Here we are at the Voodoo Rooms tonight to catch the wonderful Kara Grainger, whom I’ve been eager to see live for some time. But first up, local boys The Burnside Burners Blues Band entertain us with some well-crafted old-school blues covers. They open with a groove-laden tribute to Otis Rush, “All Your Love (I Miss Lovin’)”, which sets the tone for the night. We’re treated to Jimmy Rodgers, a brilliant take on R.L. Burnside’s “Going Down South”, and a rare Captain Beefheart gem, “Sure Nuff ‘N Yes I Do,” which they absolutely nail.
Their set also features a couple of Peter Green-era Fleetwood Mac tracks, “Stop Messin’ Around” and “Need Your Love So Bad”, both superbly performed. They round things off with a bouncing version of Freddie King’s “The Stumble”, and a tremendous rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Obviously Five Believers”, based on Sean Costello’s version. Throughout their set, I found myself bouncing along while taking photos – these guys can play! If you get the chance to see them live, you’ll leave with a huge smile on your face, guaranteed.
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Next up is Kara Grainger, someone I’ve been waiting to see live for ages. She opens with “Living with Your Ghost”, the title track from her 2018 album. Kara’s soulful, clear voice and superb guitar work immediately set the mood, with her band right on point. We’re treated to several tracks from her 2013 album Shiver & Sigh, starting with the sultry, blues-infused “Breaking Up Somebody’s Home”, featuring delicate keyboards from Sam Montero and a killer rhythm section.
The set continues with the fabulous “Lost in You” and the slide guitar-infused “C’mon in My Kitchen”, which showcases some sublime guitar work. Kara and the band glide through more tracks, including “Good Day for the Blues”, “Mama Said”, and the groove-laden “Little Pack of Lies”. Kara’s soulful voice is simply stunning throughout.
We’re also treated to “River of Fire” from her 2006 Secret Soul EP, followed by the deep, soulful ballad “Holding On”, with haunting guitar work. The vibe continues with “Sky is Falling”, featuring some subtle slide guitar. The entire set is relaxed, with Kara’s guitar work taking centre stage. Nothing feels rushed – just a band letting the music speak for itself. The band was tight from start to finish, making for a perfect night of blues, and an absolute joy to watch and listen to. Roll on next time!
Photos by Gary Cooper
