The inaugural Pacific Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise sets sail from San Diego in just a few hours and the send off party, thrown by Blues Lovers United of San Diego, started folks rockin' and reelin' last night, well before anyone even set foot on the cruise ship.

With over a thousand blues fans and artists from across the country and beyond arriving in town, it made sense for the local blues society to send them off in style. I think it's safe to say everyone had a good time if the dancing and big smiles seen everywhere were any indication.

The evening started off with Nathan James and Ben Hernandez, BLUSD's 2006 solo/duo IBC entry. Both young men are accomplished musicians and they have a way of drawing people in for a very unique taste of country and Delta blues. Toward the end of their set, the winner of the 2006 IBC solo/duo category, Eden Brent, joined the guys on stage. What a voice! The combination was absolutely wonderful.

Aunt Kizzy'z Boyz, the BLUSD 2006 IBC Band entry (they placed 2nd at IBC) took the stage next. This band never fails to mesmerize me. High energy and extremely tight, they know how to please a crowd. It didn't take long for the dancefloor to fill. The band's only been together a few years, but their combined experience as musicians and love of music makes for a captivating show every single time they play. Simply put, they're spectacular! based on the reaction from the send-off partiers, I don't think it'll be long before Aunt Kizzy'z Boyz find themselves on board an ocean liner.

The final act of the night, The Mannish Boys, featured Kid Ramos, Johnny Dyer, Leon Blue, Richard Innes, Finis Tasby, and Tom Leavey, among others. They played just about every sort of blues you can imagine, all while people crowded the stage. It was paparazzi central from the first note. Everyone wanted photos! Electrifying, soulful, and passionate are but a few of the words that ran through my head as I watched their performance. Each artist brought something special to the stage and it was difficult to walk away, even for a very necessary bathroom break! The die-hard cruisers stuck around through a break and were treated to a second, equally dazzling set from The Mannish Boys. By the time the lights went up, it was clear to those who remained that this rare San Diego appearance went over quite well.

Throughout the evening, various blues artists wandered amongst the fans. Zac Harmon, Dennis Jones, Smokin' Joe Kubek and Bnois King, and Taj Mahal were spotted. I had the pleasure of speaking to each of them and know I missed many more. After the cruise returns to port on Oct. 7, blues lovers can continue the fun with a performance by Zac Harmon at the 710 Beach Club (formerly Blind Melons), where he'll be joined by Dennis Jones. Will there be other surprise guests? It's hard to say. Either way, there'll be plenty of great music and excitement to be had.

Raffle prizes — from CDs to T-shirts, martini glasses to DVDs, and concert tickets to an iPod — were also awarded throughout the evening.

Cruisin' fans had a chance to get their party started a bit early, non-cruisers got a taste of what they'd be missing on the cruise, and everyone had a good time, proving once again that San Diego knows music and fun!