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Come support these two incredible blues bands as they prepare for the International Blues Challenge in Memphis.Granite State Blues Society Challenge Winners: The Blues Express & Bees Deluxe
Wed 1/6
6pm doors/7pm show
All Ages | $18 dav./$20 day of
The Blues Express are a high-energy New Hampshire blues band led by veteran bassist and vocalist Mickey “The Messenger” Maguire and rising young guitarist and singer Nick “Old Soul” Spencer. Joined by drummers Harrison Foti and Sebastian Keen and saxophonist Pat Herlehy, the group combines Chicago-style blues, soulful vocals, fiery guitar work, and deep, danceable grooves. Rooted in the tradition of their late mentor, blues legend Luther “Guitar Junior” Johnson, the band mixes original songs with blues classics. In 2026, they recorded their debut album, Choose Love, in Nashville with Grammy-winning producer Tom Hambridge, known for his work with Buddy Guy.
Bees Deluxe are a Boston-based blues band whose self-described “acid blues” sound pushes well beyond tradition, mixing Chicago blues with jazz fusion, psychedelia, funk, and adventurous guitar work. Founded by British guitarist and vocalist Conrad Warre, who previously toured with Joe Jackson and The English Beat, the group pairs his inventive playing with the jazz-informed keyboards and harmonica of Carol Band and a tight, groove-driven rhythm section. Their original music, including the album Hallucinate, draws comparisons to Steely Dan, Jimi Hendrix, and Frank Zappa. Winners of the 2025 and 2026 New Hampshire State Blues Challenges, Bees Deluxe also reached the semifinals of the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
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Event venue
The Press Room, 77 Daniel St,Portsmouth,NH,United States
Tickets
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