http://www.myspace.com/gunnarroadsband

We had heard rumors about this mysterious anomaly a while ago. Then when we started planning the first Portland Music Awards, we figured we’d see what all the hype was about. Then he stole the show.

Despite the formidable task of having to share the stage with the likes of Everclear’s Art Alexakis, The Dimes, Debra Arlyn and a host of many other seasoned performers, 13-year old Gunnar Roads was all anyone could talk about.

Oh yea, did we forget to mention that? He’s a kid. Barely a teenager. Not old enough to…well, do just about anything. That is, except play the blues. He fronts a band of similar teenagers, and if that wasn’t enough, his outstandingly talented keyboard player – is also blind.

So when he sidled up to the microphone at the show mid-song and said, “Are you ready for this?” - clearly we weren’t. He started playing a roaring guitar solo that brought the crowd to its feet. He stayed straight-faced, concentrating on his impressive task of leaving his audience open-mouthed as they watched him perform with envy and adulation.

He was nominated for the PMA ‘Outstanding Achievement In Blues’, and has been honored similarly by a number of other organizations as well. The only drawback to his brilliance in being so talented to young, is that he is very limited as to where he can play. Then there is that whole bedtime on school nights thing.

Watching him plays reminds you of blues guitarist Johnny Lang and others who were masters of their musical domain so naturally so early in their careers. Gunnar is a Vancouver, Washington product, hopefully giving us an opportunity to get a front row seat to his
rising star.

And make no mistake, he will be a star.