Blue Deal Featured in Germany’s Leading Blues Magazine — BluesNews
We are proud to share that Blue Deal, one of our standout artists from the Dixiefrog Records family, has been featured in BluesNews, Germany’s leading and most respected blues magazine.
This feature marks a significant milestone for both Blue Deal and Dixiefrog Records, as BluesNews is known for spotlighting the most authentic and influential acts in the European blues scene. The inclusion highlights the growing international recognition of Blue Deal’s unique sound and artistic depth.
The feature, titled “Blues Can Be More Than Twelve Bars and Three Chords,” delves deep into the heart of what makes Blue Deal so special. It’s a story of passion, persistence, and a fateful encounter in Memphis that brought them into the Dixiefrog family—a journey that culminates in their spectacular new album, “Make A Change.”
For those who have been following their trajectory, this accolade comes as no surprise. After winning the German Blues Challenge, Blue Deal went on to represent their country at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. It was there, amidst the hallowed grounds of blues history, that their raw energy and sophisticated musicianship caught the ear of our team. As vocalist Joe Fischer recalls in the interview, the connection was immediate. “After our first gig there, Dixiefrog approached us directly,” he explains. “And five hours after the return flight, the first email about a contract was in the inbox. A real stroke of luck!”
This “stroke of luck” was, in reality, the inevitable result of a band at the peak of its powers. The BluesNews article highlights the unique creative partnership between frontman and keyboardist Joe Fischer and guitar prodigy Tom Vela. Describing their dynamic as “‘Old dog meets young guitar genius’,” the piece explores how Fischer’s 30+ years of experience in the music scene blends seamlessly with Vela’s fresh, dynamic approach. “I’m more mature,” Fischer notes. “I sound different, sing different… and through the collaboration with Tom, the sound has become more modern.”
That modern sound is the driving force behind their new album, “Make A Change.” The band consciously pushes the boundaries of the genre. “We don’t want to be pigeonholed,” says Fischer. “Blues is the foundation, but we go in many directions: boogie, Southern rock, ballads.” Guitarist Tom Vela, lauded for his incredible skill, remains humbly focused on the music itself. “Good guitarists have always played what the song needed. And that is also my standard. I want to sound like myself.”
This commitment to authenticity is woven into every track. The album showcases not only Vela’s masterful guitar work but also Fischer’s increasingly confident and prominent keyboard playing, which adds layers of color and a distinct 70s rock feel, at times reminiscent of Deep Purple. This musical depth is built upon a solid rhythm section, with founding member Jürgen Schneckenburger on drums and new bassist Willi G.
The BluesNews feature also shines a light on the band’s blue-collar work ethic. With members holding day jobs as piano makers and real estate managers, their music is born from a genuine, unwavering passion rather than commercial ambition. “Blues is not an easy path to make a living from,” they admit. This dedication is what makes their success, including their celebrated performances at major French festivals like Blues Passions in Cognac, so well-deserved.
The feature in BluesNews is more than just an article; it’s a validation of Blue Deal’s artistic vision and a celebration of their journey. We at Dixiefrog Records are incredibly proud to have them on our label and to share their powerful music with the world. We invite you to read the full feature and, most importantly, to experience the album that is solidifying their place in the premier league of European blues-rock.
Listen to “Make A Change” today and discover why Blue Deal is the name on everyone’s lips.