The Chris Bergson Band at Bowery Electric – New York, NY

In the last of a series of shows marking the release of their CD Imitate The Sun, the Chris Bergson Band nearly burned down the Bowery Electric with some 50 cheering fans inside. Their one long set was composed of 14 songs, a mix of selections from the new CD and highlights from the previous two. The spare and funky rhythm section of Tony Leone on drums and Matt Clohesy on bass gave everything just the right lift, and Craig Dreyer was masterful on both B3 and tenor sax, essentially replacing two band members currently on tour with Gregg Allman. But Bergson was clearly the star of this show. From his first masterful guitar solo on “Goin’ Home,” he showed total command of his instrument, frequently keeping time with a stamping foot. He played gorgeous slide on “Dust My Broom” and “Shattered Avenue.” His vocals were expressive and confident, particularly on the wistful “Laying It Down In White” and Bob Dylan’s “Standing In the Doorway,” both from the new record. Other highlights included the rocker “Hello Bertha” and some classic old blues numbers like Willie Dixon’s “Down In The Bottom” and “You’ve Been A Good Old Wagon.” Bergson’s guitar solo on the beautiful “Sanctuary” was clearly directed at his wife Kate, for whom the song was surely written.