Chuck Kuepfer, Staff Reporter

Local blues fans will have the opportunity to see a world-class band rock the Central Tavern next week.

The Mason Rack Band, originally from Queensland, Australia is set entertain at the local venue on Tuesday, Aug. 7. The show begins at 7 p.m.

The Mason Rack Band, which has made a name for itself in the blues community, keeps a busy schedule.

In May, the band played the Grolsch Blues Music Festival in Germany and toured throughout Europe.

The band returned to Australia to play a series of concerts in June, and now will be performing at venues across Canada for the rest of the summer.

“They’ve played every major festival throughout the world,” said promoter Frank Corbett of Promoagogo.

This year marks the band’s sixth Canadian tour.

Corbett is pleased to be able to bring the band to the local venue, which has become a place to see top-notch blues acts thanks to Promoagogo.

“We’re quite excited,” said Corbett. “Elmira’s going to be hopping that night.”

He describes the band’s music as “blues rock.”

On the Mason Rack Band website, the group’s new album Limits of Grip is described as a “classic mix of heavy rock, blues, jazz and roots.”

The band’s influences include Muddy Waters, Tom Waits and Ben Harper.

Along with Mason Rack (guitar, percussion, lead vocals), Nathan Lee-Archer (bass, vocals, percussion) and Joel Purkess (drums, vocals, percussion) round out the trio, which is known for their live performances.

“They’ve won awards for their stage show,” said Corbett.

Mason Rack has also built a local following.

“He’s played the Kitchener Blues Festival a number of times,” said Corbett.

Tickets to the Mason Rack Band’s Elmira show are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketwindow.ca or by calling the Central Tavern at 519-669-9028.