Markus K, Piccolo George Square, Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival

The one man band used to be a figure of fun.  Technology has changed all that and modern OMB no longer needs the cymbals strapped inside his knees.  Markus K is primarily a busker, playing the streets all over the world, so he needs a compact set up.  Guitar, a looper with about fifteen buttons at his feet, and a small drum machine.  Add in some amplification and there's a small powerhouse of sound right there.

He describes his music as 'blues fusion' - inspired by the blues, but allowing him to throw in to the mix anything he fancies.  On the street he says little, just plays, for this gig he was told he should interact more with his audience, something he did well.  Self deprecating, charming, informative, explanatory, and, unusually, open to questions during the gig.

K builds up each number, laying down bass riffs and guitar rhythms, adding in a drum beat, laid over with vocals and a mix of finger picking and slide guitar.  He's got a decent voice, if lacking any distinctive qualities, and there's some excellent guitar work, and the gradual build up provides a surprising richness of sound, albeit with an unvarying beat. If there's a downside to the one man format it's the endings, where the song seems to peter out rather reach a natural conclusion.

The set is a mix of blues, rock and R&B standards, and his own material.  The former included a distinctive interpretation of Jumpin' Jack Flash, and a soulful Susie Q.  His own stuff is, he says, not the usual despairing lyrics of the traditional blues, for he is more of an optimist in life, and there's some interesting melodies and lyrics.

He's an engaging performer with a lot to offer, and I enjoyed the set.  But it was also one of those gigs you feel won't linger in the mind for long....