Trower's Time And Emotion 28/2/18
After releasing perhaps his best solo album since his 40's 'Time and Emotion' last year, Robin Trower returned to play an exclusive UK concert at the Islington Assembly Hall in London last night. The 72 year-old was supported by the New York based Blues vocalist Sari Schorr Trio featuring guitarist Ash Wilson and keyboardist Bob Fridzema (ex-King King). Trowers smooth-as-butter guitar licks, screaming solos and ethereal Bluesy vocals kept the crowd hooked. Robin has a vibe, a voice and a presence on his instrument that transcends time and space. He plays from the soul and he is as intoxicated from the music he creates as his audience. This guy can play. It really is that simple. Anyway, with more photos and a review to come - check out today's Video Of The Day.
Dirty Thrills In Camden Tonight 28/2/18
"Anyway in an epic encore, the tambourine waving James, on more familiar territory, got the audience singalong participation going on 'Shivers', another from their 'Growing Young' EP. The last two favourites were off of their debut album - the driving Rock of 'Follow Me Home' which not only saw Fawdry helping out on backing vocals but also saw Jack jumping on top of a speaker stack, and if you wanted a dirty explosive slide guitar plus the thrill of a stand out vocal - then they saved the best to blast with 'Sigh'. Loved the beat, vocals, everything - these guys kicked ass. If you want your Dirty Thrills - then you know where to go." That was part of our Crowndale Club, Camden, review from last September and we're off to London again to get our Dirty Thrills at Camden's The Underworld tonight.
Cornish Rock Special 28/2/18
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day it's a Cornish Rock special with some great music featuring Fleetwood Mac, The Rezner, The Raise, Phil Innes & Josie Boucharde, Hanterhir, Crowns, William The Conqueror, Hypophora, Kernuyck, Wolf Note, King Creature, The Smashing Pumpkins, Pixies, The Afghan Whigs, Ministry, Soundgarden, Jane's Addiction, Royal Blood, Screaming Trees, Drenge, Sonic Youth and Queens of the Stone Age.
Islington Assembly Hall Gig Review 27/2/18
"Not unexpectedly all seven songs in their short set were taken from 'Starting Gun' as they opened with two in a row that immediately got the Assembly Hall's undivided attention - ‘Hurricane’ - as it name implies - a typical Bad Flowers Heavy Rock track - followed by ‘Who Needs A Soul’ - another pure Rock song full of Leighton's great guitar. "How Are We Doing London?" yelled Leighton as the hairy trio kept up their Heavy Rock assault with ‘Secrets’ with its great chorus, and then surprise, surprise, continuing the Heavy Rock vibe, ‘Lions Blood’ - with its a great hook and sobered guitar solo - one track which we have wanted to see live since the album launch - which didn't disappoint - as did 'Be Your Man’ - with some great vocals from Leighton."
Read the whole of AJ's The Bad Flowers, Jared James Nichols and Stone Broken review from last Saturday's gig at London's Islington Assembly Hall here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Gigs In London Tonight 27/2/18
"From the new to the old - in fact 39 years ago to be precise - and 'Somebody Calling' from 'In City Dreams' - which still had that great groovy late '70's feel about it - think Average White Band - although the spine of the set understandably turned back to 'BOS' with the up-tempo slide and chops of 'Day Of The Eagle' metamorphosing into the classic opening of the title track with its unmistakeable riff - an iconic tipping point for me - a bit like seeing Skynyrd doing 'Free Bird' live - this was indeed Rock history." That was part of our review of Robin Trower's Islington Assembly Hall gig in October 2016, and with two other tempting gigs in a very cold London tonight, we've plumped for Robin again at the same venue supported by Sari Schorr - the other two gigs being Xander And The Peace Pirates (Video Of The Day) at The 100 Club and Industrial noise-Punk duo Black Futures (pictured) at Hangar E8 3FN.
BOTR Awards Special 27/2/18
The theme of awards is scattered throughout this week's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day with a preview of the 8th European Blues Challenge, new music from the MC of the UK Blues Awards Ceremony, two bands who are playing at that Award Nominated venue The Tuesday Night Music Club plus a couple of notable new releases. All that results in an hour featuring Matt Edwards, Julia & The Basement Tapes, Vanja Sky, Ed & The Gators, Angel Forrest, Soulfood Band, Ian Siegal (pictured), Vitor Bacalhau, George Shovlin & The Radars, The Heritage Blues Company, Greyhound's Washboard Band, Dobre Rano Blues Band, Johnny Big Stone & The Workers and LaVendore Rogue. So click play and turn it up!
Assembly Hall Photo Gallery 26/2/18
"When you talk about the future of Blues Rock, then it didn't get much better than last Saturday night at Islington's Assembly Hall in London, although the distinct contrast in each bands style - made the gig even more appetising. The evening kicked off with the dirty Heavy Blues Rock of the Midlands very own The Bad Flowers following last week's launch of their appropriately named new album 'Starting Gun'. The meat in the sandwich was Wisconsin-born, Los Angles based singer and guitarist, Jared James Nichols, with that distinctive 70's style of Blues Power Rock who released his latest album 'Black Magic' last October. And last, but not least, 2017 WRC 'One's To Watch' award winners Stone Broken - the clean cut Black Country Hard Rockers - deservedly headlining - who we saw at this very same venue a year ago supporting Glenn Hughes." Anyway, with Saturday's complete Assembly Hall review coming tomorrow, please check out our photo gallery from the gig here.
We Want Our OGWT! 26/2/18
There were so many highlights from last Friday night when we were lucky enough to be invited along to Old Grey Whistle Test Live: For One Night Only, hosted by Bob Harris, a live three-hour show with music, special guests and rare archive to mark 30 years since the legendary series was last broadcast. Great interviews, great music and great memories. Not only did we get to shake the hand of whisperin' Bob but we also managed to have a quick chat with impressive Liverpool singer-songwriter Robert Vincent, whose mix of Folk, Rock and Country closed the show (Video Of The Day). With a couple of numbers also from Wildwood Kin - who we saw supporting The Brothers Landreth at London's Borderline in August 2015, the show was not all about the past - hence our campaign to bring OGTW back: #WEWANTOUROGWT!
Remembering Blind Willie Johnson 26/2/18
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features music from Mothers Children Have A Hard Time, Cowboy Junkies, Derek Trucks/Susan Tedeschi, Lucinda Williams, Luther Dickinson featuring The Rising Star Fife Drum Band, Maria McKee, Rickie Lee Jones, Sinead O’Connor and Tom Waits.
Perfect Assembly 25/2/18
When you talk about the future of Blues Rock then it doesn't get much better than last night at Islington's Assembly Hall in London. KIcking off with The Midlands very own The Bad Flowers (Video Of The Day), you could immediately see why they were named as one of Planet Rock’s ‘Ones To Watch’ following the release of their first single ‘Thunder Child’ last September plus last week's launch of their new album 'Starting Gun'. And if that set wasn't good enough, then step forward Wisconsin-born, Los Angles based singer and guitarist, Jared James Nichols who released his latest album 'Black Magic' last October - his trio including Erik Sandin on bass guitar and Dennis Holm on drums - duly delivering 70's Power Rock at its classic best. And last, but not least, 2017 WRC 'One's To Watch' award winners Stone Broken (pictured) - enough said - who we saw at this very same venue a year ago supporting Glenn Hughes. A cracking night - watch out for more photos and a review shortly.
A New Grey Whistle Test 25/2/18
We were lucky enough to be invited along on Friday night to Old Grey Whistle Test Live: For One Night Only, hosted by Bob Harris, a live three-hour show with music, special guests and rare archive to mark 30 years since the legendary series was last broadcast. There was music from Peter Frampton, Richard Thompson and Albert Lee - who all performed on the show. Meanwhile, legend Bob whispered to other guests, including Dave Stewart, Joan Armatrading, Ian Anderson, Kiki Dee, Chris Difford and Danny Baker, plus singer Mollie Marriott, Pink Floyd animator Ian Emes and Mike Appleton who produced the original series. What a memorable evening - the good news being that you can watch it all over again on BBC iPlayer.
Marsh Blues World Exclusive 25/2/18
Today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Friday night, features George Shovlin and The Radars, Big Shoes, Gem Andrews, Nick Moss Band, Susan Williams and The Wright Groove, Gone Hepsville, Temperance Movement (pictured), Bad Pennies, Vanja Sky, Auld Man's Baccie, Victor Wainwright, Steven Troch, Elayna Boynton, Wily Bo Walker and Phil Doleman, to name but a few, plus a World exclusive of the brand new acoustic album from Oliver MacDonald and Steve Bailey.
Bad Flowers Assemble Tonight 24/2/18
"‘Rich Man’ is different from the first three Rock tracks – although another great track – it has more of a Blues Rock sound – and on the subject of contrasts – ‘ I Hope’ sees Tom singing and playing acoustic guitar, showing a completely different side to the band, but yet another song that I really like, with both great lyrics and rhythm. The longest song on the album ‘Let’s Misbehave’ starts again with Tom on acoustic guitar with Dale’s bass and Karl’s drums building the tempo to the end, although ‘Who Needs A Soul’ brings us back to the pace of the first three opening tracks – a pure Rock song full of great guitar." That was part of our take on The Bad Flowers new CD 'Starting Gun' - and we will witness them in the raw at London's Islington Assembly Hall tonight when they step on stage at 7.15pm. With Jared James Nichols following at 8.15pm and then Stone Broken at 9.15pm, the venue is going to be smokin'!
Introducing ..... Zarakan Blues Band 24/2/18
Zarakan Blues Band (today's Track Of The Day) is a three piece British Blues Rock Band based in Stamford. Brian Harris is the singer and bass player, and is a late 60's and 70's and onward Blues Rock veteran, having performed extensively for many years at miners and other social clubs across the North of England, and at Forces bases, and London venues (notably with Copperfield). Ex-Laughtons Last Stand drummer Pat Martin has played throughout Great Britain at Forces bases, Private events, Festivals, Pubs and Clubs, whilst guitarist Dan Stimpson previous bands were Lucks Lane and The Undefined.
From Out Of The Skies 24/2/18
The new album by BulletBoys, ‘From Out Of The Skies’, is set for release on Friday 23rd March via Frontiers, preceded by a ten date UK tour next month including London's Underworld on Sunday 18th March. The first single from the record, ‘D-Evil’ (today's Video Of The Day) is already available and features guest vocals from Jesse Hughes of Eagles of Death Metal. ‘D-Evil’ was the no. 1 song on the UK’s Hard Rock Hell Radio station in early February and the album was recorded at the Foo Fighters’ Studio 606.
Man With A Mission Tonight 23/2/18
Japanese superstars Man With A Mission are playing a sold out London headline show at The Dome, Tufnell Park tonight. The show follows the band’s UK tour with Don Broco throughout February. The five-piece wolf collective recently headlined two nights in Japan to 50,000 fans with Don Broco supporting them at Tokyo’s Saitama Super Arena as part of their Japanese arena tour. Having emerged with feral Rock energy in 2010, MWAM have released four albums in Japan, which have topped the charts and led the band to sell out arenas across their homeland. Man With A Mission recently released the video for their new single ‘My Hero’, which sees the band providing the soundtrack to the accomplishments of an everyday hero with their electrifying blend of Rock, Rap and Electronica.
Genesis Revisited 23/2/18
Prog icon Steve Hackett (Video Of The Day) has added two new dates to his October tour of Genesis Revisited, which features his band and a 41-piece orchestra as the London show at the Royal Festival Hall has already sold out! The additional shows are at The London Palladium and the Ipswich Regent. Tickets for both go on sale at 10am today. UK fans will not want to miss these unique performances of many of their favourite Genesis and classic Hackett numbers. Joining Steve on the tour are his regular musicians Roger King (keyboards), Gary OToole (drums/percussion), Rob Townsend (saxes/flutes) with Nad Sylvan on vocals. They will also be joined on this tour by Jonas Reingold from The Flower Kings on bass.
Friday Club Blues 23/2/18
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day has another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more including tracks from Tinsley Ellis, Buddy Guy, Tommy Castro, Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa, Peter Karp, Altered Five Blues Band, Oscar Wilson, Downchild, Jeff Chaz Blues, Susan Angeletti Band, Curtis Salgado & Alan Hager, Tommy Emmanuel (pictured), Mark Knopfler, St. Paul and The Broken Bones, The BluesBones, Samantha Fish, Chris Rea, Johnny Fink and the Intrusion, Wily Bo Walker, Iconic Eye, The Knickerbocker All-Stars, Elles Bailey, Dave Hunt, Jim Shaneberger Band, Nina Massara, Val Starr and the Blues Rocket, Laurie Morvan Band, Ruby & The Revelators, Arkansas Dave, Earl Thomas, Greg Sover Band, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and many more.
Better Safe Than Sober 22/2/18
Rising British Doom Pop group Courtesans are playing a sold out Camden Underworld in London tonight. Supporting King 810 on their UK February tour, and with fellow "ones to watch" UK Alt Metal group Death Blooms also on the bill, they continue to demonstrate their musical diversity by making waves following last year's release of their EP 'Better Safe Than Sober'.
All You Need Is Soul 22/2/18
The unmistakable voice from one of the most loved Hard Rock bands of the early 1990’s is returning this May. Jizzy Pearl of Love/Hate is back with his new solo album ‘All You Need Is Soul’ (Video Of The Day). This highly anticipated studio release is out on Friday 11th May via Frontiers Music Srl alongside a UK tour which includes London's Underworld in Camden two days later. Jizzy Pearl and Love/Hate burst onto the scene in 1990 with the debut album ‘Blackout In The Red Room’ and proceeded to take the UK by storm with Best Album of the Year from Kerrang! and Metal Hammer magazines. Playing sold out shows and opening for Skid Row, AC/DC and Dio put Love/Hate on the map. MTV hits ‘Why Do You Think They Call It Dope', ‘She’s An Angel' and the band’s follow up album ‘Wasted In America’ has ensured a loyal following to this day.
ROTR In The Pink 22/2/18
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Saturday night, there's music from Pink Cream 69, Judas Priest, Framing the Red, Blacktop Mojo, Toto, The Glorious Sons, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, Stoneking, Blackberry Smoke, Steve Hackett, Dukes of the Orient, Europe (pictured), Ammunition, Voodoo Circle, The Phantom 5, Black Stone Cherry, Trucker Diablo, The Answer, The Temperance Movement, Myles Kennedy, Black Country Communion, Mott The Hoople, Disturbed and on their introducing stage two in row from Icarus Falls.
The Godfathers 100 Club Review 21/2/18
"And they more than fulfil my promise to the other half of a gig to remember. The lead singer – Peter Coyne – walks and talks like an East End gangster, completely at home in his London heartland shouting, “London belongs to me tonight!” and as he has more than a passing resemblance to the Krays, dressed in his black shirt and Dinner Jacket, no one is going to argue! The bass player could be Al Pacino and Steve Critall physically assaults his guitar in ways I have never imagined to squeeze sounds out of his instrument."
Read the whole of Chris Bourlet's Godfathers gig review at London's 100 Club from last Saturday here plus check out today's Video Of The Day.
Glenn Hughes To Perform Deep Purple Live 21/2/18
Glenn Hughes, the former bassist and singer of Deep Purple, known to millions as the Voice of Rock, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and the current front man for rock super group Black Country Communion, will be performing Deep Purple only material with his Glenn Hughes Performs Classic Deep Purple Live nationwide UK tour this October. The nine date tour promises to be a dynamic, turn-back-the-clocks, two-hour live extravaganza homage to his tenure in MK 3 and MK 4 incarnations of Deep Purple - one of music historys most seminal and influential Rock and Roll groups. All tickets are priced £27.50 except £30 for London's Koko gig on Monday 15th October. Planet Rock launch a 48-hour ticket pre-sale today here and then tickets will go on general sale this Friday 23rd February from the 24hour ticket hotline 08444 780 898 or here.
Fishing For The Blues 21/2/18
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special featuring Samantha Fish, Sugar Queen, Erja Lyytinen (pictured), Heather Newman, Jane Lee Hooker and Regina Bonelli.
Laugh Out Loud 20/2/18
What a great evening we had on Saturday night as Rock 'n Roll stand-up comic and author Pete K Mally stopped off at a sold out London's Leicester Square Theatre as part of his 'Live N Loud - For Those About To Laugh' tour. With brilliant support from fellow comics Alex Cordes and Sarah Iles, plus the band The Gingers, it was a night to remember. And if you missed out - then the good news is that Pete continues his tour in both Nottingham in April and Bristol in June. Do not miss him.
Mother's Cake At The Macbeth Tonight 20/2/18
Founded in 2008, the Austrian Rock trio Mother’s Cake are playing London's The Macbeth in Hoxton tonight. Consisting of Yves Krismer - vocals and guitar, Benedikt Trenkwalder - bass and Jan Haussels - drums, they released their third studio album, ‘No Rhyme No Reason’, a year ago - an explosive alliance of Indie, Psych and Blues Rock, with lengthier sonic excursions plus deeper elements of Psychedelic, Progressive and Space Rock mixed into compelling sound palettes. There's also great support from Flare Voyant (Video Of The Day) and Crybaby Special.
Yoka & The Sugarbeats EP Launch 20/2/18
Another Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day is all lined up and ready to massage your ears today. Squeezed into just one hour you'll get new music from Benjamin Bassford, Lee Ainley's Blues Storm, The Robert J Hunter Band (pictured), Teed Up, Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa, The Nick Moss Band featuring Dennis Gruenling, Beelzebub Jones, Victor Wainwright and Wily Bo Walker. There's also two tracks from Mitch Woods great album featuring Cyril Neville and John Lee Hooker plus ahead of their official release party tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF, there's two tracks from the eagerly awaited EP from Yoka & The Sugarbeats.
Sober Up 19/2/18
Hardcore Punk/Grunge band Sober will be releasing their debut 4-track EP 'Mental Decline' on Sunday 18th March! Consisting of Louis Bourlet - guitar/vocals, Matthew Spurrell - bass and Louis Pearson - drums, they are a fast-paced, loud, and angry band from South East London, creating a fresh, aggressive sound. Watch out also for some live dates soon but in the meantime check out their EP promo trailer which is today's Track Of The Day!
NHA Boulders 19/2/18
We recently featured the future release on Friday 23rd March of the long awaited self-titled debut album by Northern Ireland based band No Hot Ashes on Frontiers Music Srl. We first saw these guys supporting Aerosmith at London's Calling Festival on Clapham Common in June 2014. So we were delighted to immediately hear back from the band with news of a new track 'Boulders' taken from the new album which is today's Video Of The Day.
Britrock Must Be Destroyed 19/2/18
Seminal Britrock Power-Pop trio Dodgy have been announced as the opening act on the Britrock Must Be Destroyed tour in May which stops off at London's Hammersmith Eventim Apollo on Sunday 6th May. They join the already stellar line-up of Reef, The Wildhearts and Terrorvision – bringing together four of the greatest Rock hit makers of the 90's. With each band boasting a string of chart-busting anthems they will be devastating venues, and no doubt livers as well, in eight of the biggest cities in Great Britain! Place Your Hands high, drink Tequila, neck a Caffeine Bomb and find out which heavyweight champion will be Good Enough to crush the opposition. Pick sides as Britrock Must Be Destroyed!!
BBB At 100 Club Tonight 18/2/18
"BBB's introduction that "There's nothing worse than when you love someone ... and then they take out a restraining order on you!" ... set the scene behind the groovy ‘I Can’t Forget About You’ before the Rock ‘n Rolling ‘Double Whammy’, taken from their second album ‘The World Explained’. These were followed by ‘Messin With The Booze’, taken us back to Bloater and The City Shakers - Bloater’s guitar a mighty nod to Booker T. & the M.G.'s. Classic!" That was part of our take on Big Boy Bloater's set at last year's Camden Rocks (pictured and Video Of The Day) and the big man returns to London tonight at the iconic 100 Club.
Hell, Whiskey & Bullets Photo Gallery 18/2/18
It often happens at a gig where you go along to see one particular band and then you come away also wanting to see the other bands on the bill again in the future. Sandwiched in between Dead Man's Whiskey at London's Underworld last Thursday night were first support band Hell's Addiction (pictured) from Leicester with their no nonsense balls-out Hard Rock plus Los Angeles Hard Rock headliners Bullets And Octane, who took crowd participation to another level with their entertaining forays into their UK faithful. Anyway, take a look at our photo gallery from the night here.
True Home Of International Blues 18/2/18
On today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Friday night, there's music from Blues Messengers, Laurie Morvan Band, Guy Verlinde And The Mighty Gators, The James Hunter Six, Crystal Shawanda, Bernard Allison, Rex Granite Band, Bad Pennies, Geoff Everett, Marquise Knox, Oscar Wilson, Gerry Jablonski And The Electric Band (pictured), Mick Kolassa and Friends, Reverend Raven and The Chain Smoking Alter Boys, Reverend Shawn Amos, Dan Doiron, Davy Knowles, Janiva Magness, Richard Knott, Josh Hoyer, Hannah Wicklund and The Steppin' Stones and The BluesBones.
For Those About To Laugh Tonight 17/2/18
We originally bumped into Rock 'n Roll stand-up comic and author Pete K Mally in the gents (cut out the toilet humour please) when we saw Living Colour and Stone Broken at London's ULU in October and then saw him host Progtoberfest 2 at the end of the same month in Balham (pictured). Needless to say we will be catching up with Pete again tonight as he stops off at London's Leicester Square Theatre as part of his 'Live N Loud - For Those About To Laugh' tour. With support from At The Sun, it's gonna be a great night of music and laughter.
Nathan's Moonkings Underworld Tonight 17/2/18
Four years after bonafide guitar virtuoso Adrian Vandenberg made a spectacular comeback with Vandenberg’s Moonkings (Video Of The Day), the band recently released their sophomore album, simply titled 'MK II'. The album has all the qualities of the debut: once again the four-piece band manages to create a perfect mix of vintage seventies Hard Rock and current styles of Heavy Rock and the guys are indeed playing Camden's Underworld in London tonight. There will also be a special guest appearance by Inglorious vocalist Nathan James who, it was recently announced, will be taking the part of The Voice Of Humanity in Jeff Wayne's 'War Of The Worlds' at London's O2 Arena this December!
Another One For The Road 17/2/18
In another special Route 66 'One For The Road' Track Of The Day, host Rory Auskerry talks to 25 year old British Blues Rock guitarist and singer songwriter Laurence Jones. Laurence has already been inducted into the British Blues Awards ‘Hall of Fame’ as ‘Young Artist of The Year’ in 2014, 15 and 16. His latest offering, ‘The Truth’ comes out on Friday 9th March and Jones begins a UK tour in May. In the meantime listen to them as they discuss the album, tour and how Laurence copes with crohn’s disease. Don't forget that you can still listen to our own WRC interview with Laurence in January here.
Whiskey A Go Go 16/2/18
The last time we saw traditional Hard Rock band Dead Man’s Whiskey was at London's Underworld in October 2017 supporting Bigfoot - and we enjoyed them so much that we returned to the same Camden venue last night for more. Formed in London in 2016 and comprising of Nico Rogers (vocals), Billy Kons (lead guitar), Elliott D’Alvarez (rhythm guitar), James Titley (bass guitar) and Charlie Gray (drums), they were sandwiched in between headliners Bullets And Octane (pictured) and first support band Hell's Addiction. Anyway, with more pics to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
Blues Club Returns 16/2/18
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns today with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week Includes tracks from Buddy Guy, Billy Walton, Susan Angeletti Band, Jack J Hutchinson, Bob Malone, Lucky Peterson, Mud Morganfield, Earl Thomas Bridgeman, Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa (pictured), The Reverend Shawn Amos, Nine Below Zero, Catfish, Lucy Zirins, Ian Siegal, Libertalia, Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, The Mighty Bosscats, Peter Karp, Oscar Wilson, Reverend Raven, Benny & The Flybyniters, Robert Fosson Band, Johnny Tucker, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews & Orleans Avenue, Rocky Athas, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Cool Britannia At Knebworth 16/2/18
Welsh Rock band Feeder and Indie rockers Razorlight have been confirmed to play the new epic music festival Cool Britannia. The festival, featuring iconic acts inspired by an epic era, will take place at Knebworth the stately home of Rock from Friday 31st August to Sunday 2nd September. Feeder will play the main stage on Saturday 1st September followed by Razorlight on Sunday 2nd September. The bands join the stellar line-up including headliners Happy Mondays and Ocean Colour Scene as well as supporting artists Embrace, The Lightning Seeds, Peter Hook & The Light, Cast, Heather Small, Dodgy, Space, Toploader and The South on the main stage.
Boys Were Back In Town 15/2/18
"With his big curly hair and engaging smile Matt Wilson certainly looks the part, but he very much has his own powerful stage persona and completely owns the stage. The energy of the band went from strength to strength, 'Still In Love With You' soared with Grace and Edgar's guitar playing feeding off each other in dual guitar harmonies with high octane solos sweeping every head banger into the sleaze driven funky mood of 'Johnny The Fox'."
Read the whole of Martyn Boydon's Brian Downey's Alive And Dangerous gig review at London's Nell's Jazz And Blues from last Saturday here plus check out our photo gallery courtesy of Laurence Harvey here.
Catch Catfish Tonight 15/2/18
The last time we saw British Blues Award winners Catfish, or more precisely half a Cattfish, was when we saw Matt and Paul Long jamming with Walter Trout at Under The Bridge last October (see today's Video Of The Day). Well you can catch Catfish in their entirety tonight as they return to London playing The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ. Doors open at 8.30pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Monster Rock On The Ridge 15/2/18
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Saturday night, are Monster Truck, Wayward Sons (pictured), Doomsday Outlaw, Avenged Sevenfold, The Sword, Samarkind, Jizzy Pearl, The Dead Daisies, Big River, Hammerschmidt, Wolftooth, Stone Horses, Little Brother Eli, Jupiter In Velvet, Aviator Shades, Red Sun Rising, Dead Man's Whiskey (who are playing London's Underworld tonight), Voodoo Six, Myles Kennedy, Black Stone Cherry and on their introducing stage two in a row from Broken Levee and Lindsay Hannon.
From Ashes To New 14/2/18
US outfit From Ashes To New have just released their new single ‘Crazy’, along with an accompanying lyric video which is today's Track Of The Day. The band are a hybrid of Rock, Rap and Electronica - think Linkin Park/Papa Roach - with two vocalists that adds an extra kick of excitement and energy to their sound. In 2016 they saw success with their debut album 'Day One', which featured the breakthrough track 'Through It All'. Now revamped and recharged the band – now consisting of founder/rapper/programmer Matt Brandyberry and guitarist Lance Dowdle with new additions, vocalist Danny Case and drummer Mat Madiro – they are ready to unleash new music to fans old and new. ‘Crazy’ is the first single taken from their upcoming album 'The Future', which will be released on Friday 20th April via Better Noise Records/Eleven Seven Music.
Introducing ... The Gerry Jablonski Band 14/2/18
Gerry Jablonski and The Electric Band is a high energy outfit from Scotland that blend Blues roots with influences of classic Rock. Guitar maestro Jablonski was influenced by trail blazing masters like Jimmy Page, Johnny Winter, John Martyn, Bowie and Jeff Beck as well as the highest calibre of Blues/Rock outfits which include Led Zeppelin, Cream and The Who. The band came together in its current form only a few years ago when drummer Dave Innis returned to Aberdeen after a spell in London and began looking round for new musical projects. He called up Gerry, harmonica player Peter Narojczyk and bass man Grigor Leslie and before they knew it The Electric Band was born. They have played together now for over three years and state that nothing will stop them on their way to the top. Anyway check out their Video Of The Day of 'Heavy Water'.
Licht An 14/2/18
Something is stirring in the shadows. Something is crawling to the surface: Schattenmann are here and their excellent forthcoming album 'Licht An' is out on Friday 2nd March! Formed in the dying days of 2016, already now aiming for greater things: this young band from Nuremberg knows exactly what they want and how they are about to achieve it. “Neue Deutsche Härte 2.0”, thus the simple yet effective definition of the monumental sound weaved by vocalist Frank Herzig, guitarist Jan Suk, bass player Luke Shook and drummer Nils Kinzig. They are fed by NDH, by Industrial and by Metal, infected by melodic hooklines rather unusual for this genre and possessed by one burning wish: to exorcise every single one of their inner demons.
Starting Gun 13/2/18
"‘Rich Man’ is different from the first three Rock tracks – although another great track – it has more of a Blues Rock sound – and on the subject of contrasts – ‘ I Hope’ sees Tom singing and playing acoustic guitar, showing a completely different side to the band, but yet another song that I really like, with both great lyrics and rhythm. The longest song on the album ‘Let’s Misbehave’ starts again with Tom on acoustic guitar with the Dale’s bass and Karl’s drums building the tempo to the end, although ‘Who Needs A Soul’ brings us back to the pace of the first three opening tracks – a pure Rock song full of great guitar."
Read the whole of Brent Gregory's review of The Bad Flowers (Video Of The Day) 'Starting Gun' CD here, due to be released this Friday 16th February.
Robert J Hunter Band Play TNMC Tonite 13/21/8
An hour filled with brand new music... that's what today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day will bring you. And this isn't just any music - this is new music from Billy Walton Band, Mitch Woods & Van Morrison, Danny Bryant, Auld Man's Baccie, Bad Pennies, George Shovlin & The Radars, Elles Bailey, Gerry Jablonski & The Electric Band, Broken Levee & Lindsay Hannon, The Robert J Hunter Band (pictured - who are playing the Tuesday Night Music Club at The Comrades Club in Coulsdon CR5 2NF tonight), The BluesBones and Dan Patlansky. Quality through and through and all ready for you. So click play and turn it up!
Raised on Rock 13/2/18
If you consider the songs on Voodoo Circle’s new album 'Raised On Rock' to be an indicator of the current emotional condition their most important protagonists find themselves in, there seems to be no reason to worry about band founder, guitarist and main composer Alex Beyrodt in particular. Thanks to Beyrodt’s excellent songwriting – as usual inspired by renowned sources such as Whitesnake, Rainbow, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix – and his outstanding guitar performance which brings to mind icons from Ritchie Blackmore through Jimmy Page to John Sykes, this recording oozes pure, unadulterated fervour. This exuberant energy, however, isn’t the merit of Beyrodt alone but, without doubt, also that of his colleagues Mat Sinner (bass), Francesco Jovino (drums) and – last but not least – new vocalist Herbie Langhans (Avantasia). Beyrodt and Langhans met in 2015 at the Wacken Open Air, when they belted out the Wacken anthem together from the gigantic Black Stage.
The Golden Age Of Rock 'N' Roll 12/2/18
A festival exclusive and their first festival appearance in 44 years - yes Mott The Hoople will be headlining the Ramblin' Man Fair Main Stage on Saturday 30th June. And it will be their classic 1973/1974 line up featuring Ian Hunter (vocals, guitars), Ariel Bender (lead guitars) and Morgan Fisher (keyboards) - augmented by James Mastro (guitars, mandolin), Mark Bosch (guitars), Dennis Dibrizzi (keyboards), Paul Page (bass) and Steve Holley (drums) - given that due to ongoing ill health, Mick Ralphs will not be able to appear but Mick has given his blessing!
Pawn And Prophecy 12/2/18
Best known as the bassist for Progressive Metal giants Symphony X, Mike LePond stepped out on his own to front his own project, Mike LePond’s Silent Assassins in 2014. The band returned at the end of January with the long awaited follow up to his highly acclaimed self-titled debut release. The sophomore effort, 'Pawn And Prophecy' (Video Of The Day) shows an onslaught of true Heavy Metal in it’s purest form. A full hour of headbanding riffs, kick ass vocals, and lyrics telling epic tales drawing influences from the classic Metal bands of the ‘80s to the Viking/Folk Metal of today and features guest appearances from Symphony X bandmates Michael Romeo and Michael Pinella.
Hot Blues And They’re Red Hot 12/2/18
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features music from Arkansas Dave, Born Healer, Johnny Rawls, Chris Ruest, Danny Bryant (pictured), Guy Verlinde & The Mighty Gators, Jimmy Dawkins, Josh Smith,
Rev Raven, Walter Wolfman Washington and Dave Honeyboy Edwards.
The Divine And Dirty 11/2/18
The Kris Barras Band will be releasing their new album 'The Divine And Dirty' on Provogue/Mascot Label Group on Friday 23rd March, so check out their track 'Hail Mary' taken from the album which is today's Video Of The Day. The Devonshire born Blues-Rock guitar-slinger has built a fearsome live reputation across Europe through solid touring and the release of 2016's stellar full length debut ‘Lucky 13’ which has seen him battle his way to the front of the British Blues-Rock pack. 2017 saw him step up and step out to play in front of huge crowds such as at Ramblin' Man Fair which he will be again returning to this year on Sunday 1st July plus a UK tour in March/April which includes London's Thousand Island in Highbury on Tuesday 20th March.
The Groove Cubed 11/2/18
Further to the release of their third studio album 'The Groove Cubed' (or The Groove3) last October, Rock Candy Funk Party released a single including 'Gothic Orleans' and 'Drunk on Bourbon on Bourbon Street' at the end of January. If you are new to the funk party, RCFP are Tal Bergman (producer and drums), Joe Bonamassa (guitar), Ron DeJesus (guitar), and Mike Merritt (bass). These guys have played with the likes of Joe Zawinul, Hugh Masekela, Prince, Ruth Brown, Chaka Khan, Simple Minds, Billy Idol, Tito Puente, Bruce Springsteen, Rod Stewart, Conan O’Brien, Sheila E. and many more. The band shakes things up by adding two fabulous vocalists to the mix (Ty Taylor of Vintage Trouble and Mahalia Barnes). With 'The Groove Cubed', Rock Candy Funk Party seamlessly blend Funk, Jazz, Fusion, Rock and an oddball sense of humour together. Groove is everywhere!
Chasing The Sun 11/2/18
Over the past two decades, ever since vocalist/guitarist Chris Bay founded Freedom Call in 1998, the charismatic front man has been perplexed by a pleasant problem; his wealth of inspiration goes beyond the stylistic and thematic scope of his own band. "I permanently write songs and am constantly working on ideas in the studio", he explains. "That's why I've collected a whole lot of tracks over the years that on the one hand don't really suit Freedom Call and on the other are just too good to gather dust in my archive. The upshot of his positive predicament is that on Friday 23rd February on Steamhammer/SPV he will release his soaring debut solo album 'Chasing The Sun'. Check out today's Track Of The Day!
Nells Alive & Dangerous Tonight 10/2/18
"Alive And Dangerous did an exceptional job of keeping Lizzy's music alive, right from the moment they came onto the stage, to the moment they left, with their high energy and unerring first class delivery. However, you wouldn't expect anything less from Downey, who has a proud musical legacy to behold and who no doubt wants to ensure it flourishes for another forty years! And at the end, with deserved applause ringing around Nells, did I catch the ghosts of Lynott and Moore out of the corner of my eye, bowing alongside Downey, Grace, Wilson and Edgar? Think we're all still in love with you guys." That was part of our Brian Downey Alive & Dangerous Nells Jazz & Blues gig review from November last year (Video Of The Day) and the boys are back in town tonight at the same venue as part of the London Fleadh week.
The State Of The Nation 10/2/18
The Music Venue Trust is a UK Registered Charity which was created in January 2014 to protect the UK live music network. Its immediate focus is on securing the long term future of the iconic venues which make up the grassroots circuit. These venues have played a crucial role in the development of British music over the last 40 years, nurturing local talent, providing a platform for artists to build their careers and develop their music and their performance skills. Ironically, following the latest Independent Venue Week, London's Proud, Camden (pictured) has just announced that it is closing its doors for the last time on Sunday 4th March. So why not support The Music Venue Trust's 'Fightback' campaign here and their clear five year plan to ensure these venues continue to play their vital role in supporting the British music success story?
Ahead Of Myself 10/2/18
Multi-platinum selling three-piece X Ambassadors begin their UK and European headline tour next month kicking off their nine-date run at London’s Electric Brixton on Monday 19th March. The tour comes ahead of their eagerly anticipated new album, co-written with American multi-platinum selling songwriter, producer and musician Scott Harris (Shawn Mendes, Chainsmokers) and due for release in Spring 2018. The album’s lead single ‘Ahead Of Myself’ (today's Track Of The Day) has clocked up over three million views on YouTube. The band also sold out their headline show at London’s ULU last year and also pulled in one of the biggest crowds on the Radio 1 stage at the Reading and Leeds Festival's.
Shhh Secret Sphere Underworld Tonight 9/2/18
'The Nature Of Time' is Secret Sphere's latest and ninth studio album and they are playing Camden's Underworld in London tonight. 'TNOT' celebrates twenty years of hard work that started back in 1997 with the release of their widely praised debut album, 'Mistress Of The Shadowlight'. Since then, the band has evolved and developed their unique sound that has become a trademark and they have been one of an elite group of bands putting the Italian Metal scene on the global map! The addition of extraordinary singer Michele Luppi (also currently serving as keyboardist and background vocalist for the legendary Hard Rock act, Whitesnake) in 2012 brought the band to the next level, which was evidenced by his first release with the band, 'Portrait Of A Dying Heart', receiving wide fan and critical acclaim and landing on many Metal journalists best releases of 2012 lists.
Escape The Fate At Koko Tonite 9/2/18
Escape The Fate, who are playing London's Koko in Mornington Cresecent tonight, release their new album 'I Am Human' on Better Noise Records next Friday 16th February. They are not only supporting 'IAH' with this headline tour, but also recently released a new song from the album 'Broken Heart' which is today's Video Of The Day. 'IAH' is the bands sixth studio album and is the new era of Escape The Fate, featuring the previously unveiled tracks 'Do You Love Me', 'Empire' plus the album's title track.
In The Blues Club 9/2/18
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more including tracks from Billy Walton Band, Josh Smith, Thunder (pictured), Leon Russell, Megson, Amy Winehouse, Dr. Feelgood, Libertalia, Hurricane Ruth, Brian Setzer, Jo Harman, Gregory Porter, Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and many more.
Jackaman - Live At The Islington Tonite 8/2/18
Lynne Jackaman (Track Of The Day), now a part of the recording legacy at Fame Studios, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is playing live at London's Islington tonight. Like Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Candi Staton before her, Lynne too possesses that same emotive raw power. A fireball of femininity, authenticity, love and pain in equal measure which is evident in her songwriting and performance - her (as yet untitled) debut album was cut in twelve days back in the summer of 2017 in Fame studios. There are guest appearances on the album from Spooner Oldham, Clayton Ivey, Bob Wray and Will McFarlane to name but a few, and since returning from America, Lynne has been preparing to release the record in 2018 and take the album out into the live arena featuring her new band.
Forgot To Forget 8/2/18
"Jones' opening drums heralded 'Pressure Valve', the first song on the album, again with great guitar work from Black accompanied by haunting vocals from Turner - critical comparisons to an early Elkie Brooks totally understandable. However, after the hard paced rocker 'Healing Hand' with excellent vocal jousting harmonies between Black and Turner - they saved their best for last - with Zep's 'Since I've Been Loving You' - which was awesome. Turner's diction and delivery was spellbinding as was Black's guitar homage to JP." That was part of our take on Born Healer's set at BluesRockfest in September 2016, so we were delighted to hear from Helen and the crew recently re: their great new song/video 'Forgot To Forget' which is today's Video Of The Day.
My Old Man's A Blues Man 8/2/18
"Peter Donegan's classy mainly originals set was crowned by a breathless, rousing rendition of his father's favourite 'Rock Island Line', a perfect fit for a night intentionally harking back to the earliest days of British Blues including, this time, their Skiffle roots." That was part of our review of Peter Donegan at The Proud in Camden in September 2016 and Lonnie's son returns to London tonight at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ. Doors open at 8.30pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Underworld Photo Gallery 7/2/18
If you ever wanted to witness a mix of musical genres then you should have been at Camden's Underworld on a very cold night last Monday in London. First up were Alternative Rock outfit Stereo Juggernaut delivering their own brand of New Dirt/Electropunk to their healthy following. Contrast this to the high energy in yer face Pop and Rock of Tokyo Taboo (pictured), which nicely set up all those present for headliners Esprit D'Air, with their unique and fresh sound and an ability to fuse hard-hitting aggression with melodic interludes and blistering guitar solos. Time for us to have a lie down - but in the meantime check out our Photo Gallery from the gig here.
Mountain Ash 7/2/18
"Powell heralded the first taste of their debut album with "Yeah Phoenix man!" - a ten minute monster totally encapsulating Wishbone Ash's unique sound and genre before cries of "We want more" saw them return with two final classics from 'Argus' - namely 'Time Was' and 'Blowin' Free'. A truly awesome night all round of live music, contrasting the old and the new. Andy Powell's Wishbone Ash continue their UK tour in October and November. About time I checked out their back catalogue!" That was our take on Wishbone Ash when we saw them at London's O2 Academy in Islington last October (pictured) and we're once again indebted to our Swiss 'correspondent' Marlene Rivet for today's Video Of The Day of Wishbone Ash playing 'Phoenix' in Rubigen last Sunday!
In Case You Missed It 7/2/18
Today's 2017 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day, originally broadcast last Saturday night, features Dead City Ruins, We Three Kings, Fozzy, Turbonegro, Rebel Flag, Richie Kotzen, The Poodles, Rick Springfield (pictured), Dukes of the Orient, Memphis May Fire, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - AKA What A Life, Steve Michael & The Artisans, AC/DC, Electric Light Orchestra, Bedrokk, The Treatment, The Dust Coda, The Black Delta Movement, The Sheepdogs and on their introducing Stage two in a row from Wolftooth.
Shooting For The Stars 6/2/18
Reformed in 2016, DIY and self-signed Rock/Metal band Esprit D'Air performed their new album 'Constellations' back-to-back on their biggest headline tour yet at Camden's Underworld in London last night. A Space Metal band based in London, the band is comprised of Kai (guitar & vocals), Ellis (bass), and Daishi (drums). Currently, the band are not seeking a major record label, but instead follow a strong DIY ethos and produce everything themselves to be as self-sufficient as possible. Consequently, they record, mix and master their own releases in their own home recording studio and produce the artwork and music videos themselves. Anyway with more gig photos to come, including support bands Tokyo Taboo and Stereo Juggernaut, check out today's Video Of The Day.
UK Blues Award Special 6/2/18
Voting is now open in The UK Blues Awards, so this weeks Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day looks at some of the finalists including Ian Siegal, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Marcus Malone, Rebecca Downes, Red Butler, King King (pictured), Half Deaf Clatch, Tom C Walker, LaVendore Rogue, Dave Ferra, Elles Bailey, Catfish, Benjamin Bassford and Dan Burnett, who coincidentally is appearing tonight at Tuesday Night Music Club at The Comrades Club in Coulsdon CR5 2NF.
Ashes To Ashes 6/2/18
Friday 23rd March sees the release of the long awaited self-titled debut album by Northern Ireland based band No Hot Ashes on Frontiers Music Srl. Originally formed in 1983, NHA were influenced by UFO, Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Journey, Foreigner, Thin Lizzy and other Classic Rock/AOR acts of that era. They released their first single, ‘She Drives Me Crazy’, in 1986 and supported bands such as Mama’s Boys, Magnum, Girlschool and Steve Marriott’s Packet of Three. NHA are currently preparing to hit the road in support of what is now a very eagerly anticipated debut album, with shows already planned for late Spring and Summer. Unfortunately for the group, the pleasure of releasing the album is also tinged with great sadness as founding member, bass player and close friend Paul Boyd tragically lost a brave battle with cancer in 2017. Paul appears on the album and the band are respectfully dedicating its release to his memory.
Spirit In The Air Tonight 5/2/18
We first bumped into Esprit D'Air vocalist/guitarist Kai (pictured second right) at Iron Maiden's London O2 Arena gig in May last year. Despite us being at Camden Rocks a week later, unfortunately we missed Esprit D'Air's set at Dingwalls but will make up for that as we catch the Space Metal band also featuring Ellis (bass) and Daishi (drums) as they return tonight to London at Camden's Underworld.
Geoff Carne And The Hatz 4 Play 5/2/18
It was good to hear recently from our mate Geoff Carne with the news that Geoff Carne & The Hatz are due to release their '4 Play' EP on Friday 23rd February and you can take a sneak preview with today's Video Of The Day. Consisting of vocal/guitarist Geoff and drummer/percussionist Mick Armstrong, they formed in late 2013 with the recording of Geoff Carne's solo album 'One to One' and then together on 2016's 'Get Close' with their brand of Blues Rock influenced by the likes of Free, Bad Company and Whitesnake.
A Year Of The Blues 5/2/18
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another Blues women special featuring Pam Taylor, Shemekia Copeland, Ruth Brown, Zoe Schwarz & Blue Commotion, Anna Gutmanis and Carolyn Gaines.
Doomsday Spirit 4/2/18
Doomsday Outlaw is a ten-legged Hard Rock, Blues tinged juggernaut based in darkest Derbyshire. Coupling huge riffs and killer grooves with soaring, soulful vocals to deliver timeless tales of heartbreak and redemption, the group is set to show off its distinctive sound to the legions of Hard Rock faithful around the globe via a new album, 'Hard Times’, which is set for worldwide release via Frontiers in May 2018. Self-released in May 2016, the band's debut album, 'Suffer More’, received glowing notices and mounting critical acclaim plus a burgeoning reputation as a killer live act, which brought the band to the attention of Frontiers Music srl. With their new album and a ton of live gigs locked in, including a string of Summer festival appearances, check out today's Video Of The Day ‘Spirit That Made Me’ taken from their new album.
Black Riches 4/2/18
Industrial noise-Punk duo Black Futures have released their new single ‘Riches’ (today's Track Of The Day), their first release since signing to Music For Nations on Sony, and the latest to be taken from their upcoming debut album, out later this year. ‘Riches’ combines crystalline synths and harmonic vocal melodies with a brutal descent into a powerful blast of chaotic sonic brilliance. It follows the success of both their debut single ‘KARMA YA DIG!?’ and its successor ‘Love’ which have variously seen the band championed by the likes of Annie Mac & Huw Stephens at Radio 1, Apple Music’s A-List Rock playlist and Breaking Rock playlist, as well as getting regular plays on Radio X. The band have been hotly tipped at press with the likes of Upset, Kerrang, Metal Hammer, BBC Music, Team Rock and more hailing them as one of the most exciting propositions for 2018.
Payable On Death 4/2/18
Mascot Label Group have recently announced the signing of P.O.D. (Payable On Death), the San Diego, California based Rockers, who, since their formation in 1992 have sold over 10 million records, embarked on hugely successful international tours, and had a series of chart-topping radio hits. Over the span of two decades, P.O.D. have released ten studio albums, including the triple-platinum 'Satellite'. They have had several hit songs, including 'Southtown', 'Alive', 'Youth of the Nation' and 'Boom', and most recently with their Active Rock singles 'Higher', 'Beautiful' and 'Lost In Forever' which reached #1. The band have been nominated for three Grammy Awards, racked up four #1 music videos and contributed songs to numerous major motion picture soundtracks. Sonny Sandoval ~ vocals, Marcos Curiel ~ guitar, Traa Daniels ~ bass and Wuv Bernardo ~ drums are also active members of a tight-knit music community, having collaborated with a diverse list of artists including Katy Perry, H.R. (Bad Brains), Mike Muir (Suicidal Tendencies), Sen Dog (Cypress Hill) and more. The band's tenth studio album, 'The Awakening', was released in 2015.
A Decade Of The Mad Axeman Review 3/2/18
"The new Michael Schenker album 'A Decade Of The Mad Axeman', released in January 2018 on the Inakustik label, is a thirty one track 2 CD retrospective collection that documents his studio and live output between 2007 and 2016, covering his return to the roots of the Michael Schenker Group (MSG) through to Temple of Rock and the current Michael Schenker Fest. The last ten years has seen Schenker's creativity continue to escalate exponentially and his performance strengthen. This collection exemplifies and solidifies his reputation as a great band leader and guitarist of exceptional note, it also goes a long way to cementing his legendary status."
Read Steven C. Gilbert's complete and insightful review of Michael Schenker's 'A Decade Of The Mad Axeman' CD here.
None Of This Is Right 3/2/18
Explosive Brighton based Heavy Rock trio The Rocket Dolls' first song ‘None Of This Is Right’, from their hotly anticipated new studio album, is today's Video Of The Day. They release their full length new studio album 'DeadHead' on Friday 6th April and take it on the road for UK live dates including London's Dublin Castle on Saturday 21st April. Featuring just the right amount of melody with straight up hook laden driven riffs combined with curveballs when you least expect them, 'DeadHead' is a must hear album for 2018. Relentless in their approach, The Rocket Dolls have taken the Rock mould, smashed it, and then meticulously pieced it back together again to deliver a fresh contemporary collection of music that combines the best bits of Heavy Rock, Grunge, Punk and Pop smart sensibilities. It's clear the band have spent time wisely crafting their second album, as it's a monster!
Rockin' On The Ridge 3/2/18
Today's 2017 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day includes music from Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons, Audrey Horne, Red Sun Rising, Tax The Heat, Mystic Prophecy, Bigfoot, Judas Priest, Whitesnake/David Coverdale, Inglorious, Blacktop Mojo, Bad Wolves, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Brew, StoneWire, Fire Red Empress, Pearl Handled Revolver, Last Bullet, The Underground Thieves, Black Rose Cadillac, Phoenix (a tribute to Jim Rodford pictured left with fellow Argent guitarist John Grimaldi on the right) and on their Introducing Stage two in a row from Lucky Monkey Band.
Mabel Greer's Secret 2/2/18
Prog Rock pioneers Mabel Greer’s Toyshop (for without Mabel Greer, there would be no Yes), have released a new album 'The Secret' (today's Video Of The Day). On this album, Peter Banks (former Yes guitarist) can be heard playing a guitar duo with Mabel Greer’s founder, guitarist and vocalist, Clive Bayley for the first time in fifty years. Clive has written a new song around guitar parts recorded by Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013. This song is a tribute to Banks and Chris Squire who both joined the band in September 1967. 'The Secret' is an album of nine new songs, with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass joining Bayley and Hagger. With roots back to an era when music evolved like never before and now combined with musical maturity, this album is must have for all Prog fans everywhere.
New Acts Announced For Stone Free 2/2/18
Talking of Yes, new acts have been added to this year's Stone Free Festival on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th June at The O2, London. Joining legendary German rockers Scorpions and thrash titans Megadeth in the main arena on Saturday will be sleazy Californian good-time Rockers Buckcherry, while headlining indigo at The O2 will be British Stoner Rock icons Orange Goblin. Also in the Indigo on Saturday will be fast-rising British Rock band Stone Broken, Belgian Blues-Rockers Triggerfinger and German Heavy Rock biker-duo The Picturebooks. The Big Entrance Stage will have sets from British Hard Rock bands Daxx & Roxanne, Dirty Thrills, Anchor Lane and Aaron Buchanan & The Cult Classics. On the Sunday, joining Prog-Rock royalty Yes and former Supertramp frontman Roger Hodgson in the main arena will be Anathema and Joanne Shaw Taylor. In the Indigo on Sunday, Richie Kotzen will be closing the stage plus NYC 80’s Hard Rockers Tyketto and Ginger Wildheart. Meanwhile, The Big Entrance Stage will be featuring thunderous Black Country natives The Bad Flowers and the dynamic soulful Scots The Rising Souls.
Blues On A Friday 2/2/18
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns today with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week Includes tracks from Tommy Castro (pictured), Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, Tinsley Ellis, The Reverend Shawn Amos, Josh Smith, Jon Cleary, Dr. John, Emily Burgess, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and many more.
Steel Panther Hammy Gig Review 1/2/18
"Guitarist Satchel dominates stage right, proudly wielding a signature Charvel pro-mod DK guitar in luminous yellow with Bengal stripes – worth almost $150 he claims. His guitar skills are top notch, when he isn’t too busy making lascivious hand gestures or arranging carnal liaisons with anyone and everyone. Sexy Lexi Foxx takes stage left where his bass playing prowess takes second place to his hair preening duties. A hand held mirror and can of Silvikrin is never far from his grasp. And backing them up is Stix on drums, out Animaling the muppets. They are a feast for the eyes, a banquet for the ears and an advert for a large lunchbox."
Read the whole of Mother's Steel Panther, Inglorious and Wayward Sons Hammersmith Apollo gig review here from last Friday plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Aynsley Lister Photo Gallery 1/2/18
It was great to catch up once again with Aynsley Lister at London's iconic 100 Club on Tuesday night. Aynsley headlined our second WRC Bluesfest in Gravesend back in July 2014 and it was cool to hear again his classic 'Home', listen to some of his new stuff and of course to be blown away once again by his own unique cover of 'Purple Rain'. A bonus ball from the gig was the performance of the Mark Pontin Group (pictured and Track Of The Day) who had travelled all the way up the M4 from South Wales to support Aynsley. Anyway check out today's Photo Gallery here which also includes pictures of the other excellent support band Jimmy Regal & The Royals.
February WRC Bulletin Out Today 1/2/18
Where did January go? Well today's February 2018 WRC Bulletin looks forward to all our February gigs including Reigning Days (tonight), Raveneye, The Brew, Esprit D'Air, Secret Sphere, Escape The Fate, Alive & Dangerous, Dead Man's Whiskey (pictured and Video Of The Day), Catfish, Vandenberg's Moonkings, Pete K. Mally, Mother's Cake, Courtesans, Man With A Mission, The Bad Flowers, Xander & The Peace Pirates, Robin Trower and Dirty Thrills - phew! We also look back at our January gigs including Black Country Communion, Sari Schorr, King King, Bernie Marsden, Laurence Jones, Steel Panther and Aynsley Lister plus our 2017 WRC Award winners, our Laurence Jones interview and our Joe Satriani and Dan Patlansky CD reviews. Don't forget that if you ever want to contribute a gig or CD review to our website then please get in touch!