FOLSOM—Sunday afternoons in Historic Folsom are built for blues, and this week’s Powerhouse of Blues is one not to miss. The weekly series at Powerhouse Pub continues its streak of standout performers with a fiery performance by Tom Rigney and Flambeau, one of the most dynamic roots music acts in the country.
Rigney, a veteran of the San Francisco Bay Area music scene for nearly five decades, has built an unmatched legacy in American roots, blues, and Cajun music. After years fronting the legendary Sundogs, he stepped out in 2000 with his signature band Flambeau, a high-energy group known for their danceable grooves, emotional depth, and fiery stage presence.
A master of the violin, Rigney’s performances span Cajun, zydeco, New Orleans second-line rhythms, gypsy melodies, and original blues compositions—all tied together by his signature virtuoso style. His music can move from a foot-stomping Cajun two-step to a heart-wrenching waltz or an Eastern European-inspired lament, all in the course of a single set. Audiences have called him a “singer on the violin,” and it’s easy to see why.
Tom Rigney’s journey into music began after earning his master’s degree in Fine Arts from Harvard University. He rose to prominence in the early 1980s as the leader of Back in the Saddle, a Western swing and bluegrass outfit that earned him a Bammie Award and chart success with the hit “Time and Again.”
Tom Rigney and Flambeau
He later toured the globe with Queen Ida’s Bon Temps Zydeco Band, where he fell in love with the sounds of South Louisiana. That influence carried through to The Sundogs—his scorching blend of Cajun, blues, and roots rock that toured North America and Europe and earned national radio acclaim.
Today, Flambeau carries on that musical legacy. Their performances combine irresistible grooves with deep musicality and emotional expression. With numerous albums and DVDs under their belt—including “Cajun Fandango” with Grammy winner Michael Doucet and the New Orleans-inspired “Let the Four Winds Blow”—Rigney and his band continue to ignite stages across the country. Their 3 p.m. show at Powerhouse promises to be a highlight of the summer.
Following the afternoon blues set, the Powerhouse stage will spotlight a different kind of musical celebration: In Skip’s Spirit: A Night of Musical Talent, beginning at 7 p.m.
The inaugural event honors the legacy of Skip’s Music, a cornerstone in the Sacramento region’s music education scene. Emerging performers from the Skip’s Music programs will take the stage, showcasing the passion, talent, and dedication that Skip’s has cultivated for generations.
“We’re thrilled to announce our inaugural event at Powerhouse Pub on Sunday,” shared organizers. “In Skip’s Spirit, let’s celebrate the passion for music that unites us all. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy great performances and cheer on our local artists.”
From heartfelt solos to full-band showcases, the evening will feature a wide variety of genres and styles—all performed by the rising talent in our local community. Whether you’re a fellow musician, a supporter of arts education, or someone who just loves discovering new sounds, Sunday night is your chance to be part of something meaningful.
Powerhouse Pub is located at 614 Sutter Street in Historic Folsom, just steps from the Light Rail station and public parking garage. Free weekend shuttle service is available along Sutter Street, and inside you’ll find a high-energy venue with LED dance floors, cold drinks, and two full-service bars.
All shows at Powerhouse are 21 and over. For tickets and more details, visit www.powerhousepub.com.
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