By Christina Killion Valdez
ckillion@postbulletin.com
Internationally known blues musician, Harper, illustrates the international appeal of the genre.
The musician, who is known for his skillful harmonica playing, soulful vocals and clever songwriting, was first introduced to blues in Perth, Australia, one of the most isolated cities in the world.
Born in the United Kingdom, Harper moved to Perth with his family at age 10 and discovered a thriving blues and folk scene. Harper also developed an fondness for the didgeridoo, an instrument that plays an important part in Australian indigenous culture and now in Harper’s own take on the blues.
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Now, Harper is bringing it all to Rochester for a concert Friday at Whiskey Bones Roadhouse.
Harper, who has since relocated to the United States, was the first international artist signed to Blind Pig Records. His American debut on Blind Pig Records, "Down To The Rhythm," was released in 2005. Prior to that, Harper released six albums in Australia through the 1990s and early 2000s.
Yet his modern take on roots music knows no bounds.
Harper breaks the traditional boundaries of the harmonica by using electronic enhancement and feedback. He also blends rock, soul and world music into his style, earning him a reputation of being "part harmonica wizard and part rhythmic explorer."
In addition to earning many awards for his music, both here and abroad, Harper also tours internationally and performed several times with the rock band Journey on its tour last year.
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Blind Pig Records
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