Ruf Records 30th Anniversary Tour
Featuring Samantha Fish, Canned Heat with guest appearances by Mitch Ryder, Bernard Allison and Ghalia Volt One woman Band
Arcada Theater, St Charles IL
November 10, 2024
Review and Photos by Roman Sobus
Ruf Records was founded in Germany thirty years ago as a result of a collaboration between founder Thomas Ruf and Luther Allison as an effort to promote American Blues and Americana artists to the European market. The label also assists artists in navigating the intricacies of marketing, distribution and touring throughout the continent. New artists to the label are often teamed with established ones and given the opportunity to perform to a wider audience.
Sunday’s performance opened with a short set by multi-instrumentalist Ghalia Volt. Guitar, drum set and a voice that don’t quit is the best way I can describe this lady! First time seeing her perform and what a treat it was!
Co-headlining the tour was Canned Heat. This band ’s history dates back to the 1960s and are perhaps best known for their performance at Woodstock in 1969. Alas, the only remaining member from the original band is drummer Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra The balance of the band consists of Jimmy Vivino, (former band leader for the late night show “Conan” among others) on vocals and guitar, Rick Reed on Base and Dale Wesley Spaulding on harmonica, guitar, vocals and bass. They sound great are keeping the traditional sound going. Opening with “On The Road Again”, they rolled through the set playing their classic material for a crowd that included “Going up the Country” and “Let’s Work Together” The audience was on its feet for most of the evening. They were joined by Bernard Allison, Son of Luther Allison for some traditional Blues fare.
Samantha Fish is headlining the label’s US leg of the thirtieth anniversary celebration. I personally have had the opportunity to see this talented guitarist solidify her style over a decade or so and develop a very loyal fanbase. Her hard work has definitely paid off since she was selected to open for the Rolling Stones this summer in Ridgedale Mo. Her Sunday evening performance at the Arcada drew a near capacity crowd! She was joined on stage by legendary singer Mitch Ryder.
Great way to spend a Sunday evening, There are still some East Coast dates for this tour which end November 24. Try to catch it if you can!
