Blues at the garden is fast becoming an annual tradition at SMF! This year features the fiery Chicago blues of guitarist Lurrie Bell alongside the piano-driven grooves and Gulf Coast boogie of Marcia Ball, who is joined by harmonica great Paul Oscher. Lurrie Bell is the son of the late famed blues harmonica player Carey Bell, with whom he performed at SMF in 2005. This is Marcia Ball’s long-awaited SMF debut. The Texas-born, Louisiana-raised musical storyteller has been acclaimed worldwide for her ability to ignite a full-scale roadhouse rhythm and blues party every time she strolls onto the stage. The New York Times says, “Marcia Ball plays two-fisted New Orleans barrelhouse piano and sings in a husky, knowing voice about all the trouble men and women can get into on the way to a good time.” Please note: Paul Oscher is filling in for James Cotton on this performance, who couldn’t make the engagement due to health reasons.