Old Bluesfest gets into a new Rhythm

Rotorua's popular annual blues festival is back this year - with a new name.

Previously known as Bluesfest, it will now be called Rhythm Rotorua and organisers are promising a great event.

The name change, confirmed by the Rotorua Bluesfest Trust, has been made to better reflect the increasing range of music on offer at the popular event.

This year's programme will feature several local artists as well as some national musical icons including The Great Lake Big Band, Storehouse, The Recliner Rockers, Kindred, Bullfrog Rata and Mojo Mama and special guest Midge Marsden.

There will also be a selection of food on sale from some of the region's top food specialists and a bar providing a range of fine wines and boutique beers.

Marsden's musical career spans almost 50 years. He has played thousands of concerts and has performed with the who's who of New Zealand music.

The Great Lake Big Band from Taupo will also be performing. The band has a strong rhythm section and a brass section of around 15 musicians, with some truly outstanding soloists.

Underground blues band Storehouse will also be there along with Rotorua band Kindred, who will be playing their own music as well as a number of covers.

This year the event is being held on Sunday February 5 at the Rotorua Arts Village.

Gates open at 12pm and the show starts at 12.30pm. Both seating and shade will be provided.

Tickets cost $25 and can be bought at The Belgian Bar on Arawa Street, Rotorua Arts Village on Hinemaru Street, NZCU on Pukuatua St and Ticket Master.