In their short set the trio mixed some well-chosen covers, including a little John Lee Hooker, with their original songs to good effect. Mike and Corey play well off each other and provide some nice vocal harmonies. And Corey got into by providing lead vocals on one song. "Just Want to Know," a song off their CD, came through particularly well in the acoustic set. The cool, hooking, blues beat and Mike's strong, expressive vocals gave the song a different emotion and depth than the electric one. Both versions are good, but this song and their entire acoustic set much better fit the room, crowd, and mood of the night. Mike's solid guitar licks really got a chance to stand on their own without the electric special effects.

The Keller Brothers closed with the up-tempo "Roll with Me Baby." Mike did some great fast picking, bending and repeating chords while Corey kept the driving beat going. Al Burns on stand-up bass provided a strong bass line while adding his own energy and enthusiasm to the song. The acoustic show probably would not go over as well in a crowded, noisy bar with partying folks that want to dance to loud music. Yet judging from the enthusiastic crowd they may want to continue to give the occasional acoustic show when the crowd and venue is right. This is a treat for their fans and gives them a chance to reveal a different take on the blues and display a little more of their musical depths and skills.

This review is copyright © 2002 by Rich Benson, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.