Damon Fowler, Dennis Stadelman’s Sonic Stew, & Este Loves: Skipper’s Showdown
Another tremendous triple bill hits Skipper’s Smokehouse in Tampa this Saturday (August 12th), as guitar slinger Damon Fowler welcomes Dennis Stadelman and his excellent Sonic Stew and Miss Este Loves.
Damon Fowler has been on the scene since 1999, when he released his first album. His 2009 album Sugar Shack cemented his stature as a superb guitar player, excelling on slide guitar and lap steel as well. His vocals match his bluesy style, with elements of rock and roll, country, Southern swamp and more. He was part of a powerful collective called Southern Hospitality, and he was a member in the late Butch Trucks’s Freight Train Band.
Dennis Stadelman was guitarist and primary vocalist for CopE, one of Florida’s most revered jambands during their great run. He has paired with Troy Youngblood in an acoustic duet (St Yo), played with Youngblood and The Soulfish, and created his own project, Sonic Stew, releasing their debut album in summer of 2016 (read review here). Sonic Stew just played a tremendous set at the Thomas ‘Purplebear’ Underhill Memorial show Wednesday evening, featuring Sean Hartley (bass), The Rev. Funky D (keyboards), Brad Elliott (drums), and Nook (raps and commentary).
However, the gentlemen had better be careful, because Este Loves opens the show. Two weeks ago, there was a Hometeam celebration, featuring an amazing collective titled Hometeam All-Stars, with members of a number of prominent area groups. However, it was all the All-Stars could do to match the powerhouse, next-level, world-class performance of Este Loves and her collective. Read our tribute here.
Three dynamic acts will grace Skipper’s stage on Saturday. Who will come out on top? You will, if you put your face in the place!