The curtain has fallen on the 24th edition of Vallemaggia Magic Blues, and we can safely say that it was one of those editions fans will not easily forget. 

After last year’s line-up featured heavyweight names such as The Yardbirds, Treves Blues Band with Lou Marini, Atomic Rooster, FM and the surprise package Leif de Leeuwe Band, this year’s festival added further illustrious names from the blues and rock scene, alongside some emerging acts. Looking back, the nine nights lived up to expectations musically – and in some cases even exceeded them. 

Once again, the highlights were the so-called vintage concerts, with Colosseum standing head and shoulders above the rest: five outstanding musicians and a remarkable singer delivering music of the highest quality. Together with the explosive opening performance by the Basement Saints, it made for the best night of the festival and one of the finest in its history. Also worthy of mention was the pure, magical blues delivered by the band led by two living legends: Paul Jones, Mr. British Blues himself, and John Etheridge, guitarist with the current Soft Machine. 

The festival can also add to its honours board the Miller Anderson Band, featuring another living legend of British rock-blues, still in impressive form. Last but certainly not least, we must mention the festival’s most innovative blues performance, delivered by Danish singer and guitarist Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, rightly regarded as one of the finest, if not the finest, blues acts in Europe. Grit, energy and outstanding musicianship were the order of the day, with the phenomenal and innovative guitarist Joachim Svensmark particularly impressive. 

This year’s edition also introduced some significant logistical changes, with the main venue moving from Cevio, whose square is now smaller, to the Ronchini in Maggia. The festival also changed its geographical flow, creating a sort of musical journey descending from Brontallo to Avegno. The new location was warmly welcomed by the audience, and the intention is to continue with the same formula next summer, when the festival will celebrate its 25th edition.

Read the press release