Blues band ready to rock at Te Puna hall

Laura Collins will perform at Te Puna Memorial Hall this weekend. Photo/supplied

Laura Collins and the Back Porch Blues Band will rock Te Puna Memorial Hall on Saturday.

Laura, known for her soulful vocal delivery, on-stage energy and emphasis on entertainment, says she's all about putting on a show.

"I'm lucky enough to be playing with some men who are huge talents, they've all played many a juke joint in their time."

One of those talents is Wayne Mason, a well-known Kiwi songwriter in his other life, also one hell of a stonkin' boogie blues piano player. So look out for wild solos with a wonderful sense of abandon.

Guitarist John O'Connor has worked with many of New Zealand's well-known musicians and is considered a New Zealand legend. He has played and recorded with many well- known artists including the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Kiri Te Kanawa, Mark Williams, Ron Goodwin, BB King, Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley.

In the engine room, there'll be George Barris on upright bass and Pete Cogswell on back porch drums.

Laura says having a more acoustic rhythm section allows the band to stay at an easy volume. "It doesn't need to be loud to groove, this is a vocals-led band and I'm all about finding the heart of the song," she says.

"We're about keeping it mellow, easy on the ears, but we'll still make you want to dance. I'm bringing my favourite bluesmen and I know they will make the house jump."

Wayne Mason. Photo/supplied

*Laura Collins and the Back Porch Blues Band, Saturday, August 22,
*Te Puna Memorial Hall, corner of SH2 and Te Puna Road.
*Doors open at 7pm, concert starts at 7.30pm.
*A licensed bar and light refreshments at interval.
*Tickets are $20, seats can be booked in advance or pay at the door.

For more info, email Rosie on redruth@vodafone.co.nz