BWW Reviews: Karen Irwin: A Piece of Her Heart, A Tribute to Janis Joplin

Karen Irwin tore up the stage at The Cabaret at The Columbia Club July 25 and 26. The Indianapolis native is well known for her bluesy rasp vocals and excellent coverage of Janis Joplin tunes. So popular is Irwin, the entire weekend was sold out for both performances, matching her prior visit to this stage.

Paying tribute to her inspiration, Irwin hit all the right notes and the right songs including, "Mercedes Benz," "Me and Bobby McGee," "Turtle Blues," "Bye, Bye Baby," "Piece of My Heart," and "Cry Baby."

There is no doubt the soul of Pearl might be found reincarnated within Irwin. The audience relived memories, finding in the local talent a true Joplin fan. Although the show could easily have become a cheesy sound alike, the wailer brought her own childhood into the mix sharing her personal connection to the sounds of Joplin. Reflections of feeling out of place due to her "not pretty" voice and height at an awkward age.

Sharing the stage were band members: Sean Baker (piano), Bryan Van Vlyman (bass), Erich Anderson (guitar), and Alex Van Bergeijk (drums).