Zaragoza continues to pulse strongly in the music scene thanks to the Rock & Blues venue, which this May has solidified its reputation as one of the most active places in the city: 23 concerts, themed cycles, international names, emerging talent, and proposals as diverse as avant-garde jazz, southern rock, and soulful flamenco.
The lineup is not only extensive; it is also a statement of intent. In a landscape where many venues are scaling back activities or opting for the safe choice, Rock & Blues takes risks, mixes genres, and, above all, provides visibility. From the Divas series, which highlights female talent on stage, to the Jazz & More sessions or the experimental En Petit Comité, the commitment is clear: to break labels and keep both the local and international scenes alive.
From Thunderbolts to Les Testarudes: the key names
Among the highlights of the month is the arrival of The Georgia Thunderbolts (Friday the 9th), true heirs of classic southern rock. They come from Rome, Georgia, with their album Rise Above It All in tow, featuring powerful riffs and a stage presence that knows no moderation. Another concert that promises to be a hit is by JD McPherson (Saturday the 24th), who after seven years without releasing an album returns with Nite Owls, a retro gem that blends new wave with vintage rock. Tickets have been sold out for weeks, indicating the anticipation.
Local proposals with impact are also present: Calequi and Las Panteras (Friday the 16th) will bring danceable flavor with their Latin funk; Yoly Saa (Saturday the 17th) will deliver Galician poetry in an intimate format; and Les Testarudes (Friday the 30th) will close the Divas series with ska, reggae, and pure feminine energy.
The power of live music: more than just sound
Beyond the lineup, what defines Rock & Blues is its commitment to live music as an experience. It’s not just about listening but about living each concert. In this sense, acts like Angela Hoodoo (Thursday the 1st) or Mississippi Queen & The Wet Dogs (Friday the 2nd) serve as perfect examples: artists with their own voice, stage presence, and a genuine connection with the audience.
Other names like Amann & The Wayward Sons, Eddy Smith & The 507, or the quartet led by José San Martín expand the sonic spectrum with blues, soul, Latin jazz, and daring fusions that find their purpose on stage.
Spaces for surprise and the alternative
Special mention should be given to Wednesday the 21st, featuring Romboid Brut, a show of modular electronics and acoustic drums that breaks molds. Or the Musethica proposal (Tuesday the 13th), where classical guitars from Poland, Hungary, Croatia, and Spain create an atmosphere of chamber music that is both sophisticated and accessible.
The Flamenco Night (Wednesday the 14th) also stands out, with Andrea Blanco ‘La Garlochi’ at the helm, in a show that promises excitement and strength at every inch of the stage.
