Acoustic Blues - Bad Temper Joe, Chris Kramer, Michael van Merwyk
Acoustic Blues with Chris Kramer, Michael van Merwyk & Bad Temper Joe
Three outstanding musicians, an afternoon full of blues in its purest form and a simple yet brilliant concept: Chris Kramer, Michael van Merwyk, and Bad Temper Joe unite their exceptional talents and experiences for a unique blues concert. Together, these three artists create an evening that captivates with its musical diversity, emotional intensity, and the pure joy of playing. A show that celebrates blues in all its facets – varied, entertaining, and enjoyable!
Chris Kramer no longer needs to prove that he is a master of the harmonica – six wins at the “German Blues Award” in the category “Best Harmonica” speak for themselves. However, the native of the Ruhr area shines not only on this small instrument but also as a charismatic singer and storyteller. With his impressive stage presence and mischievous humor, he knows how to take his audience on a musical journey. Kramer enjoys high esteem among his colleagues and has earned respect far beyond the blues scene – for example, from Belgian harmonica legend Toots Thielemans, Rolling Stones pianist Chuck Leavell, or as a touring musician for Peter Maffay. The Dortmunder is a musical jack-of-all-trades and an inexhaustible source of creative ideas.
Michael van Merwyk, affectionately known as “The Bear,” is a winner of the German Blues Challenge, stood on the podium at the International Blues Challenge 2013 in Memphis with his band Bluesoul, and has been recognized multiple times as the best guitarist and singer at the German Blues Awards by the jury and professional audience. He learned his craft firsthand from notable figures such as Jimmy Rogers, Lazy Lester, Joe Louis Walker, and Jimmy Johnson. International blues greats like Larry Garner and Big Daddy Wilson trust him as a studio or touring guitarist, and renowned European blues festivals regularly invite him to their stages. He tours from Norway to the Mediterranean coast and from the Atlantic coast to Moscow, always remaining true to his “American Music – Euro Style.”
Bad Temper Joe, the grumpy blues bard from East Westphalia, has also developed into an absolute standout in the German blues scene in recent years. This is evidenced not only by the numerous albums featuring equally raw and haunting songs that BTJ has released in the meantime. His win at the German Blues Challenge, as well as nominations for various blues awards and the German Record Critics' Prize, also testify to this. BTJ is also making waves internationally. In 2020, he was the only European act to reach the finals of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, USA. The British magazine Blues Matters aptly states: “It’s hard to believe that the sounds of the Mississippi Delta have relocated to Germany, but they have.”
Together, the three artists present a versatile program where each performs songs from their repertoire while the other two accompany him. This dynamic interaction creates a special energy on stage and leads to a musical fireworks display of original compositions and special arrangements of classics, characterized by versatility, virtuosity, and unbridled joy of playing. Three influential names in blues, united on one stage! A unique formation of the German blues scene.
Doors open: 15:00 Uhr
Hallo, ich bin Maya.
