CARDINAL BLACK

"We're the oldest new band in the world..." With patience, persistence, and a decade-long journey, Cardinal Black has emerged as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of musical excellence.

Founded by Welsh-born trio Tom Hollister, Chris Buck, and Adam Roberts, Cardinal Black's story began with a wave of anticipation in 2010, marked by recording sessions at Steve Winwood's Wincraft Studios and a triumphant performance at Sonisphere. However, challenges arose as the band navigated the complexities of the U.S. music scene, ultimately leading to an unexpected hiatus.

The band members pursued individual endeavors in the following years while maintaining their deep bond. Guitarist Chris Buck garnered acclaim as 'Best New Guitarist in the World,' while drummer Adam Roberts became a sought-after session player, and vocalist Tom Hollister delved into tour management. Despite their divergent paths, the trio remained connected by their shared musical passion.

In 2020, Cardinal Black reemerged, joined by bassist Sam Williams, to embark on a new chapter in their musical journey. Their debut single, "Tell Me How It Feels," soared to the top of the iTunes Rock Single Chart within hours of its release, foreshadowing the following success. Their self-titled EP and debut album, "January Came Close," claimed the #1 spot on various charts, solidifying their status as rising stars in the rock scene.

The band's ascent continued with prestigious tours alongside guitar icon Peter Frampton and headline performances across Europe. Recognized with an AMA Artist of the Year nomination and a headline show at London's Shepherd's Bush Empire, Cardinal Black's remarkable journey underscores their resilience and unwavering dedication to their craft.

Though their path may have been unconventional, Cardinal Black has arrived, ready to share their stories through the universal language of music.

Aynsley Lister is one of the UK's most electrifying contemporary blues guitarists, often hailed as a global standout in his craft. His signature blend of blues-infused rock marries contemporary songwriting with a deep heart and soul that resonates deeply in today's music landscape. Whether crafting his compositions in the studio or captivating audiences with his mesmerizing live performances, one thing is abundantly clear: music courses through his veins, flowing from his fingertips like bolts of sonic lightning.

With over 100,000 albums sold and a wealth of critical acclaim, Lister's illustrious career and extensive touring history speak volumes, firmly establishing him as a prominent figure in the resurgence of British blues music.

In retrospect, it's evident that Aynsley was destined for a life in music. From a young age, he was spellbound by his father's vintage guitar, and at just eight years old, he received his own six-string, setting him on a path to becoming a guitarist. Immersed in the sounds of Hendrix, Cream, Fleetwood Mac, and an array of mesmerizing blues records curated by his father, Aynsley honed his skills with relentless dedication and a keen ear, meticulously studying the techniques of his musical idols. Icons like Peter Green, Albert King, Clapton, and Kossoff inspired him and became his mentors in the art of guitar mastery.

Kris Lager is an underground cult hero, musician, and performer whose unwavering dedication has fostered a grassroots following for over two decades. With a unique 'Celebrate Life' message at the core of his craft, Lager ignites audiences with an infectious energy that leaves smiles on faces and spirits uplifted wherever he goes.

Drawing from diverse influences, including blues, soul, funk, zydeco, and country, Lager concocts a contemporary musical gumbo brimming with soulful melodies and spiritually uplifting rhythms. Widely hailed as one of the finest songwriters, performers, and guitarists of his generation, Lager's gravelly voice and stirring lyrics blend the authenticity of the blues with a profound understanding of human experience.

Grammy Award-winning producer Jim Gaines, who has mixed two of Lager's albums, praises his exceptional voice and songwriting prowess. Described by Paste Magazine as delivering "toe-tapping rhythm" essential for getting through the day, Lager's music transcends genres to touch hearts and move bodies.

Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Lager and his band defy industry norms, prioritizing authentic expression over accolades and awards. With an unwavering commitment to engaging and respecting their audiences, they hit the road with a purpose: to spread joy and positivity through their uplifting music.

Vertigo Blues Band is celebrating its seventh year in BluesEd, a music education and performance program sponsored by the Blues Society of Omaha. 

Vertigo is a blues-rock crossover band with six accomplished high school-aged musicians - two guitars, a bass guitar, drums, and two vocalists. Our musicians are multi-instrumentalists with experience on stage with BluesEd, All-State jazz band, choir, marching band, and show choirs across the Omaha region. Vertigo covers legends like the Doors, Freddy King, and Aretha Franklin and features music by newer soulful rock and blues artists like John Mayer, Larkin Poe, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. 

Vertigo has performed on stages and venues of all sizes in Omaha and Western Iowa, as well as at music festivals. Vertigo proudly represented the Blues Society of Omaha in January at the International Blues Challenge Youth Showcase in Memphis, TN.  

The BluesEd program was founded unofficially in the late 1990s by musician and educator Doug Backer. BluesEd started with just ten students gathering weekly in the summer to learn blues music from adult Blues Society members.

Officially sponsored by the Blues Society of Omaha in 2001, BluesEd has grown steadily over the past two decades and has become the premier non-profit youth talent development program for blues education and performance in the Omaha area and beyond. The program's success is attributed to its musicians' hard work, dedication, talent, and the support of parents and families.

BluesEd offers workshops led by professional musicians who provide valuable feedback to students. The program provides numerous performance opportunities at prestigious festivals and venues in Omaha and Lincoln. Notably, BluesEd bands have showcased their talent at the International Blues Challenge Youth Showcase in Memphis seven times, with a significant win in 2018 when they received the International Blues Foundation's "Keeping the Blues Alive" award.