Rhythm Room Kicks It For Latino Blues Fans

By Marjani Viola Hawkins

Photo by Marjani Viola Hawkins

Music aficionados looking for a great concert club in downtown Phoenix can find the perfect place to check out a spectacular blues show. Established in 1991, the Rhythm Room at 1019 E. Indian School Road has been the home for local and national blues and jazz acts to showcase their talent.

In this cozy environment, you will find yourself enchanted by not only the performers but by the ambient lighting, and friendly audience, which is comprised of people from varying ages and tastes in personal style. The full bar is separated from the main performance area and patrons typically gather around the perimeter of club, or hang near the barstools or in the available seats that flank the stage. The patio is a nice spot to converse during the break between sets. Club-goers often connect into pairs and take to the dance floor during a particularly energetic tune – the mood, the music, the diversity of the crowd and the message is clear: this is a place to unwind and have fun.

Legendary blues harmonica player Bob Corritore has released over 50 records since 1999, which have garnered blues awards and accolades as well as making him an icon a leading figure in the Phoenix blues community.  As the owner of the Rhythm, he has had the opportunity to spread his love for music, and create a stage to highlight fantastic entertainers. The club is inclusive to various to genres of music, and different bands that span all cultures.

“The (Rhythm Room) was founded on the principles of being a blues and roots club, and within the Phoenix blues scene there has always been a strong Hispanic presence,” says Corritore.

Biología Boogie, a new band that is spellbinding to a young demographic (think Parliament Funkadelic meets Red Hot Chili Peppers), has stopped by with their distinctive music. Other regional artists such as Cold Shott & the Hurricane Horns (Tony Flores as lead vocalist and bassist), Big Nick and the Gila Monsters (John Samora as lead vocalist and harmonica), Bad News Blues Band (Alex Flores as lead vocalist and saxophonist), and Francine Reed & Friends (with Andy Gonzales) have graced the stage and dazzled the audience with their musical talents while simultaneous integrating Hispanic culture into traditional blues roots.

Not only does the Rhythm Room celebrate local artists, but nationally renowned talents as well. From Coco Montoya, Jimmie Vaughan, and Rosie Flores to The Paladins and Junior Brown, many acclaimed performers have made the rounds through the club and have served an inspiration to their fans from our community.

When you want to have a great night on the town, the Rhythm Room is a magnetic and welcoming venue that features incredible bands of diverse origin and style, and just might be your new favorite spot to enjoy live music in Phoenix. To check out the upcoming acts, visit www.rhythmroom.com