Review & photos by Joe Schaeffer
Blues-rock sensation Samantha Fish delivered an electrifying performance in San Juan Capistrano as part of her Shake ‘Em On Down Tour. The night was filled with dynamic guitar work, raw vocals, and an undeniable stage presence that captivated the audience from start to finish.
The singer and guitarist kicked off the show with a cover of MC5’s “Kick Out Yhe Jams,” setting the tone for an energetic evening. Fan favorites like “Better Be Lonely,” “Wild Heart,” and “Don’t Say You Love Me” were mixed with covers of traditional blues songs like “Somebody’s Always Trying” and “I Put A Spell On You.”
She also performed “Deathwish,” which was included in her recent collaboration with Jesse Dayton. A standout moment was her rendition of “Black Wind Howlin’,” which showcased her gritty, soulful vocals and fierce guitar licks.
Fish’s band mates include bassist Ron Johnson, keyboardist Mickey Finn, and drummer Jamie Douglass. Johnson and Douglass flawlessly provided the backbone of the entire set. Finn’s keyboards were a perfect complement to Fish’s immaculate guitar playing.
Packing an impeccable guitar tone, Fish had her Gibson Les Paul SG wailing and growling with a sonic clarity that highlighted her exceptional skill. Her stage presence was magnetic, as she effortlessly moved between her guitar and the mic. Her charisma and intensity draws the audience in and never lets go.
Fish played a variety of guitars throughout the night, including a white Gibson SG, a mint green Fender Jaguar, and a cigar-box guitar during a ripping “Bulletproof,” For the encore of “Shake ‘Em On Down,” openers Jon Spencer and Cedric Burnside joined Fish and her band to close out the night.
Fish’s performance was an expressive showcase of her exceptional talent and her ability to push boundaries. With her unique touch on the guitar, sizzling stage presence, and the sheer intensity of her performance, she made the evening a memorable celebration of blues and rock.
