December 2005

CASTRO KEEPS ON GOING

No offense intended, but if there were to be a cockroach in the local blues scene, it'd be Tommy Castro. Because this guy has been around forever, and as far as he's concerned, will be around even longer.

There's a reason for that, of course. And the reason is: He's good.

See for yourself today in San Francisco, Friday in Redwood City, and Dec. 21 back in San Francisco, when Castro puts on a display that's rooted in, well, American roots rock.

The Bay Area musician, who was recently on an extensive tour in support of his DVD, "Whole Lotta' Soul," and his CD "Soul Shaker," was granted the Leadership Award last month from the Portuguese-American Leadership Council of the United States. What's that have to do with anything? Well, a lot. Though his surname conjures up images of a bearded man, cigars and Cuba, Castro is actually of Portuguese descent.

Castro also received a key to Tioga County the day after Thanksgiving this year, though he has no reported relation to Tioga County or any of its inhabitants.

It all shows how much Castro is universally loved, though, and you'll see and hear for yourself at his blues, soul and rock extravaganza. Today's show and the Dec. 21 show in San Francisco are at 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. at Biscuits and Blues, 401 Mason St. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Call (415) 292-2583.

Friday's Redwood City show is at 9 p.m. at the Little Fox, 2209 Broadway, Redwood City. Tickets are $20 in advance, $22 at the door. Call (650) 369-4119.

— Candace Murphy