Photos by Riaz K : Verona Red / National Ghost @ Memphis Smoke, Royal Oak

Fun times were had all around at the Memphis Smoke last Friday where the crowd was being wowed by live performances by Verona Red and National Ghost.

Memphis Smoke is known to house quality rock and blues acts on the weekends, but it's obvious they're trying to shake things up a bit.

There were a few technical issues that had to be dealt with before the night started. Then National Ghost opened for Verona Red without their lead singer, who apparently had more pressing concerns to contend with, like getting his appendix removed - no joke. Visiting us from Chicago, was Verona Red, who's take on electronic - rock is unusual for those that frequent Memphis Smoke - but is definitely something this town can use more of.

Although I am a big sucker for quality Blues, the sound that these two bands brought with them was actually a welcome change - more contemporary, to say the least!