Robbin Kapsalis carries Chicago's soul in her commanding voice, blending traditional blues grit with contemporary spirit. Born on the Southside, amid the city's legendary blues scene and later shaped by Atlanta's musical heritage, she delivers performances with the passionate power of Sharon Jones and the raw intensity of Koko Taylor while crafting her own distinctive sound.
Featured in Living Blues Magazine (#284), her story resonates with authenticity, from her early days on Chicago's Southside to her emergence as a compelling blues artist. Her songwriting talents shine through in works like "Poor Me," which earned semi-finalist recognition in the 2019 International Songwriting Competition, and "From the Heart of The One," named Best Blues Song by the Washington Area Music Association in 2022.
For a decade, she led DC-based soul blues band Vintage#18, performing across North America from intimate Memphis venues to the Kennedy Center's New Year's Eve Celebration. Their debut album "Grit" earned a Blues Blast Music Award nomination for New Artist Debut Album, while their 2021 release "Soul Shaker" made its mark on the Living Blues charts and B.B. King's Bluesville Rack of Blues on Sirius XM, garnering two more Blues Blast Music Award nominations.
Her reputation in the blues world continues to grow as she tours extensively throughout Europe, captivating audiences from intimate clubs to major festivals. Her musical journey includes sharing stages with Grammy-nominated Blues legends John Primer and Billy Branch on The Living Legends of Chicago Blues Tour. Branch, also an Emmy Award winner, and Primer represent the pinnacle of Chicago Blues artistry.
With her successful album release, Kapsalis demonstrates why she's not just preserving the blues tradition -- she's helping shape its future.
Robbin plays tonight with her full UK band comprising some of the finest blues players on the scene.
“she stands apart...singing with a cool sense of relaxation...her alto is strong and direct and her capacity to interpret words impressive.”
“Kapsalis plants her flag firmly in the tradition...show’s she’s not just keeping the flame alive, she’s fanning it higher. So, the blues is truly in the house”
“With her strong and assured vocals - displaying shades of Koko Taylor - Kapsalis is the undisputed star of the show here.”
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm / Tickets £16.50 / £10.50 for members
All seating/tables are first-come, first-served.