GIG: MAHALIA BARNES & THE SOUL MATES

It’s said a lot, but Mahalia Barnes couldn’t hit a wrong note if she tried. Her sound has been crafted by years of backing vocals and session work for the likes of Jimmy Barnes, Jade MacRae and other Sydney live musicians, and she’s recently stepped out on her own with a blend of soul and blues that tips the hat to the great labels while making a statement of its own. Barnes has come a long way from the shadow of her famous father, and has gathered an amazingly talented group of musos around her for the Soul Mates. For the residency at the Sando, drummer Dave Hibbard and bassist Ben Rodgers are joined by Jonathan Pease on guitar and Rob Woolf on Wurlitzer keyboard. And special guests abound’last week saw visits from Joy Yates, Jimmy Barnes and David Campbell.

December 9 and 16. The Sandringham Hotel, 387 King St, Newtown.Tickets $10, www.mahaliabarnes.com.au