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Alvin Jett & the Phat noiZ Blues Band

by Betsie Brown

Alvin and the lads are back in Memphis this week for the 2007 International Blues Challenge. Since their last trip to Memphis for 2006 IBC they've been making strides. And they would like to say "a big thank you" to all those folks that have helped them along the way.They released their second CD Milk And Cookies, obtained a distribution deal with Select-O-Hits based in Memphis, undertook their first national tour, and signed with booking agent, Blue-Eyed Booking & Promotions.

With some 200 regional (St. Louis and environs) dates per year under their belt, the guys were delighted to go on a road trip to Florida last November stopping by Nashville's Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar on the way. They will be going back this March to hit some more clubs and grab some sun.

During the last few months, they've received recognition for their latest endeavor. They won Blues Song of the Year with Angels Sing the Blues in the 6th Annual Independent Music Awards organized by the Music Resource Group, publisher of The Musician's Atlas. And Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro awarded the same song his 2006 BLEWZZY for "Best Song."

"When I think back as to how I could not get past this track as I reviewed this CD, it mesmerizes me. I literally lost track of time as I repeatedly hit replay", says Blewzzman.

Currently three songs from Milk And Cookies - Boogie To The Blues, My Baby's Place and Down In The Delta - have advanced to the next round of judging for the 2006 International Songwriting Competition.

The band has been busy rehearsing and writing material for the next CD and currently has around 20 songs in various stages of completion. One is a tribute to Arthur "Mississippi" Williams called Never Touch A Bluesman's Hat. Whenever Arthur is out on the town there is always someone, usually of the female persuasion, wanting to grab or touch his hat.

Alvin and the lads look forward to seeing you at IBC if you are there. So please drop by and say "hi." Also, if you're a member of the media and/or a radio DJ, please let me know if you would like to receive a copy of Milk And Cookies.

Photo : From L. to R.: Matt Davis (bass and vocals), Alvin Jett (lead and vocals), Frank Bauer (saxophone and vocals) & Jeremy West (drums).



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