The Fabulous Thunderbirds made their usual yearly stop in the WNY area this past Friday night by playing an intimate show at the Bears Den, inside the Seneca Niagara Casino. The near capacity crowd enjoyed a no frills blues set by the band which features original member Kim Wilson. Wilson, who fronts the band as a vocalist, is also one of the most entertaining harmonica players you will find. In addition to Wilson, since 2008 the band has been comprised of Randy Bermudes on bass, Mike Keller on guitar and half brothers Jay Moller on drums and Johnny Moller on guitar.
The T-birds dug deep into their archives right off the bat by opening with “Wait on Time” off of 1979’s “Girls Go Wild.” Wilson, with his assortment of about 15 different harmonicas, showcased his talents on just about every song. He did a 10 minute solo at one point and was at the forefront for the song “I Want to Believe” with his dazzling harmonica playing.
Let’s not leave out his bandmates, as the band was so tight, that they are able to provide the freedom Wilson needs to do his thing. The Thunderbirds free formed at times throughout the set and played extended versions of some songs as well. Almost a year ago to the day, the band released its 13th album titled “On the Verge.” The band played 3 cuts off of it including “I Want to Believe,” “Too Much Water,” and “Runnin’ from These Blues.”
The near capacity crowd was treated to an hour and half set. It was my fist time seeing the band since the early 1990’s. I must say I won’t wait that long to see them again.
Setlist:
Wait on Time
Twist of the Knife
Mother in Law Blues
Runnin’ From These Blues
I Want to Believe
She’s Tuff
Instrumental with Kim Wilson on Harmonica
Too Much Water
Wrap It Up
I’m Sorry
Born Blind (Sonny Williamson cover)
My Babe
Tuff Enough
Encore:
The Crawl
We would like to thank Tony Astran from the Seneca Niagara Casino for the credentials to review the show.
