Every year when I am in Austin, I discover one or more artists that I haven’t seen before, and that I like. Two years ago I discovered Donn’s Depot and the lovely Mondays with Chris Gage and friends. Last year I saw The Imperial Golden Crown Harmonizers again, after too many years since the last time I saw them. This year the concert with Ulrich Ellison and Tribe was a very pleasant surprise. These days the band are on the tail end of a two months tour in Europe, and last night they played at Herr Nilsen in Oslo.

Ulrich Ellison and his wife Sabine are originally from Austria, but they have lived in Austin for 10 years. Ulrich is the singer, guitarist and songwriter and Sabine is a very competent bassist The last member of the trio is Joel Duhon on drums, who a seasoned drummer with a hard, precise and technically brilliant style. Together they present a tight, powerful trio with a great and varied sound.

At this year’s Austin Music Awards, Ulric Ellison won the award for Best Guitarist, while the band won the award for Best Blues/Soul/Funk band. I will say that both awards are deserved, having seen many guitarists and bands in my time. Ulrich’s guitar style is economical, but also highly virtuoso when needed, and they function very well as a band with tight playing and very good harmonies.

The concert at Herr Nilsen in Oslo came about late, because the band had an open day, having played two gigs in Porsgrunn and one in Odda before they came to Oslo. For this reason the concert was scarcely attended, but those who were there really enjoyed the show. The reports from Odda and Porsgrunn also said that people enjoyed their shows there, and rumors say they will be back for at least one festival in Norway later.

All photos are © Per Ole Hagen and must not be used without written permission.