Blue Train
The Blues Band that Takes you Places.
Welcome to the official page for Blue Train, the blues band that promises to take you on a musical journey beyond the ordinary. Based in Ithaca and serving the Finger Lakes Region of New York, Blue Train is a group of seasoned musicians led by guitarist Dennis Winge. Our philosophy is deeply rooted in respecting the blues tradition while embracing the freedom to explore and innovate. We invite you to dive into our world and discover what makes Blue Train a unique force in the blues scene.
Honoring Tradition, Embracing Innovation
At Blue Train, we hold the blues tradition in the highest regard. Our repertoire features timeless classics from legendary blues artists such as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. These artists have laid the foundation of the blues,
and we are dedicated to preserving their legacy. However, as jazz musicians, we also crave the freedom to stretch beyond conventional boundaries. We incorporate elements of improvisation, spicy chord progressions, and spontaneous expression, ensuring that each performance is a fresh and authentic experience.
Diverse Influences, Unique Sound
While our roots are firmly planted in the blues, we draw inspiration from a wide array of musical genres. Our setlists are peppered with songs from Phish, the Grateful Dead, the Allman Brothers, and even Johnny Cash. This eclectic mix allows us to keep our performances dynamic and unpredictable. We believe that blending different styles while staying true to the essence of the blues adds depth and richness to our music, making every show a unique adventure.
The photo to the left shows the great rhythm section of Doug Robinson on bass and Keith Evan Green on drums.
Live Performance Videos
A Journey of Musical Discovery
One of the most humbling lessons I’ve learned since forming Blue Train is the complexity and depth of the blues. Like many musicians, I once viewed the blues as simple music, often consisting of just three chords. Carlos Santana, in his autobiography, touches on how many musicians dismiss the blues for its simplicity. I was certainly among them. However, leading this band has given me a newfound respect for the blues. I’ve come to understand how challenging it is to play authentically, without overplaying, and to truly capture the emotion and soul of the genre.
Playful Improvisation
Our band thrives on the energy of live performance. We believe that improvisation is the heart of the blues, allowing musicians to express their emotions and connect with the audience on a deeper level. Each member of Blue Train is a skilled improviser, and we relish the opportunity to explore new musical landscapes during our shows. This commitment to improvisation ensures that no two performances are ever the same, keeping our music fresh and engaging.
Studio Recordings
Walkin’ the Dog
Key to the Highway
Every Day I Have the Blues
Community and Connection
Blue Train is more than just a band; it’s a community. We are committed to fostering a win/win mindset for club owners, patrons, and musicians. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone benefits from the music we share. We understand the importance of building strong relationships with the venues we play at and the audiences we entertain. By delivering top-notch performances and maintaining a professional, respectful attitude, we strive to leave a lasting positive impression wherever we go.
Book Blue Train for Your Event
If you’re a fan of the blues and crave a live music experience that blends tradition with innovation, Blue Train is the band for you. Our performances are a journey through the rich history of the blues, infused with our own unique twists and turns.
If you are planning an event in the Finger Lakes Region of NY including Ithaca, Syracuse, Rochester, Binghamton, Elmira, etc., we would love to discuss booking opportunities with you. Whether you’re planning a festival, a club night, or a private party, Blue Train delivers a captivating performance that will leave your guests talking for weeks.
Here is a blog on our first private party booking that has a short video clip as well.
Thank you for visiting our page. We look forward to sharing our love of the blues with you soon.
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