Kal David & The Real Deal featuring Lauri Bono

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There is a well known standard that is usually a part of any blues man's set list. The song is called "Sweet Home Chicago". Many artists can sing this song but few lay claim to its contents. Guitarist /singer/songwriter Kal David was in fact born and raised in Chicago.

Kal's recording career began as a teenager when, as a member of Kal David and the Exceptions, he signed a contract with King Records and was later signed to Vee-Jay Records. Another member of the group was Peter Cetera, who later became the vocalist for a band known as Chicago. Kal joined musical forces with guitarist Paul Cotton to form the group, The Rovin' Kind. This band recorded for Dunwich Records, but following a name change to Illinois Speed Press and a move to Los Angeles, Kal and Paul hit their stride, recording two critically acclaimed albums for Columbia Records, Illinois Speed Press and Duet.

Kal and Paul's efforts with Illinois Speed Press served them well, for as Paul went on to become guitarist for Poco, Kal moved to Woodstock, New York, where he formed the Fabulous Rhinestones with ex-Electric Flag bassist Harvey Brooks. They recorded three well received albums: Fabulous Rhinestones, Freewheelin' for Paramount Records, and Rhinestones for 20th Century Records. With the Rhinestones, Kal refined his talents as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter to the point where even today, long after its disbanding, the group is remembered with fondness and respect for its musical contributions.

A significant musical partnership began in Woodstock when one evening Kal, following the advice of some fellow musicians went to hear singer/songwriter Lauri Bono perform at a local club. They have been partners ever since, making a move together to Los Angeles.

Kal made his true commitment to the blues idiom as a guitarist and as a singer/songwriter. In the studio or on tour, his commitment was evident in his work as a sideman for Etta James and Johnny Rivers, with partner Lauri, and with John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers, where he inherited the lead guitar chair from Mick Taylor.

At this point in his career, Kal realized that it was time for him to front his own band, playing and singing the music which best showcased his abilities as a performer. Kal put together his own group of musicians, also featuring Lauri as a vocalist, and recorded two albums for SoulCoast Records, Never a Dull Moment and Double Tuff. With impressive record sales internationally and numerous television appearances, including a one-hour Kal David special in Germany, Kal's reputation grew worldwide.

While living in Los Angeles, The Kal David Band, with Kal as Musical Director headed up the weekly Pro-Jam at the infamous China Club in Hollywood, playing host to such guests as Stevie Wonder, Bobby Brown, John Entwistle, Larry Carlton, Brian Wilson, Stephen Stills, Joe Walsh, Paul Young, and Blues greats, Sam Taylor and Floyd Dixon, and many more who would spread the word about Kal and his music.

Looking for a different creative environment, Kal and Lauri moved to Palm Springs, where they established themselves and formed a new band, Kal David and the Real Deal. Kal's mastery of the blues guitar and charismatic blues vocals combined with Lauri's dynamic and provocative voice, backed up by the incomparable Hammond B-3 playing style of Tony Patler, formerly Musical Director for Chaka Kahn, and Alan Diaz, formerly the drummer for Sergio Mendez, constitute the new band.

After living in Palm Springs for 7 years, Kal and Lauri realized that the only way to continue making music was to either go on the road or play in local clubs which were not really set up to properly present their talents. They decided, rather, to open their own nightclub that would be dedicated to the proliferation of blues and jazz presented in an intimate concert venue.

Blue Guitar came to life on July 14, 1998, to the delight of locals and visitors alike. It is situated on the second floor with a balcony overlooking beautiful downtown Palm Springs. On most nights you'll hear Kal David and the Real Deal featuring Lauri Bono rocking the house, along with blues and rock greats like Johnny Rivers, Finas Tasby, Johnny Dyer and a host of others who have graced the stage. "Blue Guitar Celebrates Diversity" is their motto and you'll find people from all walks of life enjoying the high tech industrial design, beautifully appointed decor, excellent sound system and lights, as they are transported by a very special musical experience.

Kal and Lauri continue to go on selected tours including the top-rated Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Connecticut, other great clubs on the East Coast and B.B. Kings Blues Club in Los Angeles, where the band always plays to sold out audiences. Blue Guitar is home now, however, the fulfillment of a dream for Lauri and Kal.

To fully experience Kal David and the Real Deal you must see them live exhibiting their tremendous talents. Hearing Kal's melodious and soul-baring voice along with his blazing guitar playing, and at his side, Lauri, his sexy counterpart with her bluesy and soulful vocals, add on the heart and soul of his band, and you have an unparalled electrifying performance.

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