BLUES is in many ways a historic musical genre, born out of the poverty and suffering of the black people of the southern states of America. Most of the great exponents have now gone to meet their maker, although the ethos has remained in a few capable hands, notably Eric Clapton.

With the exception of the aforementioned, British Blues has always had a bit of a rough ride, but Otis Grand could well be in a position to right that wrong. Named by British Guitarist magazine as one of the 50 Greatest Blues Guitarists of all time, he's a contemporary talent very much in the old blues tradition. The great BB King is reported to have said to him: "You play like I used to when I was young."

A compilation box set album of 34 tracks and featuring guest artists, In Grand Style had its worldwide release back in September on Sanctuary Records. Otis has a generation of experience and a superb band behind him, which has seen him collect a clutch of awards.

He says: "I never listened to anyone but BB King and Robert Johnson for a very, very long time, and I am glad I've missed out on all the heavy blues/rock/acid thing that was going on in the Sixties. This way I have preserved the deep blues roots of my playing style, which now goes with me in whatever musical journey I am

attempting."

That journey has seen him successfully tour the UK, Europe and take the blues back home to the States, opening for John Lee Hooker, BB King, Albert Collins, Stevie Ray Vaughn and Steve Winwood, among others. Otis's shows are very well-received and a must if you want to witness the best of British blues.

December 20, The Brook, Southampton. Tickets: £9 in advance. Box office: 023 8055 5366.