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Post Gazette review in Pittsburgh paper
Once again, it's time for another CD, and once again from an artist you've probably never heard of, but probably should.

Her name is Graná (Gra-nay) Louise, a relatively new talent on the Chicago scene, winner of the 2099 Chicago blues challenge, and owner of a new album, "Gettin' Kinda Rough!" from Delmark, the little label that just keeps on producing music from local Chicago talent that deserves a wider audience.

She's got one of those tough, old-fashioned, no-nonsense blues-belter voices, backed by a tough and tight little band -- the Troublemakers -- with Chi-blues on its mind. Both band and vocals are full of sass and spunk, with lots of earthiness from Louise's original lyrics -- "Big Dick, M'isipi" would be one such track, if you get my drift (not a sporting goods store).

Not that there's anything wrong with that. The blues is nothing if not earthy. And that's the feeling you get all through this CD, which is filled with raucous blues -- especially on the five live tracks, like "Wet Match," the rowdy classic "Queen Bee," the scorching "Back Door Blues," her unique and swinging take on "I Can't Stand the Rain," and a powerful, acid-laced version of "Hey Joe."

It's easy to recommend this CD to blues lovers, and recommend Ms. Louise if she happens to be in the neighborhood. Which I would suggest to club owners and festival managers everywhere.

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