Spinning tunes of travel and tribulation, the Sugar Thieves inspire delta blues in the desert. The self-proclaimed "Meat Shakin' Blues Band" earned many accolades in their young career, including the coveted title of Phoenix Blues Society's "Best Blues Band in Arizona 2010." In the tradition of Memphis Minnie and Bessie Smith, lead vocalist Meridith Moore lends an essence that is simultaneously beautiful and heartbreaking. Bookmans is proud to sponsor the Sugar Thieves' performance at this weekend's Blues Blast 2013.

The Sugar Thieves on the streets of Phoenix.

Presented by the Phoenix Blues Society, Blues Blast is in its 21st year. The festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. this Saturday, March 9 at Margaret T. Hance Park, nestled comfortably between historic neighborhoods and the skyline of Downtown Phoenix. The Sugar Thieves will kick off the afternoon at noon with their patented powerhouse sound. The aforementioned Meridith Moore shares sultry vocal detail with lead guitarist Mikel Lander. The pair began performing together as an acoustic duo in 2006, shortly after Moore relocated to Phoenix from Omaha, Nebraska. With the addition of David Libman on drums, Jeff Naylor on upright bass and Shea Marshall on saxophone, clarinet, harmonica and keyboard, the Sugar Thieves solidified their place in the Phoenix music community. The five multi-talented artists make an incredibly complementary team. Lander's deep and gut-wrenching voice lays a delightfully rugged foundation for Moore's soaring, soulful pipes. Libman and Naylor are like a freight train of rhythm, creating an undeniably danceable backbeat. Marshall is fascinating to watch, switching from keys to harmonica to clarinet to saxaphones –- yes, that's two saxaphones played at the same time. Unique and innovative yet steeped in tradition, the Sugar Thieves are one of a kind.

Don't miss memorable performances by the Sugar Thieves and other local blues favorites this weekend at Blues Blast 2013. For more information on tickets, please visit the Blues Blast's online ticketing system. Come out, support the arts and let the good times roll!