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Our aim is
'Keeping Live Music Alive'
We provide a platform for bands in
a friendly atmosphere with appreciative audiences. Some of the bands that
started out and played at BJ's on a regular basis have found success. All the
bands that play at BJ's get a great reception and always want to return and it
remains fully booked for a year ahead. The venue provides a mixed genre of blues
based music to suit all tastes ... so if you like a variety come and join us !
___________________________________________________________________________
Reviews:
13:08:15 -
OBLIVION
Oblivion a five piece
covers band that travelled from North Wales and Cheshire to entertain
were formed only a few months ago and playing their sixth gig. Antony
Wilkinson fronted the band, on lead vocal and rhythm guitar. Antony has
a good vocal range and every number he sang was as clear as a bell, he
was excellent. Nick Prendergast on lead guitar is a very experienced
guitar man note perfect and played with passion. Bryan Jones on key
boards and saxophone another fine musician he gave the band a full round
sound in fact the band’s sound was well balanced and the volume spot on.
The bands bass line from Nick Skelson on a wicked bass guitar and
drummer John Hodgson kept the band on an even keel a very impressive
pair. The selection of covers got off to a cracking start with numbers
from, Deep Purple, Paul Weller, ZZ Top, Fleetwood Mac, Small Faces and
The Beatles. The second set moved into overdrive with the Zombies, Gary
Moore, Thin Lizzy, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dylan, Rory Gallaher, Chuck
Berry, and Jeff Beck tremendous covers from a band that has expertise
and musicianship all rolled up into one, their phone should be very
busy, there was nothing oblivious about this performance they paid
attention to detail.
Sadly I have to report to
you all that BJ’s ROCK IN THE BLUES CLUB has for now ceased. This is a
bitter pill to swallow not just for Lucas and his wife Heidi but for the
fans of live music it will be greatly missed.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
06:08:15 -
.44 PISTOL
This
fabulous talented trio travelled from the Stafford area to entertain the
faithful here at BJ’s in Chorley. If you like your blues a bit raw and
edgy and in your face, with no frills then this Mississippi Blues trio
is right up your street. They pride themselves on taking a classic blues
number say Smoke Stack Lightening, and then give it the .44 Pistol
treatment and the concept is very entertaining indeed. Pete Wearn
frontman and founder of the band on lead vocal, slide guitar and blues
harp was outstanding, his energetic style is a must see, at one point he
stood on top of a table playing his harmonica at full tilt a lung buster
indeed just brilliant. Ash Jones on lead guitar and backing vocal has a
more laid back approach but his sizzling guitar playing is extraordinary
none the less. Lastly on drums is Mick Askey he keeps the tempo hot and
heavy and with no bass player does the job admirably. The bands two sets
were all classic numbers the likes of Shake Your Money Maker, Baby
Please Don’t Go, Who Do You Love, What I’d Say, Got Love if You Want It,
Got My Mojo Working, all classic numbers with a canny twist. The crowd
shouted and whistled for more the dancers were out in force and a good
Mississippi Blues experience was had by all. 44 Pistol were absolutely
smoking.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
30:07:15 -
BRIDGEWATER BLUES BAND
This
four piece band travelled from the Stockport area to give the blues
faithful a cracking show. New frontman Dave Eatock on lead vocal and
blues harp has more than twenty years experiance playing the blues with
different bands in and around his home patch of Greater Manchester. Dave
has gelled well and fits right in such is the talent of this veteran
performer, and indeed the rest of the band with their mature
musicianship. Jon Ingham on lead guitar has always impressed me with his
playing he’s a wizard and still plays the guitar behind his head and
with his teeth and plays a mean slide guitar, he certainly knows his way
around a guitar. The rhythm section is one of the best I have heard as
tight as a bow and sounding brilliant with Chris Millward on bass and
Andy Hart on drums just superb. This was a blues show bar none with
covers from the likes of BB King, Sony Boy Williamson, Elmore James,
Little Walter, Muddy Waters, Freddie King, Howlin’ Wolf, Eric Clapton
and John Lee Hooker you can imagine how that went down absolutely
thrilling. The second set was busting with more of the same with
Fleetwood Macs “Oh Well” more from Hendrix a great rendition of “All
along the Watchtower” and “Hey Joe” more from Howlin’ Wolf, Junior
Wells, Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Big Bill Broonzey, Elmore James
and Cream, blues wall to wall just perfect obviously.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
23:07:15 -
THE INTERCITY BLUES BAND
The
return of the Intercity Blues Band from Liverpool wowed the crowd with
their gritty style of Chicago Blues. Archie Moore fronts this four piece
band on lead vocal and a wailing harmonica. Dave miles on lead guitar
was outstanding, firmly rooted in the blues genre, he showed what he
could do with the Albert Kings hit “Can’t You See What your Doin’ To
Me”, brilliant work. The engine room consisting of Denis Sainter on a
fantastic sounding bass guitar along with Mick Andrews on the drums, an
experienced pairing indeed and the driving force of the band. A mix of
classic blues and original works, six in all, and the first of these was
“Black finger Boogie” featuring Dave Miles on lead guitar. Big Joe
Turners “Flip Flop and Fly” was next, a great rendition of this
marvellous number. Two more originals “Down Hill Blues “and the
fantastic “Nothing Going Down”, this high-lighted the struggle in
Liverpool in the 70s with wide spread unemployment. Slim Harpo’s “I Got
Love If You Want It” demonstrated the many skills of Archie’s harp
playing, finishing the first set with Howlin’ Wolfs “Who’s Been Talking”
superb. The second set started with Henry Mancini’s “Peter Gunn” the
instrumental, this was another excellent rendition, the set also
produced covers from The Doors, two more original works, then Peter
Greens “Stop Messin’ Around”, “Route 66” “I Need You Tonight”, Tommy
Tuckers “High Heel Sneakers”, “Messin’ with the Kid” by Junior Wells and
an encore with the Classic “Shake Your Money Maker” by Elmore James,
bringing the show to a close with the deafening shouts and whistles for
more. If you missed the INTERCITY Blues Band express catch the next one
you’ll be glad you did.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
16:07:15 -
RAMSHACKLE
On
their return to Chorley RAMSHACKLE took to the stage and performed a
fabulous show with a mix of covers and original works. Simon Noble
fronts the band on lead guitar and lead vocals, with Andy Lewis on keys
and vocals, a busy rhythm section are Craig Robinson on a mature
sounding bass, and John A Hilton on drums, these four cracking musicians
make up Ramshackle one of the best live bands playing on today’s
circuit. The selection of covers from the likes of Bill Perry, Walter
Trout, Bernard Allinson, The Beatles, Paul McCartney, Johnny Lang, and
Eric Clapton certainly set the scene, the second set would have to be
something special, and as it turns out it was. B. B. Kings “Thrill Is
Gone” opened the second set, a fitting tribute to a great Bluesman, “Lie
to Me” by Johnny Lang, Susan Tedeschi “Little By Little” with more
covers from Bill Perry, Freddie Kings “Tore Down” “Leaving Mood “by
Toronzo Cannon, with other covers by Otis Rush, Junior Parker, Oli Brown
and several original numbers starting with “Little Angel” “Mad Man on my
Mind” “Blind Date with the Blues” “It’s Over” and “Long Way Home” superb
works by Simon and the band which you can listen to on sound cloud. The
crowd shouted for more and the band obliged with Stevie Ray Vaughan’s
“Tightrope” and “The Road Never Ends” from Mike Zito. This was a
brilliant show by a band that puts the ROCK into the BLUES nothing
ramshackle about the bands performance, exceptional.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
02:07:15 -
PAPA LEGBA
Papa
Legba are one of the best Power Rock Trios to entertain us here in
Chorley. The band travelled from St Helens to give us a show, and that
they did. The guitar wizardry of Alan Kaishin Crawford on lead guitar
and vocals was superb every time I see him he seems to get better, if
that’s possible. Scott Crawford on bass guitar and backing vocals was
brilliant, and his harmonising with Alan was spot on. Graham Brighouse
on drums, he is one of the best I’ve heard, and in my opinion is the
complete drummer, with terrific combinations of play, and when required
plays a mean harmonica, all three are gifted musicians. The first set
started with Deep Purples “Hush” with Led Zeppelins “Dazed and Confused”
“Bring It On Home” and ”Since I’ve Been Loving You” “Killing Floor” by
Hendrix, just superb guitar skills from Alan, “Back To Black “ by Amy
Whitehouse, The Beatles “Yer Blues” Eddie Boyd’s “Five Long Years” and
finishing with “Sunshine of your Love” by Cream absolutely dynamic.
The second set with covers
from Robert Johnson, Led Zeppelin the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, the
Animals, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, and a fantastic medley of” Voodoo
Child”, “Million Miles Away”, “Black Dog”, “Black Night”, “Whiskey In
the Jar”, bringing to an end a fantastic show from this hot talented
band.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
25:06:15 - POORBOY
This
excellent four piece harp driven blues band based in Leeds ripped the
roof off with some buzzing Chicago Blues. Frontman Paddy Wells on lead
vocal and blues harp was inspirational as he and the band played to a
packed house. Lead guitarist Gary Whitaker was superb with Frederic
Hiebler on a fabulous sounding bass guitar and new boy on the block is
no other than session drummer Rick Lacey who has over the years played
with the cream of Northwest bands. The band recorded six tracks in June
2014 at the Cottage Road Studios Leeds and the title track entitled “Jumpin’”
was aired on the Paul Jones R & B show on radio 2 recently. The first
set kicked off with “Jumpin’ followed by “Find Someone New”, “I Can
Tell”, “That’s Enough”,” Checking on My Baby”, “Walking Through the
Park” with the Etta James’s classic, “I’d Rather go Blind”, and
finishing the first set with “Every day I Have the Blues”. The second
set started began with “She’s Dynamite”, “Born in Chicago”, “She’s
Evil”, “Up the Line”, “Spoonful,” “My Babe,” “Heart attack and Vine”,
“Some Days”, “Mellow Down Easy”, “Got My Mojo Working” and finally
“Can’t judge a Book” an absolute brilliant show by a very hard working
band who bring to the table an edgy, gritty, soulful Chicago Blues.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
18:06:15 -
THE MAZ MITRENKO BAND
The
Maz Mitrenko band returned to Chorley and entertained a packed crowd
here, who relished the bands mix of classic blues and rock along with
original material from these three exceptional musicians who had
travelled from the heart of the West Midlands. This band always gives a
fantastic show and from the very start took command of the proceedings.
The first set kicked off with Freddie King’s classic “Going Down”
followed by “Deja Blues” their first of six original numbers. ”Tattooed
Lady” from Rory Gallagher, and the second original called “Drifter” with
“Accuse Me” from Bo Diddley, and a brilliant rendition of Steve Earle’s
“Copperhead Road” and an echo from the seventies with “ Bridge Of Sighs”
from Robin Trower, just a fantastic first set, the crowd where on their
feet, the applause was deafening, tremendous. The atmosphere was
tangible as the crowd settled for the second set. “All Along the
Watchtower” by Hendrix started the second set with wonderful guitar work
from Maz, I expected nothing less, and a good strong combination from
the engine room, Pete Vickers on bass and Phil Brittle on drums, a very
busy pairing indeed throughout the bands performance. Rory Gallagher’s
“Calling Card” again a marvellous rendition followed by “Mississippi
Delta” another original song with “So Long Chicago” an original from the
band that is on their next cd. The heat was turned up as the band
played the Muddy Waters hit “Hoochie Coochie Man” with “Misty Mountain
Blue” (Co Written with Doug Jones) and the last of the bands original
works. “Walk on Hot Coals” from Rory Gallagher finishing with “Hey Joe”
and “Purple Haze” a crescendo of sound from the very able Maz Mitrenko
band, just fabulous from start to finish.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
11:06:15 -
THE BONNIE MAC BAND
The
Bonnie Mac Band returned to the Minstrel to give a fantastic show of
Blues and Blues/Rock. They travelled from Leeds and Huddersfield to
entertain a packed crowd here in Chorley. This four piece band have over
the last two years or so entertained in venues both sides of the
Pennines in pubs and Blues festivals, and will be at the Great British R
& B Festival Colne which takes place from the 28th to the 31st
of August 2015. The band line up is spearheaded by Sheila McFarlane on
vocals, with her ever increasing vocal range, which certainly suits the
bands move to more of a rock/blues genre. The maestro on lead
guitar/rhythm guitar is Geoff Waddington, he nails the riffs superbly, a
musician of the highest calibre whether its blues or rock. The boiler
house, the rhythm section of Craig Jackson on a thumping bass and John
Sharpe on drums were brilliant and consistent, no let up here. The
band’s first set hit us with ”Little by Little”, “Breeze”, “Blues is My
Business”,” Trouble No More” that set the bar high, the second set
included covers by Gary Moore, Free, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dooby Brothers,
Z Z Top and more just brilliant, finishing off with Sweet Home Chicago
and Road Runner.
This
band is growing from strength to strength and in the not too distant
future we should be seeing a new CD with original tracks penned by the
band.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
04:06:15 -
THE VOODOO HOGS
The
Voodoo Hogs hale from the County of Cheshire and have been together
performing all over the Northwest circuit for the better part of two
years. They have an extensive repertoire of classic blues/rock covers
for your entertainment and are booked for many gigs this year. Graham
Hetherington on lead vocals delivers his songs in his gruff voice style
and looking sharp as the bands frontman. Gary Diack on lead guitar was
spot on with his guitar work a top musician, the rhythm section with
Phil Marsland on bass guitar and Gary Burgess keeping time, an over-all
excellent display. The first set kicked off with Killing Floor, White
Room, Sharp Dressed Man and Hoochie Coochie Man and a tribute to the
late B B King with his song The Thrill Has Gone, plus many more
classics, the room was bouncing.
The
second set went into overdrive with Purple Haze, Foxy Lady, Boom Boom,
Tore Down and a mix of rock and roll for an encore, just all good
rocking stuff. The crowd loved it, the band enjoyed it and the dancers
danced, another cracking night supporting live music, tremendous.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
28:05:15 -
THE ORIGINAL REPLICA
Making their debut here in Chorley were four young talented musicians
from the Warrington area. This Fab Four took us back to the 50s and 60s
a great time for British music, a boom time indeed and some would say
that this was the starter of the very commercial pop era. Liam Mannion
on lead guitar (Vox) (Hofner) and vocals, was superb his solos and his
guitar skills were far beyond his years, a mature performance, and the
overall sound created by the band was tremendous, yes the Mersey Sound
is alive and well in the hands of these young guns. The rhythm section
of Matthew Gallagher on a fiddle bass guitar (Paul McCartney) and Jamie
Jones on (Gretsch) drums kept busy and drove the band from hit to hit,
lastly on rhythm/lead guitar with vocals was Philip Murry. The band
played to a packed house and the dancing went on and on, foot tapping
stuff. With wonderful renditions of “Roll over Beethoven” “Be Bop a
Lula” “Bye Bye Love” “Rip It Up” “Mustang Sally” too “Long Tall Sally”
and with other classics from Ray Charles, Chuck Berry and the Everly
Brothers the house was jumpin’ another great night for live music. Two
of the bands original songs “Lucy “and I’ll Never Say I Love You” are
retro 60s in composition and very good they were too, a re-visit to the
Cavern I think, watch this space.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
21:05:15 -
THE WELSH T BAND
www.welsh-t.co.uk
Making their debut here at long last The Welsh T Band crossed the border
from Yorkshire and performed some hot classic Rock /Blues along with
some original material from their C D entitled “WHERE THE ROAD LEADS”.
John
Terry aka WELSH T the founder of the band on lead vocal and guitar was
superb, his contrasting vocals were fabulous and was the catalyst for
the bands overall performance, it’s what front men do and he can. On
lead guitar was Kevin “Geetar”Ackroyd a musician of the highest order
his skilful solos and riffs were brilliant, a corner stone of the band.
The rhythm section was well stocked with David Hoyle on bass guitar and
on drums Greg Gallagher all was faultless in the engine room.
The
core of the band over the last 15 years have been up and down the
Country gigging on the pub circuit and have performed at many music
festivals including the R & B festival at Colne.
This
band has a lot more to offer I’m sure of that, with superb musicianship
and a passion for performing to packed venues. The crowd enjoyed the
music and danced the night away, as another great night for live music
came to a close.
The
original songs of the album performed by the band were” Lucky Man””
Sweet Shop”” April Fool Blues”” I Don’t Know” How Much” “IT’s Cold
Outside”” Place in my Heart” and the title song ”Where The Road Leads”.
The bread
and butter classics performed were “Mojo Working” “Before You Accuse Me”
”If My Baby Quit Me” “Albatross” “Need Your Love So Bad” “ The Sky is
Crying” and many more.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
14:05:15
-
CRY BABY & THE HOOCHIE COOCHIE
BOYS
http://www.crybabyhoochiecoochieboys.co.uk/
I can
only say these guys are rhythm & blues at its best. 'CRY BABY & THE
HOOCHIE COOCHIE BOYS' from Stoke on Trent, returned to BJ's, and gave a
brilliant show to a packed house. The 'boys' are Rob Wilkinson on superb
vocals and harmonica, Vince Cutcliffe on excellent guitar, Mark
Hargreaves versatile keyboards, Chris Bevington on expert bass and Andy
Carr on pounding drums.
Kicking off the evening with some great blues 'I Don't Believe' and 'I
Got News', bringing in Robs amazing blues harp playing. Moving on to an
up tempo Nine Below Zero track, 'Don't Point Your Finger At Me' again
with superb harp. Great guitar work on 'More Than I Can Take' then on to
one of the few ballads of the set, 'A Long History Of Love', both King
King numbers.
A
dash of country blues on 'Living It Down' then a great take of the
Muddy Waters classic 'I want To Be Loved' . A self penned superb slow
blues followed, 'Come Fly With Me' with great vocal input. Rounding off
the first set, some more King King, 'One More Time', giving us a nice
bit of wah wah on the guitar, and to finish a great harp led Chicago
blues number.
The
second set kicked off with a rockin' number 'Personal Jesus', then a
great take of the Alabama 3 track, 'Too Sick To Pray'. Upping the tempo
a rockin' rhythm & blues 'Squeeze Me In' and a Nine Below Zero number
'Soft Touch', excellent!
'All
Your Life' was followed by a brilliant compilation of 'Anyway You Want
Me' and 'Bright Lights'. There was some great slide guitar from Vince,
on the Elmore James classic blues 'Wild About You Baby' with excellent
blues harp from Rob. Raising the tempo again, a Dr Feelgood classic,
'Back In The Night' .
'Turn
It On-Turn It Up' and 'Take My Love' led onto the last number a Cry Baby
classic 'Zydeco Boogie' . A brilliant track with Vince on mandolin
giving us a walk about in the audience. Excellent work on keys, giving
that authentic Cajun flavour, superb.
A well deserved encore of 'Gimme
Some Lovin' and 'Can I Get A Witness' completed, what had been a buzzin'
night. The musicianship of the band is amazing and all are involved in
other projects. They have a new CD in the making, so hopefully that will
be available later this year. A well recommended band, so catch them if
you can!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
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08:05:15 -
THE EARLY MAC BAND
A welcome return to BJ's of The Early Mac Band. As the name implies
their roots lie in the classic music of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac,
much of which was performed to perfection.
From the Leeds area, they are Luke Smithson on vocals and guitar, Joel
Dowson on guitar, Ol Jessop on bass with Peter Tallent on drums and
vocals.
On yet another lively Thursday evening, the band began the set with a
tribute to the original Fleetwood Mac. They played the most haunting
version of 'Albatross' I have heard, which was well appreciated by the
audience. With 'If You Be My Baby', a slow powerful 12 bar blues, the
two guitarist complimented each other brilliantly. A touch of Garry
Moore completed the first, well put together set.
The second set brought us some foot tapping 12 bar standard blues with
Peter Green's 'Stop Messing Around', then onto a classic Hendrix number
'Little Wing', which the guys did real justice to, with superb guitars
throughout.
Performing in their own style, the band played the classic Robert
Johnson number 'Crossroads', This led on to another Hendrix classic of
'Hey Joe' . Returning to the Fleetwood Mac flavour with a great take of
'Oh Well' and one of my favourite tracks ever, 'Need Your Love So Bad',
followed by 'Black Magic Woman', superb!
The final numbers, 'It's All Over Now' and a stomping version of
'Johnny Be Good', got the dancers up. A great end to an enjoyable
evening and The Early Mac Band will definitely be back again at BJ's
next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
30.04.15
- THE MIGHTY REVELATORS
http://www.themightyrevelators.com/
Returning again to BJ's were the multi talented MIGHTY REVELATORS, from
the north west. Playing a mix of blues, swing, Americana, country and
Tex-Mex, with a dash of funk thrown in, the line up was - Rick Lucas on
guitar, slide guitar and vocals, Mark Hopkins on guitar and vocals,
Aaron Lloyd on bass with Paul Schofield on drums.
Opening
with some self penned swing and blues numbers the scene was set for the
evening. Performing many of the self written tracks from their current
and excellent CD, 'Eyes On The Road' plus some new material, The Mighty
Revelators showed what 'versatility' really is. With two 'class' lead
guitarists in the band, both with different styles, gave them the
option to produce a variety of sounds, which they did brilliantly,
assisted by the most competent rhythm section.
With
only a couple of covers in the set, they performed the B B King number
'Downhearted', to perfection. A great first set with an even livelier
second set to follow , including a excellent funky number of their own,
'Kept', which had been played on Paul Jones Blues Show on BBC Radio2.
Some great stomp on 'Lord
Have Mercy', class slide guitar on Americana number 'Eyes On The Road',
finishing the evening with some swing and The Shadows influence. A
well deserved encore was given with the 1950's Coasters number 'Down In
Mexico'. An excellent evening of music from an excellent band and we'll
definitely see them back at BJ's next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE SECTION
www.facebook.com/pages/The-Section-Blues-Rock-Band/197958896890613
After
an absence of two years, it was a welcomed return of the 'The Section'
to BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club.
Fronting the band on superb vocals and bass guitar was Mick 'The Guvnor'
Taylor with Steve Pollard on lead and slide guitar, Pete Stonall on
harmonica and guitar, Geoff Wilkinson on keyboards and guitar, and
Truvel Thomas on drums.
Opening the evening with a bit of rockin' Stevie Ray Vaughan and Humble
Pie, they also did a great take of J J Cale's 'Call Me The Breeze',
with some excellent slide guitar. Playing a mix of classics including
Little Walter's 'Boom, Boom' and the Animals 'Don't Let Me Be
Misunderstood' they slowed the pace with 'Stormy Monday' , finishing the
first set with Rufus Thomas's 'Walking The Dog' and some rockin' Quo.
Blasting into the second set with Z Z Top's 'La Grange' they continued
to keep the pace with some Nine Below Zero, Canned Heat and Dr Feelgood,
with a dash of John Mayall for good measure. They did an excellent take
of Robert Johnson's 'Walking Blues' - again with some super slide. The
final number and well deserved encore was 'Bonie Maronie'.
There
was some great guitar and harmonica playing and 'The Section', as a
whole, gel really well together as they are all well seasoned musicians
in their own right. We will hope to see them back at BJ's next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
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THE ESCAPE COMMITTEE
http://www.reverbnation.com/theescapecommittee
To
cheer up a Thursday night, we had a welcome return to BJ's the premier
Warrington based band, 'The Escape Committee'.
As a
trio tonight - with Pete 'Sarge' Frampton fronting the band on
excellent guitar and vocals, with the solid rhythm section of John
Gibson on bass and Paul Burgess (10cc) on drums - they gave us a varied
selection of 60’s & 70’s classic songs with a definite penchant for Eric
Clapton.
Kicking off the evening with a BB King number and a bit of slide guitar,
the quality of the band was laid down. Continuing with some classic
takes of Dylan's 'I Shall Be Released', Clapton style 'I Shot The
Sheriff' and a superb version of Hendrix's 'Little Wing', they rounded
off the first set with a great version of the standard 'Rock Me Baby'.
The
second set brought a plethora of standards with 'Keys To The Highway',
'Nobody Knows You When You Are Down And Out', 'Georgia', 'Before You
Accuse Me' and 'Crossroads'. They performed an epic version of 'Have
You Ever Loved A Woman' with superb guitar work from Pete, which was
just brilliant.
Changing the pace with some rocky Americana and slide guitar and a dash
of rock 'n roll, which led nicely into a great version of 'Cocaine' and
'Badge'. To wind up the evening, Blind Faith's 'Can't Find My Way Home'
and the finale of Neil Young's 'Rockin' In The Free World' ending, what
was, a great gig.
The
excellent musicianship was evident and we will look forward to the
return of the Escape Committee next year at BJ's.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
GROUNDFLOOR BLUES BAND
https://www.facebook.com/TheGroundfloorBluesBand/info
Some
new faces with the Liverpool band 'Groundfloor Blues Band'. Having only
been on the circuit for a relatively short while, they certainly gave a
tight and incredibly well put together performance, with an exceptional
sound for a three piece line up. They are Mike Grant on class vocals
and Vox guitar and slide, Jimmy Pendleton on pounding bass and Greg
Leyland on technically superb drums.
Although they are primarily a covers band, their choice of material was
varied ,including many blues classics from BB King, Stevie Ray Vaughn,
Cream, Rory Gallagher and more. The set kicked off with a great take
of 'One Foot In The Bayou' which set the scene for the calibre of these
guys. A brilliant first set finished off with the classic 'Five Long
Years', with more to come.
The
second set equalled the first with some added ZZ Top, Mayall and Free
with a superb take on the Freddie King number 'Pack It Up' . To complete
the set they performed the classic 'Keys To The Highway' and to finish,
on what had been an exceptional gig, a great take of Clapton's 'Further
On Up The Road'
With
superb musicianship from the whole band, Mike's vocals were spot on and
his guitar playing was almost faultless. They will definitely be back at
BJ's next year and I hope they have luck in finding more platforms for
the music that they play, as The Groundfloor Blues Band certainly have
that little 'extra'!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
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PADDY MAGUIRE BAND
-
http://www.paddymaguire.com/
We knew
we were in for a high class performance with the brilliant Paddy Maguire
Band playing to a packed house - and that's what we got! From W
Yorkshire the band are Paddy Maguire on guitar and vocals, Jenna Hooson
Maguire on amazing vocals, Jamie Mallender on bass and Sean Fitzpatrick
on drums.
Kicking
off the evening with some classic Aretha Franklin 'Chain Of Fools', with
Jenna laying down the rules. Onto a great rockin' take of 'Proud Mary',
then slowing down the pace with 'Muddy Water Blues', showing Jenna's
versatility. A dancing number 'Nutbush City Limits', moving onto the
haunting Etta James classic 'I'd Rather Go Blind', a superb vocal
challenge for Jenna, magic.
The
second set brought Paddy to the forefront on vocals, with 'I Want To
Fly' and continuing with some classic rock in Paddy's own style. All for
audience participation, Beryl stars again with a touch of 'guitar
playing' with Paddy on 'Rock Me Baby', hilarious!
A
couple of self penned numbers, with the beautiful 'Love Still Grows' and
a new track 'Red Headed Woman' leaning towards classic rock. Finishing
off the evening with Jenna's 'pièce
de résistance' the Janis Joplin's classic 'Mercedes Benz'
and ending the set with a touch of 'soul' .. a great end to a great
evening with a great band.
The Paddy Maguire Band give you the best in blues rock and with Jenna
Hooson Maguire on amazing power vocals, it is a band hard to top. We'll
definitely be seeing them back at BJ's next year!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
COLD FLAME, 26th March 2015
http://www.cold-flame.co.uk/
COLD
FLAME have been on fire for 30 years and hail from Derbyshire. As a
five piece tonight, they play their own style of blues and folk rock
with a collection of self penned works and some covers.
Playing
at the premier venue of BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club at the Minstrel in
Chorley, the band line up was - Rob Barns on guitar and vocals, Pat
Rowbottom on bass and vocals, Joe Orban on keys, Phil Marke on drums
with Mark Parkinson from Chorley, guesting on flute.
Kicking
off with a medley of Jethro Tull songs - giving the flute a high
profile - the scene was set for a great evening. Giving Mark a rest,
they also gave us some original songs, including an up tempo rockin'
number 'End Of The Line', with great keys and guitar input and a classic
blues rock 'Blues For The Cats'. We had a 'rockin' end to the first set
.
The
second set began with some more folk rock with Tull influence, then on
to one of my favourites, the great rhythms of the Ian Anderson's number
'New Day Yesterday' with a great bass line from Pat. Rob made great use
of a multi track pedal to give a full on sound on the Cold Flame take of
Hendrix's 'All Along The Watch Tower'. They also introduced a new self
penned number to the set, 'Thoughts From The Heart', a great rockin'
track.
To
finish off the evening a class cover of the Deep Purple classic 'Hush',
a touch of classical piano with some more original material, a dash of
Tull and final song of the evening, the classic Peter Green number 'Oh
Well'. Superb!
These guys
are class musicians, whether playing their own material or covers and we
will look forward to their return to BJ's next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
HARD TO HANDLE, 19th March 2015
http://nwb.co/hardtohandl
Rockin'
it up at BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, The Minstrel, Chorley were the
north west band 'Hard To Handle'. With their own take on Southern Rock
with a good mix of popular covers, they went down a storm.
Fronting
the band with a great voice on lead vocals and guitar was Max Cottam
with Martin Degaris on guitar and vocals. Keeping the rhythm pounding
was Karl Nadin on exceptional bass and Stu Fielden on hard hitting
drums.
They
kick started the evening with some power rock and a great version of
AC/DC's 'Long Way To The Top', then onto the name sake of the band,
Otis Redding's 'Hard To Handle'. An eclectic mix to follow with Thin
Lizzy, Free, Rolling Stones and Stealers Wheel with a dash of Ian
Hunter's 'Once Bitten Twice Shy' , Free's 'I'll Be Creepin'' and a
great drum intro on Creedence Clearwater's 'Fortunate Son' to finish the
set.
The
second set equaled the first with a cracking version of 'Proud Mary'
followed by AC/DC's 'Highway To Hell'. Onto some classic Free with
'Little Bit Of Love' and a great take of Lynyrd Skynyrd's, 'Sweet Home
Alabama'. A mix of ZZ Top, Lenny Kravitz, and a compilation including
AC/DC, The Beatles, T Rex and Fleetwood Mac. This led to the final
number of the evening - Hard To Handle's version of the Kinks 'You
Really Got Me', which also included a touch of Deep Purple's 'Smoke On
The Water'. A great end to a great set.
A superb
evening from a 'class' band, with a good mix of music to suit all
tastes. We will hopefully see them back next year at BJ's.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
ALFIE IBBOTSON'S POPULAR BEAT
COMBO, 12th Mar 2015 http://www.alfieibbotson.com/
The
return of the north west band 'Alfie Ibbotson's Popular Beat Combo' was
a breath of fresh air. Having now established themselves as a competent
covers band, with an extensive set list, they brought to the table an
excellent mix of rhythm & blues covers, with a dash of soul.
Fronting
the band with an amazing voice - not unlike that of Paul Rogers from
Free, was Tony Wardle on vocals and harmonica, with Paul Mason on
guitar, Charlie Pearson on bass and hard hitting Ian Massey on drums.
Kicking
off the evening a class compilation of Spencer Davies and Cream, then a
brilliant take of the classic Robert Cray blues number 'Don't Touch
Me'. Speeding up the tempo brought us soul with Magic Sam's 'I Just
Want A little Bit' and rock 'n roll with SRV's 'The House Is A Rockin''.
Getting into the 'spirit' of the evening was Robert
Camille's 'I Got Loaded' and some 12 bar blues at its best,
with John Lee Hookers 'Boom, Boom', Tony gave us some class harp
playing and vocals.
Closing
the first set the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter and a
great guitar solo from Paul on Joe Bonamassa's 'So Many Roads'. The
final number was the Albert King classic 'The Hunter'.
The
second set brought us some classic 60's and 70's tracks from Free, Who,
Kinks, Rolling Stones, Spencer Davies, Beatles, Everly Brothers, and
Gloria Jones. The evening was rounded off with a touch of soul , with
Smokey Robinson's 'Get Ready'- with a great 'full on' bass line from
Charlie and excellent drum fills from Ian. The final number of the set
was Wilson Pickett's 'Land Of A Thousand Dances' with well deserved
encore of Deep Purple's
'Hush'.
Tony's voice takes centre
stage and as an ex pro he certainly has that little extra. The whole
band gel well together and have a great sound, it was also good to hear
more blues takes in the set. A high standard performance from a 'class'
band and I'm sure we'll see them back at BJ's next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
FORTY4, 5th March 2015
http://www.forty4music.com/home/
Bringing
in some of the best music to BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club at the
Minstrel in Chorley, were the incredible blues funksters FORTY 4. A
welcome return of this class, five piece blues funk band from
Merseyside, who give their own individual take on blues classics and
self penned works, providing a whole show of excellent 'Rhythm and
Groove'.
Fronting
the band on vocals and lead guitar was Neil Partington, with the
excellent Paul Starkey also on lead guitar. The magic man on keys was
Glen Lewis, with the rhythm section of Bill Price on bass and Nick Lauro
on drums.
The
evening kicked off with some fiery guitar work from Neil and Paul, on
'I'm Going Down', followed closely by a great funky version of Lee
Dorsey's 'Get Out Of My Life, with superb piano input from Glen. They
played an excellent 'Hoochie Coochie Man' in a true Forty 4 style, with
some more classic blues on T Bone walkers 'T Bone Shuffle', brilliant!
Some
self penned pure funk with 'Feels So Good' , then bringing in a touch of
'reggae' before the Howlin' Wolf classic and name sake of the band
'Forty Four'. With amazing guitar work 'in the school of Clapton' from
Paul it gives a sound that would take a lot of beating!
To
finish off the first set, a bit of 'rock n' roll' 'Taking My Love', an
up tempo good old R&B number, although put together by Forty4.
The second
set was equally varied with 'Pack It Up' bringing together a bit
of jazz, a bit of funk with that New Orleans feel. Like a blast from the
past, although written by the guys, 'Keep The Meter Running'
provided a great funky feel with some ace drum work from Nick and bass
lines from Bill.
A dash of
swing, showcasing the piano boogie talents of Glen, then moving onto a
touch of the blues funk master Freddie King with 'Dead Leg Woman'. It
was then the pure magic of Clapton's 'Old Love' with Paul in his element
and finishing off the set the Ray Charles 'Don't Need Know Doctor' and
some rockabilly 'I Believe I'm In Love With You'.
It's
wonderful to have such talented musicians all in one band and even more
so, to have them play at a local club. Their album, '44 Minutes',
recorded in 2013, is still fresh and sound bites can be heard at
http://www.forty4music.com/forty4-music/
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE BOOZIE WOOZIE BAND,
26th Feb 2015
https://www.facebook.com/BoozieWoozieBand
Another interesting Thursday evening with the Boozie Woozie Band, who
are a collective of musicians based in the northwest, who enjoy playing
their own brand of boogie blues and rock 'n roll. Fronting the band on
keys and vocals was the entertainer Andy Stones, with Paul Kistner on
authentic 50/60's guitar, Horace Dogson on double and electric bass and
Alan Taylor on drums.
Playing a diverse mix of rock 'n roll classics including numbers from
Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley, they also added a touch of Credence
Clearwater Revival and some great Ray Charles numbers. With Andy
playing mean boogie blues on keys and with the addition of Paul, taking
us back in time, with his class guitar playing in the old rockin' style,
the sound was great, topped off with Horace on the double bass, we were
in for a cracking evening and that's just what we got. The Boozie Woozie
Band certainly take 'entertainment' seriously and gave a fabulous
performance with the addition of great humour.
There
was certainly 'A Whole Lotta Shaking Going On' and the band finished off
the evening with a well deserved encore of 'Rock Around The Clock'. I'm
sure we will see them back for a retake next year!!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE AFTER HOURS BLUES BAND,
19th Feb 2015
http://www.afterhoursbluesband.co.uk/
A
welcome return, after a year, of this local Prestonian band, the 'AFTER
HOURS BLUES BAND'.
The
talented three piece play a mix of self penned and covers of blues
rock, with a definite penchant towards Jimi Hendrix . Fronting the band
on guitar and vocals was the talented Lee Wharton, with superb bass man
Doug Long keeping that rhythm going with the excellent skin lady Ann
Batty on drums.
A
great rockin' opener to the evening, with the self penned 'Driving
Home'. This was followed closely by a Stevie Ray Vaughn classic 'Pride
And Joy' and what a great take. A slow, self written number 'Midnight
Colour' with a touch of 'wah wah' was next, with an After Hours take of
the classic 'Black Magic Woman' with some superb guitar work from Lee to
follow.
'Tin
Pan Alley' gave us a slow blues with a 'singing' guitar performed with
passion. Then the 'Hendrix' trademark of 'All Along The Watch Tower',
finishing off the first set with their own version of 'Crossroads'.
The
second set brought us some upbeat slide guitar, a great version of the
Stones 'Jumping Jack Flash' and an 'epic adventure' in the form of a
Hendrix trilogy of 'Voodoo Child', 'Machine Gun' and 'Red Patrol'.
Doug did a great bass solo in this number and the whole track took us
on a 'long journey' with Lee recreating the Hendrix passion.
A
change in tempo, with an upbeat funky number giving us some mega guitar,
- Ann and Doug were also working hard on this one. Back to some super
slide guitar and rockin' it up with the old classic 'Shake Your Money
Maker' . To finish the set, an After Hours version of the Zeppelin
classic 'Communication Breakdown' with an encore of a mixed tempo slide
guitar driven 12 bar. A great end to a great set.
Doug
Long on bass, will be leaving the band shortly, so this was his last
BJ's gig with the band. All at BJ's wish him well and look forward to
seeing the new line of the After Hours Blues Band next year.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
SLY FOX, 12th February 2015
http://www.sly-fox.org/
Another
great rockin' evening with Oldham based band 'Sly Fox'. A welcome return
for this band who play a diverse mix of covers.
Fronting
the band on superb lead vocals and guitar was David Bridge, with Michael
Walsh on excellent lead guitar and vocals. On bass - and what a bass
player he is - was Tony 'Fox' Cooper (also trading as the bands mascot
in fox head and tail!) Finally the skin man on electric drums, Ian
Fletcher.
The
first set gave us a mix of music from Etta James to the Everly Brothers
and from the Eagles 'In The Fast Lane' to the Beatles, 'Come
Together'. They also did a great take in a Django Reinhardt style of
Gypsy Swing. With a dash of Jimmy Witherspoon they then finished the
first set with a couple of classic Status Quo numbers.
The
second set was equally mixed including a classic take of the Doors
'Roadhouse Blues'. With a touch of Rory Gallagher and Phil Collins and
a great Status Quo cover of 'In My Chair' and a Pink Floyd classic,
'Comfortably Numb', the evening was brought to a close with Tom Petty's
'Running Down The Dream' with a well deserved encore of Gary Moore's
'Tell Me Woman'.
Certainly
'Sly Fox' are a band to keep your feet tapping and with the variety and
diversity of music they play there is no time to get bored. An excellent
evening and an excellent band!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE ALAN
KENSLEY BAND, 5th February 2015
http://alankensley.wix.com/band
The
Alan Kensley Band made yet another return to BJ's 'Rock in the Blues'
Club at The Minstrel, Chorley, this week. Fronting the Preston based
band, in this classic pop/rock covers outfit, was Alan Kensley on
vocals, lead guitar and harmonica, with Terry Blacow on rhythm guitar,
with the backline boys of Trevor Blacow on bass and Ken Wright on drums.
Starting off the set with some 60's classics, including numbers from the
Beatles, Stones and the Kinks they added an 80's tune in the form of
Chris Rea's 'The Road To Hell'.
The
second set raised the tempo with a few more 60's and 70's classics
including, Queen's -'We Will Rock You, the Doors -'Roadhouse Blues'
and Spencer Davies's - 'Gimme Some Lovin''. They also did a take of
Peter Green's - 'Need Your Love So Bad' to cool things down.
Closing the evening a bit of rock 'n roll with Chuck Berry's - 'Johnny
Be Good', a touch of 70's classic rock with Deep Purple's - 'Smoke On
The Water' and bringing in a taste of Status Quo with - 'Rockin' All
Over The World'. This led us to the final number of the set a Jimi
Hendrix classic - 'Hey Joe'.
A
good set for The Alan Kensley Band, who come as a 'what you see is what
you get' band. They are a group of seasoned musicians who have come
together to play the music they love.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE MARAUDERS, 29th January 2015
www.marauders.tv
Another great night at BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club at The Minstrel in
Chorley. The Lancashire based rhythm and blues band the Marauders, were
back to rock the joint. That they did, with their takes of classic harp
driven rhythm and blues, swing and rock 'n roll. Fronting the band on
vocals and master of the harmonica, Chris 'Wizz' Gee, with Pete Konnanov
on excellent guitar. The powerhouse rhythm section of Andy Schemet on
bass and Jon Lowe on drums completed the line up of this long serving
band.
Kicking off the evening in great style with Bo Diddley's 'I Can Tell'
then onto a bit of the Wolf man's 'Pretty Baby', set the scene for the
evening. Giving us a few self penned works including a rockabilly number
'Chevrolet' shows the versatility of the band.
Adding a touch of Creedence Clear Water 'Born On The Bayou' and a dash
of Jimmy Reeds 'Shame, Shame, Shame' we moved on to some classic blues
and some harp driven rockin' rhythm and blues. They finished off the
first set with superb slide guitar on Feelgood's 'Back In The Night'
and more.
The
second set was as equally 'full on' with some up tempo rockin' numbers.
A great take of Bonnie Raitt's 'I Believe I'm In Love With You' and a
couple of Stevie Ray Vaughan tracks. Adding to the repertoire, a bit of
country blues with ZZ Tops 'Sharp Dressed Man' and some class, harp
driven swing. 'Cadillac' gave us super slide on this rockabilly track
and led into some classic Dr Feelgood.
The
final number of the set was 'My Babe', with a well earned encore of
'Bright Lights, Big City' (could this be Chorley?) and the classic
Stevie Ray Vaughan number 'The House Is A Rockin''. Plenty of dancing
was going on and a great time was had by all, including the band!
The
Marauders are a classic rhythm and blues band at its best and wowed the
audience at the Great British R&B Festival in Colne last year, where
they appeared on the British Stage.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
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THE ARMADILLOS, 22nd January
2015
www.thearmadillos.co.uk
We rode
on down to the Minstrel Cantina the ARMADILLOS had hit town and these
Good Ole Boys were playing. The boys are known in these parts for their
Western Swing, Blues and Roots ‘n’ Rhythm, stuff to get your toes tappin’.
Trail
Boss Greg Walker goes by the name of ‘The Tone Ranger’ on lead vocal
lead guitar and lap steel guitar a desperado with quick fire banter and
a mean right guitar hand.
His old
time pal Horace Dogson on rhythm guitar and backing vocals another
veteran cow hand and the rhythm section of cow poke brander Andy Levy on
bass guitar and driving the chuck wagon was Ian Gibbon on drums.
The
first set started with T Bone Shuffle, My Baby She Worships Me, Get my
Hands on it, Desert Skies, Spider and the Fly, and Steel guitar Rag with
Greg on the Lap steel guitar pulling out all the stops superb. The band
were in full swing mode for the second set with Folsom Prison Blues, Put
another Log on the Fire, Trashy Woman, Route 66, Ain’t I’m a Dog, Miles
and Miles of Texas and a 1955 rendition of Marty Robbins song Tennessee
Toddy a swing version brilliant.
The band
were on fire and so was the Cantina, pass another bucket of Country
Swing yahoo.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
WAYNE CARRICK BAND, 15th
January 2015
15
http://waynecarrickband.co.uk/
It's
always good to hear 'class' musicianship - and with the Wayne Carrick
Band, that is certainly what we got! It was a welcome return of the NW
band, to BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club at the Minstrel in Chorley, where
they were certainly a crowd pleaser.
Fronting the band on superb vocals and guitar was
stalwart Wayne Carrick, with Matt
McGrory on excellent guitar and keys. The rhythm section of Dave Linley
on bass and backing vocals and Phil Escott on drums gave the band that
certain drive.
Kicking off the evening with Muddy Waters,
'Blow Wind Blow' followed by a Rolling Stones classic 'Under My Thumb'
the scene was set. Moving onto some Clapton influences with 'Little
Queen Of Spades' and 'Badge', this led into an excellent self penned
number 'Leave You Baby'.
Some classic covers followed with Muddy
Waters 'Hoochie Coochie Man' , a bit of reggae with 'I Shot The Sheriff'
and to finish off the first set a touch of soul with 'Knock On Wood'
The second set also gave us some classic
covers with Derek and the Dominoes '
Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad' ,
the funky 'Black Cat Bone' and a great rendition of BB King's 'The
Thrill Has Gone'. Bringing in a bit of good old rock 'n roll with Eddie
Cochran's 'Twenty Flight Rock' then a couple more brilliant Clapton
takes 'Cocaine' and 'Old Love'.
To finish the excellent set, rockin' it up
with 'Shake Rattle And Roll' then a bit of Stevie Ray Vaughan's 'Pride
And Joy' and a well deserved encore of Clapton's 'Early In The Morning'.
A great performance from 'The Wayne Carrick
Band', with meaningful vocals, excellent interplay with the two lead
guitars, superb keyboard playing and some technically classy drumming,
working so well with the full on bass. A great evening with a great
band!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
FOGPOCKET, 8th January
2015
New to
BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, at The Minstrel, Chorley, the newly
formed five piece local band 'FOGPOCKET', - a blues rock band of high
calibre.
All are
class, veteran musicians. Fronting the band on exceptional vocals was
John Scarlett, with Paul Rivans on class guitar, John Winder on keys,
with a full Hammond sound, Mark O'Connor on pounding bass and Roy
Dennett, keeping that rhythm going on drums.
It was a
brilliant opener with an interesting intro on John Lee Hooker's 'Burning
Hell', with superb vocals and musicianship that set the scene for the
evening. Following with some 60's classics from Spencer Davies and
Cream, they moved onto a number from British Blues Award winners King
King, with a fully endorsed cover of 'What Am I Supposed To Do'. Paul
provided a great guitar solo with John giving a superb vocal
performance.
A mix of
music to follow with Joss Stones 'Karma', the Eagles 'Somebody' and Jack
Bruce's 'Neighbour Neighbour' with the bass man Mark working hard. Then
'I Put A Spell On You' and a great take of Robert Cray's 'Playing In The
Dirt' and to finish off the great first set, 'Seesaw', with a bit of
audience participation!
The
second set was as equally varied, kicking off with 'Homework', Stevie
Ray Vaughan's 'Crossfire' then into a funky version of Deep Purple's
'Never Before'. Some more class Robert Cray, Bobby Bland and Buddy Guy
numbers and another King King number 'One More Time Around', all with a
bit more of a soul feel.
The
final number was a brilliant version of Neil Young's 'Rocking In The
Free World', with a well deserved encore of Joe Cocker's 'A Little Help
From My Friends'.
Bearing in mind this was only
their second gig, they certainly gave us a full on sound with an
interesting and varied covers set list. They also hope to have their own
material in the set soon. Let's hope we see 'FOGPOCKET' out and about
on the circuit, as this band can offer something a little bit different
from the norm. Excellent!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
THE EXTRAS, 1st January 2015
A
welcome return to BJ's 'Rock in the Blues Club' at the Minstrel,
Chorley, of brilliant EXTRAS from Southport. Having been off the radar
for a while and it was good to see them back on the circuit - with
music that has just got better!
The line
up toasts a new front man, Mark Taylor on vocals, (who is the son of
Merseybeat legend Kingsize Taylor), Dave Woods, who continues to 'wow'
us on superb guitar, Joan 'Miss Dynamite' Bimson, keeping that energy
going on bass and backing vocals, with the pounding skin man Mark
Prescott on drums, giving us that high octane sound that is the Extras!
A great
opener to the evening with Sam Cooks 'That's It, I Quit', an up tempo
rockin' number giving us the Extras individual take. Some full on up
tempo rhythm and blues to follow with 'I'm Not Talking' then moving on
to some classic Dr Feelgood with 'Sugar Shaker', 'I Can Tell' and 'Every
Kind Of Vice' with great rhythms on pounding drum and bass from Mark and
Joan.
'Have
Love Will Travel' by the Sonics, gave us some classic R&B, with a bit of
rockabilly on 'Stray Cat Strut'. A cheer went up for 'Tin Soldier' the
Stevie Marriot classic rock, with excellent vocals from Mark. Some fast
finger work from Dave on 'Take A Tip', a high energy rhythm and blues Dr
Feelgood track, more to follow with the driving rhythms of 'Lights Out'
- rock 'n roll on speed!! Finishing off the excellent first set, some up
tempo classic rock on 'Moonchild' and the pounding drums on Feelgoods
'Heart Of The City' - phew!
The
second set was equally 'full on', opening with a mega instrumental 'Misirlou'
leading straight into 'Peter Gun'. Next it was 'get on your dancing
shoes', with a high energy skiffle number 'Lonesome Train. Back to the
60's with a Wilson Picket's '99 And A Half', then some rock 'n roll with
'Bad Boy'.
Rockin' it up with 'Dr Feelgood', 'Hog For You', 'Stupidity' and 'I Take
What I Want', they hit some classic R&B with Vince Taylor's 'Brand New
Cadillac', Presley's 'Hunk Of Love'- taking the 12 bar to a new
dimension - and the classic
Johnny Kidd & The Pirates 'Shaking All
Over' and 'Please Don't Touch'.
Finishing off the set with some more Dr Feelgood classics, 'She Does It
Right' and 'She's A Wind Up' with a well deserved encore of 'Route 66',
the Extras certainly left their stamp again, on the crowd at BJ's!!!
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________________________
SLYDER, 18th December 2014
A change
of personnel to the band SLYDER has left Norman Roberts the only
original member left as he forges ahead with his new band, in Norman’s
words “the show must go on” and with these veteran musicians a busy
future is predicted.
Joining
Norman who fronts the band on lead vocal and guitar is lead guitarist
Mike Walsh a man of many talents if it’s got strings he can play it. On
bass guitar for the foreseeable future is Dougie Dixon a man in demand
an excellent musician and linked up very well with drummer Tom Watson,
this engine room was running hot. With a list as long as your arm of
classic covers the band kicked off with Joe Bonamassa’s D’Jango, and
Just Got Paid followed by Cocaine, The Animals hit We Gotta Get Out of
this Place followed by Black Magic Woman, Love Potion 9 by the Searchers
Need Your Love, The Thrill is Gone and Somebody by the Eagles to finish
the first set.
The second set burst to life
with Before You Accuse Me, Route 66, Rock Me Baby, covers from Bad Co,
Buddy Guy, The Beatles, Paul McCartney, Gary Moore, and the Doobie
Brothers. The selection of covers by the band got the dancers to their
feet a party atmosphere was present no doubt at all and the night was a
great success thank you SLYDER.
Have a Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year and thank you for supporting live music here in Chorley.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
THE COTTONHOUSE SHAKERS, 11th December 2014
The
COTTONHOUSE SHAKERS from the Blackburn area take a popular cover and put
their spin on it by giving it a soul/blues swing/Jazz/funk edge, it’s a
stretch from the normal but makes interesting listening and they achieve
this very well indeed, the bands musical abilities know no boundaries.
Gary
Ward founder and frontman on lead guitar and lead vocal is a musician of
great skills and his work load is tremendous writing and playing in
other bands as top musicians do.
Neil
Canning another busy musician on keyboards brings to the table many
attributes, but his musical arrangements with Gary are brilliant ‘Green
Onions’ by Booker T was one such number.
Next we
have the rhythm section of Derren Lee Poole on bass guitar and Tim
Jackson on drums a solid performance throughout a great understanding
from this pair.
This eclectic mix of covers
makes a statement from the band and that is anything is possible with
the right approach, covers from the likes of Albert King, B. B. King,
Bob Dylan, Hank Williams, Miles Davis, Muddy Waters, Led Zeppelin, Nina
Simone, Tom Waits and many more just great entertainment from a band
that SHAKES things up a bit, away from the norm.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
THE HEXMEN, 4th December 2014
This
band hails from Liverpool and George Hexmen front man and founder has
taken this band from its conception in the late 70’s to present and in
that time has toured all over the UK and mid Europe.
There is
no doubt that he has become over the years a beacon for live
entertainment and still gets that buzz live music gives.
A new
era starts and a new CD is forecast and more live shows both here and
Europe, there is no stopping this powerful in your face brand of
energetic Rhythm and Blues.
George
on lead vocals and harp and plenty of Liverpool banter takes no
prisoners and gets to business with’ Ridin’ on the L&N’, Long Grey Mare,
Treat Her Right, Messin’ with the Kid, Hoochie Coochie Man, Come On In,
ending the first set with Gloria, the Van Morrison hit.
Colin
Guthrie superb on lead guitar a gifted musician played his last gig with
the band and is moving to pastures new we wish him well. The rhythm
section of Mike Cain on bass guitar and on the drums Matt Shaw they have
an association going back over 25 years and it showed amazing work from
this magnificent pairing.
The
second set cracked off with Woolley Bully, 29 Ways, Lonely Avenue,
That’s It I Quit, Bull Frog Blues, Bad is Bad, King Bee, and Smoke Stack
Lightning.
The dancers
danced the crowd shouted for more, a night of live entertainment from a
band that has it all.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
THE CHEATING HEARTS, 27th
November 2014
This
five piece band from the Rossendale area of the Northwest gave a
sensational performance to say the least, with an array of popular
covers with flavours of Blues, Americana, Pop, Rock and Roll and Country
something for everyone’s taste.
Fronting the band were the harmonising voices of James Gansler on
guitars and mandolin and Maria Brothers on guitar they were superb. Nick
Cornell on keys and vocals, giving a full back sound and his interplay
with the lead guitar work of James was spot on, all musicians of the
highest calibre, they made it look easy.
The
rhythm section of ‘Shug’ Millage on bass guitar and Mike Smith on drums
were the backbone of this fantastic band, not a beat out of place.
The band
covered hits from Chuck Berry, Bonny Raitt, Lindisfarne, Ace, The Band,
The Faces, and many more.
This was
excellent entertainment from a band that creates great vibes from their
catalogue of popular classics.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
THE POWER 3, 20th November
2014
Jeff
Earl Jerome the bands front man on lead vocals and bass guitar, with
Phil Grundy on vocals and lead /slide guitar and on the drums Chris
Hughes, they are three very experienced musicians based in Liverpool and
are well worth watching. This is an amazing trio and have been together
now for about 3 years and have entertained extensively throughout the
Northwest blues circuit. A superb blues cover band they take you back to
the golden age of Blues/Rock.
The
voice of Jeff is tailor made for this genre and he has perfect pitch,
with a pumping bass he really hits the spot. Phil with his riffs and
flicks gets down and dirty with some memorable slide guitar work and
Chris as the drummer drives the band on with Jeff as the rhythm engine
hits overdrive.
The band
kicked off the first set with ‘Rock & Roll Hoochie Coo’ along with ‘Cold
Shot’ ‘Stormy Monday’ ‘Tore Down’ ‘Current Situation’ a great rendition
of 'Superstition’, 'Ain’t No Sunshine', and to finish ’Oh Well’ bringing
this brilliant first set to a close.
The second set powered on and
the heat turned up with ’Frankenstein’ to start ‘La Grange' and 'Boom
Boom' linked, followed by ‘You Don’t Love Me’ ’Damn Right I Got the
Blues’ ‘Travelling South’ ‘Black Betty’ ’Just Got Paid’ ‘Texas Strut’,
the crowd wanted more, so to finish they did ‘Laundromat’. This was a
great show from a band that never disappoints, a fantastic array of
Blues/Rock to get your bones gyrating.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
THE LOL GOODMAN BAND, 13th
November 2014
Lol
Goodman the founder and frontman of the band, on lead vocals and lead
guitar is also the lyricist /composer of the bands music, and has penned
all but one of the tracks on their latest CD entitled TAUTOGY out now,
following on from the band’s first CD entitled OLD DOG ‘n’ LICKS in
2013.
The Lol
Goodman Band over the years has had personnel changes, but now have a
keys man Rod Mayall, yes, the brother of the British blues legend John
Mayall as a permanent fixture.
The
rhythm section of James Horrocks on bass and time served veteran
musician John Firth on the drums.
The band’s base is in
Manchester and are regulars on the Northwest pubs and clubs circuit and
blues festivals nationally. The blues music of the 60’s and 70’s are
the inspiration for this band and as a result they have buried
themselves in this British blues tradition.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
BEETROOTJAM, 6th November
2014
This
bands new approach to the blues is one man’s vision, and that man is Mal
Green.
Mal is a
one man driving force for self-promotion, and music making, combining a
fusion of genres with a blues spine and producing some great songs. Mal
has his own record label Green Dog Records and gets involved root deep
with other musicians that wish to pursue a career in the music business.
The
band’s new album, eight tracks in total entitled STRAWBERRY is a
no-nonsense retro mono LP and a CD package this is by no means a raw
production. The band gave us a taste of the new material from Mal Green,
arranged and produced by BeetRootJam, recorded and mixed at Home Sweet
Home Studios Salford.
Mal has
a prolific writing record an explosion of lyrics that keeps him pretty
busy all year round. It does not surprise me that this new recording
just tells you what he’s about.
The band
members are Mal Green on lead vocal, harmonica and lead guitar. On an
electric double bass is Dave Luvin, who hails from Kansas City USA and
has a history of performing here in England with several bands, and with
new member Mark C Fitton on drums. In the studio was Brian Walsh on
tenor sax, with Marnie Jayne Holdsworth Green and Toni Amanda Holdsworth
completing the studio line up.
This was an enjoyable gig all
round, with excellent musicians, a great blend of music, a professional
attitude from the word go and definitely on the money, all this from a
premier music maker and a gentleman that is Mal S. Green.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
NIGHT TRAIN, 30th October
2014
This
Northwest band gave us a blend of original blues penned by Alec Martin
and a compendium of classic Blues and rock and roll, something for
everyone’s taste.
Alec
Martin on lead vocals and blues harp and guitar is a pillar of the music
circuit for the last 25 years or so he has performed all over the region
with his band.
On
lead guitar is Wally Rumsey a blues rock guitar man through and through
he was just terrific.
The
rhythm section the pulse of the band was on drums Rob Pusey and new to
the band Hadge Weller on bass.
The
band gave us a taster of their new album entitled ‘The Silence Spoke’,
with Death Angel, I Forgot your Name, Howlin’, Broken Heroes, Shadows of
the Night, I Said Yeh.
The
second set was the mix of blues and rock and roll, with Help Me, I just
Wanna Make Love, I Put a Spell on You, Bullfrog and then a medley of
rock and roll, with Roll Over Beethoven, Whole Lotta Shakin’, Luceille,
Oh Carol, Roll Baby Roll and to finish off with ‘Gloria’ and ‘Bring it
on Home to Me’. the crowd just danced the night away and the night
rocked.
This band
likes to entertain and they did on the eve of Halloween they were
spookily good.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
Backwater Blues Band, 23rd
October 2014
This
trio of blues musicians have been together for 14 years and Colin Walker
has been the bands front man, lead guitarist and lead vocalist for all
that time. The band is based in Stockport, Greater Manchester and are
very busy gigging in their own back yard, so it was a privilege to hear
them perform in Chorley here at the Minstrel, the audience thought so
too, they got a great reception.
Colin
puts his heart and soul into his beloved blues he played out of his
skin. With a gifted voice that just lends itself to the blues genre and
wicked in the guitar department he can do no wrong.
The
bands rhythm section was on fire, steadying the ship with controlled
power, the booming rock solid bass guitar of Arthur Cowdrey and the busy
drums of Mark Isherwood, superb.
Jeff
Levy Makor not for the first time came as guest guitarist he has known
the band for years. A guitarist again of the highest calibre he brings
to the table a free style Santana feel to compliment the band,
exquisite.
The
band’s first set included cover from The Allman Bros, Bad Company,
Howlin’ Wolf, Bobby Charles, Free, Jimi Hendrix.
The
second set the band delivered covers from Ten Years After, Stevie Ray
Vaughan, Fleetwood Mac, Santana, BB King and Neil Young. This was a show
to savour a great night of the blues brilliant.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
Black Cat Bone, 16th October
2014
The
band travelled from Preston, Southport and Stockport to entertain the
packed crowd here in Chorley and they really rocked the blues.
Frontman and lead vocals Richie Richardson was just superb. Richie’s
vocal range for the plethora of covers the band played was amazing, he
just has that tone, and very much a Joe Cocker sound alike on ‘Don’t Let
Me Be Misunderstood’ and Aerosmith’s ‘Walk This Way’ and Lead Zeppelin’s
‘Whole Lotta Love’ he is a vocalist that gets very close to portraying
the original versions.
The
magnificent lead guitar work from Tom Walkerdine again was brilliant,
and with very little technical assistance from his foot pedals, his
riffs and solos were top drawer, enough said.
The
rhythm section, this pairing of these two high calibre musicians was
fabulous, with Ben Titus on a stunning bass and Stu Robinson on drums,
they were tight, and steered the band on, and I suspect that their heart
beats were in time, amazing.
The
bands second set was as good as the first, they started with Aerosmith’s
‘Sweet Emotion’ then ‘Black Dog’ by Led Zeppelin, ZZ Tops ‘LaGrange’ and
‘Just Got Paid’ they covered AC /DCs ‘Back In Black’ and a stunning Who
medley, ‘My Generation’ ’See Me Feel Me’ ’Pinball Wizard’ and ‘Won’t Get
Fooled Again’ and an encore of ‘All Right Now’ by Free.
This was an
amazing gig by this hard working band that enjoyed their time here, we
certainly did.Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
The Jon Casey Blues Band, 9th
October 2014
The
JON CASEY Blues band travelled from the Liverpool area to debut here in
Chorley and what a show they gave. The band that has been together for
about 2 to 3 years are a breath of fresh air, they are a blues band of
the highest calibre, and the BJ’s faithful enjoyed every minute. Jon
Casey who is only 24 years of age, played and performed like a veteran
blues man, he is a new talent and we will hear a lot more of him in the
coming years, his vocals were clear and concise, and the bands mix of
sound was spot on, an enjoyable experience from the beginning.
Steve
Faulkner on bass guitar and vocals, a gentleman and a veteran of the
Liverpool music scene and has played with some great bands over the
years, Ocean being one, and he has been on the charity circuit for many
years, a true professional.
David
Goldberg on keys and vocals, another stalwart of Liverpool’s musical
history, he plays with Liverpool Express and Rumours of Fleetwood Mac.
David and Steve have an association going back longer than they liked to
admit. Lastly Jimmy Mac on drums one of the leading lights in the
percussion department, just terrific. The bands ever growing repertoire
of blues classics reaches the young as well as the mature, they gave us
covers from Eric Clapton, Cream, John Mayall, and Peter Green, Fleetwood
Mac, Rory Gallagher, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Joe Bonamassa. The band
also gave their rearrange blues version of the Bill Withers hit ‘Ain’ No
Sunshine’, it was brilliant, the whole show was.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
Full Fat Boogie Band, 2nd
October 2014
The
FULL FAT BOOGIE BAND from the Fylde coast came to entertain the faithful
here at BJ’s with a change of personnel that did not deter from this
bands excellent gig, such is the talent of these veteran musicians, who
are celebrating 25 years on the road . Guest musician Raymond Williams
on his tenor sax and baritone sax when required stepped in to front the
band on this occasion. With his powerful forthright vocals and great sax
playing he was a formidable force and was well received. Simon Knowles
played bass guitar for the absent regular bass player Andy Houghton and
a great job he did as this was the first occasion in a live situation.
The twin guitars of Steve Gregg and Dean Kelly and the drums of Peter
Crouch rounded off this hard working band. The band's CD entitled I
SCREAM COLNE is a cover CD with the exception of ‘Leavin’ on That Train’
penned by Andy Houghton. Covers from their CD are Dr Feelgood, Monkey,
You Don’t Love Me Baby, Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Sweet Nothing, C’est La Vie,
That’s Life, Shake a Tailfeather and Enjoy Yourself.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
Tin Pan Alley, 25th September
2014
September's live music month here at BJ’s ended with an exceptional
talented band from Lancaster. TIN PAN ALLEY came to entertain and that
they did. Fronted by Nigel 'Tanny' Tanton on lead guitars and lead
vocals, he gave an outstanding performance. Tanny’s guitar work is
legendary he certainly nails the classic riffs and solos and his vocals
certainly hit the spot. The rhythm section off Graham Goral on a wicked
throbbing bass and Kevin ‘Cochise’ Cook on drums were just brilliant
together, musicians of the highest calibre. The first set included
classics from Stevie Ray Vaughan, ZZ Top, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin
and to finish the set the song 'Free Bird' from Lynyrd Skynyrd, the
crowd went nuts, brilliant stuff. The second set kicked off with ‘I
Thank You’ from ZZ Top, followed by Joe Bonamassa, Peter Green's
Fleetwood Mac, Free, Montrose, Gary Moore, with Led Zeppelin to finish,
classic after classic a brilliant show from a band that have set the
bench mark for others to follow, fantastic.
Keith
Blackledge
National and International Music Reviewer
_______________________________
Rhythm Zoo, 18th September 2014
http://www.rhythm-zoo.com/
Well
the 'Zoo' are back! It was a welcomed return to BJ's for the popular
band 'RHYTHM ZOO'.
Hailing from Shrewsbury, Harrogate and Bradford, Andi Hall fronts the
band on sultry vocals, with Phil Dean on amazing lead guitar. Keeping
that rhythm going were Pete Betts on bass and Dermot Hall on drums and
what a great set they did with a mix of self penned tracks and covers.
The
opening number, a slow blues 'I Just Want To Make Love To You', was pure
class. Andi's sexy vocals were superb and Phil's guitar work just
faultless. Funking it up next with 'Good Girl Bad Girl' then 'Part Time
Love' with an excellent guitar solo from Phil.
A bit
of a 'rockin' number, then on to a smokingly 'hot' version of the Robert
Cray track, 'Playing In The Dirt'. Slowing the pace, we moved onto the
excellent T Bone Walker's 'Stormy Monday' which was sung with passion by
Andi, with Phil's guitar solo that was just awesome, a brilliant take.
'Steal Your Love' gave us 'full on' power from the rhythm section, Pete
and Derm, on this earthy rockin' track with strong vocals from Andi. To
finish the first set a great up tempo gospel influenced number 'Whole
Lot Of Water' .
Kick
starting the second set, Andi was in her element with the rockin' blues,
'Wild, Wild, Woman'. Onto the self penned '12 Bar Blues' with great
vocals from Andi again. Slowing the pace, a slow sultry blues 'Never
Going Back To Memphis' with a haunting guitar solo from Phil.
A
classic 12 bar rhythm and blues with 'Tore Down' next, with drums and
bass working well. Then onto 'rock God' Phil taking lead vocals for the
classic Cream number 'Badge'. A brilliant take and what a great voice.
A slow blues next with 'Coco Blue', before moving on to 'I've Got My
Mojo Working' for a bit of audience participation. Guest Beryl was
invited to the stage with her tambourine yet again!
For
the penultimate number of the evening, rockin' 'Sweet Home Chicago',
got the dancers up. The final number, the classic Doors track 'Road
House Blues', was a fantastic finish to great evening. Here's hoping we
will see the amazing 'Rhythm Zoo' back at BJ's next year.
Rosy Greer -
Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________
The Shakers, 11th
September 2014
http://www.theshakersbluesband.co.uk/
The
SHAKERS describe themselves as - "a hard rockin' rhythm & blues band,
from deep down in the Fylde Coast Delta" - and I'll go with that!
Playing
at the prestigious BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, Chorley, they gave the
crowd a full on performance of their 'Shakerboogie' with some classic
covers. Fronting the band on vocals, slide guitar, guitar and harmonica
was John Carroll, on rhythm and excellent lead guitar was Chris
Peacock. Keeping that rhythm going was Brian Hunter on bass and vocals
with the powerhouse of Craig Holland on drums.
The
evening kicked off with a great 12 bar blues and classic number 'Sweet
Home Chicago'. Taking the slide guitar into the audience, John set the
scene for the evening. A great guitar solo from Chris gave us the 'full
on' power opener.
A couple
of Hendrix classics followed with 'Foxy Lady' and 'Red House', then a
change with a Ray Charles number 'Unchain My Heart' with Brian on well
sung vocals. John brought in the harmonica for the Little Walter number
'My Baby', again with Brian on vocals which had a leaning towards jazz.
A bit of
harp led blues boogie with the John Lee Hooker classic 'Dimples', then
on to the final number of the first set, 'Stormy Monday', with guest
guitarist Javon Aziz. A nice bit of the 'youth of blues' as this young
man is only 17!
Classic
'Crossroads' opened the second set, followed by 'Little Red Rooster'
with great slide guitar. Another guest, Beryl, took to the stage with
her tambourine, for 'I've Got My Mojo Working', then onto a 12 bar
blues, 'Framed'.
Some
harp driven classic Howlin' Wolf, with 'Who's Been Talking', nice funky
overtones and good guitar solo. Then moving on to a Peter Green classic
'Oh Well', drummer Craig kept the power house going. To finish off the
evening a couple of R&B numbers 'Walking The Dog' and 'Treat Her Right'
with an encore of 'Hoochie Coochie Man'.
A great
evening's entertainment with classic 'Shakerboogie' rhythm and blues.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer
http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
________________________________
Doctor Truth, 4th September 2014
This five piece band based in the
Manchester area have had a few changes to their personnel over the years, but
now it seems they have settled down to incorporate the wonderful soul blues
voice of Jocelyn Knight, who has an impressive CV, working in the past with M
People no less. With other top bands seeking her vocal services and for work in
the recording studios this lady of the blues is busy making music. Chris Roach
on lead guitar is well known on the Manchester band scene, a musician who works
his guitar with that picking Blues/Jazz feel at times. The rhythm section is as
good as it gets with Rick Lacey on the drums and Mike Collinge on bass guitar.
Rick is a top musician, again a drummer who has many styles to suit the band
type you can see him play in a few Northwest bands when the need arises. Mike
Collinge a well-respected bassist and a perfect match for Rick that is hard to
beat. Mike has a solid sound and an easy going style that lends itself to the
blues genre. The one element that was missing from this impressive line-up was
keys man Paul Ashton who was on holiday. The band played original works off
their CD “Code for the Road”. Doctor Truth heels the soul, and a tonic for
them blues.
Keith Blackledge.
National & International
Music Reviewer.
________________________________
Stealer, 28th August 2014
STEALER are a four piece rock/blues
cover band that pride themselves on performing authentic renditions of the
vintage bands from the 60’s and 70’s. They do it with a no-nonsense matter of
fact approach. Steve Clegg lead vocal and frontman for the band is a veteran
vocalist who thrives on the pub rock scene and the intimacy of the audience, he
engages them with a little light banter has he introduces cover after classic
cover. Steve G on lead guitar is a class musician his rendition of Parisienne
Walkway’s amongst others was spot on. Steve B is their bass player and backing
vocalist, he has a relaxed manner and his bass line on Keep on Running was
brilliant, alongside him completing the rhythm section was Anthony Da Souza a
hell of a drummer and he kept it together for the band, White Room, and
Substitute and Fool For Your Loving stood out for me. The classic covers kept
coming, in their second set, The Seeker, Rosalee, and Wishing Well, and a lot
more just fantastic. This band gives you a show, the audience wanted more, and
the band went home happy playing to a crowd that appreciates its classics.
Keith Blackledge
National and International
Music Reviewer.
________________________________
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