Review: Zito Highlights Blues Venue – Santa Barbara Independent
The Santa Barbara Blues Society (SBBS) has a rich history, proudly holding the title of the oldest continuous blues society in the United States, about to celebrate its remarkable 50th anniversary. Over the years, the SBBS has graced Santa Barbara with legendary blues acts, the latest being the veteran blues artist Mike Zito, a masterful guitarist and vocalist.
Zito, accompanied by Jimmy Vivino on guitar and vocals in a special guest role, delivered an electrifying performance at the Carrillo Recreation Center. As attendees gathered in the atmospheric ballroom, society leader Steve Daniels humorously warned of the infectious nature of the devil’s music. Despite the playful warning, the evening was filled with a captivating and delightful energy.
The collaboration between Zito and Vivino, referred to as “brothers from another mother,” added an extra layer of magic to the show. Sharing a long-standing history and camaraderie, the duo showcased their undeniable chemistry through expressive musical conversations, each complementing the other’s sound seamlessly.
The repertoire of the evening spanned a variety of blues and blues-rock styles, featuring Zito’s original works as well as covers like Buddy Guy and a soulful rendition of Prince’s “Little Red Corvette.” Opening the night with the title track from his latest album, “Outside on the Eastside,” Zito took the audience on a musical journey that included tracks from his acclaimed albums, such as “Life is Hard.”
In a touching tribute to his late wife Laura, Zito performed “Forever My Love,” a poignant song that evoked emotions reminiscent of Roy Buchanan’s classic “The Messiah Will Come Again.” Vivino also had his moments in the spotlight, showcasing his musical prowess with the new song “Ruby is Back” from his latest album.
What sets Zito apart as a blues guitarist is his ability to transcend traditional blues riffs and delve into innovative musical territories. His solos are a testament to his musical prowess and creativity, showcasing a keen sense of texture, tone, and dynamics that captivate the audience’s attention.
At 55, Zito continues to breathe new life into the blues genre, hinting at a promising future ahead. His optimistic outlook was reflected in the poignant performance of “The Road Never Ends,” emphasizing the enduring nature of the blues journey.
The overwhelming response from the audience and the passion of the musicians on stage marked the first SBBS appearance for Zito and Vivino, ensuring that it would not be their last. Santa Barbara has now become a significant stop on their musical roadmap, leaving a lasting impact on the local blues scene.