Milford’s Tony Soul Coming Out of Long Musical Hiatus
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
Tony Soul's Delta Blues Band: A young local band of veteran blues musicians
In 1966, at the ripe young age of just 19, he formed Tony Soul and the Midnight hours, with whom he performed for only three years before tragedy struck. In '69, his best friend and guitarist J. Smith was killed in an auto accident and this, combined with getting married around the same time, lead him to take a different path in life. He went on hiatus from performing for a remarkable 42 years.
"I quit the business, cold," as he puts it plainly. "There were other interests, family, work and sports."
The Triumphant Return
But Tony Soul is now back with a vengeance, and yes, even at the age of 65, playing the Central Mass music circuit once again, and in the process rediscovering a lost and once forgotten love. The call of the art was simply too much for the singer, and it finally overwhelmed him.
Just 6 months ago he helped form a new band with other veteran musicians called simply, The Tony Soul Delta Blues Project. This return to the blues is long overdue for Tony.
"I love how music makes me feel. I joy in everything music has to offer. The melodies, the timing, the dynamics. To be able to make music on this level with these guys is heaven. Wouldn't trade it for anything right now," he says.
The band currently comprises Matt Sambito on bass, Mike Kalenderian on lead guitar, Bob Cramer on slide guitar, Phil DeLaine on drums and last, but certainly not least, Tony on vocals.
Early Success
It all seemed right from the very moment they met.
"We all met through the Acton Jazz Cafe at jam sessions and after Bob Cramer became available we formed the current band. It was magic. First rehearsals were outstanding," says Tony.
The band is taking old blues standards and transforming them with their own unique, high-energy style. It is also heavily influenced by Tony's favorite type of music: Motown with horns.
"It's hard rocking and very danceable," explains Tony.
"I want folks smiling, jumping, shouting & dancing to our thunderous beats. I want the people to feel joy after seeing one of our shows."
The band has already played at numerous venues including, but not limited to, Greendale's Pub, Beatnik's, Liz's Diamond Bar and Grill, Acton Jazz Cafe, JJ 's Sports Bar, G. Willikers, The Red Onion and The Iron Horse Lounge.
High Hopes for the Future
"I think the sky is the future," says Tony.
"TSDBP is so tight after only 6 months that we will just let it happen, adding more challenging tunes and arrangements. We have been very fortunate in the amount of club work we have gotten and we look to add more high profile clubs and venues in the near future."
They will be in the recording studio very soon as well, going beyond simply recording samples for the first time.
It's been awhile for sure for Tony, but it doesn't sound like he's missed a beat.
For more information on Tony Soul or the Tony Soul Delta Blues Project and to hear a few music samples please find them on Facebook here or here..
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