With a fresh album just released and a second volume on the horizon for May, Vargas Blues Band—led by guitarist Javier Vargas since 1991—sets out on an international tour. The band arrives this Friday at the Alicante Blues Ensemble concert at the Music Box, with additional performances planned for Saturday in Alicante. The lineup features John Byron Jagger on vocals and harmonics, Louis May on bass and sound, and Jota Marsan on drums, continuing the group’s tradition of high-energy blues that blends roots with modern flair. In 2022, the band earned a remarkable invitation from the Rolling Stones to perform at Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid, a moment that underscored the group’s rising profile and Javier Vargas’s reputation within the blues world.
Have you considered re-recording and creating more material beyond a single album?
Absolutely. There is a wealth of material and demos accumulated over the years that deserve release. The two new albums reflect the energy and direction behind that archive, and they speak for what lies beneath the surface of the current work.
After three decades on stage, what motivates continued recording and touring in an era when other genres dominate the scene?
The core drive is simple: share the best of past decades with new audiences, keep the passion alive, and let listeners decide. Vargas Blues Band has a global following that translates into strong streams and sales, but the live shows remain the hardest piece to scale. As independent artists, they handle their own promotions and rely on authentic connections with fans. When one heart speaks, another listens. While other styles rise and fall with trends, great musicians endure and keep evolving, offering something timeless for those who seek it.
With 27 records since the debut All Over the Blues, what has changed for Vargas Blues Band?
The band carries a seasoned perspective now, moving beyond innocence to a matured, more reflective sensibility. The music remains blues at its core, but the experience informs a deeper emotional palette and a broader sonic horizon, shaping songs that resonate with old fans and new listeners alike.
Blues as a foundation—how important is it to keep investing in it so it endures beyond a passing trend?
Blues retains its role as a living, evolving tradition. There are many followers who share the vision, including the artist, who believes the style deserves to endure. Blues is a strong, enduring tree with many branches, while trends arrive and pass. The key is to nurture the roots and let the branches grow.
“We lost our innocence, now sadness has taken over us”
When it comes to this new recording, what message does Vargas want to send: is Blues a power that will drive a new track like one of the fresh songs?
Yes. Blues has a rebellious spirit that gave birth to rock and roll, and the power remains a core influence in the band’s evolution and sound.
Why the title drunk night (smoking at night), and could it hint at a musical journey?
The idea is to use music as a doorway to trance. Rock and blues operate like a natural drug, and music frees the listener from confinement, inviting a sense of flight and spontaneity.
How did the collaboration with John Byron Jagger come about?
The connection began more than four years ago through Chris Jagger, a longtime friend who had shared stages and tours with Vargas. The pathway to collaboration opened naturally and has continued to grow as both sides explored shared musical ground.
“We must teach the good music of the past decades to the next generation”
What does Vargas bring to the group that keeps it forward-looking?
A synthesis of reggae rhythms and African musical influences adds depth and a broader, global perspective to the blues framework, enriching the band’s sound and live presence.
How did the Madrid opening for the Rolling Stones feel, and what followed?
The moment was intense but brief; it underscored a desire to perform with greater impact and to push the live sound further, with more power from the PA and stage setup. The experience highlighted the importance of delivering a strong, captivating show that truly connects with audiences.
Carlos Santana, Prince, Stevie Ray Vaughan’s band, Miguel Ríos, Chris Rea—many legends have crossed paths with Vargas. Is there a dream collaboration still on the list?
A collaboration with Eric Clapton would be a highlights reel in itself; the idea lingers as a tantalizing possibility for the future.
With eight platinum records, does Vargas feel seen in Spain?
Recognition is modest but genuine. Blues has always been a tough, enduring craft, and the joy comes from performing for a devoted audience that truly connects with the music. That connection is what keeps the artist encouraged and energized for the next chapter.