Final Chance - Vote Best Blues Rock Today 31/12/17
Yes today we finally squeeze in our last category - Best Blues Rock Performance in our 2017 WRC Awards before voting closes at midnight tonight! First up is South African Dan Patlansky who we saw at London's O2 Academy in May and, exactly a month later, we also caught American Eric Gales (Video Of The Day) at Nells Jazz & Blues in London's Kensington. Finally, just down the road in October at Chelsea's Under The Bridge we also saw another American - Walter Trout (pictured)! Remember this is your last chance to cast your vote for all eleven categories by simply going here! The winners of our first category will be announced tomorrow!
WRC Bulletin Out A Day Early 31/12/17
Happy New Year - well almost! Today's January 2018 WRC Bulletin goes out a day early in order that we can politely remind you that you still have until midnight tonight to vote in our 2017 WRC Awards here with the eleven category winners being announced over the next eleven days from tomorrow here! Meanwhile, we look back at our December gigs including Airrace, Diamond Head, IQ, Queen + Adam Lambert, Dan Reed Network and Bad Touch (from late November) plus our Brian Tatler interview and our Samantha Fish CD review. We also look forward to our January gigs including Black Country Communion (pictured), Sari Schorr, Bernie Marsden, Black Orchid Empire, Atomic Rooster, Laurence Jones and GloryHammer. Don't forget that if you ever want to contribute a gig or CD review to our website then please get in touch!
End Of The Year Show 31/12/17
Today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day has a great and fitting end of year line up including Joe Rusi, Raven Cain, Tinsley Ellis, Holly Benton, Bootleggers, Delbert McClinton, Steve Kozak, Glenn Marais and The Mojo Train, GravelRoad, Nasta Super and Chris Cain, Curtis Salgado and Alan Hager, Frank Statesboro, Richard Townend and The Mighty Bosscats (pictured), Dan Burnett, Dago Red and a special section devoted to Kev's very special young lady, Sharon Hills, with tracks from Steve Sainas, Dan Auerbach, BJ Wilbank, Emily Burgess, Kathy Boye and Robert Finley!
Vote Now - One's To Watch 30/12/17
The penultimate category in our 2017 WRC Awards is One's To Watch. Our nominees include Stone Broken (pictured) who we have seen three times this year, supporting Glenn Hughes at Islington Assembly Hall in January and Living Colour at London's ULU in October plus Ramblin' Man Fair in July! We also saw Massive at Ramblin' Man Fair plus previously at the O2 Arena's Stone Free Festival in June and at Camden's Proud in July. Finally, we also caught Black Orchid Empire (Video Of The Day) at Camden's Monarch in February, at Camden Rocks in June and lastly at Bournemouth's Anvil in September. Phew - anyway, if you want to cast your vote for any one of these 'One's To Watch' then simply go here!
I Am Human 30/12/17
Escape The Fate have treated fans to another taste of their upcoming album 'I Am Human', due out on Better Noise Records on Friday 16th February 2018, by releasing the lyric video for the title-track - today's Track Of The Day. In support of the album, the band also return to the UK in January and February for a headline tour which includes dates in Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol, London and Nottingham. 'I Am Human' is the bands 6th studio album and is the new era of Escape The Fate, featuring the previously unveiled tracks 'Do You Love Me' and 'Empire'.
Hymns For The Drunk 30/12/17
In 1982 when four long haired German Metal-maniacs from Frankfurt decided to found a band named Tankard,
nobody expected them to still be going three decades later! On Friday 12th January 2018, 'Hymns For The Drunk', the ultimate Tankard Best Of, will be released. This Best Of sums up their creative period from 2002 - 2010, while they were signed to AFM Records. The current band line-up consists of Andreas Geremia (vocals), Andreas Gutjahr (guitar), Frank Thorwarth (bass) and Olaf Zissel (drums).
Vote Now - Best Festival 29/12/17
Next in our 2017 WRC Awards, we turn our attention to our nominees in the Best Festival category. Firstly, we look back to a wet but wonderful weekend at the end of July when we took in Maidstone's Ramblin' Man Fair plus a month earlier at London's O2 Arena where we took in the Stone Free Festival (pictured) - at least it was under cover! Our final nominee is Hard Rock Hell X1 at the end of November - thankfully that was also under cover and the music was red hot (check out our Dee Snider Video Of The Day). So there you have it - if you want to cast your vote for one of these awesome festival's then simply go here!
Gov't Mule To Headline Ramblin' Man Blues Stage 29/12/17
Talking of Ramblin' Man Fair, further 2018 announcements sees not only the return of Southern Blues guitar legend Warren Haynes, but he'll also be bringing along Gov't Mule' to headline the Blues Stage! Another addition over the weekend of 30th June/1st July is the riff n' roll of Jim Jones and the Righteous Mind plus, thanks to one of the stand out performances of 2017, RMF (pictured) sees the return of one of the most electrifying Blues guitarists of his generation - The Kris Barras Band! And to round things off, the Prog in the Park Stage sees Scottish powerhouse Fish headlining with support from the mesmerising Mostly Autumn! With over 30 more bands still to be announced, we think 2018 will really be one not to miss!
Blues Club Christmas Show 29/12/17
Today's Blues Club Christmas Show Track Of The Day has two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and even Less Chat, featuring only Classic Blues Tracks with no comments between songs. Just letting the music do the talking as music this week Includes tracks from Buddy Guy, Keb' Mo', BB King, Bobby Bland, Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, Etta James, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmy Johnson, Fats Domino, Big Mama Thornton, The Jimmy Rogers All Stars, Gary Moore (pictured), Albert Collins, Muddy Waters, Eric Clapton, Robert Cray, Jimmy Reed, Johnny Copeland, Albert King, Taj Mahal, Benny Turner, Rory Gallagher, Dr. John, Otis Rush, Howlin' Wolf, Johnnie Johnson, Steve Winwood, Luther Allison, Freddie King, Ray Charles, Jimmy Witherspoon and more!
Vote Now - Best Prog Performance 28/12/17
Just three categories to go now as we focus on our nominees in our Best Prog Performance in our 2017 WRC Awards. In June we saw Toska perform at London's O2 Academy Islington, followed by IT towards the end of October at Progtoberfest 2 at The Bedford in London's Balham. Finally, Christmas began early as IQ (pictured) celebrated their 35th anniversary at Islington Assembly Hall. So there you have it - if you want to cast your vote for one of these three superb Prog bands then simply go here!
Fireroad On The Road Tonight 28/12/17
Two years ago, Fireroad (Video Of The Day), a four-piece Rock band based in South Wales, played with a band called Headline Maniac. Fast forward to London's Borderline as both bands co-headline tonight - our first WRC gig since Christmas! Formed in 2012 by Fireroad’s lead singer and songwriter Richard Jones, the band comprise of Tim Jones, Gavin Davies and Matt Whitney. Compared to Gaslight Anthem, Foo Fighters and influenced by everything from a lifetime of good music, all who have heard and seen them live have nothing but praise for the band and their songs. So much about music these days is disposable but Fireroad have no time for image and fakers, striving to provide their audience with the classic Rock sound that stands the test of time.
The Great Escape 28/12/17
Need a non-stop hour of great music with not a word about Christmas - in fact no chat at all? Then you'll love Blues On The Radio - The Great Escape - today's Track Of The Day - an hour filled with music from Muddy Waters, Sonny Boy Williamson, Buddy Guy, Etta James, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, BB King & Bonnie Raitt, Ray Charles, Taj Mahal, Big Mama Thornton, Albert Collins & Robert Cray, The Allman Brothers, Derek & The Dominoes, Willie Dixon, Jimmy Rogers, Eric Clapton & John Mayall, Jimmie Vaughan and John Lee Hooker. Yes all that in the space of just one hour and all you need do is click play and turn it up!
Vote Now - Best Reviewed CD 27/12/17
It's a brand new category this year - mainly thanks to our valued team of WRC reviewers out there! Anyway, in our 2017 WRC Awards today we switch our attention to the nominees in our Best Reviewed CD - namely Samantha Fish (Video Of The Day) for 'Belle Of The West', Black Country Communion (pictured) for 'BCCIV' and Mollie Marriott for 'Truth Is A Wolf'. Please cast your vote including our other ten categories here.
Feel Good Factor 27/12/17
Originally broadcast on Saturday night - just before Christmas Day - today's Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day includes music to uplift you at this time of year with a feel good show with great tracks and old favourites from Deep Purple (pictured), Boston, Guns N' Roses, Derek & The Dominos, Steppenwolf and more.
Idol Returns 27/12/17
Rock icon Billy Idol will shortly be bringing his Live! 2018 Tour to the United Kingdom and across Europe. Billy was responsible for some of Punk Rock's most memorable, literate, and evocative moments and created a pioneering new sound by bringing the spirit of '77 to the dance floor, going on to fashion an immediately identifiable musical blueprint that integrates club-land throb, Rockabilly desperation, and Rock 'n' Roll decadence. This will be Idols first UK/European run since his hugely successful Kings & Queens of The Underground Tour in 2014 and 2015 and it all starts in Manchester on Wednesday 20th June that includes a Saturday 23rd June appearance at London's O2 Academy in Brixton.
Vote Now - Best Rock Performance 26/12/17
Today we are now more than halfway through our 2017 WRC Awards nominees and we turn our attention to Best Rock Performance - strangely enough three legendary bands that we all saw perform at London's O2 Arena. First up are Black Sabbath (Vid Of The Day) who we saw as part of their 'The End' tour in late January. Our second nominee is Deep Purple (pictured) who we caught just a month ago as part of their 'Long Goodbye' tour and finally Queen + Adam Lambert (Track Of The Day) ensuring their legacy lives on just twelve days ago. So there you have it - if you want to cast your vote for one of these outstanding Rock bands then simply go here!
Happy Christmas! 25/12/17
A Merry Christmas from all of us at the WRC with our John Lennon Video Of The Day plus we jump on board the Christmas Blues train with a Black On Blues Special Track Of The Day featuring Pam Taylor, Buddy Guy, Jim Koeppel, Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers, Rev Shawn Amos, Fran McGillvray Band, Carey Bell, Michael Burks, Shemekia Copeland, Deb Ryder and Charles Brown. Have a rockin' Christmas Day!
Dan Reed Network/Extreme Review 24/12/17
"Despite his time in a Buddhist monastery and his solo, acoustic tours, he remains a natural Rock star, exemplified by his tormented vocals, continual bounding across the stage, Trump bashing interludes, dad-dancing movements and seemingly perpetual motion. Ably supported by the rest of the band, notably guitarist Brion James, dreadlocks flailing as he nails every solo, Dan captivated the audience with a succession of Network classics, including ‘Baby Now I’ and the slightly slower ‘Rainbow Child’."
Read the whole of Big Ian's Dan Reed Network/Extreme Brixton Academy gig review here (photo courtesy of Laurence Harvey) from last Wednesday plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Vote Now - Best International 24/12/17
With our Dan Reed Network review from last Wednesday here, today in our 2017 WRC Awards we coincidentally focus on our nominees in the Best International category. So we go back to March and London's iconic 100 Club where we first saw the Dan Reed Network, followed in July by Aussie legends Midnight Oil (today's Video Of The Day) who performed at the Hammersmith Apollo. Finally in this category, we look back to the begininning of October where we saw the awesome Living Colour (pictured) at London's ULU. So if you want to cast your vote for one of these awesome bands then simply go here!
Christmas On The Marsh 24/12/17
Comin' atchya on the latest Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day are Beau Williams, Chris Daniels and The Kings, Elles Bailey, Dr Wu and Friends, Dan Burnett, Richard Townend and The Mighty Bosscats, Thorbjorn Risager and The Black Tornado, Joe Rusi, Dave Ferra, Mississippi MacDonald and Steve Bailey, Wes Mackey, Catfish (pictured), Taj Mahal and Keb Mo , Bacon Fat Louis and TG Swampbusters to name just a few. Also don't forget to vote in our 2017 WRC Awards for Best Radio Show here which includes Blues On The Marsh!
Brian Tatler Interview 23/12/17
"What about the legend that is Tatler though? Well there's no doubting his enthusiasm as he hi-fived us down the front on the title track of two consecutive numbers from their 1980 debut album 'Lightening To The Nations', followed by 'The Prince', which demonstrated the early influence of Punk on Tatler's music - with the audience once again joining in or echoing Born Andersen on the chorus lines as they did with a few "wooooooaaaaah's" on the quieter, more sedate opening to 'The Heat Of The Night', another from 'Borrowed Time', before Tatler duly ratchet it up a gear with another awesome heavy guitar solo, although Rasmus was on the money for singling out Wilcox for praise at the end, for his unerring drumming." That was part of our take on Diamond Head's gig at London's O2 Academy Islington gig just over a couple of week's ago and we had the pleasure of interviewing all-round nice guy Mr. Tatler prior to the gig here (today's Track Of The Day).
Vote Now - Best Tribute 23/12/17
Today we showcase our fourth category of eleven in our 2017 WRC Awards - the nominees in our Best Tribute category. Firstly, we go back to late October and 'The Iron Maidens' at London's O2 Academy Islington (pictured) who we had actually interviewed a few days earlier. We hold our hands up that our next nominees are not exactly a 'Tribute' given they have Thin Lizzy's original drummer! Anyway we saw Brian Downey's Alive & Dangerous (Video Of The Day) at Nells Jazz & Blues in London at the end of November, a week after Wrinklystock VI at Dartford's Mick Jagger Centre where we saw headliners Magic truly keeping the spirit of both ELO and Queen alive. So there you have it - if you want to cast your vote for one of these outstanding Tribute's then simply go here!
ABBA Merry Christmas! 23/12/17
And talking of Wrinklystock VI - yesterday afternoon saw the Friends Of Carlton Christmas Party - one of our nominated charities who benefitted from our Magic/The Replicants MJC gig at the end of November. Anyway part of the money raised from Wrinklystock VI paid for yesterday's entertainment - none other than the return of the Abba Girls (pictured) who once again made the party go with a bang!
2017 WRC Awards - Best Unplugged 22/12/17
The voting in our eleven categories in our 2017 WRC Awards continues here as we focus today on our Best Unplugged category. In April we had the privilege of seeing Erja Lyytinen perform an 'unplugged' set at Soho's Ain't Nothing But Blues venue (pictured) in advance of her gig at London's 100 Club the following night. Meanwhile a month later, the WRC caught 'Honest Man' Matt Andersen at London's Borderline before our final nominee - Dan Reed - performed at St. Pancras Old Church, a beautifully restored parish church half way between Camden High Street and St. Pancras station. Simply vote for one of these three outstanding nominees here plus you can also check our Extreme/Dan Reed Network photo gallery here from Wednesday night's Brixton Academy gig.
Elf Warning 22/12/17
Yes its true. Just like Wizzard, our mates at Shooter are no more but their Christmas song (Video Of The Day) lives on and it is globally re-released today from all cool digital stores. You can order 'Christmas Times A Time To Rock' now on iTunes and for just 59p. What a pressie! Why not help them get it to No. 1!!! Remember a pirate is for life not just Xmas!
Christmas Blues 22/12/17
2017 WRC Award Best Radio Show nominees The Blues Club Podcast return with today's Track Of The Day and 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 Lucy Zirins, Tommy Castro, Corey Dennison Band, Downchild, Heather Newman Band, Brenda Boykin, Sweet Pea Atkinson, Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo', Chris Daniels and the Kings, The McKee Brothers, Kings & Associates, Josh Hyde, Little G Weevil, London Blusion, Jack J Hutchinson, Dave Ferra, Niall Kelly, Lara and the Bluz Dawgz, Erin Harpe and the Delta Swingers, Catfish, Doghouse Sam & His Magnatones, Samantha Fish, Dan Burnett, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats (pictured), Dago Red, Bobby Kyle, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Academy Champions 21/12/17
Last night at London’s O2 Academy Brixton, 2017 WRC Award nominees Dan Reed Network were special guests on Extreme’s December 2017 UK tour. As expected, all cylinders were furiously firing and all guns were blazing following DRN's last critically acclaimed album 'Fight Another Day'. And if that wasn't enough for the Academy faithful, headliners Extreme, who we unfortunately missed at Ramblin' Man earlier this year, rounded off a brilliant night with an amazing set. Anyone would think it was Christmas! Anyway, with more photos to come plus a review - check out today's Video Of The Day.
2017 WRC Awards - Best Support 21/12/17
Following the announcement of our 2017 WRC Award nominees yesterday - today we turn our attention to Best Support. First up is Canadian one-man Blues Rock power trio Steve Hill who we saw supporting Wishbone Ash at Islington's O2 Academy in October. Next it's another Hill - Glaswegians Mason Hill (pictured - think Alter Bridge meets UFO. And then has a love child with Black Stone Cherry) who we saw support Inglorious at London's Islington Assembly Hall in May. And finally American Blues Rock guitarist Gary Hoey (Track Of The Day) who supported Eric Gales at Nells Jazz & Blues in London at the beginning of May. So there you have it - if you want to cast your vote for one of these awesome support bands then simply go here - and as an incentive from Gary Hoey you can download some of his Christmas songs here!
Kris Barras Band Sign To Provogue 21/12/17
The Kris Barras Band have recently joined the Provogue label. 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 at RAWA Blues Festival (Poland) and an incredible performance at Ramblin’ Man Fair, but these crowds hold no fear for the former Mixed Martial Artist who has fought across the world including in Thailand, Las Vegas and in Singapore, where he fought in front of 8000 people, winning 14 out of 17 professional fights!
2017 WRC Awards Nominees Announced 20/12/17
With all the great music we have witnessed during 2017 - it wasn't easy - but yes we have finally come up with our nominees here in this year's WRC Awards. Simply choose your favourite from each of the eleven categories provided here and hit the vote button. You have until midnight 31st December to make your choice and only one vote per category per e-mail address is allowed - so there. So what are you waiting for? Spread the good news and make sure your favourite band gets the votes it deserves! In the meantime, today's Track Of The Day is last Saturday's Rock On The Ridge - one of the nominees in our our Best Radio Show category that also includes Blues On The Radio, Blues On The Marsh and Black On Blues!
Extreme Brixton Network Tonight! 20/12/17
"The band dynamic is another jewel in the DRN crown. Reed's powerful voice, energy and charisma was complemented by four outstanding musicians who just ooze their love of live music. The ever-smiling dreadlocked lead guitarist Brion James, with a new album out, belying his 61 years, not only with stand-out guitar solo's on the amazing 'Stronger Than Steel', 'Rainbow Child' and 'FAD's awesome 'Champion', but also seamlessly took lead vocals on the funky reggae of 'Save The World' also from 'FAD' and not forgetting the brief 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number' - part of that Trump gag." That was part of our take on 2017 WRC Best International Award nominees Dan Reed Network at the iconic 100 Club in March this year (pictured) and tonight Dan returns to London to support Extreme (Video Of The Day) at the Brixton Academy.
It's Christmas - But Not As You Know It! 20/12/17
Another 2017 WRC Award nominee is Rock On The Ridge and on today's "Christmas but not as you know it" Track Of The Day they dish up Status Quo, The Kinks, Blue Oyster Cult, Greg Lake, Rob Halford, Queen, The Who, Free, Iron Maiden, Shooter, Micki Free, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Ally Dickaty, The Darkness, Billy F Gibbons & Lemmy Kilmister, Trucker Diablo, Lynyrd Skynyrd (pictured), Goo Goo Dolls, Bruce Springsteen, Mountain, Joe Bonamassa and The Mentulls.
We're All Doomed! 19/12/17
To celebrate 50 years of Pink Floyd releasing music that changed the world, The Sword guitarist Kyle Shutt has produced a Heavy Metal cover of their seminal album, 'The Dark Side of the Moon'. Titled, 'Doom Side of the Moon', the resulting band and album features Shutt and a host of celebrated musicians including his bandmates from The Sword, bassist Bryan Richie and drummer Santiago Vela III, vocalist Alex Marrero (Brownout/Brown Sabbath), saxophonist Jason Frey (Black Joe Lewis/Hard Proof) and keyboardist Joe Cornetti (Croy & The Boys). Check out their take on 'Money' which is today's Video Of The Day.
Blues On The Radio 2017 Review 19/12/17
Blues On The Radio host Richard Dunning casts his eyes (and ears) back over a fabulous year of music on today's Track Of The Day to fill an hour with some of his favourites from 2017. What you'll get is an hour of just some of BOTR's musical highlights from Katie Bradley & Chris Corcoran, Troy Redfern, Half Deaf Clatch, Kris Barras, Marcus Malone, Mississippi MacDonald & Steve Bailey, Elles Bailey, Dave Ferra, Rebecca Downes, Ash Wilson (pictured), Catfish, Tom Walker Trio, Katie Bradley & Matt Long and Broken Levee. An hour of pure auditory pleasure and all you need do is click play and turn it up!
Going Dutch 19/12/17
The Mascot Label Group recently signed Dutch Psychedelic Blues trio DeWolff, a band formed in the Netherlands’ Deep South of Geleen as teenagers in 2007 by singer/guitarist Pablo van de Poel, brother/drummer Luka van de Poel and Hammond organist Robin Piso. They’re an old soul in a young body, transporting the listener back into the swirling psychedelia drenched Blues of the mid-60's. The trio combine an eccentric mixture of inexhaustible energy, great musicianship, contagious enthusiasm and a play-like-it’s-your-last-show-mentality that have seen them light a trail across Europe selling out headline shows, playing festivals such as Pinkpop, Lowlands, Reeperbahn, Rockpalast, Sziget and pick up prestigious support slots with Deep Purple and The Black Keys.
Man With A Mission 18/12/17
Japanese superstars Man With A Mission have announced an exclusive London headline show at The Dome, Tufnell Park on Friday 23rd February. The show will follow 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’ (today's Video Of The Day), which sees the band providing the soundtrack to the accomplishments of an everyday hero with their electrifying blend of Rock, Rap and Electronica.
Lincoln/Harpenden Blues Line Up Announced 18/12/17
Solid Entertainments have announced the line up for their Lincoln & Harpenden Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival that takes place over the weekend of 12th and 13th May next year from 2pm to 10pm. Headlining Lincoln Drill Hall on Saturday and Harpenden Public Halls on Sunday are The Pretty Things, supported by Aynsley Lister, Simon McBride, Connor Selby Band, The Luke Doherty Band and Deep Blue Sea. £25 Early Bird tickets are now on sale here.
Blues At Christmas 18/12/17
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features some Christmas tunes to get you in the mood including Fran McGillvray (pictured), Zoe Schwarz, Lily Locksmith, Liz Mandville, Shaun Murphy, Deb Ryder, Erin Harpe, Etta Britt and Pam Taylor.
We're Alright 17/12/17
Certified LA guitar legend Michael Landau has unveiled the first track, 'We're Alright' (Video Of The Day), from his upcoming new album 'Rock Bottom', which will be out on Friday 23rd February via Mascot Label Group/Provogue. Michael Landau has surrounded himself with familiar faces from his past - longtime collaborator David Frazee (Burning Water) on vocals and lyrics that can only be called poetry, his brother Teddy Landau (Raging Honkies) on superlative bass (which should end up on some future top ten lists), Larry Goldings on organ, and Alan Hertz playing drums, and their familiarity gives this album an incredible sense of timing and cohesion. There are myriad twists and turns, and the record unfolds to reveal exotic sounds and feelings, but it’s so well composed and performed that it is like taking a sonic, spiritual vacation!
A Deeper Cut 17/12/17
Orlando, Florida six-piece Thomas Wynn and The Believers have been announced as the support for British Rockers The Temperance Movement on their ‘A Deeper Cut’ February/March 2018 UK and European Tour. They will be playing songs from their new album 'Wade Waist Deep’, which was released in May via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group and recorded with four-time Grammy award-winning producer, Vance Powell (The White Stripes, Jack White, Chris Stapleton). The album is packed with deep Southern heat, complex, pulsing rhythms and breathtaking ‘blood’ harmonies from brother and sister Thomas and Olivia.
Vintage Trouble On The Marsh 17/12/17
Today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Friday night, includes music from Robert Randolph and The Family Band, Dan Burnett, Paul Cox, Otis Redding, Vintage Trouble (pictured) and more.
Introducing ..... Vern Daysel 16/12/17
Today in our latest 'Introducing ....' feature we introduce you to Vern Daysel - a Rock 'n' Roll musician from South Africa. Vern's new album 'Blood of a Wolf' is our Track Of The Day and his music has been described as "Bone-rattling Blues-inflected Southern Rock that’s insanely intense.." and is influenced by bands like Blackberry Smoke, Lynyrd Skynyrd, CCR and Aerosmith.
Smell The Coffee 16/12/17
Grammy winning Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa are back with their new duet album ‘Black Coffee’ (Video Of The Day) which will be released on Friday 26th January 2018 via Provogue/Mascot Label Group. It has been 4 years since Grammy nominated and number 1 Billboard Blues album 'Seesaw' was released by singer-songwriter and Blues-Rock powerhouse Beth Hart and guitar hero Joe Bonamassa. Since then, they have both been on fire, both in the studio and live. So, the time was perfect to reunite for another collection of ten Soul gems that encompass Hart’s breath-taking vocals and Joe’s masterfully expressive playing.
Rock Remembers Rick 16/12/17
Walkway's cover of Status Quo’s 'Rain' (featuring John Coghlan), is their tribute to the late Rick Parfitt, and is also featured as part of the ‘Rock Remembers Rick’ EP. The EP was released digitally yesterday and will also be released on a very limited edition 3-track 7" vinyl on Christmas Eve - marking the one year anniversary of Rick Parfitt’s passing. All proceeds go to the children’s cancer charity 'The Shona Smile Foundation’ and in addition to Walkway, the triple A-side EP also features Status Quo covers by Massive Wagons, CJ Wildheart, Boss Caine, Ben Marsden and Jason Hodgson with Sound Of Status and The Quo Choir.
The Show Must Go On! 15/12/17
We first saw Queen perform at Hammersmith Odeon just over 42 years ago and then at Wembley Arena (yes Arena) in May 1978. By the Summer of 2005, the legend that was Freddie Mercury had cruely left us for that great gig in the sky and to be fair, Paul Rodgers, did an exceptional job at London's Hyde Park belting out not only Queen classics but also Bad Company and Free hits as well. Fast forward to last Wednesday night and a first for the WRC this side of the pond - seeing Adam Lambert front one of the greatest Rock bands in history. Well if we wanted proof that Queen were not all about Mercury - then this was is it. Lambert was superb but both Brian May and Roger Taylor spectacularly demonstrated on the night that age or form is temporary but class is permanent. Check out our Queen + Adam Lambert Photo Gallery here today and if you get the chance of a last minute ticket to London's Wembey Arena gig tonight then grab it!
Departed And Mason Hill at Underworld Tonight 15/12/17
"And then their debut single from 2 years ago 'Now You See Me'. In a display of heartfelt emotion, and an indication of their younger influences, Taylor dedicates the closing song 'Where I Belong' to Chris Cornell. Starting with just guitar and vocals this track grows into a full Rock ballad. Another tasteful solo, showing that minimalist is often best in a song like this. Well received by the crowd, many of whom are here specifically to see them, Mason Hill warm the heart. And the stage." That was part of our take on Mason Hill (Video Of The Day) when they supported Inglorious this May (pictured) and tonight they return to London and The Underworld along with Departed who we also saw supporting Michael Schenker last month.
Your Friday Blues 15/12/17
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 Paul Lamb, Buddy Guy, Tommy Castro, RootBone, Andrea Marr, Tape Five, Steve Gibbons Band, Downchild, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, Laura Holland, Samantha Fish, Miss Freddye, Tedeschi Trucks Band, The Marcus King Band, Boogie Patrol, Janiva Magness, Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo', Dave Ferra, King King (pictured), Dave Keyes, Shaun Murphy, Etta James, Tucci, Albert King, Jack J Hutchinson, Dan Burnett, Greasy Gravy, Doghouse Sam & His Magnatones, John Verity Band, The Mighty Bosscats, Van Morrison , B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
We Will Rock You 14/12/17
We first saw Queen perform at Hammersmith Odeon just over 42 years ago and then at Wembley Arena (yes Arena) in May 1978. That was it until Paul Rodgers joined them for a brilliant gig in Hyde Park in the Summer of 2005. So Adam Lambert was a first for the WRC this side of the pond last night - and with a photo gallery of their second night at London's O2 Arena to come - please check out today's Video Of The Day.
Bucket At The Cavern Tonight 14/12/17
WRC amigo and ex-Bad Company guitarist Dave "Bucket" Colwell has a special Bucket and Co Christmas gig at The Cavern, 100 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park SW20 0AY tonight from 7pm to midnight. With support from Ilona, Bucket's band line up is pretty special including Dave Boyce (ex Quireboys) Michael Fassberg (from Sweden’s Bonafide) Benjy Read (Pat Travers) and special guest vocalist Paul Manzi (Cats In Space). Tickets priced £10 are available from the venue at thecavern@sky.com or facebook.com/noel.nevin T'will be a rocking blast ...
Bordello Opens In London Tonight 14/12/17
New York gypsy-Punk outfit Gogol Bordello recently released a live video (today's Track Of The Day) for their brand new single ‘Did It All’, ahead of their UK headline tour which stops off at London's Brixto Academy tonight. Full of energy and charisma, their turbulent live performance is an extravagant whirlwind of entertainment, every show a frenzied party as frontman Eugene Hütz sips his wine and his musical ensemble tear up stages across the globe in signature Gogol Bordello style. The footage was captured live from NYC’s Capitol Theatre and is a taster of what to expect tonight. The band will be playing tracks from their brand new album 'Seekers and Finders', their first for four years, which was released earlier this year through Cooking Vinyl. The band have been touring relentlessly this year in support of 'Seekers and Finders', which included an appearance at British Summer Time alongside Green Day.
Belle Of The West 13/12/17
"Unashamedly Country would be one way to describe 'Belle Of The West', another would be an excellent Bluegrass style song that someone like Alison Krauss would be proud of. A great song featuring slide guitar and given depth with the addition of backing vocals. A personal highlight of the whole album. 'Poor Black Mattie' is an absolute free for all romp, from the opening Rockabilly bass, to the delta Blues harmonica, based around a repetitive riff, it’s a cover version of a song which sounds like it’s been played on the porch of many a Mississippi cotton field."
It's great to have Phil C. back after his recent illness - so check out Phil's take on Samantha Fish's latest CD 'Belle Of The West' here.
Killer Queen At O2 Arena Tonight 13/12/17
"The hits flew out from 'Fat Bottom Girls' to 'Killer Queen' to 'Tie Your Mother Down' to 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and of course closing with 'We Will Rock You/We Are The Champions'. The light show was good and Adam was flamboyant. Lots of tributes to Freddy Mercury, but the crowd, music and Brian May stole the show." That was our 'Message From America' from Houston way back in the Summer of 2014 and tonight Queen + Adam Lambert play the second of two nights at London's O2 Arena and we will be there!
Von Hertzen Brothers To Play Ramblin' Man 13/12/17
Award winning Finnish Rockers Von Hertzen Brothers, are to play Ramblin’ Man Fair in Maidstone on Sunday 1st July 2018. Following their breathtaking November 2017 UK tour, the band will be performing some classic Von Hertzen Brothers songs, as well as a selection from their new album 'War Is Over' which was released in November and saw the band take a new approach to their songwriting technique. Brothers Mikko, Kie and Jonne took time to write separately. The trio wanted to invert themselves, strip everything back and except for drums, play all of the instruments and produce the record themselves. Anyway, you can hear for yourself as Von Hertzen Brothers are featured on today's Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day!
Diamond Head Review 12/12/17
"Maintaining the recognisable Diamond Head sound was 'Diamonds' another from their latest album, with its great introduction and superb riff, which certainly had the roadie (think Bobby from Sons Of Anarchy) rockin' out big time towards the back of the stage, before they launched into 'Lightening To The Nations' 'It's Electric' - Tatler's guitar solo completely justifying the song's title. I suppose it was inevitable following both Wilcox's drum and Ashton's bass intro to another track from 'Lightening To The Nations' - the frenetic 'Helpless' - that saw the arrival of the mosh pit before proceedings morphed into mass fist pumping as Karl's snare led us down the path of the Metallica covering and Sabbath sounding riff of 'Am I Evil?' (also the title of of Tatler's recently re-released autobiography) again from 'Lightening To The Nations'."
Read the whole of AJ's Diamond Head O2 Academy Islington gig review here from last Wednesday plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Anavae At Boston Music Rooms Tonight 12/12/17
Tonight you can catch Anavae supporting Area 11 at their special Christmas Show at London’s Boston Music Rooms. The Alt-Rock duo recently released their eagerly anticipated new EP 'Are You Dreaming?' via Eleven Seven Records including their news single ’All Or Nothing’ which is today's Video Of The Day. Anavae is formed of vocalist Rebecca Need-Menear, who has a really stunning voice, and guitarist Jamie Finch who deliver a sound that bridges the gap between Rock and Electronica. The EP also features ‘Forever Dancing’, ‘Stay’, ‘Lose Your Love’ and Are We Alone’, and they have a huge loyal fanbase that has seen them sell-out headline shows in and around London and recently they played at Halifax Pop Explosion Festival in Canada.
Robin Bibi & Tim Hain Band Live Tonight 12/12/17
It's yet another all new Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day today! An hour of music from Mike Ross, The Craig Hughes Two, Half Deaf Clatch, Dago Red, II Big, John Verity, Red Butler, Doghouse Sam & His Magnatones, Sweet Pea Atkinson, Dan Burnett and Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats. There's also music from Robin Bibi and Tim Hain who both join forces tonight at the Tuesday Night Music Club at The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF!
Merry Christmas Everybody 11/12/17
Christmas came early at IQ's 20th consecutive annual party at London's Islington Assembly Hall on Saturday night. Sandwiched in between an opening Christmas medley and an encore of Slade's 'Merry Christmas Everbody' was exceptional Prog fayre that included a couple of new songs from their forthcoming album next year plus those IQ staples such as 'Headlong', 'Failsafe' and the Progtastic 25 minute 'Harvest Of Souls'. Anyway, check out today our IQ Photo Gallery from a brilliant night here.
Give Me Your Time 11/12/17
Laurence Jones, often labelled as “the future of the Blues”, recently announced the release of his album 'The Truth' on Friday 9th March next year, and to coincide with the news, the 25-year old has released his official music video for his single 'Give Me Your Time' which is today's Video Of The Day. Also to dovetail with the release of the album, Laurence will start his nationwide tour at London's Borderline on Tuesday 23rd January and will continue in May.
Battle Of The Blues 11/12/17
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day includes music from Jack J Hutchinson (pictured), Bad Day Blues Band, T Belly, Webster Avenue, Steve Howells & Jason Weinheimer and Vin Mott.
Islington's IQ 10/12/17
Regarded as one of the world’s most highly-respected Prog Rock bands, IQ celebrated their 35th anniversary at Islington Assembly Hall last night. This rounded off a year that saw their release of the major motion picture adaptation of their 'Subterranea' album which was released 20 years ago plus work beginning on the follow-up to the highly successful 'The Road Of Bones'. Anyway, with a photo gallery to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
Darkness Remains 10/12/17
Mighty classic Metal trio Night Demon (Track Of The Day), who are set to support Accept on their entire upcoming January/February European tour, have lined up the release of their 'Darkness Remains' Expanded Edition album for Friday 12th January on Steamhammer/SPV, the day the tour commences in Hamburg, subsequently landing in the UK to play at Camden's Koko on Thursday 8th February.
A Town Likes Alice 10/12/17
Alice Cooper recently scooped up the award for Best International Artist at the 19th annual awards held in Glasgow. The awards are held each year to raise money for music charity Nordoff Robbins Scotland. This year they raised over £148,000 for the music therapy charity. Cooper has just finished a hugely successful UK-wide tour, his first full UK Tour in five years including London's Wembley Arena, which saw Alice reunited with the original Alice Cooper band and schoolmates Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith and Michael Bruce. The Alice Cooper band split in 1974 after which Alice went on to continued success as a solo artist. In the meantime watch out shortly for the announcement of our WRC award nominees for 2017!
IQ In Islington Tonight 9/12/17
IQ will be gracing London's Islington Assembly Hall stage at 8pm tonight! With a 35-year history, IQ are widely regarded as one of the world’s most highly respected Progressive Rock bands. Their first vinyl album ‘Tales From The Lush Attic’ was released in 1983, and was followed by the genre-defining classic ‘The Wake’ in 1985. 2013 saw the 30th anniversary of IQ’s first album ‘Tales from the Lush Attic’ being celebrated with a completely new mix from the original 24-track masters. This was shortly followed by the vinyl release of the band’s 1993 album ‘Ever’. In 2014 IQ released their eleventh studio album ‘The Road Of Bones’ to unanimous praise, rightfully taking the ‘Album of the Year’ slot in virtually every Progressive Rock poll that year. The double live CD ‘Live On The Road Of Bones’ appeared in 2015, and the band’s first Blu-ray ‘Scrape Across The Sky’, filmed at the band’s ever popular annual Christmas concert in Holland, followed at the end of 2016. And so to tonight and 2017 where in between gigs they have been writing for their next, as yet untitled, studio album.
Dirty Thrills Change Itinerary 9/12/17
Blues-Rock quartet Dirty Thrills have been forced to postpone three upcoming dates. Sadly, due to a family bereavement, they are postponing three December UK headlining shows in Birmingham (12th), Norwich (13th) and Manchester (15th) although tonight's gig at London's Electric Ballroom supporting Gun and InMe will go ahead. The band also recently held an acoustic Total Rock Live Lounge Session which is today's Track Of The Day.
Goya Kathmandu EP Released 9/12/17
Hailing from Stoke on Trent, Goya is a new Post-Rock/Progressive Rock group who have been impressing live audiences with their "must listen to" instrumental debut EP 'Kathmandu' which was released yesterday. Today's Video Of The Day from the EP is the mighty 'Venenatus', which is epic and adventurous and delivers a kaleidoscope of musical influences from Goya whilst making the track their own. Goya don't hold back on this, their "pièce de résistance" (to date)..., it is 'Absolute Music'!
Diamond Head Photo Gallery 8/12/17
The bombshell from legendary Diamond Head guitarist Brian Tatler in our pre-gig interview that the band would not would not be playing 'All The Reason You Live' nor would they be doing a Montrose cover, didn't detract from their powerful NWOBHM set at London's O2 Academy Islington on Wednesday night! Seriously our ears are still ringing despite them being reduced to a four-piece with the absence of guitarist Andy Abberley. Anyway, all-round nice guy Brian, vocalist Rasmus Bom Andersen, drummer Karl Wilcox and bass guitarist Dean Ashton blew the bloody roof off the Academy in a lucky thirteen song set that included 'Sweet And Innocent' and of course 'Am I Evil'. Unfortunately we didn't catch Dead Man's Whiskey nor Cairo Son (that's another story) but with a review and our Brain Tatler interview to come - please check out today's Photo Gallery here.
Naked Six In London Tonight 8/12/17
Naked Six (Video Of TheDay) are an exciting new two-piece band based in York that bring a unique blend of Alternative Rock, Grunge, Schizoid Blues, fused together with a post Punk attitude. Delivering high octane, contemporary edged Rock, Naked Six's electrifying live performances to date have seen the band making a name for themselves and firing up audiences with their powerful songs and compelling lyrics. They recently toured with The Temperance Movement and Seb Byford (vocals/guitars) and Tom Witts (drums) are headlining in their own right at London's Lock Tavern tonight with one final gig before Christmas at Manchester's The Castle Hotel on Saturday 16th December.
Join The Club 8/12/17
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns this week 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 Shaun Murphy, The Marcus King Band, Rocky Athas, The Band, The Riotous Brothers, Altered Five Blues Band, Connie Lush Band, Dave Keyes, Rusty Wright Band, Popa Chubby, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Davide Pannozzo, John Verity Band, Niecie, Marcus Malone Band, Allman Brothers Band, Sari Schorr (pictured), Bobby Rush & Blinddog Smokin', Dr. John, Ronnie Earl, Robert Cray, Tommy Castro, Val Starr and the Blues Rocket, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Doghouse Sam & His Magnatones, Dan Burnett, Coco Montoya, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Head's Up! 7/12/17
Last night the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal movement returned to the O2 Academy in Islington. Headliners Diamond Head, recognised as one of the original NWOBHM bands back in the 1970’s, soon gained a formidable reputation for their thunderous and energetic festival performances. However, they remained an underground band, never achieving the record sales that their live shows warranted, but many NWOBHM bands who did achieve greater chart success, notably Metallica and Megadeath, were quick to name Diamond Head as a vital early influence. Only one member of the original line-up survives: lead guitarist Brian Tatler, however, when they finally appeared on stage they did not disappoint, delivering a set of classic Rock full of blistering riffs, compelling choruses and energetic vocals. With a review, more photos and hopefully an audio interview to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
Xmas Time's A Time To Rock.. It's Back 7/12/17
Yes its true. Just like Wizzard, our mates at Shooter are no more but their Christmas song (Track Of The Day) lives on and it will be re-released on Friday 22nd December globally from all cool digital stores. You can pre-order now on iTunes and for just 59p. What a pressie! Why not help them get it to No. 1!!! Remember a pirate is for life not just Xmas!
Bonamassa At Court 7/12/17
Celebrated Blues-Rock guitarist and singer-songwriter Joe Bonamassa has been confirmed to play at the Hampton Court Palace Festival on Tuesday 12th June next year. Following his successful tour, including two sold out concerts at London's Royal Albert Hall in April 2017 (pictured), Joe will return to the UK in March 2018 to perform seven concerts which will feature a hand-picked group of world-class musicians playing material from 'Blues of Desperation', plus classic Bonamassa fan favourites.
Diamond Geezers 6/12/17
"When they finally appeared they did not disappoint, delivering a set of classic Rock full of blistering riffs, compelling choruses and energetic vocals. The set comprised of 16 songs lasting a full 90 minutes with hardly a break, often flowing straight into the next song without even allowing time for the audience to show its appreciation of the previous one!" That was part of our take last year on Diamond Head at London's O2 Academy Islington (pictured) and the guys return to the same venue tonight alongside Dead Man's Whiskey (Video Of The Day) and Cairo Son.
Lionheart/Airrace/V1 Review 6/12/17
"The heavy riff of 'Not Really Me' demonstrated the tightness of the band before they fast forwarded thirty three years to the present and their new single 'Eyes Like Ice' - its Dokkenish feel with their trademark guitar/keyboard fusion giving their assembled fans that warm feeling like the band never had actually been away. Two more from 'SOL' followed - a great opening vocal from Payne on 'Didn't Want To Lose Ya' led to another great guitar solo from the scarf wearing Laurie, before they launched into their very first single 'I Don't Care' - classic Rock at its best with its Van Halen edge. The second new song of the night 'Come With Us' showcased charismatic frontman Payne's powerhouse vocals, before Mansworth Senior dedicated the next song, 'Promise To Call', to an Airrace fan named Tim. Just hope that Tim was there to witness the fantastic execution of this melodic AOR classic."
Read the whole of AJ's V1/Airrace/Lionheart The Underworld Camden gig review here from last Saturday plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Great New Music With Some Old Favourites 6/12/17
Ho Ho Ho .... your ears will think Christmas has come early with today's Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day which includes music from Blue Helix, Von Hertzen Brothers (picured), Sainted Sinners, Stone Broken, Black Stone Cherry, Reverend And The Makers, Spiritual Beggars, In Flames, Band of Skulls, These Wicked Rivers, The Black Marbles, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, Ammunition, Thin Lizzy, Rick Springfield, Blacktop Mojo (kindly dedicated to the WRC), Massive, Bedrokk, Shaman's Harvest and on their 'Introducing Stage' - two in a row from Trevor's Head!
Ash For Schorr 5/12/17
2016 WRC Best Blues Rock Performance Award winner Sari Schorr (pictured) will be debuting a new band as part of her 2018 World Tour. And Sari will be joined for all her 2018 dates by one of the most exciting young contemporary guitar players and singers on the Blues scene today – namely Ash Wilson, who will also be heavily featured on Schorr’s new album. Lincolnshire’s very own Wilson has recently been nominated as one of the best Blues guitarists of 2017 by Total Guitar magazine and their UK leg begins on Tuesday 16th January at London's Half Moon Putney and ends on Saturday 20th January at The Citadel, St. Helens.
Blues On The Radio World Exclusives 5/12/17
Yes indeed - there are no less than four World exclusives on today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day! For starters there are four new IBBA albums of the month for December from Dan Burnett, Doghouse Sam & His Magnatones, Dago Red and Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats (who are also playing at the Tuesday Night Music Club at The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF, tonight and will now be supported by JW Jones no less). Then there's a sprinkling of great new music from Alastair Greene, Jack J Hutchinson (pictured), Freeworld, Slide Tracked, Guy Davis & Fabrizio Poggi, Miss Freddye and something from Robin Bibi. Then, finally, there's those exclusives: a never before heard live track from Yoka & The Sugarbeats plus three World exclusive first plays of new tracks from Elles Bailey!
100 Club Tuesday Blues 5/12/17
Just a reminder that following last week's postponed Tuesday Blues gig, Gabriella Jones is now on tonight's 100 Club bill in London's Oxford Street, along with the Connie Lush Band (today's Video Of The Day) and Felix Rabin! Tonight is the last Tuesday Blues gig until the New Year, when Aynsley Lister, supported by the Mark Pontin Group return to the iconic Club on 30th January.
Underworld Photo Gallery 4/12/17
With a review on its way, check out today's Underworld Photo Gallery here from Saturday night featuring V1 (pictured), Airrace and Lionheart. From the moment we walked into The World's End Pub and chatted to Dennis Stratton and Clive Edwards from Lionheart and then met Adam Payne and Linda Kelsey Foster from Airrace after the show - it was well and truly an amazing night of pure traditional AOR/NWOBHM. Rock out!
Reigning Days Eclipse 4/12/17
Having recently signed to Marshall Records, UK Rock trio Reigning Days are back with their brand new single ‘Gravity’ (today's Video Of The Day), and they will be playing two special UK shows this week at London’s Old Blue Last tomorrow 5th December and The Cavern, Exeter this Thursday 7th December. Following the release of their acclaimed debut EP last year, ‘Gravity’ sees Reigning Days launch into the next chapter of their career. The first track to be taken from their forthcoming album 'Eclipse', which was recorded at Abbey Road Studios, it’s a tantalizing taste of what’s to come. The Devonshire three-piece, comprised of Dan Steer, Jonny Finnis and Joe Sansome, were one of the highlights at 2016’s The Great Escape festival and have played support slots for the likes of Lower Than Atlantis, Enter Shikari and Feeder as well as headlining their own shows across the country.
Tangled Up In Blue(s) 4/12/17
This week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special featuring Laura Cheadle, Pam Taylor, Mindi Abair, Lisa Lystam, Anna Gutmanis, Casey Hensley and Katie Webster.
Underworld Rocks Out 3/12/17
Lionheart (pictured) and Airrace continued their pre-Xmas co-headlining tour stopping off at London's Underworld in Camden last night. Lionheart was originally formed in 1980 during the NWOBHM period and consist of Dennis Stratton (Iron Maiden), Steve Mann (Michael Schenker Group), Rocky Newton (Michael Schenker Group), Clive Edwards (UFO) and Lee Small (Shy). Whilst, one of the UK’s pioneering AOR bands Airrace, are best known in Hard Rock circles for being the band that saw the musical debut of drummer Jason Bonham - their line-up last night being Adam Payne - vocals, Laurie Mansworth - guitar, Rocky Newton doubling up on bass, Linda Kelsey Foster - keyboards and Dhani Mansworth - drums. With great support also from V1 (ex Iron Maiden) - check out today's Video Of The Day.
Raveneye UK Tour 2018 3/12/17
Fresh from their stint as special guests on the recent Kiss and Bush tours, appearances at Reading and Leeds festivals, and their own American headline dates, UK Rock trio RavenEye (Track Of The Day) have announced their own headline UK tour for January/February next year including Dingwalls on Friday 2nd February. Since releasing their wildly successful EP ‘Breaking Out’, and debut album ‘NOVA', RavenEye has toured globally, supporting Slash, Deep Purple, The Darkness, Kiss, Bush, Aerosmith, Chevelle and Halestorm, amongst others. The band has headlined their own tours through Europe and America as well as performing at major international Rock festivals. Their incendiary live shows have captivated crowds and put them on the map as a ‘must see live’ band.
Prog Masquerade All-Dayer Today! 3/12/17
Following on from recent Prog all-dayers Progtoberfest and Prog For Peace, Masquerade 2 is a one day musical event in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support starting today at 12.30pm at London's Boston Music Room at 178 Junction Road, London N19 5QQ - opposite Tufnell Park underground station. It features the best in contemporary Progressive and Hard Rock. - namely Magic Pie, Tiger Moth Tales, Preacher, Big Hogg, I Am The Manic Whale. A fully festive celebration, it will be an exuberant, fancy dress affair. Go in your wildest glad rags!
Mollie Marriott/Bad Touch Islington Academy Review 2/12/17
"The tantalizing 'Run With The Hounds', taken from Mollie's debut album, opens the set and is executed with sublime precision and enthusiasm. This song has a delightful and satisfying melodic groove, a great set opener. Next up was the title track of the new album, the beguiling and classy 'Truth Is A Wolf', an irresistible groove with spellbinding vocals. 'Nobody To Love' is a new song which is not on the debut album and is a first for me. A riveting and rousing heavy Funk Soul track with exhilarating vocals."
Read the whole of Steven C. Gilbert's' Mollie Marriott/Bad Touch O2 Islington Academy gig review here from last Sunday (photo courtesy of Laurence Harvey) plus check out today's Track Of The Day.
Airrace + Lionheart Co-Headliner Tonight! 2/12/17
Italian Rock powerhouse label Frontiers Music srl recently announced the re-signing of Airrace (pictured) for a new album to be released in 2018. One of the UK’s pioneering AOR bands, the group have hit the road with kindred spirits Lionheart (Video Of The Day) for a pre-Xmas co-headlining tour which stops off at London's Underworld in Camden tonight. In fact the last time we saw Lionheart's ex-Iron Maiden guitarist Dennis Stratton was drinking Trooper with an army of Maiden fans at The Pilot Inn before their gig at London's O2 Arena at the end of May. We're sure that we are in for another quality night tonight!
First Bands Announced For Ramblin' Man 2018 2/12/17
Next year's Ramblin' Man Fair at Mote Park, Maidstone, Kent, over the weekend of 30th June - 1st July features one of the most exciting Rock acts of recent times, Halestorm, as special guests on the Sunday. Meanwhile, other acts recently announced include Outlaw Country Stage headliners Steve Earle & The Dukes playing the iconic 'Copperhead Road' in its entirety, 2014 WRC Award winners Blackberry Smoke from Atlanta, Georgia, bringing a heavy slice of Southern Rock to the Fair plus the super group of super groups, Sons Of Apollo, featuring Mike Portnoy, Billy Sheehan Derek Sherinian, Jeff Scott Soto and Ron 'Bumblefoot' Thal.
December WRC Bulletin Out Today 1/12/17
Today's December 2017 WRC e-mail Bulletin looks back at November and Wrinklystock VI featuring Magic - a kind of Queen & ELO (pictured) supported by Wrinklystock legends The Replicants and our November gigs including Michael Schenker, L. A. Guns, Hard Rock Hell 11, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Alice Cooper, Deep Purple, Live & Dangerous plus our Kie Von Hertzen interview and Travelin Jack CD review. We also look forward to December and the announcement of our 2017 WRC Award nominees plus our December gigs including Airrace, Diamond Head, IQ, Queen, Departed and Dan Reed Network. And if you are not currently on our e-mail circulation list then please send us your details in the contact box below!
Introducing .... Robert J Hunter Band 1/12/17
Better late than never as they say, as we finally get around to 'introducing ...' you to Dirty Blues power trio, The Robert J Hunter Band (Video Of The Day). This road worn young band have been making waves in the Blues scene as of late following a busy 2017 festival season, including; The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival, Colne and participation in this years UK Blues Challenge at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club. This is a hard working energetic live act who’s roots are in Blues with raw original material paired with gruff powerful vocals, raucous guitar work and a super tight rhythm section.
Pinch Punch It's The Blues Club 1/12/17
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns on the first of the month 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 Joe Bonamassa, Dave Keyes, Benny Turner, Luther Allison, Beth Hart, Ronnie Earl, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Dan Patlansky, Sean Webster Band, The Snyders, Jack J Hutchinson, Val Starr and the Blues Rocket, Starlite Campbell Band, Robert J Hunter, The Marcus King Band, The Bad Day Blues Band, Jo Harman, Miss Freddye, Rocky Athas, Michael McDonald, Walter Trout (pictured), Donald Fagen, Albert Cummings, Imelda May, Tape Five, Jesse Davey, Larkin Poe, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.