Well, she wowed us on Rock Star Super Nova and I got to see this Tattooed Goddess of Rock at the Exit In in Nashville on December 13th and all I can say is "Wow!"  From getting the very first encore performance in the reality series Rock Star Supernova and becoming runner up, this South African Rocker didn't disappoint!

Dilana

There we were, fashionably early and ready to Rock. The house was fillin' up and the front section was already several people deep.  Anticipation was building as we waited in torture.  Then the lights went down and some beautiful Native American sounding music started playing, followed by some solid rock sounds, introducing the Front Band. 

The front band was The Secret and were a rockin' good band, revealing excellent musicianship and stage performance.  Even though their lead singer/guitarist Zachary Lindsey admitted to feeling a bit "under the weather", you couldn't tell!  They put forth a solid, rockin' set, including originals, before they turned the stage over to Dilana.

The Secret

And there she was, Dilana Unleashed, so different from the Dilana we saw and followed on Rock Star Supernova.  She seemed more at ease, free and having fun doing it up right!  Backed by 2 guitarists, bass guitar and a drummer, this Johannesburg Beauty rocked on some of the songs featured on Rock Star Supernova, like a chilling rendition of Zombie by The Cranberries and the slow, soulful beginning to Roxanne by the Police.  It was like riding the top of the Roller Coaster and never coming down!  Her cover of the Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby" majorly kicked ass, showing off that awesome, real, raspy voice of hers, so distinct and different that it does make one wonder why she did not win the reality series.  But then again, she did in my heart!   

Another Rock Star Supernova finalist was spotted in the crowd was the undeniable good-looking Aussie, Toby Rand, having a good time digging on music and seeing his good pal Dilana perform.  And no, there were no bets involving removing one's jeans and running around a pool naked!  His band, Juke Cartel was playing at Mercy Lounge the following night and is bound to be as fantastic as tonight's performance by Dilana. 

Guest guitarist, Mike Davey, performed with Dilana and the Encore performance included several songs including her tribute to Johnny Cash, "Ring of Fire" and "Me and Bobby McGee" done so similar to Janis' style, including the audience sing along for the ending.  Janis would be extremely proud! 

Dilana delivered!  Dilana did not disappoint!  Dilana unleashed!  Yeah, I'll go see her again!  Absolutely!

Peace, Love and Music...

Paula Rae