It’s that Cray time of year

I’ve been asked more than once how it’s possible to write so much about arts events without repeating myself.

HA!

Here are sentences dating back 15 years from advance stories I wrote on five different occasions when blues-rock musician Robert Cray played the Garde Arts Center in New London. (There are more, BTW.)

■ “Robert Cray is certainly deserving of a permanent “Welcome back, Bob!” banner that can be unfurled when the guitarist returns to the Garde stage.”

■ “If any of the hundreds of performers who’ve passed through the Garde Arts Center could be said to be a “favorite” son or daughter, it’s probably blues-rock star Robert Cray.”

■ “Blues/soul genius Robert Cray has a familial bond with New London’s Garde Arts Center and has spoken fondly about it and his numerous appearances there over the years.”

■ “It’s a testament not only to his greatness but to music fans in southeastern Connecticut as well that blues-rock legend

Robert Cray has basically established a residency in New London’s Garde Arts Center.”

■ “I’ve seen Robert Cray in small clubs and 10,000-seat arenas. He’s opened shows and been the headliner. He’s never less than great — and you can rely on that when Cray plays Saturday at the Garde Arts Center.”

Pretty repetitive, right? Of course, part of my problem might be that Cray is so popular here. What’s left to say?

Well, how about this new one for you: Robert Cray brings his excellent band Sunday to New London’s Garde Arts Center. (He really IS!) It’ll be as fine an experience as it always is with an added bonus. The immensely talented folksinger Vance Gilbert — a Conn College grad — is opening the show. Be there. — Rick Koster

Robert Cray Band, 8 p.m. Sunday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; $39-$95; gardearts.org. (860) 444-7373.