Judy Sings the Blues to hold CD release party
A CD release party to celebrate the band's first CD will be held for Lewes-based blues band Judy Sings the Blues, from 8:30 to 11 p.m., Friday, May 18, at Bethany Blues in Lewes, the venue where the band first performed.
Judy Sings the Blues is a contemporary, soulful and funky blues band that has played at southern Delaware venues and festivals over the past four years. They have also been booked for the upcoming 21st annual Riverfront Blues Festival at Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park in Wilmington, Friday through Sunday, Aug. 3-5.
The band features lead vocalist and percussionist Judy Mangini, Eric Zoeckler on lead guitar, drummer James Sudimak, and bass player and vocalist Carl "Smiley" Thompson.
Mangini has been performing and singing with local bands since the age of 16, and she continues to share her passion at the age of 58, revisiting her dream to write and perform music after raising a family in Delaware. "Never give up on your dreams," she said.
Zoeckler, originally from Washington, D.C., has played various types of clubs, festivals, and venues. He draws his energy from the crowd and makes sure to leave it all on the stage. He loves to perform in front of a crowd, no matter how big or small.
Sudimak has been playing the drums since the age of 11, and attended The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City from 2011-13. He has many interests, among them expanding the local music and arts scene.
Thompson earned the nickname "Smiley" based on his pure joy in performing for others with a smile always on his face. Thompson started with brass instruments, but truly found his passion when teaching himself the bass.
"Playing the blues is not just playing music. It is a feeling from deep within your soul capturing the moments in life that make or break you, and telling a story that people can relate to. Sharing your emotions with complete strangers and knowing that they can relate, they have been there too. That is what we do, and that is who we are," a statement made by Judy Sings the Blues.
The new CD has been a dream for some time, Mangini said. The band will perform, and different specials will be available during the evening, including a drink named after the CD. The first 25 people to buy their new CD will receive a free band T-shirt. The band invites the community to celebrate its release and enjoy the night.
For more information on Judy Sings the Blues, go to www.judysingstheblues.com.
