Thunderbox featuring Steven Seagal
@ Pigeon Island, St. Lucia Jazz Festival
12 May 2007

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The beauty and charm of Pigeon Island during the day, or night, never fails to excite the senses. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the Caribbean Sea on the other, delicately lit palm trees gently kissing the sky, combined with the anticipation of a tremendous musical experience is surely enough to warm the coolest hearts.

It is possibly not that uncommon for well-known actors to pursue a career in music, just as it is possibly not uncommon for well-known musicians to pursue a career on the silver screen. But many patrons and a few doubtful journalists needed a minute or two to thoroughly examine this well-fed guitar-clasping figure standing proudly before them before fully acknowledging that this was actually ‘the Steven Seagal’. Once satisfied, we watched and listened intently to Seagal’s interpretation of the blues…

Pigeon Island patrons were ready for a good time…. and slowly Seagal, with a little help from his friends (Benson, Duke, Brown and Hinkson) eventually delivered. The presence of all four-guest guitarists (not least Benson) seemed to act as an endorsement of Seagal. And for a moment local guitarist Hinkson seemed to look as surprised as the many Pigeon Island patrons that the stage was filled with such universal and diverse talent (if only briefly). Surely not even Hinkson would get another opportunity like this.

Seagal’s interpretation of the Blues was not really my cup of tea (or glass of rum), but he certainly whipped up a storm with patrons. Seagal’s confidence and energy is a delight to witness. He has something going on… I cannot put my finger on what it is, but if he and Thunderbox come to your town, I recommend you stop by (you never know who will appear on stage with him).

Musicians:
Steven Seagal – guitar / vocals
Nathan Holleman – bass
Edward Cleveland - drums
Steve Bethany - guitar
Harold Smith - guitar/musical director
Jonathan Richmond - Keyboards
Shay Best – backing vocals
Rachel Black – backing vocals

Robin Francis
© Michael Valentine Studio Ltd.