Recap: Samantha Fish with Paper Doll Rock Troy Music Hall 5/21/2026

May 23, 2026

2–3 minutes

Award winning Samantha Fish brought her hard rocking band Paper Doll to rock the historic Troy Savings Bank Music Hall on May 21. Her fiery vocals and blazing guitar work took no prisoners in a 90 minute of blues rock. She first hit the scene in 2009, primarily known as a hot young guitarist and has absorbed many other influences along the way including Country, Americana and Neo Soul. They were all displayed during her set as her role as both guitar slinger and soul diva. She roamed the stage as it was truly hers , engaging and challenging her band onward.

The visual and aural fireworks on stage were also part of the role of drummer Jamie Douglas. Jamie’s hard charging and visually exciting display of rhythm added to the total power of the band.

Ron Johnson held down the lower end of the band’s sound. Formally associated with Greg Allman and Warren Haynes. He was the anchor of the band’s sound.

Mickey Finn prowess on keyboard was there to duel with Samantha’s guitar and help along with the soul ballads. His southern rock credentials also with Greg Allman showed their pedigree.

The plethora of guitars on stage was efficiently managed by Danny Bland.Samantha seemed to change guitars with every song. Danny was there for her every time with a guitar and frequently by the guitar rack cheering the band on.

There certainly is a loyal fan base for this band. A member of the audience drove up from Long Island to see them and was going to see them on their next date.

I was somewhat familiar with her music before this concert but I certainly am now a fan.

Up and coming guitarist and singer Solomon Hicks opened the show with Eric Lewis on bass. They delivered a set of blues standards and originals to warm the audience up. Solomon appeared during the encore to perform “Black Wind Howling”, for a full speed ahead ending.