Sonic Lunch continues to be a music destination in this Big 10 town and Laith Al-Saadi a regular for lovers of blues guitar.

Laith Al-Saadi smoked up some delicious blues guitar seasoned with his soulful vocals at Sonic Lunch in Ann Arbor, Michigan on Aug 7, 2014. Everyone at the packed Liberty Square plaza thoroughly enjoyed every ounce of Laith’s evocative music. What more could you ask for on a beautiful Thursday afternoon?

Laith Al-Saadi has been a staple at Sonic Lunch since its inception back in 2008. He’s a mainstay in Ann Arbor who can be found playing weekly at Bar Louie, The Black Pearl, and the Arena. He relentlessly tours through out Michigan with journeys taking him across the United States and into Western Europe. Laith plays the blues fueled by his powerful voice and guitar playing. While Laith’s recorded music is great, he shines in a live setting. You can see and hear his undying passion for music when he is on the stage. If you love great guitar playing, you will dig seeing this man putting his Telecaster to task.

Laith was joined at Sonic Lunch by Jeff Moehle on drums and David Sterns on bass. They provided a rock solid foundation for a mid-day dose of music.

From his latest release, Real, Laith played Gone with its somber mood and a fantastic solo that hints of Django. He also played the down and dirty jam that is Complete Disgrace. The solo he played on this song was mesmerizing with tones and phrasing that had me imagining Hendrix jamming with Eric Johnson. Also from the Real release, Laith took the crowd south for some New Orleans rhythm and blues with the sassy What it Means. Laith went back to his In The Round release to crank out the romping and stomping Chains. Teeth gnashing gritty blues that will carry your troubles away.

In addition to his brilliant originals, Laith Al-Saadi broke out a few awesome covers, which included Ophelia by The Band. This tune is also recorded on his latest release. Laith hit on two of my favorite artists with his fantastic renditions of Bold As Love by Jimi Hendrix and One Way Out by The Allman Brothers. Since it was the eve of the anniversary of Jerry Garcia’s death, Laith paid homage with a cool cover of Tennessee Jed. I’m not sure how he got his guitar to make that steel guitar swell, but I’m sure Jerry would be happy.

I can’t think of a better way to spend my lunch than rocking out to some cool jams by Laith Al-Saadi. If you get a chance, check out Laith Al-Saadi. You will not be disappointed.

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About The Author

Chuck is a native Michigander; he grew up in Detroit and later Pinckney. He now calls Ann Arbor home. Running is in his blood. Chuck began running at age 12 and never stopped. He has run several marathons and numerous other races. His favorite is the off trail race, Dances With Dirt, ran in Hell, Michigan. Chuck was first exposed to photography in a 7th grade class. He has been a photographer ever since, honing his skills shooting landscapes, nature, people and places, and over course, concerts. In addition to experiencing music from behind the camera, Chuck is a musician in his own right. He has been playing guitar since his teen years. He played in Detroit area metal band, Battalion, recorded two independent releases, and toured. Today, when not chasing concerts with a camera, you can find him online at his blog, Life in Michigan.