(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- During the past decade, Dave Keller has earned a reputation as a “magnificent soul singer” (Elmore Magazine), a “stellar” guitarist (AXS.com), and a “songwriting genius” (Living Blues).  He has been honored three times with Blues Music Award nominations for Best Soul Blues Album.   Touring throughout the U.S. and Europe, Keller has built a loyal legion of fans who are hip to his livewire shows.

Touring in support of his new his new album, It’s Time To Shine (Tastee Tone Records), Keller is bringing his hard-hitting band to the Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton, NJ on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 7:30pm.  This promises to be a night of dynamic original music, in the intimate setting that the Lizzie Rose is famous for.

For his new album, the New England-based musician turned things up a few notches.  Recorded in a remote mountain cabin near the Canadian border, Keller says, “I really wanted to capture the energy of the band,” Keller explains.  “And I thought, what if we find a cool place that’s not a studio, and just play everything in one room, live, without headphones and all that other stuff?”

Keller's voice cuts deep, right out of the gate.  “When you record vocals live with the band, you don't have time to think about it,” Keller says.  “You're just in it.  And that makes all the difference.”

He plays more guitar, and it’s nastier.  “I really let loose, and the guys did too.”  Listen to Ira Friedman’s Moog synth, as it threatens to overtake a few of the songs, grinding and burbling like an alien monster.  Check out how Jay Gleason’s double kick pedal propels things along with extra oomph and funk.  And if you wanna dance, don’t worry; groovemaster Alex Budney has created some beautiful basslines for you.

The band plays with a power and grace that come from years of hanging, traveling, and playing together.  Twelve new originals with that classic Keller feel: tight and funky, with a depth of feeling that lasts long past the fadeout.  You can hear echoes of his mentors (Mighty Sam McClain, Johnny Rawls, Robert Ward, Ronnie Earl), but Keller is clearly his own man.

Dave Keller performs with his band at The Lizzie Rose Music Room, 217 E. Main St., Tuckerton, New Jersey.  Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door.  All ages welcome.

Photo by Laura Carbone