Author: Andrea LeighAndrea Leigh is an Examiner from Columbus.
Wow! Was the first thought that came to mind as I settled in to the scene at
Nikki’s Bar and Grille. I made the decision to move inside from the patio to the bar so that I could get a closer look and experience the band first hand. I would not have expected such a deep and soulful bluesy presence could come from the lean stature of the bands front-man,
Patrick McLaughlin.
Patrick McLaughlin performs original material, which sets them apart from most of the other blues bands in the Columbus area, but they’ll also throw in a few covers to spice things up. The band was consistent and uniform in their performance all night and did not disappoint. They clearly have a talent that made me yearn for my days on Beale Street in Memphis.
Patrick McLaughlin and his band play everything from raw and earthy deep blues with melancholy overtones to the more upbeat jazz blues. It was a welcome change to the typical bar and club scene. There was a definite organic feel to the sound that emanated through the air. It was refreshing and intoxicating at the same time. McLaughlin’s music has all the warmth and character of a finely aged scotch and goes down just as smooth.
I caught up with Patrick after the show and got to know him a bit more. The band has been together a couple of years and is currently in the studio working on their first CD, one which I am anxiously awaiting. Patrick was quite modest in our chat though. It took a visit to the band’s myspace page to learn that he is an award-winning blues-man to boot. Three out the last five years McLaughlin was awarded as either a finalist or semi-finalist by the International Blues Challenge. It’s evident that he is also a leading force in the transformation of the Columbus blues scene. Patrick McLaughlin was a special treat to all of us at Nikki’s.
Be sure to check out Patrick McLaughlin’s myspace page to see a list of his upcoming shows and find out more about the band. Patrick McLaughlin’s band is: Patrick McLaughlin - vocals and guitar, Molly Young – bass, Darrell Jumper - drums and vocals, and A.C. Collins on sax and keyboard.
For more information: Nikki’s Bar and Grille, 6188 Cleveland Ave., has live music starting 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Call 614.882.7800.