“Sirjo Cocchi & Balta Bordoy-The Blues Way, third place at the European Blues Challenge 2026!!”
The European Blues Challenge was held on April 16, 17, and 18 in Katowice, Poland. This year’s Spanish representatives, Sirjo Cocchi & Balta Bordoy – The Blues Way, competed against 23 other bands from across Europe. They delivered a fantastic performance, earning acclaim from the audience that packed the sold-out Miasto Ogrodów and NOSPR Concert Hall, while also establishing numerous professional contacts across the European scene.
This year’s winners were the band representing Norway, Adama Janlo Band. In second place were the Italians Gloria & The Doctors. From these lines, our congratulations to all participants for their quality, and especially to the top three finalists.
The ‘Blues Behind The Scenes’ awards were also presented, recognizing individuals or entities working ‘behind the scenes’ who perform vital work in support of the blues, though their names and efforts may not be widely known by the general public. Additionally, other awards were handed out, including Best Solo/Duo, Best Harmonica, and Best Guitar players of the EBC. At the same time, the Blues Market took place—a marketplace where blues world professionals gather, allowing both the participating bands and industry experts to build relationships and network.
