Tommy Castro and The Painkillers to headline at The Coach House on Friday, March 14

Tommy Castro and The Painkillers.
Photo: Steve Sherman

Tommy Castro and The Painkillers, Tasha Taylor

Where: The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano

When: 8 p.m., Friday, March 14

Tickets: $18

Information: 949-496-8930 or thecoachhouse.com

 

Tommy Castro is back.

The Northern California-based singer-guitarist has just issued “The Devil You Know,” his first full-length studio album since 2009. Featuring his forceful backing band The Painkillers, Castro’s new 13-track album showcases he remains one of the genre’s most talented proponents; he writes songs that showcase both his powerful vocals and fiery skills on the electric guitar. In addition, guests on “The Devil You Know” includes singer-guitarist Joe Bonamassa, Cajun singer-pianist Marcia Ball and Louisiana singer-guitarist Tab Benoit.

Tommy Castro. Photo: Lewis MacDonald

Castro has won multiple Blues Music Awards, including for his 2009 Alligator Records debut “Hard Believer,” a disc that outlined his signature mix of hard-edged blues-rock and Memphis soul. On his latest album, Castro challenged himself to add different sounds and new rhythms to his style without abandoning his distinctive blues-meets-soul style.

 

Castro is a powerful live performer and his show at the Coach House promises to be a celebration of the blues, as well as the art of guitar playing. What's more, Castro has fun at his concerts.

"A lot of folks are having hard times these days," Castro says in a media release sent out in connection with his new album. "And they need something to lift them up and make them smile. Our music kills the pain." 

For more information, visit: http://tommycastro.com/