Progtoberfest 2 Photo Gallery 31/10/17

Sunday saw Balham's Bedford Pub in London as the Prog capital of the world for Progtoberfest 2 - an all afternoon/evening extravaganza of  Progressive Rock bands, namely headliners The Gift (pictured) who performed at Ramblin' Man Fair earlier this year plus support from The Far Meadow, Habu, The Rube Goldberg Machine and current WRC favourites IT.  The event was organised by The Gift's very own charismatic frontman Mike Morton and was also hosted by full of beans Rock Comic and our mate Pete K Mally. Congratulations to everyone on organising a wonderful day of live music, and with a review to come - check out today our photo gallery here from the gig!

All New Blues On The Radio 31/10/17

An all new Blues On The Radio podcast is today's Track Of The Day featuring Dave Ferra, Walklate & Fuschi, Liza Ohlback, Mike Ross, Little Freddie King, Troy Redfern, Mississippi MacDonald, Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters, Benjamin Bassford, Jack J Hutchinson, Rebecca Downes (pictured), Dago Red, Bad Touch and Mollie Marriott!

Introducing...... Travelin Jack 31/10/17

Our thanks to WRC correspondent Steven C. Gilbert for introducing us to a fantastic German Retro Rock band called Travelin Jack (today's Video Of The Day). The band have developed into one of Germany’s most unusual new Rock acts over the last four years, having signed to Steamhammer/SPV to release their spangling second album, ‘'Commencing Countdown'’, in September. 'Commencing Countdown’' may bring to mind great Rock bands from the seventies such as Thin Lizzy, Rush, Scorpions, Slade and Deep Purple, but the Berlin group’ (consisiting of Alia Spaceface –vocals and guitar, Flo The Fly guitar, Steve Burner bass and  Montgomery Shell – drums) compositions and warm, analogue production are both contemporary and modern. “ 

Balham's Progressive Gift 30/10/17

Yesterday the Prog capital of the world was Balham's Bedford Pub in London. Progtoberfest 2 not only featured five Progressive Rock bands, namely headliners The Gift who performed at Ramblin' Man Fair earlier this year plus support from The Far Meadow, Habu, The Rube Goldberg Machine and current WRC favourites IT, but it was also hosted by Rock Comic and our mate Pete K Mally. On a great day of live music, check out today's Video Of The Day, with a review and more photos to come!

Wrinklystock 6 Nearly Sold Out 30/10/17

With just 20 days to go, our countdown continues in respect of our WRC sponsored charity concert ‘Magic - a kind of Queen & a kind of ELO’ at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, on Saturday 18th November at 7.30pm. With news of support band The Replicants song auction to be announced later this week - ‘Wrinklystock 6’ stars Magic, a tribute to two of the greatest British Rock bands of all time - Queen and The Electric Light Orchestra - together in one fabulous show! With very few tickets left, don't leave it to late, so purchase your tickets here for a bargain £22 or from the MJC Box Office on 01322 291100.

Spooky Blues 30/10/17

This week's Black On Blues Podcast Track Of The Day is dedicated to Rock and Roll legend Fats Domino who died this week. It's another Blues women special featuring Pam Taylor, Erin Harpe, Casey Hensley, Shemekia Copeland, Samantha Fish (pictured) and Shaun Murphy.

Iron Maidens Interview 29/10/17

Run to the Hills: The Iron Maidens are back in London tonight at the O2 Academy Islington for the final night of their UK tour! On Tuesday before we headed off to to see Metallica at London's O2 Arena, we had the pleasure of interviewing both (pictured) drummer Linda ‘Nikki McBURRain’ McDonald and guitarist Nikki ‘Davina Murray’ Stringfield of the the world’s one and only all-female Iron Maiden tribute band. You can listen  to the interview here, recorded in advance of their first gig in Cardiff. Also watch out for shortly a review of tonight's gig! 

Progtoberfest 2 In Balham Today 29/10/17

For all you proggers out there, get along today to The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, London SW12 9HD for Progtoberfest 2. Doors open at 12.30pm with the first band on stage at 1pm. Hosting proceedings is Rock Comic and our mate Pete K Mally with headliners The Gift who performed at Ramblin' Man Fair earlier this year. Support is from The Far Meadow, Habu, The Rube Goldberg Machine and current WRC favourites IT. 

Darkness Remains 29/10/17

Mighty classic Metal newcomers Night Demon, whose storming second album, ‘Darkness Remains’ (Video Of The Day), was released on Steamhammer/SPV to huge acclaim in April, have lined up their first ever UK and Irish tour in November including London's The Dev in Camden on Saturday 11th November. Comprising of Jarvis Leatherby (vocals/bass), Armand John Anthony (guitar) and Dusty Squires (drums), Night Demon chose to link with Steamhammer/SPV to release their debut, full length album, ‘Curse Of The Damned’, in January 2015. ‘Darkness Remains’ is a much more mature and accomplished offering than its predecessor, and the band are also set to return to Europe in January 2018 to support Accept on their six week long continental tour, calling in to the UK to play at London’s Koko, also in Camden, on Thursday 8th February.  

Bigfoot Photo Gallery 28/10/17

London's The Underworld in Camden laid on a veritable feast of Rock music on Thursday night. Unfortunately, we only caught the tail end of Sinner Sinners but this was more than made up for by home town Heavy Rockers Dead Man's Whiskey (pictured) who absolutely rocked the joint. However, the icing on the cake was Wigan Hard Rock outfit Bigfoot, who are currently on a UK tour supporting their recently released self-titled and critically acclaimed debut album via Frontiers. Anyway, with a review to come check out today's photo gallery from the gig here.

Never Mind The Professionals 28/10/17

The Professionals (Video Of The Day) play an intimate London show at The Garage tonight celebrating the release of their new album 'What In the World' following their warm up show in Wolverhampton last night. Today also marks the 40th anniversary of the Sex Pistols 'Never Mind The Bollocks' album, and 35 years later, the band formed from the ashes of the Sex Pistols by Paul Cook and Steve Jones is back. 'What In The World' bristles with conviction and finds The Professionals on electrifying form, delivering some of the most ballsy, honest and downright brilliant songs of their career. The Professionals are also joined by a stellar cast of guest guitar players including original member Steve Jones (who plays on three tracks).  Duff McKagen (Guns N’ Roses), Mick Jones (The Clash), Phil Collen (Def Leppard), Marco Pirroni (Adam & The Ants), Chris McCormack (3 Colours Red) and Billy Duffy (The Cult) also join the party.

Saturday Blues 28/10/17

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 Albert Castiglia Band, The Original Blues Brothers Band,  Tommy Castro (pictured), Kelly Zirbes, Leif de Leeuw Band, Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings,  Howlin' Wolf,  Wily Bo Walker, Tower of Power, Kim Wilson, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Trizia Band, Lizz Wright, Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo', Van Morrison, Jo Harman, Benny Turner,  The Blues Freaks, Lew Jetton, Jonny Lang, Dave Ferra, Richard van Bergen, The Hoodle, Mississippi MacDonald, Robert Hokum, Greaseland All-Stars, Weston Harris Hill, Tape Five, John Pagano Band, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.

Bigfoot Sighted In Camden 27/10/17

Bigfoot recently released their self-titled debut album via Frontiers and they played London's Underworld last night as part of their UK tour in support of the album. A Hard Rock band from Wigan, they burst onto the scene in the spring of 2014 with a wide range of influences from The Eagles through to Pantera. Boasting the powerful vocals of Antony Ellis, dual lead guitars from Sam Millar and Mick McCullagh, plus the thunderous rhythm section of bassist Matt Avery and drummer Tom Aspinall - check out today's Video Of The Day with a review and more photos to come.

Still Got The Blues For You 27/10/17

On Friday 24th November BMG release Gary Moore’s 'Blues and Beyond', a remarkable collection of his powerful and emotive Blues studio recordings. 'Blues and Beyond' includes unreleased live recordings and the official Gary Moore biography 'I Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow' written by Harry Shapiro. And we were lucky enough to be at a Q&A  and Playback event on Wednesday held at London's Gibson Studios. Among those on the Q&A panel (pictured) were Gary's guitar technician, Graham Lilley, BMG Director of Design Neel Panchal and Shapiro himself. It was a fascinating afternoon of anecdotes which included George Harrison, Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker, BB King, Albert King, Albert Collins and Eric Clapton. A big thank you to Matt Reynolds at Savage Gringo, for not only inviting us along, but also for nailing what we want for Christmas! 

10 Years Album Out Today 27/10/17

10 Years (Track Of The Day) return with their new studio album ‘(how to live) As Ghosts', which is released via Mascot Records today. Welcoming back band members Brian Vodinh (guitar/drums) and Matt Wantland (guitar), it's the band’s eighth studio album and is produced by Grammy Award winning producer Nick Raskulinecz (Alice in Chains, Foo Fighters, Deftones, KoRn, Mastodon). It might be the band's 8th album, but, to them, it feels like a new start. Sometimes when band members reunite, it's as if no time has passed and nothing has changed. That couldn't be further from the truth for 10 Years. Vodinh and Wantland returned to the Knoxville, Tennessee Alt-Metal/Post-Grunge band, bursting through their comfort zones to create something new. Something better. Something career-defining.

Metallica Photo Gallery 26/10/17

Metallica continued the European leg of their WorldWired Tour in support of their new album 'Hardwired… To Self-Destruct' on Tuesday night, their second gig at London's O2 Arena. With great support from Norway’s Kvelertak, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees and multiple-Grammy® Award winning band's also included 'Fuel' (today's Video Of The Day, filmed on the first night) and of course 'Enter Sandman'  and 'Nothing Else Matters'.  Anyway, check out our photo gallery here from Tuesday night.

Blues On The Marsh Returns 26/10/17

Today Blues On The Marsh returns as our Track Of The Day. Originally broadcast last Friday, the Marshman chats to his  good friend and one of the most prolific writers and musicians around, namely Richard Townend (pictured). Richard also spins new sounds from Tom McGuinness, Little Miss Higgins, Love Light Orchestra, Ramblin' Dog, Mighty Mo Rodgers and Baba Sissoko, Babajack, Leif De Leeuw Band, Chris Thomas King, T. Bear and The Dukes, Mrs R'n'B and The Soulshakers, The Wood Howlers, Rufus Black, Wily Bo Walker and E D Brayshaw plus exclusives from the brand new Live album from King Size Slim (Toby Barelli) to name just a few.

Bigfoot Underworld Tonight 26/10/17

Bigfoot recently released their self-titled debut album via Frontiers and are now on the road including London's Underworld tonight. Co-produced by the band with Justin Richards (who also mixed the record), the album consists of eleven songs. Bigfoot are a Hard Rock band from Wigan who burst onto the scene in the spring of 2014. With a wide range of influences from The Eagles through to Pantera, the group boasts the powerful vocals of Antony Ellis, dual lead guitars from Sam Millar and Mick McCullagh, plus the thunderous rhythm section of bassist Matt Avery and drummer Tom Aspinall. Having toured constantly around the UK and performed at festivals including Breakout, Bloodstock, Hard Rock Hell, Steelhouse and more, the quintet have built themselves a loyal grassroots following in their home territory. Two successful self-released EP’s also drew the attention of the Naples based Rock powerhouse Frontiers Music Srl, who signed them to their roster as fast as they could!

Enter Metallica 25/10/17

If there was ever a song on someone's 'live' bucket list then it would have to be 'Enter Sandman'.  Cross that one off then as Metallica continued the European leg of their WorldWired Tour in support of their new album 'Hardwired… To Self-Destruct' last night, with their second gig at London's O2 Arena. With great support from Norway’s Kvelertak check out The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees and multiple-Grammy® Award winning band's Video Of The Day plus watch out for more photos tomorrow. 

TNCRBC Part Trois Tonight! 25/10/17

Tonight at 7.30pm down in the lovely Amersham Arms, New Cross Road SE14 6TY,  The New Cross Roads Blues Club have another packed night of music for just a fiver. The fun starts at 8pm sharp and on the bill tonight are The Blues Spiders - coming up from the Thames Delta - a bit of Southend R&B - full on Blues - full on fun. Plus there's Ruby & The Revalators - a real gem - don't miss this chance to see her and the band - Soul deep sounds in a big Blue style. Last but not least, there's also our old mate Andy Twyman (pictured) - recently described as a mash up between John Lee Hooker, George Formby, Seasick Steve, Jack White, Don Partridge, The Black Keys, Ken Dodd and Sammy Davis Jnr. - so they've got them all on the bill too!

Psychedelic Rock On The Ridge 25/10/17

On this week's psychedelic 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from OZ , Black Stone Cherry, Wicked Stone (pictured), Sons Of Apollo, Heaven and Earth Band, King King, Larkin Poe, Radio Moscow, St. James & The Apostles, Robert Plant, Tax The Heat, The Sword, The Brew, The Temperance Movement, Inglorious, Reverend And The Makers, The Answer, Clutch, Alter Bridge, Cripled Black,  Phoenix and on their introducing stage two in a row from The Black Thunder Revue.

Metallica In London Tonight 24/10/17

Metallica continue the European leg of their WorldWired Tour in support of their new album 'Hardwired… To Self-Destruct' with their second gig at London's O2 Arena tonight. Doors open at 6pm with support from Norway’s Kvelertak at 7.20pm and The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees and multiple-Grammy® Award winning band on stage at 8.30pm.

London Maidens 24/10/17

Run to the Hills: The Iron Maidens (Video Of The Day) are back in London! Yes, before we head off to to see Metallica tonight, we will be stopping off in Soho to interview the world’s one and only all-female Iron Maiden tribute band in advance of their London's O2 Academy Islington gig this Sunday 29th. The Iron Maidens are Kirsten ‘Bruce Chickinson’ Rosenberg on vocals, Linda ‘Nikki McBURRain’ McDonald on drums, Nikki ‘Davina Murray’ Stringfield, Courtney ‘Adriana Smith’ Cox on guitars and Wanda ‘Steph Harris’ Ortiz on bass - so watch out for the audio interview later this week!

Crowl Soul Part Two 24/10/17

Today's Track Of The Day is an all new Blues On The Radio podcast including music from Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Likho Duo, Trainman Blues, Eric Gales, Richard Van Bergen & Rootbag, Brothers Osborne, Babajack, Robert Hokum & The Guv'nors, Greaseland All-Stars and the whole of Part two of the epic album from Half Deaf Clatch (pictured), 'Crow Soul'! Malaya Blue also features but unfortunately, due to ill health, has cancelled her gig tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club. The good news is that Yoka & The Sugarbeats have stepped in to replace Malaya at the Comrades Club, 194 Brighton Rd, Coulsdon, Greater London CR5 2NF.

Steve Hill/Wishbone Ash Gig Review 23/10/17

"Despite missing the Heavy Rocker 'Damned' - his opening track on 'Volume 3' - with its palpable influence of namesake Dusty, Billy and Frank - the second number 'Go On' from 'Volume 2', was immediate proof, if needed, that one musician can sound like three, with Hill standing up whilst singing and playing guitar, with his feet playing bass drum, snare drum, hi-hats and with a drum stick fused to the head of his trusty guitar, plus he gets the bass notes by feeding three of his strings through an Octaver guitar pedal that’s hooked up to a bass amp!"

Read the whole of AJ's Steve Hill/Wishbone Ash O2 Academy Islington gig review from last Thursday here plus check out our photo gallery here (picture courtesy of  Eric Duvet).

Free Bad Touch Single Released Today 23/10/17

To dovetail their headline November UK Tour, today Bad Touch release their new single 'Baby Get It On' featuring guest vocals from Mollie Marriott, which is today's Video Of The Day. The single is a cover of Tina Turner’s 1975 classic and is also a free MP3 download! 'Baby Get It On' first appeared on Tina Turner’s second solo album 'Acid Queen' that was originally released in 1975. Although it was a Tina Turner solo album, the first single 'Baby Get It On' was a duet with Ike Turner (who wrote the song for Tina). Bad Touch’s upcoming UK tour with Mollie kicks off at Sheffield's Corporation on Thursday 9th November including London's O2 Academy Islington on Sunday 26th November. 

All Aboard The Blues Train 23/10/17

Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features music from Eric Hughes, Downchild, Stephen Foster & Howler, Dave Hunt, Joakim Tinderholt, Johnny Rawls and Eric Gales (pictured).

The Missing Peace 22/10/17

L.A. Guns never looked like pretty poster boys, unlike many of their peers, but rather the sort of band that you would be terrified of bumping into in a dark alley. Yet, despite having songs to back up that image, they could also write powerful ballads (such as ’The Ballad Of Jayne’) that displayed serious songwriting chops. Those chops are on show again on ‘The Missing Peace’, the band’s brand new album and arguably one of the most vital releases in their catalogue. A lyric video for the new single ’The Flood’s The Fault Of The Rain’ is today's Track Of The Day and the guys sandwich in a UK gig at Bradford Trash on Friday 3rd November in between two gigs at London's Camden Underworld on the 2nd and 4th November.

Can't Trust The News 22/10/17

Naked Six, a two-piece Alternative Rock band from York recently released their first single ‘'Can’'t Trust the News’' which combines heavy pounding riffs, compelling lyrics plus a satirical twist, which is today's Video Of The Day. This band have been delivering high octane electrifying performances at shows up and down the country and have earned support from BBC introducing and Tony Visconti’'s Unsigned Heroes. The single comes out just weeks before they start a sold-out tour supporting The Temperance Movement and finish it off with a free headline show at The Lock Tavern in London on Friday 8th December. 

Metallica Pop Up 22/10/17

Ahead of their sold out UK tour which starts tonight, Metallica have opened a pop up store at 45 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch, London EC2A 3PD which is open today from noon to  8pm and noon to 6pm tomorrow. A tradition that started a little over a year ago in Minneapolis and carried on into Copenhagen and North America in 2017, the pop-up shops feature some new and exclusive collectible items, with fans not knowing exactly who or what they will find there. On Friday 10th November the band will be re-releasing 'Master Of Puppets' one of the most celebrated Metal albums of all time in expanded and Deluxe editions. 

Wishbone Ash/Steve Hill Photo Gallery 21/10/17

The anticipation of seeing Canada's very own one man power trio Steve Hill at London's O2 Academy Islington on Thursday night was more than matched by seeing Andy Powell's legendary Wishbone Ash. As it turned out they were immense with Powell on guitar and vocals, John Verity's old mucker Bob Skeat (pictured) on bass and backing vocals, Powell's new foil Mark Abraham's on guitar and Joe Crabtree on drums. Anyway with a review to come, check out today's Video Of The Day plus also our photo gallery from the gig here. 

Deep Blue Sea Marina 21/10/17

Deep Blue Sea (pictured) were no doubt fated to play the Medway Marina, Manor Lane, Rochester ME1 3HS - and sure enough the guys have a gig there tonight! Meanwhile, The New Cross Roads Blues Show is screened weekly on Facebook Live every Sunday. The first show is already loaded here featuring Blues Engine, London Bluesion and Deep Blue Sea with week two already in the can for this Sunday featuring The Wang Dang Doodle, The Blue Bishops, Iago Banet and JFK Blue.

Rock On The Ridge Tonight 21/10/17

The 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge show is back on the air tonight here at 8pm and today's Track Of The Day is last week's show which also featured another 2016 WRC award winner, namely Black Stone Cherry (pictured), Cream, Led Zeppelin and interviews from the recent Kent BluesRockFest.

Hill's Islington Academy 20/10/17

Canada's very own one man power trio Steve Hill finally landed in London last night at Islington's O2 Academy as part of his 27-date UK tour. Supporting Andy Powell's legendary Wishbone Ash, Hill's short  thirty minute support set literally dipped heavily into his latest album ‘Solo Recordings: Volume 3’ including 'Rhythm All Over', 'Damned' and 'Dangerous'. With a review including Wishbone Ash to come plus more photos - please in the meantime check out today's Video Of The Day.   

Masters Of Their Universe 20/10/17

"Inglorious are one of those lucky bands that have the talent, but also have the support of the likes of Planet Rock too. It’s tough for bands to make a name for themselves out there these days, despite the flourishing live music scene. But Inglorious have jumped on the jet propelled roller coaster and are heading for the heavens, like the flying god of thunder himself. It’s where their destiny lies. They are masters of their universe." That was Mother's take on Inglorious at Islington Assembly Hall in May and the 2016 WRC Best Rock Performance award winners return to London's Electric Ballroom in Camden tonight.

Friday Blues Fix 20/10/17

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 Tommy Castro,  Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, ZZ Top (pictured),  Cash Box Kings, Dee's Honeytones, Leif de Leeuw Band, Mindi Abair, Altered Five Blues Band,  Sam Kelly's Station House, Larkin Poe, Bill Blue, Kelly's Lot, Jack J Hutchinson, Van Morrison, Duke Robillard,  Chris Daniels and the Kings, Laurence Jones, Elles Bailey, Jo Harman, Dave Ferra, Jason Rungapadiachy,  Richard van Bergen, Chris Rea, The Hoodle, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews & Orleans Avenue, Mississippi MacDonald, Robert Hokum,  Norman Beaker Band, GG and the Cruisers, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.

Academy Hill 19/10/17

"This album shows an artist at the top of his game. Steve Hill is clearly in his element as a solo artist and one-man band, inviting listeners into a world of musical madness in the form of Blues and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Hill undertakes a 27-date UK tour when he supports Wishbone Ash in October and November including London’s O2 Academy, Islington on Thursday 19th October. Do not miss this definition of a one-man power trio!" That was part of our Steve Hill ‘Solo Recordings: Volume 3’ album review and indeed tonight we will be there to see Steve supporting Andy Powell's Wishbone Ash (Track Of The Day) with his thirty minute set at 8pm. 

What Does This Button Do? 19/10/17

The Iron Maiden troopers were out in force in East London on Tuesday night to see 'A Conversation With Bruce Dickinson' at The Troxy in Commercial Road for the launch of the Ed Force One pilot's autobiography 'What Does This Button Do'. Following a brilliant night of personal anecdotes from the Iron Maiden frontman, everyone went home happy clutching their own signed copies of Bruce's book! Indeed, with just under one month to go to Wrinklystock 6, we even managed to bump into Replicants guitarist Steve Hesmondhalgh on the way out - so watch out for news of their charity song auction over the next few days.

Eel Pie Sect 19/10/17

Very much part of the London Rhythm and Blues scene in the 1960's, The Downliners started out in Twickenham on Eel Pie Island and subsequently took over The Rolling Stones' residency at Ken Colyers Club in London's West End. Tonight, The Downliners Sect (Video Of The Day) return to The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ, a band that still attracts crowds of thousands in Japan, Spain and Sweden where their song, 'Little Egypt', reached Number One in the Hit Parade.  Today, The Downliners Sect are original members, Don Craine (vocals/guitar) and Keith Grant (vocals/bass) plus Del Dwyer (vocals/guitar), John O'Leary (vocals/harmonica) and Mark Freeman (drums).  Doors open at 8.30pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.

JW Jones Album Review 18/10/17

"It's a collection of twelve songs and one instrumental which seems to be divided into three sections. The first comprises of the opening five songs, and its all out Blues,covering the usual bad luck, heartache and pain themes, and although at various points you do think you've heard this all this before, the hooks of opening track 'Price You Pay' along with the title track, followed by 'Murder In My Heart For The Judge',  are all instant winners."

Read the whole of Phil C.'s JW Jones 'High Temperature' CD review that's due to be released this Friday here plus check out today's Video Of The Day.

Focus On 100 Club 18/10/17

"By definition, a fifty minute set of Prog means five or six songs at most! So imagine my delight as we sat down in the afternoon sun towards the back of a packed Prog In The Park Stage as Menno Gootjes launched into, in my opinion, one of the great guitar solos of all time on 'Eruption' from 'Focus II/Moving Waves' - absolutely bliss. A bit like Trigger's broom, the part's have changed over the year's but the original heartbeat of Thijs van Leer on organ/flute and  Pierre van der Linden on drums  is still alive and kicking as evidenced on their classics 'Sylvia' and 'Hocus Pocus' but now with Udo Pannekeet on bass guitar replacing Van Leer's stepson Bobby Jacobs. Make sure you see the real deal in its entirety at London's 100 Club on Wednesday 18th October." And sure enough, following our review at this year's Ramblin' Man Fair, Focus (pictured at The Underworld last year) return to London and the iconic 100 Club tonight!

TNCRBC Week 2 Tonight! 18/10/17

Tonight at 7.30pm down in the lovely Amersham Arms, New Cross Road SE14 6TY,  The New Cross Roads Blues Club have another packed night of music for just a fiver. On stage at 7.45pm are The Blue Bishops - all the way from Hartlepool, with Geoff Grange on vocals, harp and guitar along with Simon Burrett on lots of other guitars - get there early - you don't wanna miss them. Hitting the stage at 8.40pm are  The Wang Dang Doodle - all the way from France with Laurent Mouflier on vocals and harp.  Joined by a few familiar faces - on stage at 9.35pm is Iago Banet and friends - all the way from Galicia - playing some acoustic songs and something a little different. Finally,  JFK Blue (Track Of The Day) - see the night off in style with Blues Rock with heart and soul - on stage at 10.30pm.

Life Is Beautiful 17/10/17

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the release of Nikki Sixx’s drug-soaked NY Times bestselling memoir, 'The Heroin Diaries' and Sixx:A.M.’s 'The Heroin Diaries' soundtrack. To commemorate more than a decade of sobriety and life lessons learned, Nikki Sixx and Sixx:A.M. revisit the seminal work; announcing tenth anniversary editions of the book and album featuring three newly reimagined 2017 tracks including #1 hit 'Life Is Beautiful 2017' - today's Video Of The Day.

JFK At TNMC Tonight 17/10/17

Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day  has an hour filled with music from Dave Ferra, Andrew Robert Eustace, Kelly Z, Lara & The Blue Dawgz, Chris Daniels & The Kings, JSister Rosetta Tharpe, Malaya Blue, Kings & Associates, Janis Ian, Mississippi MacDonald & Steve Bailey, Wily Bo Walker & E D Brayshaw and The Hoodle. Plus there's also music from both JFK Blue (pictured) and Chris King Robinson who both appear at the Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, 194 Brighton Rd, Coulsdon, Greater London CR5 2NF tonight. 

100 Club Blues Tonight 17/10/17

Tonight's Tuesday Blues at London's iconic 100 Club in Oxford Street features America's Marcus Malone, supported by Lee Ainley's Blues Storm and Jack J Hutchinson.

Ten Years After - The Albums '67 - '74 Review 16/10/17

"Ten Years After are also celebrating fifty years since the release of their eponymous debut album in 1967. To coincide with this milestone Chrysalis Records are set to release a fiftieth anniversary ten CD box set on Friday 10th November. This limited edition (only 1,500 copies) remastered set gathers together all the Deram and Chrysalis period albums from 1967 – 1974, the set also includes a CD of previously unreleased material from 1972 called 'The Cap Ferrat Sessions', newly mixed by legendary producer Chris Kimsey."

Read the whole of Steven C. Gilbert's Ten Years After 'The Albums 1967 – 1974' Box Set review here.

Bad Flowers At The Lexington Tonight 16/10/17

The Bad Flowers, recently released their new single 'Thunder Child' which is today's Video Of The Day. To support the release of 'TC', the 3-piece continue their UK tour supporting The Picturebooks at London's The Lexington tonight. The Bad Flowers, formed from the depths of the Black Country in 2014, comprise of lead vocalist and guitarist, Tom Leighton, whose signature riffs, fuzz emotive guitar and pure vocals have distinctive sound unlike anybody else. Bassist Dale Tonks provides a deep heavy groove and tasty bass runs that underpins Karl Selickis' chest pumping drums and impeccable rhythmic feel. We first caught the guys at the O2 Islington Academy supporting Crobot and Dirty Thrills in June last year - a breakthrough year as The Flowers left local venues in a wake of blood, sweat and ringing ears when they opened for Canadian rockers The Sheepdogs in Birmingham, then onward to extensive tours up and down the UK to packed venues with Jared James Nichols and Scorpion Child, plus an appearance at Hard Rock Hell. Their highly anticipated debut album, titled 'Starting Gun', is set for release in early 2018.

Mann Up For The Blues 16/10/17

Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day includes music from Lisa Mann, Marcia Ball, Sunday Wilde & Reno Jack, Etta Britt, Halley DeVestern Band and Kathy & The Kilowatts.

Truth Is A Wolf 15/10/17

Today's Track Of The Day is the new single from Mollie Marriott entitled 'Truth is A Wolf' which was released on Friday. Mollie is the daughter of the late Small Faces/Humble Pie legend Steve Marriott, and Paul Weller features on the single playing Hammond organ and guitar. The single is the title track taken from Mollie’s forthcoming album due to be released on Mollie’s own Amadeus Music label on Friday 3rd November. Mollie is also the special guest on Bad Touch’s November UK tour (photo courtesy of Rob Blackham) which includes London's O2 Islington Academy on Sunday 26th November.

Love Is Coming 15/10/17

Robin Beck is truly one of the most gifted vocalists under the broad umbrella of Rock music and Frontiers Music welcomes her back on their label with her new album 'Love Is Coming' which was released on Friday and is also our Video Of The Day. The album sees her partnering with Clif Magness (Steve Perry, Avril Lavigne) and James Christian, who produced and mixed the album with Maor Appelbaum handling the mastering. Hit after hit after hit after hit is the best description of the tracklisting. An album encompassing Melodic Rock to gritty Soul inspired Rock is what you can expect from this gem.

Nazareth Photo Gallery 15/10/17

The venue might have been new to us on Friday night,  but the band and the songs certainly weren't. Indeed you can substitute the smaller but very pleasant 229 The Venue in London's Great Portland Street for the cavernous Great British Music Festival at Olympia 41 years earlier - but there's no substitute for the legendary Scottish rockers Nazareth. The current line up consisting of Pete Agnew - bass, Lee Agnew - drums, Jimmy Murrison - guitar and Carl Sentance - vocals, blasted out all their favourites including  'Hair of the Dog', 'Love Hurts', 'My White Bicycle', 'This Flight Tonight', 'Razamanaz', 'Shanghai'd In Shanghai' and finished with 'Broken Down Angel'.  With great support from the Sabbath sounding Death & the Miser, check out our photo gallery from the gig here.

Hair Of The Dog! 14/10/17

At their peak, Nazareth were huge, selling vast quantities of albums and hit singles, pulling in enormous crowds to their shows all over the world. Like all the best bands, Nazareth came from humble roots. They formed in Dunfermline, Scotland, and played the Scottish clubs throughout the 1960’s in their original incarnation as The Shadettes. The name change to Nazareth came in 1971 when the band moved to London to start what was to become a long and illustrious recording career. Fast forward 46 years to last night and London's 229 The Venue, Great Portland Street, where the current line up consisting of Pete Agnew - bass, Lee Agnew - drums
Jimmy Murrison - guitar and Carl Sentance - vocals, pumped out all their classics including  'Hair of the Dog', 'Love Hurts', 'My White Bicycle', 'This Flight Tonight', 'Dream On', 'Where Are You Now' and 'Razamanaz', but no 'Woke Up This Morning' and 'Bad Bad Boy'. With great support from  Death & the Miser, check out today's Video Of The Day with more photos to come.

Walter Trout UTB Review 14/10/17

"If you are going to sing and play the Blues, you need to have been around a bit, you need to have lived. Walter Trout has been about a bit and he’s lived. And he has died a couple of times too. Four years on from his traumatic liver failure and replacement, the once prolific six string demon had to learn to walk and talk again, let alone find his way around a fretboard. But years of relearning the instrument again from scratch has returned Mr. Trout to the shoal of top guitarists in the world. His cathartic 2015 album 'Battle Scars' saw Walter put his traumas into words and music with such skill as belied his tortuous ascent from the depths of disability and despair and the man taking the stage today shows only remnants of his life altering experience."

Read the whole of Mother's Walter Trout Under The Bridge gig review from Wednesday here plus check out our photo gallery here.

Out Of The Ashes 14/10/17

Today's Track Of The Day features Wishbone Ash playing 'Persephone' at The Rockpalast, Cologne on 1st December 1976. Their line up that day was Andy Powell - guitar, vocals, Martin Turner - bass, vocals, Laurie Wisefield - guitar, vocals and Steve Upton - drums and indeed Turner, as part of his "The Beauty Of Chaos 2017" tour, plays London's iconic 100 Club tonight. Meanwhile,  Powell's Wishbone Ash also play London's O2 Academy Islington this coming Thursday 19th October, supported by one man Canadian power trio Steve Hill. 

This Gig Tonight 13/10/17

"Joni Mitchell's 'This Flight Tonight' was the first Nazareth single I ever bought and Agnew's bass was as tight as ever on this Rock classic. An honour to witness it. Murrison's Zep type riff on 'One Set Of Bones' from 'Rock 'N' Roll Telephone' was literally a classic head-banger as my air guitar mate managed to crack heads with me! No offence taken although Sentance slowed things down with 'Dream On' although they upped a gear with the Bluesy Pop of 'Holiday'. The mid-set recess continued with 'Turn On Your Receiver' from 'Loud 'n' Proud' - always thought that one sounded a bit like 'Last Train To Clarksville'!" That was part of our take two year's ago on Nazareth's sadly departed O2 Brooklyn Bowl gig, but we are off to see the guys again tonight at London's 229 The Venue.

Friday The Thirteenth 13/10/17

Friday the thirteenth is lucky for a change given today's Video Of The Day is Idlewar's 'Hang' taken from their new CD 'Rite' which was released yesterday on Off Yer Rocka Recordings. Similarly, today sees the release of albums by both King King and Bigfoot (pictured), namely 'Exile & Grace' and 'Bigfoot' respectively with both bands supporting their new releases with UK tours - Bigfoot this month and next - and King King in January next year.

Blues Club Back To Friday 13/10/17

The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns on a Friday 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, Mindi Abair, Kelly Zirbes, Hamilton Loomis, Van Morrison, Savoy Brown,  Pam Taylor, Rebecca Downes, Benny Turner,  King King, Sunday Wilde & Reno Jack, Brothers Osborne, Kings & Associates, The Hoodle,  Norman Beaker, Gregg Allman, Mississippi MacDonald, Walter Trout (pictured), Dave Ferra, The Rolling Stones, Hamish Anderson, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats,  Laurence Jones, Chris Rea,  Sam Kelly's Station House, Robert Hokum, Johnny Rawls,  Chris Daniels and the Kings,  Richard van Bergen, Dee's Honeytones, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.

UK Schenker Fest Starts 2nd November 12/10/17

Celebrated Rock guitarist Michael Schenker's tour starts next month on Thursday 2nd November at the London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire followed by Sheffield O2 Academy (3rd), Manchester O2 Ritz (4th) and Hull City Hall (5th). Tickets for the concerts, with the exception of Hull are available here, whilst Hull are available here. Support is from UK Rock band Departed as the ‘Michael Schenker Fest’ project reunites the original Michael/McAuley Schenker Group vocalists – Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet and Robin McAuley, plus MSG musicians Steve Mann (guitar, keys), Chris Glen (bass) and Ted McKenna (drums).

Walter Trout Photo Gallery 12/10/17

Last night Walter Trout completed the second of his two gigs at London's Under The Bridge as part of his UK tour supported by 2016 WRC Award 'Best Blues Rock Performance' winner Sari Schorr & The Engine Room. Anyway, with a review from last night's gig in the pipeline from Mother, if last night was as good as Tuesday night then they would have seen Walter on "top masterful form" as our new buddy Jim from Ayr - who was down for both gigs - put it! Check out not only today's awesome Video Of The Day featuring Walter and his guests father and son Matt and Paul Long from Catfish, but also have a look at our photo gallery from Tuesday night here.

Yardbirds Idan At Eel Pie Tonight 12/10/17

John Idan,  lead guitarist/vocalist with the world famous Yardbirds, is taking a break from touring tonight to play some great Rhythm ‘n’ Blues at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ with his own band, The Natural Blues Band - which he originally formed in his home city of Detroit. Doors open at 8.30pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.

Walter Under The Bridge 11/10/17

Walter Trout began the first of two nights at London's Under The Bridge last night as part of his UK tour supported by 2016 WRC Award 'Best Blues Rock Performance' winner Sari Schorr & The Engine Room. Walter recently released his new album 'We're All In This Together' which saw the legendary Blues man team up with Joe Bonamassa plus a long list of stellar guests including John Mayall, Randy Bachman, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Warren Haynes, Sonny Landreth, Charlie Musselwite, Mike Zito, Robben Ford, Eric Gales, Edgar Winter, Joe Louis Walker, John Németh and his son Jon Trout. Anyway, with a review and more photos to come - check out today's Video Of The Day plus don't forget that you can catch Walter Under The Bridge again tonight!

New Cross Roads Blues Club Tonight 11/10/17

Great news for music lovers and great news for London - The New Cross Roads Blues Club starts tonight! It's a live gig, it's an interactive TV show, in a real pub, listening to real music, drinking real beer and hosted by Johnny Deptford. It takes place every Wednesday at The Amersham Arms in New Cross with different bands each week, and kicking it all off at 8pm tonight are Deep Blue Sea and Blues Engine. Entry is £5 and every show will be filmed and broadcast on Social Media TV channels. See you there!

Loud 'N' Proud! 11/10/17

On today's 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day - apart from some great music from the likes of Wicked Stone, At The Sun, Monster Truck, Mount Holly and loads more - there is  also a very special guest on the show, namely Pete K Mally - Rock Comic (pictured). Anyway, listen to Jules & Bob as they find out not only about Pete's new 2018 Live 'n' Loud show in Bristol, Epsom, Manchester, London and Nottingham but also about Progtoberfest in Balham on Sunday 29th October which Pete is hosting.

100 Triggerfinger 10/10/17

Antwerp’s Triggerfinger (Video Of The Day) will be at London's iconic 100 Club tonight - the final leg of their current UK tour following the release of their brand new album ‘Colossus' in August. The Belgian based trio (Ruben Block, vocals and guitar; Paul Van Bruystegem, bass; Mario Goossens, drums) have been exploding across Europe and have played an intensive 200 shows in the last 20 months, which also saw them support Muse on their sold out 50,000 capacity Stadium show in Aix-les-Bains, France and Park Live Festival in Russia. Insatiable for the live stage they have opened for Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Rolling Stones (twice), Within Temptation, Thin Lizzy, Clutch, Big Sugar and Therapy?

Trout Under The Bridge 10/10/17

Walter Trout begins the first of two nights at London's Under The Bridge tonight as part of his UK tour supported by 2016 WRC Award 'Best Blues Rock Performance' winner Sari Schorr & The Engine Room. Walter recently released his new album 'We're All In This Together' which saw the legendary Blues man team up with Joe Bonamassa plus a long list of stellar guests including John Mayall, Randy Bachman, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Warren Haynes, Sonny Landreth, Charlie Musselwite, Mike Zito, Robben Ford, Eric Gales, Edgar Winter, Joe Louis Walker, John Németh and his son Jon Trout.

I Am The Walrus 10/10/17

Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day is an hour filled with music from JFK Blue, Tom Petty, The Hoodle, Walrus (pictured, who are playing the Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, 194 Brighton Rd, Coulsdon, Greater London CR5 2NF tonight), Robert Hokum & The Guv'nors, King King, Mississippi MacDonald, Richard Van Bergen & Rootbag, Dave Ferra, Larkin Poe, Laurence Jones, Elles Bailey, Milligan Vaughan Project, Rebecca Downes and Chris King Robinson.

Up The Irons! 9/10/17

Run to the Hills: The Iron Maidens (Video Of The Day) are back in town! After their triumphant UK debut in 2016, the world’s one and only all-female Iron Maiden tribute return to our shores in October, including London's O2 Academy Islington on Sunday 29th. The Iron Maidens are Kirsten ‘Bruce Chickinson’ Rosenberg on vocals, Linda ‘Nikki McBURRain’ McDonald on drums, Nikki ‘Davina Murray’ Stringfield, Courtney ‘Adriana Smith’ Cox on guitars and Wanda ‘Steph Harris’ Ortiz on bass. All band members are highly trained professionals with diversified musical backgrounds, ranging from orchestral and musical theatre to Blues and Rock. Formed in 2001 in Southern California, they have quickly established themselves as one of the most notorious tribute act in the US, progressively expanding their fame far and beyond the Americas. They have conquered the attention of fans and fellow musicians with their musical prowess and electrifying live shows, where they perform hits and fan favourites from all phases of Iron Maiden’'s career with appearances by mascot Eddie, the grim reaper, the devil and more!

Reacquainting With The Zoe Green Band 9/10/17

We first introduced you to the Zoe Green Band on Boxing Day last year, so it was good to catch up with Zoe recently. Coincidentally they now have the incredible Ali Clinton playing guitar for them who was also part of our 'Introducing ......' feature in February 2015. They recently stormed their appearance at London's iconic 100 Club and have some exciting main stage festivals and Blues clubs booked for next year. Zoe and the guys are currently recording their first original's album which will be mastered at Abbey Road and ready for release in early 2018.

All Aboard The Bluesmobile 9/10/17

Today's Black on Blues Podcast Track Of The Day includes music from King King (pictured), Blues Goose, Al Corte, Andre Bisson, Wildcat O’Halloran, Steve Howell & Jason Weinheimer and Luke Tuchscherer.

Steve Hill - One Man Power Trio 8/10/17

"Hill kicks off the first of twelve tracks with the Heavy Rock of ‘Damned’ – the influence of namesake Dusty, Billy and Frank immediately palpable before his kick-ass single ‘Dangerous’ – think King King meets Jimi Hendrix – a Blues Rocker if ever there was one, with lyrics about a personal relationship, the subject matter pretty much the backbone of the whole album. The swampy feel of Muddy Waters ‘Still A Fool & A Rollin Stone’ is a classy cover, Hill clearly demonstrating that you can take the catfish out of the swamp but you can’t take the swamp out of the catfish."

Read the whole of AJ's Steve Hill 'Solo Recordings Volume 3' album review that was released on Friday here plus check out today's Track Of The Day.

Wrinklystock 6 - Just Over 100 Tickets Left! 8/10/17

With just 42 days to go, our countdown continues in respect of our WRC sponsored charity concert ‘Magic - a kind of Queen & a kind of ELO’ at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, on Saturday 18th November at 7.30pm. Following the success of the Monster’s Of Irish Rock featuring Limehouse Lizzy and U2 Tribe at last year’s ‘Wrinklystock 5’ - ‘Wrinklystock 6’ stars Magic, a tribute to two of the greatest British Rock bands of all time - Queen and The Electric Light Orchestra - together in one fabulous show! With support from Wrinklystock legends The Replicants and with just over 100 tickets left, don't leave it to late, so purchase your tickets here for a bargain £22 or from the MJC Box Office on 01322 291100.

Bigfoot Karma 8/10/17

Bigfoot have released another single 'Karma' (today's Video Of The Day) in advance of their self-titled debut album out on Friday 13th October via Frontiers. Co-produced by the band with Justin Richards (who also mixed the record), it consists of eleven songs and after its release the band take to the UK road, including London's Underworld on Thursday 26th October. They are a Hard Rock band from Wigan who burst onto the scene in the spring of 2014. With a wide range of influences from The Eagles through to Pantera, the group boasts the powerful vocals of Antony Ellis, dual lead guitars from Sam Millar and Mick McCullagh, plus the thunderous rhythm section of bassist Matt Avery and drummer Tom Aspinall. Having toured constantly around the UK and performed at festivals including Breakout, Bloodstock, Hard Rock Hell, Steelhouse and more, the quintet have built themselves a loyal grassroots following in their home territory. Two successful self-released EP’s also drew the attention of the Naples based Rock powerhouse Frontiers Music Srl, who signed them to their roster as fast as they could!

Kentucky Headhunters UK Safari Continues 7/10/17

Known as “Southern Rock royalty”, The Kentucky Headhunters (Video Of The Day) continue to take their rowdy, high-energy live show across the UK stopping at The Boston Music Rooms, London N19 tonight. Supporting the American band are UK rockers and WRC favourites Bad Touch, who have  joined the Headhunters for all eight shows. The Kentucky Headhunters have been crisscrossing North America fresh off the 2016 release of 'On Safari', the band’s 12th studio album which combines Southern Rock, Blues, Americana and Country sounds sure to captivate audiences worldwide. 

Saturday Blues Club 7/10/17

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 Tommy Castro (pictured), Joe Bonamassa & Beth Hart, Mindi Abair,  Altered Five Blues Band,  Big Wolf Band, The Knickerbocker All-Stars, Nina Massara, Joe Anderton, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Scottie Miller Band, Dove and Boweevil, Jon Spear Band, Donald Fagen, Benny Turner, The Jimmy Rogers All Stars, Coco Montoya, Jimmy Witherspoon, Gina Sicilia, Buddy Guy, Brad Absher & Swamp Royale, Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Johnny Copeland,  Bruce "Mississippi" Johnson,  Freddie King, The Hoodle, Mississippi MacDonald, Dave Ferra, Robert Hokum, Richard van Bergen, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.

ROTR Live 'N' Loud Tonight 7/10/17

The 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge show here at 8pm tonight features Rock 'n' Roll stand-up comic and all-round nice guy Pete K Mally. Tune into to Jules & Bob as they find out not only about Pete's new 2018 Live 'n' Loud show in Bristol, Epsom, Manchester, London and Nottingham but also about Progtoberfest in Balham on Sunday 29th October which Pete is hosting.

Put Your Hands Up 6/10/17

"Come On Reverend' came a cry from the crowd and sure enough Glover's congregation joined in the singing, complemented once again by another Reid guitar solo plus more of Wimbish's explosive bass - which concluded with Corey taking not only his jacket off but also his hat - exposing his pink hair! Living Colour then took time out to thank Stone Broken (who were standing in the wings) before they showcased three tracks from their new album 'Shade'. The irony was not lost on the Notorious B.I.G. cover 'Who Shot Ya' (this was the gun violence backing track mistakenly played earlier) given the carnage later that night in Las Vegas. Despite the surprising lack of many Black fans in the audience, if any track nailed the diversity of Living Colour's genre then this was it. Rap, another driving guitar solo and even a "Put your hands up" saw this East Coast Hip Hop, thanks to an awesome Calhoun drum solo, morph into 'Who's That' with another great Glover vocal, Reid guitar solo and Wimbish bass outro."

Read the whole of AJ's Living Colour/Stone Broken ULU London gig review from last Sunday here plus check out our photo gallery here. 

Blues And Beyond 6/10/17

On Friday 24th November BMG release Gary Moore’s 'Blues and Beyond', a remarkable collection of his powerful and emotive Blues studio recordings. 'Blues and Beyond' includes unreleased live recordings and the official Gary Moore biography 'I Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow' written by Harry Shapiro. Best known for his evocative solo hits, 'Parisienne Walkways' and 'Still Got the Blues' (Video Of The Day), and his on/off membership of Thin Lizzy, Gary Moore’s solo career comprised over twenty albums. Throughout the 1980's, Gary moved up the Rock hierarchy, but turned his back on what he regarded as the empty flash of Metal and reverted to his heart music – the Blues – where ironically he scored his biggest commercial success through his 1990's and 2000's Blues albums. As well as running his own bands, during a successful solo career, Gary mixed with the best that Rock and Blues could offer, playing live and on record with George Harrison, Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker, Greg Lake, BB King, Albert King, Albert Collins and many others. Gary was also the guitarist many looked up to, not just for the terrifying speed of his fretwork, but for the passion, fire and honesty in his playing.

Sleeping Through The Seasons 6/10/17

Alternative Rock/Metal band KLOGR  have released a music video for their brand new single 'Sleeping Through The Seasons' (today's Track Of The Day). The song  is taken from KLOGR's new studio album 'Keystone' which is released today via Zeta Factory/PHD. It was recorded at Zeta Factory Studio and mixed at Mainstation Studio in Toronto, Canada, by Grammy winning producer David Bottrill who has previously worked with Dream Theater, Stone Sour, Tool, Rush and more.  It's the second single to be taken from the new album following lead song 'Prison Of Light'. Klogr are special guests to The Rasmus on their 'Dark Matters' European tour this November including a sold out London Scala on Sunday 19th November. 

Fire And Blood 5/10/17

Hard Rock Blues group Samarkind have premiered a new single 'Fire and Blood' (today's Video Of The Day) which is the second song to be lifted from the band's highly anticipated self-titled debut album, which is to be released on Friday 24th November. This new offering oozes quality and follows Samarkind's special guest slot to Inglorious last night at The Academy, Dublin. Featuring charismatic Irish frontman David Paul Byrne (formally teenage wunderkind singer for successful Hard Rock band Assassin - a time that saw him tour with Def Leppard, Status Quo, WASP, Manowar and more - and featured vocalist on 80's cult movie 'Trick Or Treat' starring Ozzy Osbourne and Gene Simmons), who showcases sublime vocals which are accompanied by the talents of sensational Polish guitarist Michal Kulbaka, Ireland's Mark Dempsey on bass guitar, and South African born drummer Marius Appelgryn.

The Longest Day Of The Blues 5/10/17

Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day features the longest track they've ever played, a preview of the Second Annual Day Of The Blues, plus new releases and gig news that will give you an hour filled with great music by Catfish, Sharpeez, Kris Barras Band (pictured), Broken Levee, Katie Bradley & Chris Corcoran, The Brent Hutchinson Band, Robin Bibi, Lisa Mann, Half Deaf Clatch and Mindi Abair And The Boneshakers.

Whitby & Clitheroe Timings Confirmed 5/10/17

Both the Whitby Pavilion (Saturday 14th October) and Clitheroe The Grand (Sunday 15th October)  Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival timings have been announced. With six very different striking bands, legendary names and emerging artists both days kick off with The Blues Issue at 2pm, The Rainbreakers at 3pm, Red Butler at 4pm, Danny Bryant at 5.15pm, Dr. Feelgood at 6.45pm and Bernie Marsden from 8.30pm to 10pm.

Tom Petty 4/10/17

American musician, singer, songwriter, multi instrumentalist and record producer Tom Petty died on Monday at the age of just 66.  He was best known as the lead singer of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but was also a member and co-founder of the late 1980's supergroup the Traveling Wilburys, and his early band Mudcrutch. In his career, Petty sold more than 80 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. In 2002, Petty was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and today's Track Of The Day let's Petty's music do all the talking. RIP Tom.

New Cross Roads Blues Club 4/10/17

Great news for music lovers and great news for London - The New Cross Roads Blues Club (Video Of The Day) is born! It's a live gig, it's an interactive TV show, in a real pub, listening to real music, drinking real beer and hosted by Johnny Deptford. It takes place every Wednesday at The Amersham Arms in New Cross with different bands each week, and kicking it all off at 8pm on 11th October are Deep Blue Sea and Blues Engine. Entry is £5 and every show will be filmed and broadcast on Social Media TV channels. See you there!

The Family Biz 4/10/17

NYHC kings Madball recently teamed up with Fast Break Records for a split 7” 'The Family Biz', which  saw the band joining forces with PA’s blue-collar-core heroes, Wisdom In Chains featuring one new song from each group. 'For The Cause' was recorded just for the 7” and is a precursor of what to expect from Madball’s forthcoming Nuclear Blast album of the same name which the band is working on heavily at the moment, due to be released next year.

Living Colour Photo Gallery 3/10/17

Wow what an awesome headliner, superb support, an excellent venue and cheap booze! All these factors added up to one of the best gigs we have been to this year as legendary, Grammy Award-winning Rock band Living Colour with the assistance of Black Country Hard Rockers Stone Broken (pictured) blew the proverbial bloody doors off of London's ULU on Sunday night. With a review on its way - check out our photo gallery from another memorable gig here.

One Man Band 3/10/17

Jules was away for Saturday night's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge show, leaving Bob minding the store. But as usual, Jules put together another great show as today's Track Of The Day testifies with music from Volbeat, The Bad Flowers, Voodoo Six, Silverside, RavenEye, Klogr, Jack Squat, Radio Birds, We Three Kings, The Wayward Hearts, Dead Man's Whiskey, Inglorious, Dirty Thrills (pictured), Deep Purple, Alter Bridge, Avenged Sevenfold, Red Sun Rising and Aviator Shades.

You Couldn't Make It Up 3/10/17

A "you couldn't make it up" moment linking the Rock On The Ridge show and the Living Colour gig unfolded in the ULU's Gents/bar queue on Sunday night as we bumped into Rock 'n' Roll stand-up comic and all-round nice guy Pete K Mally. Pete's new 2018 Live 'n' Loud show in Bristol, Epsom, Manchester, London and Nottingham is all about the passion for the hairspray, Jack Daniels, flying Vs and yes.. Bon Jovi. He's also down to host Progtoberfest in Balham on Sunday 29th October which includes WRC favourites IT (Video Of The Day) and - you've guessed it - he's also appearing live on the Rock On The Ridge show this coming Saturday!

Out Of The Shade 2/10/17

Living Colour took in London's ULU last night as part of their European Tour. They recently released their new studio album 'Shade' on Megaforce Records and it's their first new studio album in eight years. Produced by Andre Betts, it captures the legendary, Grammy Award-winning Rock band at the height of their creative powers, still experimenting as though they were upstarts instead of seasoned veterans. Supported by the excellent Stone Broken, Living Colour certainly showed that they were back in business - and with a review and more photos to come - check out today's Video Of The Day.

Wilko RAH Review - Part Deux 2/10/17

"Wilko may not win awards for best vocalist in the world but at least his raspy voice has character and is distinctive. The set list hasn’t changed much over the years but all the greats are played, kicking off with ‘All Right’ from the 1981 album ‘Ice On The Motorway’, then straight into ‘If You Want Me, You've Got Me’ from the 1988 ‘Barbed Wire Blues’ album. The brilliant and exotic ‘Dr. Dupree’ from the 1978 ‘Solid Senders’ album was up next with some tasteful eastern style arpeggios from Wilko. A fine trio of Dr. Feelgood classics quickly followed, ‘Going Back Home’ from the 1975 ‘Malpractice’ album, ‘Roxette’ from the 1975 ‘Down By The Jetty’ album and the title track of the 1977 album ‘Sneakin' Suspicion’."

Following on from Mother's excellent Wilko Johnson Royal Albert Hall gig review yesterday, we have another superb take from Steven C. Gilbert here today plus our photo gallery here courtesy of Laurence Harvey and Paul Hine. 

Turn On The Blues 2/10/17

This week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special featuring Val Starr & The Blues Rocket, Tracy K, Vanessa Collier, Samantha Fish, Kelly Z and Pam Taylor.

Living Colour In London Tonight 1/10/17

Living Colour continue their European Tour tonight at London's ULU with support from Stone Broken (today's Track Of The Day). They recently released their new studio album 'Shade' which is their first new studio album in eight years. Produced by Andre Betts, it captures the legendary, Grammy Award-winning Rock band at the height of their creative powers, still experimenting as though they were upstarts instead of seasoned veterans.

Wilko Johnson RAH Review 1/10/17

"With a seamless shuffle of amps and tech, the birthday boy took to the stage in his customary black outfit with matching black and red Telecaster. Alongside Norman Watt-Roy (bass), Dylan Howe (drums), they are The Wilko Johnson band, celebrating 30 years together. Wilko is famous for many things – he was an integral part of Doctor Feelgood and Ian Dury’s Blockheads, has appeared in various acting roles in such luminary productions as Game of Thrones and Oil City Confidential, and his successful battle against terminal pancreatic cancer. But it is as a guitarist and showman that he has made his name. Hugely influential for his guitar playing style, his influence was felt in bands up and down the country, notably in the punk movement (Joe Strummer of the Clash bought a Telecaster after seeing Wilko play)."

Read the whole of Mother's Wilko Johnson (Video Of The Day) Royal Albert Hall gig review from last Tuesday here (photo courtesy of Lawrence Harvey).

October WRC Bulletin Out Today! 1/10/17

Today's October 2017 WRC e-mail Bulletin looks back to at our September gigs including Richie Kotzen, Dirty Thrills, Dan Reed, Henrik Freischlader, Black Orchid Empire, Erja Lyytinen and Wilko Johnson plus our Black Country Communion CD review, and not forgetting of course our trip to the Munich Oktoberfest! With just 49 days to go, we also look forward to November and Wrinklystock 6 featuring Magic - a kind of Queen & ELO - supported by Wrinklystock legends The Replicants plus our October gigs including Living Colour, Walter Trout, Nazareth, Focus,  Steve Hill (including a CD review), Metallica, Iron Maidens and new CD reviews of JW Jones and Ten Years After. And if you are not currently on our e-mail circulation list then please send us your details in the contact box below!