At The Cluny in Newcastle upon Tyne: Robbin Kapsalis

Born on Chicago’s Southside, amid the city’s legendary blues scene and later shaped by Atlanta’s musical heritage, Robbin delivers a commanding vocal presence that blends classic blues grit with a fresh, contemporary spirit — captivating audiences with raw intensity and passion while forging her own distinctive sound.

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. 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 on Sirius XM, garnering two more Blues Blast Music Award nominations.

Her musical journey includes performing at the John F. Kennedy Center New Year’s Eve Celebration, and festivals throughout the U.S., UK, and Europe.

Her latest album and solo debut, The Blues Is In The House, earned that Blues Music Award nomination, further cementing why she’s not just preserving the blues tradition — she’s helping shape its future.

Blues Roadhouse (USA) names Kapsalis a standout voice among contemporary blues singers.

“...Her Chicago roots shine through loud and clear throughout on an excellent selection of songs...there’s just not anything about this set that is not top-notch, it’s classy blues...a wonderful introduction to a woman who should become a household (blues) name...” Blues In The South (UK)

“...she stands apart...singing with a cool sense of relaxation...her alto is strong and direct and her capacity to interpret words impressive.” Frank-John Hadley DownBeat Magazine (USA)