Bill Murray & Blood Brothers take San Diego on a blues rock ride

Bill f*ckin Murray. Who doesn’t love this man?? The guy is a comic icon, the epitome of acting success, a golfer, a writer… and he leads a band? This I had to see. And, apparently, so did the rest of San Diego.

Performing at The Sound in Del Mar (like literally within the Del Mar Fairgrounds), there couldn’t have been a classier joint to host this celebrity A-lister and his all-star players. The new venue house is two-story, with standing room in front of the stage and a seated balcony up top. To the left as you walk in the place, concert-goers can grab libations from the chic bar or choose incredible options from the many food stands; we’re talking mini tacos, bao buns, and beyond. Being my first time in the place, I noticed the ceiling rafters shaped like ocean waves, the plasma TVs in the lounge areas playing surf videos between ones set to stream the live stage, and the subtle lighting that gives the place a Palm Desert 1950s vibe.

The Sound is, without question, the most luxurious concert spot in town.

Shortly after I arrived, the opening act came on, consisting of players who would later be part of Bill Murray’s ensemble. Leading the way was Jimmy Carpenter, a skilled saxophonist who has a way with singing the blues. From upbeat ditties to low-tempo, toe-tappin’ tunes, the Jimmy Carpenter Band was a welcome warmup for what lay ahead.

As I had no idea what to expect. The stage had two drum sets and congas for percussion, with several guitars and a piano. Was Bill Murray going to sing? Play? Both? The lights went down again and we all got our answer as the main man, wearing a Caddyshack-esque bucket hat (at least in my mind), took his place behind the congas at the back of the stage, letting his Blood Brothers steal the show for a bit. From dueling guitars to wicked solos, these players can WAIL; this is the kind of performance blues-lovers dream about. By song two, Bill Murray walked up to the mic to do his own rendition of “Waiting” by The Guess Who. He begged, he pleaded… he’s just so TIRED of waiting… the way Bill Murray keeps a stone-cold serious demeanor while going over-the-top in delivery is just comedic perfection. I couldn’t keep it together between laughing fits.

The show went on with Bill going back and forth from mic to congas, collaborating with his Blood Brothers smiling and having the best time. What a remarkable side of Bill Murray to see. I truly recommend anyone who’s a fan (of Bill or just of the blues!!) to check out this show if they have the opportunity.

Photography by Kristy Rose

Share this article

or