Tommy Castro & The Painkillers

Tommy Castro is a celebrated guitarist, singer, and bandleader based in California who has energized audiences for more than forty years through his passionate vocals, powerful guitar playing, and dynamic live performances. Over seventeen albums released on Alligator Records, he has explored diverse styles ranging from horn-led R&B and soulful rock to raw blues and stripped-down electric rock. His newest album, Closer To The Bone, marks a return to foundational blues with what the artist describes as an authentic record made in the traditional style. Produced by guitarist Christoffer Kid Andersen at San Joses Greaseland Studio, this project represents his most direct and unfiltered blues work yet.The album includes original compositions such as Aint Worth The Heartache, Cant Catch A Break, and Crazy Woman Blues, along with rare covers of songs by musicians who influenced Castro including Johnny Nitro, Magic Slim, Ron Thompson, Chris Cain, and others. Special guests appear on the record: Rick Estrin, Billy Branch, Deanna Bogart, Chris Cain, Jim Pugh, and gospel vocals from The Sons Of The Soul Revivers.Castro is one of the most honored artists in modern blues, having won ten Blues Music Awards, including four B.B. King Entertainer of the Year awardsthe highest recognition in the field. His commitment to performing 150 shows annually has built a devoted following and earned him praise from icons like Joe Bonamassa, who noted that Castro consistently delivers exceptional performances as one of the premier blues guitarists. With Closer To The Bone, he simplifies his approach to deliver an album full of grit, passion, and sincerity. As Castro explained, this project represents the deeper side of my blues expression. Through these songs, I am most genuine.