Photo Review of Anna Katarina at Red Bird Brewing

Nelson singer/songwriter, keyboardist and guitarist Anna Katarina brought a mix of covers and originals covering the entire musical spectrum to Red Bird Brewing on warm Wednesday evening, in what was the first of Red Bird's newly dubbed "Tiny Nest Concerts".

Katarina's voice seemed to possess layer after layer of nuance and tone while still being able to convey every emotion from playfulness to hurt and longing. On top of that, she was able to gracefully and seamlessly shift between genres, covering classics that have long stood the test of time right up to the ultra current.

She delivered totally authentic versions of songs like "Georgia On My Mind" and "Fever" along with "La Vie En Rose" and "Hit The Road Jack" that both sounded and felt warm and, well, just right. She coupled those classics with more current songs such as Amy Winehouse's "Rehab" and Kacey Musgraves' "Butterflies". Throw in some Santana and Gary Moore and you couldn't help but wonder if there is any era that she is not aware of and comfotable singing.

Interspersed between all these great songs of yesteryear were close to a dozen originals. Without overstating it, they held up well to the musical masterpieces that surrounded them. Anna Katarina has some very good songwriting chops.

All in all, this was more than just a pleasant set from a local artist. It truly felt more like a performance by an artist well on her way on a career path guided by an acute awareness of who she is and very comfotable in her skin and on the stage.

anna katarina

photo review