Christchurch Folk Music Club

The Muddy Mama Blues Band 26 August 2018

What a night we shared at the Folk Club on Sunday! From the moment the first few bars hit the air the audience was captivated by The Muddy Mama Blues Band. Lead singer Judi Smitheram showed great form, revelling in the mighty musicianship of her five-piece band, Mary Ruston on keys, Geoff Low on saxophone, Melanie Ross on bass, Lynden Jackson on drums and Ken Jenkins on harmonica. Together they explored the scope of the jazz/blues genre, injecting their original magic mix into what turned out to be an impressive collection of old and new classics. Drawing from Muddy Waters to Procol Harem, from Melody Gardot to Amy Winehouse, and the inimitable Aretha, the set list contained not only a favourite or two, or three, but also its fair share of funky surprises. Review by Eileen Reid

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