The Business (feat. James Delaney on keyboards), at JJ Smyth's

JJ Smyth's is one of the few places to hear the blues in Dublin. It's also one of the narrowest rooms I've been in, to watch live music. But what really makes it stand out are the little details that add to the atmosphere, including the candles which give everything a warm and intimate feel.

For their part, The Business are one of the most experienced blues bands in Dublin. Along the way, they've played with the likes of B.B. King, Spencer Davis and John Primer, building a reputation for superb musicianship, through a number of different line-ups.

The common thread in all of the band's guises is frontman Pat Farrell. While most of the songs they played on the night were originals of his, the influence of B.B, as well as Albert and Freddie King, is apparent throughout.

Farrell played a Gibson 335, the same model used by Eric Clapton early in his career and by the Edge. He got a soulful sound out of it, and was highly expressive with his solos. He's also got a soulful voice; he knows how to carry a tune really effectively.

If he was the star of the show, keyboardist James Delaney held his own as a soloist, beginning the set with dreamy solos and slowly building them over the set in intensity. Overall, it was a fine performance, confirming that no matter how much things change, the blues is as relevant as ever.

The Business play JJ Smyth's (Aungier Street, Dublin) on Friday July 16, with special guest Susan Tomelty on vocals. Tomelty's own band play JJ Smyth's on July 24.