An Evening with Johnny A. Trio at The Iron Horse on Saturday, January 17 2026
In a musical landscape that often leans on flash over substance, the JOHNNY A. TRiOstands out as a beacon of authenticity, artistry, and soul. Helmed by acclaimed guitarist Johnny A., the trio is a masterclass in musicianship, bringing together three seasoned pros who share a deep reverence for the roots of rock, blues, jazz, and soul—and a passion for pushing those boundaries into exciting new territory.
Johnny A. – Guitar
A Grammy-nominated guitarist with a career that spans decades, Johnny A. has built a reputation not just as a technically brilliant player, but as a true artist who speaks through his instrument. With a tone that sings and a style that transcends genre, Johnny’s playing is both emotionally resonant and jaw- droppingly precise. From his early work with Peter Wolf (J. Geils Band) to his recent tenure with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, The Yardbirds through his acclaimed solo recordings and relentless touring, Johnny A. has earned his place among guitar greats, often cited in the same breath as icons like Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton. Whether interpreting a timeless classic or unveiling an original composition, Johnny A.’s guitar tells stories that words simply can’t. His unique blend of melodic sensibility and harmonic sophistication creates a sound that is instantly recognizable, yet endlessly surprising.
Dean Cassell – BassHolding down the low end with taste and groove, bassist Dean Cassell is the heartbeat of the trio. Known for his work with the likes of Susan Tedeschi, Cassell brings decades of live and studio experience to the stage, along with a deep musicality that makes him much more than just a rhythm player. His playing is fluid, melodic, and locked in—equally capable of holding a tight pocket or stepping forward to add a rich counterpoint to Johnny A.’s soaring lines. Cassell’s deep understanding of feel and space allows the trio’s music to breathe, creating room for spontaneity and subtlety, while always maintaining the drive and pulse that keeps audiences hooked.
Marty Richards – DrumsNo power trio is complete without a drummer who can do it all, and Marty Richards fits the bill perfectly. A veteran of both the rock and jazz scenes, Richards has shared the stage and studio with an impressive roster, including blues legend Duke Robillard, jazz great Gary Burton, and Aerosmith’s Joe Perry.
Marty’s drumming is a blend of raw power and refined precision. He’s got the chops to turn heads and the instincts to elevate every moment, responding intuitively to the flow of the music. With Richards behind the kit, the JOHNNY A. TRiO becomes a dynamic force—tight, unpredictable, and always compelling.
The Experience
Live, the JOHNNY A. TRiO is nothing short of electrifying. The band’s chemistry is palpable, forged through years of mutual respect, shared influences, and countless hours of playing together. Their setlists weave through Johnny A.’s acclaimed catalog, inventive covers, and jaw-dropping improvisational moments that blur the lines between genres. Every show is a journey—one that nods to the traditions of great instrumental music while forging a fresh path forward. Whether it’s a soulful reimagining of a Beatles tune, a blues-drenched original, or an off-the-cuff jam that catches fire, the trio plays with passion, precision, and a sense of joy that’s utterly contagious. In a world where digital effects and backing tracks often replace raw performance, the Johnny A. TRiO reminds us of the power of real instruments, real interaction, and real soul. This is music made by humans, for humans—vibrant, honest, and alive.
