About

 Magick Blues 

Est. San Jose, CA - 2016

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Members:

Justin Morton - Guitar 

Nick Verdi - Bass/Vocals 

Zack Sauer - Drums/Vocals

Justin "Gus" Ward - Keys/Vocals

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The story began long ago....

Searching for a sound from a youthful yearning of expression, the vessel which sailed the Magick Blues began in the Cambrian neighborhoods of south San Jose, during the summer of 2016. In efforts to avoid the daily grind and monotony of life expenditures, Zack Sauer and Nick Verdi set off to embark on a journey, unaware of the euphoria and challenges ahead. After a year of garage jam sessions and local D.I.Y. performances, the foundation of Magick Blues was born. Wading in the nurturing waters of community, Magick Blues was cradled into existence by sheer passion and desire to create, revive, and reciprocate the values of Bay Area's evergrowing musical diversity. In an era of exponential digital-growth and music accessibility, Magick Blues set themselves apart by staying true to a vintage energy, encompassing their iconic "plug-in-and-play" style of sound. In the early spring of 2017, at a local hangout known as 'Guitar Showcase', souls collided for the first time. Both Zack and Nick, hesitantly searching for others to fill a musical void, were approached by Justin Morton. The conversation went along the lines of, "You guys looking to jam?" followed by a prompt "Yeah, we are." Little did they know, the conformity of will which manifested itself into that very moment of time and space, would be the catalyst of a lifetime pursuit for something greater than they could ever imagine. After a late night jam session in Nick's garage, the mission was clear. The beatitude and communal jubilance of eliciting emotions through musical expression was sought to be shared through the collective resonance of three dudes known as, Magick Blues Band.

Practice sessions and new tunes organically evolved from impromptu jams, archived riffs, and standard blues covers. Tucked in the quaint suburban neighborhoods of Santa Clara, Magick Blues found a permanent rehearsal space through the tough-loving and unconditional support of Zack's grandmother. Unsure of their readiness, the trio debuted their sound at the 'Caravan Lounge' in November of 2017. For a quiet Wednesday night, the raw energy of this performance roared, echoing throughout the bar and into the downtown streets; prompting an immediate request to return for the upcoming New Years Eve spot. From here on out the Magick Blues Band rapidly grew among the San Jose music scene, establishing themselves as a widely respected grassroots, blues-rock group from the Bay Area. Channeling inspiration from a plethora of pioneering blues artists such as Howlin' Wolf, Albert King, and Junior Wells with ample homage to classic rock bands such as The Grateful Dead, Allman Brothers, and The Band.; Magick Blues inspired communities to embrace and revitalize the resurgence of a unique, yet nostalgic sound. With the addition of Tyler Sargent on keys in 2018, Magick Blues worked their way from local dives to radio interviews, magazine articles, Bay Area fairs and festivals such as 'The Fountain Blues and Brews Festival', opening on the side-stage for legends such as Elvin Bishop and Charlie Musslewhite. Even Zack got a shoulder tap of approval from Elvin backstage after the set! With rapid, hardworking growth there are always pitfalls to overcome, challenges to face, and the daunting task of shifting into the reality of show business.

In Spring of 2019, Magick Blues released their debut, self-titled album recorded in Santa Clara at grandma's garage, creating recognizable, original hits such as "People In The Park" and "Moonshine". By summer the same year, Tyler passed his torch to Justin "Gus" Ward as keyboardist, who would unknowingly become a vital component for the future of Magick Blues. Soon following the recent line-up change, Magick Blues steadily shifted towards building a larger group in search of a fuller sound. Adding rhythm guitar, second percussion, and even a horn, the desire to bring an impactful performance to any stage became a unanimous pursuit. In this era, Magick Blues became a prominent force unlike most, opening for more legends such as Eric Gales at 'Club Fox' in 2020. Yet, the tragic pandemic which took its global toll, forced Magick Blues to revert back into stagnation. While live-streams and social media posting kept their presence alive, much of the momentum which drove Magick Blues and thousands of upcoming artists around the globe, vanished. Slowly but surely, Magick Blues found their footing back at local favorites such as 'The Art Boutiki Music Hall' and "Mama Kins" (formerly known as "Cafe Stritch"). Additionally establishing prominent reception at various spots along the Santa Cruz coast. 

In current times, Magick Blues has returned to their four person line-up featuring Justin Morton on guitar, Nick Verdi on bass, Zack Sauer on drums, and Gus on keys. Today, the mission continues, to resurge an integral sound found by youthful souls searching for impactful meaning and peace-of-mind. The music never stops and the endless roads of life continue on. But, the magick of music prevails through the eager souls of what is, what was, and what may come. 

"It's not what you do, it's how you do it..."

- Uncle Dave