Tip of the Top brings back an important element missing from most music nowadays: class. The band plays old school blues, reminiscent of what you would hear in the late 40s or early 50s. The musicians have the uncanny ability to cover many different blues styles from around the country, from the West Coast to Tennessee to Chicago to the Delta. Local veteran musicians Jon Lawton and Frank DeRose lead the band, while Aki Kumar and Carlos Velasco round out the smooth sound. They do the blues justice, and their live performances have garnered them respect in the Bay Area scene. Vintage with style, this is one of those rare times where the name of the band isn't false advertising.
Depot Street Blues is a revival of classic blues numbers. These long time Bay area musicians do tasteful cuts that feature steady drumming from Carlos Velasco, thumping drive from Frank DeRose, genuine blues licks from John Lawton and very sharp harp playing from Aki Kumar..... These guys will make your blues listening a pleasure… "Tip of the Top" check them out.
Noel Hayes
KPOO 89.5 FM San Francisco
Tip of the Top is an exciting new blues band playing around the San Francisco Bay Area. I want to encourage everyone to attend one of their performances.
Bruce Labadie
Festival Director, AT&T San Jose Jazz Festival
Tip of the Top plays classic blues with a vibrant and original sound and stage show.
Mark Jacobson
Director of Blues Programming
KSCU 103.3 FM
Don’t miss these guys…Authentic blues right here in the South Bay.
Gary Smith
Blues Harmonica Master
Tip of the Top has created a new and exciting mix of guitar and harmonica blues. Great to listen to…Great to dance to … Great to watch…
Gil De Leon
Blues DJ KKUP 91.5 FM
Tip of the Top plays traditional blues with a modern upbeat presentation.
Tony McKenna, Owner
The Grand Dell Saloon, Campbell, CA.
Tip of the Top digs deep into the roots of the Blues…Vintage Blues music played with style.
Jay Meduri, owner
Poor House Bistro, San Jose, CA
Tip of the Top is a throw back to the Juke Joint era of the early 1950s and they create an intimate experience even in the largest of venues.Very Cool band !!!!!
J.C. Smith
Recording Artist
Blues DJ, KKUP 91.5 FM
The audience loved Tip of the Top…I have already booked the band for next year’s music series…The bands professionalism and entertainment value far exceeded expectations…I would highly recommend this band for any event.
Pat Curtis
Entertainment Coordinator
Morgan Hill Thursday Night Music Series