John Mayall Sellersville Theater (Sellersville, PA – Mar. 18, 2016)

As I was checking in for my photographers pass I saw John Mayall setting up a table in the theater lobby to sign CDs and take pictures with his fans. Sitting there before the crowd moved in he looked to me like a tired old man. Well, who can blame him. After all he is 82 years old and he is on tour so I guess he is, considered by some, to be old and being on tour does tend to tire you out. BUT, Ladies and Gentlemen introducing John Mayall. When introduced he bounded on stage like a 20 year old waving to the crowd with the energy I wish I had. He kicked right in with songs from his older albums, Blues From Laurel Canyon, and Turning Point. Mayall then introduced the next song by saying when he moved to LA he was very aware of the concept of ecology and wrote “NATURE’S DISAPPEARING” from the USA Union album to encourage people to recycle. Blues then and now all the same.

Mayall is touring to support his new album Find A Way To Care and to celebrate his induction into the Blues Music Hall of Fame. Judging from their energy and excitement the audience was well aware of the history of this blues legend known as the Godfather of British Blues. He will be inducted in the ceremony on May 4th. in Memphis.

Touring with Mayall is a great supporting band with Jay Davenport on drums, Greg Rzab on Bass, and the excellent Rocky Athas on guitar.

Mayall continued with songs from the new album much to the enjoyment of the audience.

The audience, some with vinyl older albums to get signed, obviously knew the music from way back but was loving the new songs as well. He not only thrilled them with the music but had a few conversations with them as well. No Spring Chicken this guy but great energy and soul.

Truly a great night of really great music. 

Mark J. Smith