Roomful Signs to Alligator

After almost ten years on the Rounder-distributed Bullseye Blues label, jump-blues juggernaut Roomful of Blues has signed to Alligator Records. In case you aren’t aware, the band, which turns 35 this year, has a turnover rate on par with the cast of ER. An update on who makes up the Roomful these days is in order. Guitarist Chris Vachon, onboard for 13 years now, leads the eight-piece ensemble (down from nine), which also includes longtime members Rich Lataille (sax) and Bob Enos (trumpet). New to the group are vocalist/harpist Mark DuFrense, bassist Brad Hallen, drummer Jason Corbiere, keyboardist Mark Stevens and baritone and tenor saxophonist Mark Early, who all contributed to the band’s Alligator debut, That’s Right, due March 11.

Originally Published January 25, 2003