Kai Strauss - Don't Be a Stranger Kai Strauss

With his Electric Blues All-Stars, Kai Strauss has made a name for himself all over Europe with dynamic, driving live shows and award-winning CDs, featuring an individual style that's based on the urban blues tradition, but taking in big chunks of soulful and funky grooves - And this band knows how to rock the house!

Colleague blues hero Mike Andersen got a chance to listen to Kai's new album: Back in the '90s, when I was a young man, I spent my savings on a ticket to the legendary Danish blues festival, Djurs Bluesland. I remember setting up our tent and making our way into the festival grounds. Then, suddenly, the sound of an electric guitar came cutting through the canvas of a tent, straight into the heart of a Danish teenager.

I ran towards the stage. There was one of the coolest guitar players I had ever seen, making a Stratocaster sing. I was blown away.

That was my first encounter with Kai Strauss. I've been a fan ever since. There is a sense of urgency in every note he plays. Always full of bite, beautifully phrased -- yet delivered with a laid-back attitude and unmistakable charm.

Over the years, I've seen Kai perform countless times as a world-class sideman. In recent years, I've watched him fully step into his role as a frontman, his voice and guitar playing completely in sync.

To my ears, he is one of Europe's finest blues artists.

This album is a testament to that.