alluring vocal tone" and "amazing keyboard skills," noting Pejak as "an exciting artist who is just getting started."

Together, these three exceptional musicians brought the house down at Reigen Club with their individual sets, each a testament to their unique talents and boundless passion for the blues. Alastair Greene's searing guitar solos and soulful vocals reverberated through the venue, while Eric Johanson's electrifying performance left the audience in awe of his dynamic range and innovative approach to blues. Katarina Pejak, with her charismatic stage presence and soul-stirring voice, captivated hearts with her heartfelt ballads and infectious energy.

As the night culminated in a thrilling jam session, the chemistry between Greene, Johanson, and Pejak was undeniable, their musical synergy elevating the evening to new heights of excitement and joy. The Blues Caravan proved once again why it remains a cornerstone of the music scene—a showcase of raw talent, creative expression, and the timeless allure of the blues. In conclusion, the Blues Caravan 2024 at Reigen Club was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of artistry, passion, and the enduring legacy of blues music. Katarina Pejak, Eric Johanson, and Alastair Greene delivered an unforgettable experience, leaving audiences exhilarated and inspired by the power of live performance.