Founded in 1996, the San Diego-based Backwater Blues Band performs gritty, exuberant blues and rock music. The band consists of Jimmy Woodard as lead guitarist and singer-songwriter, John Simons on bass, Jonny Viau and Diego Armijo on sax, and Tom Stewart on drums.

This concert includes both reserved and unreserved seating. Reserved tables of 4 ($90 general; $70 member) receive a complimentary bottle of wine and provide an unobstructed view of the Courtyard stage. Unreserved lawn seating ($20 general; $15 member) is available throughout the Historic Courtyard. The Casa Cafe will be open with snack boxes and sodas for sale. Wine and beer by the glass will be available for a suggested $5 cash donation.

Casa Cool is sponsored by Mr. and Dr. Gordon and Helen Olson.