Lethbridge Owen UTB Review 30/4/19
"'Love Me Like A Man' sees the stage reduced to four as Lethbridge Owen launch into a traditional Blues number with just bass and drums. It's a chance for Lethbridge to launch into her strong vocal range above a slow Blues groove whilst Jimmy noodles the Blues scale underneath. And closing track 'Axis Bold As Love' allows Owen to show off his full Hendrix, including behind head guitar playing, whilst the band builds to a final crescendo, topped by Kelly's immaculate vocals and crowd interaction. Finishing with a flourish I would say."
Read the whole of Mother's Lethbridge Owen + Katy Hurt + The Great Flud gig review from London's Under The Bridge last Friday here (pictures courtesy of John Bull).
Storm Warning At 100 Club Tonight 30/4/19
Storm Warning – lauded by the UK Blues press as a classy, contemporary Blues band, that play superbly crafted original Blues Rock songs and breathe new life into Blues standards, are headlining the latest Tuesday Blues gig at London's iconic 100 Club tonight. With support from Felix Rabin, who we first saw supporting Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado at the same venue in March last year, plus the Snake Oil Band, it's going to be another great night of Blues!
Giles Robson At TNMC Tonight 30/4/19
Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day features three IBBA albums of the month from Broken Levee, Li'l Chuck The One Man Skiffle Machine and Kyla Brox (pictured), seven new releases from Cash Box Kings, Mike Ross, R.K.Turner, Catfish, John Primer, Railroad Band and Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, plus a couple of tracks from Giles Robson ahead of his show tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF.
Joe Bonamassa RAH Review 29/4/19
"Celebrated Blues-Rock guitarist and singer-songwriter Joe Bonamassa returned to the legendary Royal Albert Hall in London for the first time since April 2017 for three concerts last week following his October 2018 UK Arena Tour. Once again, the mouthwatering prospect of Joe performing alongside a hand-picked group of world-class musicians playing material from his latest studio album 'Redemption', and his 2016 milestone album 'Blues of Desperation', plus, of course, classic Bonamassa fan favourites, was too good to miss. In fact we were there the first time Joe made his debut at the RAH in May 2009 and indeed some amongst us were there when Bonamassa first visited these shores in 2006, where JB memorably threw his guitar up in to the air at Sutton's Boom Boom which went straight through a polystyrene ceiling tile! No danger of that happening tonight, at the cavernous RAH, as the Bonamassa virgins and veterans assembled on the Thursday night to witness the recording and touring phenomenon's juggernaut rock and roll on."
Read the whole of AJ's Joe Bonamassa gig review from The Royal Albert Hall, London, from last Thursday here (pictures courtesy of John Hayhurst) plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Rockin' The Blues 2019 29/4/19
Following a hugely successful 2018 tour, the Mascot Label Group/Provogue Rockin’ The Blues tour returns in 2019 with an incredible line-up featuring Blues-Rock royalty Walter Trout, the platinum selling international star Jonny Lang and the fast-rising Blues-Rock hero Kris Barras. The tour will be calling through Germany, France, The Netherlands and finally in the UK at The O2 Forum Kentish Town, London, on Tuesday 4th June. Every gig will also see them all come together for a final jam at the end of each night.
Crackin’ Cold Ones With The Boys 29/4/19
Country music’s most amped and raucous trio bring their cheers, beers and hallelujah motto from the road to the airwaves with today’s Track Of The Day of ‘Crackin’ Cold Ones With The Boys’. The Cadillac Three are back on the top of playlists with their aptly-title new single and live music video, out now on Big Machine Records. The Music City natives – Jaren Johnston (guitar and lead vocals), Kelby Ray (lap steel guitar) and Neil Mason (drums, percussion and vocals) – enlisted their road crew Jefferson Brown, Benjamin Dunn, Chris Grainger and Brandon Wootten to complete the boozy party anthem while out on the road for their Country Fuzz Tour, one of many headline treks taking TC3’s tunes across the globe.
Finnish Leverage 28/4/19
Preceded by ’The Devil’s Turn’ EP in the Summer of 2018, Finnish Heavy Rockers Leverage (Track Of The Day) unleashed 'DeterminUs' on Friday, their first full length album in a decade. Defying easy categorisation, they are neither a Power Metal or AOR band, nor an 80’s throwback, and for them it is all about making and playing music with heart and soul while having a blast doing so. With a unique blend of Symphonic and Melodic Hard Rock and a twist of Progressive Metal, their 2006 debut album ‘Tides’ created a buzz and the band signed to Frontiers for the 2008 follow-up, ‘Blind Fire’. They were then picked up by Spinefarm/Universal for ‘Circus Colossus’ the following year, but became inactive shortly after. Now they are back, with new singer Kimmo Blom and guitarist Mikko Salovaara among their ranks. ‘DeterminUs’ promises to be a highlight of the Melodic Metal scene in 2019.
The Secret Is Out 28/4/19
Eleven-time Grammy winner Alan Parsons released his new studio album 'The Secret' on Friday through Frontiers Music and today's Video Of The Day 'As Lights Fall' is taken from the album. 'The Secret' sees Parsons return to Pop Rock with Symphonic and Progressive interludes which marks the definite return of the Alan Parsons Project sounds. The album features several guests including Steve Hackett, Lou Gramm and Vinnie Colaiuta. 'As Lights Fall' follows on from the first video of the album, 'Miracle', featuring Jason Mraz on vocals.
Kinder Surprise 28/4/19
German band Stahlmann, known for their spectacular stage presence and for their hard German-speaking Rock Music, are also famous for constantly developing their uncompromising sound. Thus their latest album 'Kinder Der Sehnsucht', released last month, breaks open some traditional genre borders. The band consisting of Martin ”Mart” Soer (vocals & programming), Mario Sobotka (guitars), Eugene "Gene“ Getman (bass) and Dimitrios “Tacki“ Gatsios (drums), sees stoic guitars, chilling electro-parts and brute lyrics mix perfectly with light Punk Rock and Deutsch Rock elements. Consequently 'Kinder Der Sehnsucht' is made of musical and textual depth and stands for a rousing atmosphere of departure. All that the hard German music scene is representing today - all of this is part of this record.
Borderline Photo Gallery 27/4/19
Critically acclaimed The King’s Parade had already played four countries in Europe on their current headline tour before coming to the UK to play three dates across the country in Leeds, Brighton and London's The Borderline last Thursday night. The band recently released both their new single, ‘Mistakes’, plus the EP it is taken from - 'Mad' - which weaves between touching, soulful moments and passionate outbursts of sonic energy amid graceful melodies, captivating harmonies and enthralling songwriting. The London four-piece have also built up a fervent live fanbase having already completed a number of sold out headline tours across the UK and Europe. Anyway, with a review still to come, check out today's initial Photo Gallery here including support band Imogen.
Wily Bo Walker & E D Brayshaw CD Review 27/4/19
"Wily’s vocal is the first thing that strikes out, the gravel tone voice that could be described as a cross between Chris Rea and Mark Knopfler gives the songs a British feel against an Americana sound that they’ve produced. E D Brayshaw's guitar work instantly reminded me of Thin Lizzy style guitar players’ a la Gary Moore and Brian Robertson and the classy female backing vocals from Karena K complements the material perfectly."
Read the whole of Geoff C's Wily Bo Walker & E D Bradshaw 'The Roads We Ride' CD review here plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Gigs Today 27/4/19
With doors opening at 12.45pm till 9pm today, Camden Rocks Festival presents another all-day Rock-n-Roll bonanza featuring Calico Jack + Laulia + The Dark Light + Plåstic + Glossii + Lara Smiles + David Stevens And The Beguiled + Liars Teeth + Miceberg + Khartoum - all live at The Monarch. Meanwhile, at 2pm today 2015 WRC One's To Watch Award winners Southbound take to the stage at Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF. And later tonight, 2016 WRC Best Support Award winners Monster Truck (pictured) are headlining at Camden's Electric Ballroom, whilst also in London, Jawbreaker (Track Of The Day) are playing Brixton's O2 Academy.
Blues Club Shuffle 26/4/19
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 and much more, including music from Catfish, Benny Turner, Jesse Davey, Jeff Beck, Shuffle Express, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Mighty Mike Schermer, Jumping Matt and his Combo, George Benson, New York Horns, Bonita & The Blues Shacks, Bob Corritore, Matt Pearce & The Mutiny, Wily Bo Walker (pictured), Big Wolf Band, Frankie Miller, Buddy Guy, Susan Santos, Stephen Dale Petit, Dove and Boweevil, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Kelly's Lot, Beth Hart, Stef Paglia, Frim-Fram, Meg Williams, Marcus Lazarus Band, Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Imelda May, Steve Howell & Jason Weinheimer and more.
Lethbridge Owen Album Launch Tonight 26/4/19
Lethbridge Owen’s official album launch of 'Mind Over Matter' takes place at London's Under The Bridge tonight. Described as a 70’s Fleetwood Mac with Eric Johnson on guitar, the male/female fronted outfit offer an intoxicating mix of Rock, Roots, with acoustic flavours, all underpinned by excellent songwriting and some truly fine, understated but no less impressive, musicianship. Doors open at 6.30pm, with support from The Great Flud at 7pm, Katy Hurt at 8pm and headliner's Lethbridge Owen on at 9.15pm. Meanwhile, also tonight, down at Leo's Red Lion in Gravesend, Kent, there's an awesome line up of three young talented Rock bands for your delectation - namely Gorilla Riot, 2018 WRC One's To Watch Award winners Collateral and headliner's Bad Touch.
New Axenstar Album Out Today 26/4/19
Swedish Power Metal veterans Axenstar are an integral part of the European scene given that they have released six studio albums since their debut ‘Perpetual Twilight’ in 2002. plus their last album ‘Where Dreams Are Forgotten’ in 2014. Today's Video Of The Day is 'The Unholy', taken from their new album 'End Of All Hope', released digitally today. Following their two previous singles 'King Of Fools' and 'Honor And Victory', 'The Unholy' marks another hint of what to expect from the Swedes' great new album.
On To The Next 25/4/19
Today's Video Of The Day is Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown's brand new song 'On to the Next'. The riff-roaring track is the first taste of new music from the band's next album, tentatively due this Summer, both recorded with Joel Hamilton (Highly Suspect, Pretty Lights). Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown are also touring with Black Stone Cherry on a US co-headline run this Spring.
JB At RAH Tonight 25/4/19
"An initially shy young Blues guitarist, Kirk Fletcher, was invited onto stage and challenged in a guitar ‘gunfire stand-off’ with Bonamassa, which raged between the two of them in a display of matched musical fury and attack that built to a thunderous crescendo. “Too loud, too many notes!” joked Bonamassa. ‘Slow Train’ was an excellent follow-up to this with all instruments beating a tempo that conjured visions of the approaching freight train chugging along lonely dusty tracks with calming light play on the backdrop of the stage and rhythm leading into an incredible guitar finish." That was part of our take the last time we saw Joe Bonamassa at the Hampton Court Palace Festival in June last year (pictured) and JB returns to his more familiar stomping ground of London's Royal Albert Hall at 7.30pm tonight.
Look To The Skys 25/4/19
Lithuanian Prog legends The Skys have released their second single 'Singing Tree' taken from their sixth studio album 'Automatic Minds', due to be released this Spring which is today's Track Of The Day. The Skys are no strangers to the UK Prog scene, having visited these shores before including a performance at HRH Prog III back in 2015. The follow-up to first single 'Communication', 'Singing Tree' features exquisite sax work from renowned LA musician Justin Klunk and sees the band in fine form. The band, consisting of Jonas Čiurlionis– vocals and lead guitar, Božena Buinicka – keyboards and vocals, Justinas Tamaševičius – bass and Ilja Molodcov - drums, have shared the stage with Rick Wakeman, The Blues Brothers, The Exploited, Delirium, John Young Band and Arena among others, and have many international awards including “Best International Band“ at the New York International Music Festival 2004. The band have released five previous albums: 'Civilized' (1997), 'Dreams' (1999), 'Postmodern Game' (2004), 'Colours of the Desert' (2011) and 'Journey Through the Skies' (2015).
Erja Lyytinen CD Review 24/4/19
"Listening to the new album from the formidable Finn you probably won’t be mentally filing it under Blues Rock, if you indeed felt the need to categorise it, which is what you might be expecting from the exciting guitar player and singer. ‘Another World’ sticks out from the seeming plethora of albums by players grounded in the Blues by its wide sonic landscape, flowing out from the narrower confines of the Delta into an ocean of musical ideas, really well recorded, each track bursting out of the speakers electrically charged with engineering and production skills on display."
Read the whole of Simon Green's Erja Lyytinen 'Another World' CD review here which is due to be released this Friday 26th April plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Rock On The Ridge Vampires 24/4/19
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from GoldWater, The Hollywood Vampires, Beasto Blanco, Threering, Black Tree Vultures, Empyre, Locust Grove, Black Whiskey, UFO, Novatines, Electric Mary, their "Blast From The Past" Scorpions, Wolf Jaw, Slydigs, Matt Mitchell & The Coldhearts, Tom Morello, Saving Abel, Federal Charm (pictured), Hollowstar, The Black Hands, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, Old Glory & The Black Riviera and on their introducing stage, two in a row from Red Iron Crow.
Borderline King's Tonight 24/4/19
Critically acclaimed The King’s Parade have already played four countries in Europe on their current headline tour before coming to the UK to play three dates across the country in Leeds, Brighton and London's The Borderline tonight. The band recently released both their new single, ‘Mistakes’, plus the EP it is taken from - 'Mad' - which weaves between touching, soulful moments and passionate outbursts of sonic energy amid graceful melodies, captivating harmonies and enthralling songwriting. The London four-piece have also built up a fervent live fanbase having already completed a number of sold out headline tours across the UK and Europe.
Cinelli Brothers Play TNMC Tonight 23/4/19
Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day is an hour filled with music from Mike Farris, Broken Levee, AG Weinberger, Bear & Robert, Kyla Brox, Li'l Chuck The One Man Skiffle Machine, Shuffle Express, Ben Hemming, Kelly's Lot, Steve Howell & Jason Weinheimer, The Reverend Shawn Amos, Meg Williams and, of course (ahead of their show tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF) The Cinelli Brothers (pictured).
Disneyland After Dark 23/4/19
Disneyland After Dark (D-A-D) break a long eight year draught with the release of their fab new single 'Burning Star', out now on AFM Records. Denmark’s foremost Rockers are finally ready to reveal their new material and old fans are bound to rejoice when the gang strikes a chord on today's Video Of The Day. The studio might have been idle for a few years, but the tour schedule hasn’t and the demanding life on the road has likely helped lead the band back to the straightforward setup of guitar, bass, drums and vocals. This is a fast-paced bolt of raw energy – no detours. And when the four of them fill venues across Denmark this Spring, fans can expect both this and other samples from the upcoming and long-awaited album, pledging more of the quartet’s distinct brand of action Rock. While waiting for the album, let 'Burning Star' get the house rocking.
Magnum June Headline Tour 23/4/19
Magnificent Classic Hard Rockers Magnum have confirmed a handful of UK headline concerts in June, amidst prestigious appearances at The Sweden Rock Festival, The German Rock Hard Festival and Spain’s Rock The Coast Festival. The British icons released their brand new album, ‘Live At The Symphony Hall’, in January this year on Steamhammer/SPV. Recorded last year on 19th April at the exhilarating final concert of their two month long ‘Road To Eternity Tour’ in Birmingham, ‘Live At The Symphony Hall’ contains an impeccable mix of Magnum classics and cracking new songs from 2018’s studio album, ‘Lost On The Road To Eternity’, which was universally acclaimed as one of, if not the best album of the group’s entire career to date when released at the end of January last year.
Enter The Darkness 22/4/19
Rock-stalwarts, The Darkness (Video Of The Day) were recently added as special guests to Toto's only UK show this year on Thursday 13th June at London's Live At Chelsea Concert Series. With their forthcoming album 'Easter Is Cancelled' also due to be released on Friday 4th October via Cooking Vinyl, The Darkness have announced they will also be spreading their message across the land on a full UK and Ireland 18 date headline tour this winter, starting in November and ending at London's Roundhouse on Friday 20th December. The joyous warriors, who are here to prick the pompous and kick the arses of those who seek to destroy us, also sandwich in a headline festival spot at Ramblin' Man Fair on Friday 19th July. 'Easter Is Cancelled' sees the four maestros embark upon their most ambitious quest to date with their musical opus soon to be thrust into the ear canals of Rock fans around the globe, and a tour that will quite literally resurrect the souls of all who attend.
Kinch London Express Gig 22/4/19
Jesse Kinch captured the Rock and Roll soul of America when he was voted the winner of ABC's Rising Star, and he's playing London's Pizza Express Live on Wednesday 22nd May. Today's Track Of The Day is his current single 'How Do I Reach You (The Last Veil)', taken from his debut album, 'I'm Not Like Everybody Else', released last year. The 23 year old singer, songwriter, guitarist and lyricist has been playing the N.Y.C./Long Island club scene since the age of 8 and is a part of a new generation of young talent who want to bring Rock 'n’ Roll back to its glory days! Influenced heavily by the great Rock bands and guitarists of the 60’s, 70’s and the Seattle scene of the 90’s, Jesse delivers high energy performances and writes songs that capture the times with his own unique original style.
Airrace Borderline Review 22/4/19
"Down below in the Borderline tonight the band is playing a well-crafted set from both the first and last albums. Kicking off with ‘I Don’t Care’ and ‘Eyes Like Ice’ setting the pace for the songs to come. The feel-good factor is in abundance here backed up by the continuous smile on keyboard player Linda Kelsey-Foster’s face. ’New Skin’ is track of the night for me excellently executed with vocalist Adam Payne in fine form."
Read the whole of Geoff C's Airrace gig review at The Borderline, London, from Good Friday here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Flight Brigade Half Moon Review 21/4/19
"Flight Brigade resemble not so much a Rock-group, but more of an ensemble: they have an electric-violin player as well a bass player, lead guitarist drummer and two keyboardists, but they manage not to over-egg the pudding. They certainly have pop sensibilities, and their brand of chart-friendly Blues/Heavy Rock backing, takes in all manner of influences from A-ha to Radiohead. The collective doesn't seem to have a dominant member which works to their credit as the emphasis is totally shifted to their tunes."
Read the whole of Ivan De Mello's Flight Brigade + Port Erin (Video Of The Day), The Half Moon, Putney, London, gig review from last Thursday night here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Borderline Photo Gallery 21/4/19
Airrace touched down at London's Borderline on Friday night, with great support from Tytan (pictured and today's Track Of The Day), and with a review to come, check out today's Photo Gallery here. Their latest album ‘Untold Stories’ was released in August last year and was praised for its songwriting and wide-ranging stylistic approach. Founded by Laurie Mansworth, Airrace is recognised as one of the UK’s pioneering AOR acts. Following the acclaimed 1984 release of their debut album, ’Shaft Of Light’, the band supported rock titans such as Queen, AC/DC and Meat Loaf, but they had crash-landed by the Summer of 1985. It took a 25th anniversary reissue of the record to reunite the group, and they eventually issued a second album, ‘Back To The Start’, via Frontiers in 2011.
Wrinklystock 8 Tickets Available Online 21/4/19
Tickets priced £20, for this year's Wrinklystock 8, are available online here, or alternatively you can call the MJC Box Office on 01322 291100. Following on from the success of last year’s Wrinklystock 7 charity concert with The Kast Off Kinks - and with support once again from Wrinklystock legends The Replicants, there are two, yes two awesome tribute bands playing this year’s Wrinklystock 8 at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, on Friday 6th December at 7.15pm! Jamie & The Jets present the 'Don't Shoot Me, I'm Not Really Elton John' Show, featuring a full set of non-stop classic Elton hits including 'Your Song', 'Candle in the Wind', 'Bennie & The Jets', 'Saturday Night', 'Sad Songs', 'Nakita', 'Funeral For A Friend', 'Love Lies Bleeding', 'Take Me To The Pilot', 'Tiny Dancer' and many more! Meanwhile, Status Quo tribute act Just Supposin’ capture the raw energy and excitement of the original ‘Frantic Four’ line up of this classic British Rock band. From 'Caroline' to 'Rockin’ All Over The World', through the epic '4500 Times' and the mighty 'Roadhouse Blues', all the elements of a classic Quo concert are here and delivered with all the energy, power and humour of the original.
Flight Brigade Photo Gallery 20/4/19
With a review to come, today check out our initial Photo Gallery here of Alternative Indie-Rock band Flight Brigade's Half Moon, Putney gig from Thursday night. This was was the final gig of their tour supporting the release of their latest single ‘Fury Road’ taken from the band’s new studio album ‘Chased By Wolves’ which is due to be released on Friday 6th September via Wixen Music Publishing. Touring extensively and playing the major UK festivals including Glastonbury, Bestival and The Great Escape, Flight Brigade have garnered a reputation from fans and critics alike for exceptional and explosive live performances. Their sound is as distinctive as it is unique. Infectious melodies and hooks flow through songs that at times exude fierce energy and at others gentle poignancy. With grand orchestral sweeps, crunching anthemic guitars, strings and synths, their explosive performances feel like it’s their last day on earth!
London Rocks Today 20/4/19
With doors opening at 12.45pm till 9pm today, Camden Rocks Festival presents another all-day Rock-n-Roll bonanza featuring Such Gold (Track Of The Day) + White Eskimo + Dam Fino + Evil Edna + Lentos + Third Lung + Nerves + Myok + The Survival Code + Passifs - all live at The Monarch. Meanwhile, just up the road at Holloway's Big Red, London based Indie Rock Band Superfecta are one of the many bands playing Dementia Aware Fest, with the first band on at 4pm.
Long Good Friday 20/4/19
Airrace touched down at London's Borderline last night, and with a review and a Photo Gallery to come, check out today's Video Of The Day. Their latest album ‘Untold Stories’ was released in August last year and was praised for its songwriting and wide-ranging stylistic approach. Founded by Laurie Mansworth, Airrace is recognised as one of the UK’s pioneering AOR acts. Following the acclaimed 1984 release of their debut album, ’Shaft Of Light’, the band supported rock titans such as Queen, AC/DC and Meat Loaf, but they had crash-landed by the Summer of 1985. It took a 25th anniversary reissue of the record to reunite the group, and they eventually issued a second album, ‘Back To The Start’, via Frontiers in 2011.
Good Friday Blues Club 19/4/19
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 and much more, including music from Rory Gallagher, George Benson, Gary Hoey, Savoy Brown, Kate Lush, Rick Vito, Andy Knight & The Remedy, Bonita & The Blues Shacks, Kerry Kearney, Les Poissons Voyageurs, Red's Blues, Tommy Castro (pictured), Ag Weinberger, Sugaray Rayford, Grace and Danger, Al Lerman, Joakim Tinderholt, Steve West Weston, Kenny Parker Band, Lethbridge Owen, John Duer & The Blues Freaks, Ronnie Earl, Glen Clark, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective, Jimmy Rogers, Tony Campanella, New York Horns, The Marcus King Band, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Ramblin' Man Fair Update 19/4/19
After playing Ramblin' Man Fair in 2016, Aussie Hard Rockers Airbourne (Video Of The Day) are returning to play the Main Stage on Sunday 21st July. Also returning to keep Black Stone Cherry company on the Main Stage on Saturday 20th July are the well respected and critically acclaimed UK Classic Rockers The Temperance Movement, who also played Ramblin' Man Fair in 2015, plus American Grunge Rock 'n' Rollers Ugly Kid Joe! Meanwhile, headlining the welcome return of the Grooverider Stage on the Sunday, all the way from New Jersey, are Stoner Rockers and Space Rock monoiliths Monster Magnet, whilst on the the Blues Stage on Sunday, swapping the Rap and Roll of House of Pain for a guitar and a story or two, is Everlast! Finally, the first acts to be confirmed playing the Rising Stage over the weekend are Gin Annie UK, The Outlaw Orchestra, Cellar Door Moon Crow, The Fallen State, Dust Bowl Jokies, Salvation Jayne, Ryders Creed, Matt Mitchell & The Coldhearts & Rainbreakers.
Airrace Borderline Tonight 19/4/19
"The ever smiling Kelsey Foster, with her red fedora and her similarly coloured feather boa draped across her keyboards, played the beautiful intro to their Survivor sounding epic 'Brief Encounter' before Payne rounded off proceedings on this final track from 'SOL' with another cracking vocal. An awesome set that not only had those present salivating at the prospect of the release of their new album next year, but also those present checking out the release of that amazing and very underrated album thirty three years ago. A must for this year's Christmas stocking!" That was our take on Airrace the last time we saw them at Camden's The Underworld in December 2017 (pictured) and the band return to London tonight at The Borderline.
At The Sun Interview 18/4/19
Today we finish off our coverage of last Friday's At The Sun + Hell's Addiction + Ravenbreed, The Black Heart, Camden, London gig, with today's Track Of The Day. Indeed, after their soundcheck, we were lucky enough to catch up with At The Sun's Alex Matthews (bass) and Craig Steen (drums) literally outside the venue for an audio interview where we discussed their 'Leave Before The Light' headline tour, playing live/unplugged, influences, Rag 'n' Bone Man, their roots, live venues, recording, being an unsigned band, the music business, radio air play, their fans, their message, forthcoming gigs/festivals, merchandise, losing weight and Mariah Carey. This interview is dedicated in memory of Sandra Clarke.
Flight Brigade Land At Half Moon Tonight 18/4/19
Alternative Indie-Rock band Flight Brigade released their new single ‘Fury Road’ in March, and to support this, the band kicked off a run of shows that finishes off tonight, back in London, at The Half Moon, Putney. The single is taken from the band’s new studio album ‘Chased By Wolves’ which is due to be released on Friday 6th September via Wixen Music Publishing. Touring extensively and playing the major UK festivals including Glastonbury, Bestival and The Great Escape, Flight Brigade have garnered a reputation from fans and critics alike for exceptional and explosive live performances. Their sound is as distinctive as it is unique. Infectious melodies and hooks flow through songs that at times exude fierce energy and at others gentle poignancy. With grand orchestral sweeps, crunching anthemic guitars, strings and synths, their explosive performances feel like it’s their last day on earth!
Troy At Eel Pie Tonight 18/4/19
"Saying his goodbyes it was no surprise that the audience called him back and as he returned he showed the generosity of inviting Chris Walker to join him on stage. In ‘Baby Please Don’t Go’ we had a show stopping guitar dual that raised the temperature another notch. The Troy Redfern Band won a lot of hearts on 4th July in Gravesend and they’ll win a lot more in the months ahead." That was part of our take on The Troy Redfern Band at BluesRockFest way back in 2015 (pictured and today's Video Of The Day) and Troy and his band are also playing tonight at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ. Doors open at 8.15pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Papa Roach Forum Tonight 17/4/19
Papa Roach released their tenth studio album 'Who Do You Trust?' via Eleven Seven Music in January and the band are supporting its release with a UK tour that includes London's O2 Forum tonight (with support from Nothing More - today's Video Of The Day) as well as playing some European festival dates and then returning back to the US for a headline tour! The 12-track anthemic album features heavy guitars and catchy hooks on its title track, the exhilaratingly chaotic 'Renegade Music', the soaring Pop of 'Not The Only One' and a return to frontman Jacoby Shaddix’s MC roots on 'Elevate'.
Rock On The Ridge Bandits 17/4/19
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day, there's music from Whitesnake, At The Sun, Danko Jones, Bootyard Bandits, Texas Hippie Coalition, Sunday Brave, Far Suns Fall, Gorilla Riot, Black Mountain, Last In Line, Temple Of One, Mississippi Riot, Five Finger Death Punch, Trucker Diablo, Mountain, The Treatment, Wolf Jaw, Follow No One, The Amazons, The Vintage Caravan, Fivefold and on their Introducing Stage, two in a row from the new album by Kenny Wayne Shepherd (pictured).
At The Sun Black Heart Review 17/4/19
"Needless to say the answer was in the affirmative as we completed this time the album bingo card with their first single 'Soak It Up' - an awesome finale and overdue opportunity to showcase the excellent Kieron on rhythm guitar. "One More Song, One More Song..." the crowd shouted, which, as Harry admitted, was a bit awkward as they had played all their songs, but given these days of Brexit, he put it to a democratic vote and 'Devil In Your Eyes' won. There's no truth in the rumour that 52% voted for it - but all we know is that as we sang along again, it was definitely another case of eat your heart out Black Stone Cherry 2! A great performance that totally validated the band's belief that it has grown and absorbed new influences - as testified by the variety of the songs in their set. As they stated: it’s a living, breathing journey that they are on, and based on tonight's performance there are also many who want to jump on board with them! Among other gigs planned, At The Sun play Camden Rocks on Saturday 1st June, Hard Rock Hell on Saturday 9th November and Planet Rockstock on Saturday 7th December. Make sure you catch up with them soon!"
Read the whole of AJ's At The Sun + Hell's Addiction + Ravenbreed, The Black Heart, Camden, London, gig review from last Friday night here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Dom Martin At TNMC Tonight 16/4/19
Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day includes music from Dom Martin (ahead of his show tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF) and from Kyla Brox celebrating her win at The European Blues Challenge. Add to that music from Stephen Dale Petit, Broken Levee, Savoy Brown, Bob Corritore, Kenny Parker, Marcus Lazarus, Kate Lush Band, Rory Gallagher (pictured), Bonita & The Blues Shacks and Kenny 'Beedy Eyes' Smith & The House Bumpers and you have a busy but entertaining hour!
Savoy Brown/Stan Webb UTB Review 16/4/19
"For the encore we got the mammoth and staggering 'Savoy Brown Boogie' from the 1969 'A Step Further' album. The band got to stretch out on this one, with Simmonds just flying with inventive soloing. A full force boogie explosion! The smile on Simmonds face showed us that this man was in his element, and we were too! At the conclusion of this rave-up, the crowd showed their appreciation by enthusiastically clapping and cheering for more. Simmonds took his guitar off and came to the front of the stage to shake hands with the front row before exiting the stage for a well-earned rest. Unfortunately the popular Savoy Brown live staples 'Hellbound Train' and 'Tell Mama' was not played at this gig. Despite these omissions, the set list was strong, well balanced and interesting. Overall, it was an absolutely fantastic evening of electric blues. A good time was had by all!"
Read the whole of Steven C. Gilbert's Savoy Brown + Stan Webb's Chicken Shack Under The Bridge, London, gig review from last Friday night here.
Black Whiskey's Dry Bones 16/4/19
Was it really way back in January 2016 that we first Introduced you to Black Whiskey with their roots firmly entrenched in those classic sounds of the seventies and early eighties? Well the Classic Hard Rock outfit, released their second album ‘Dry Bones’ last Friday, through Heavy Star Records and the title track is today's Video Of The Day. The last two years has been a tough road for Black Whiskey. Guitarist, Kevin Ingles was diagnosed with cancer following the release of their debut album, 'Heavy Train', and treatment for that has taken its toll. But, the band, also consisting of Simon Gordon on vocals, Rich Bannister on drums and new bassist Craig Nabbs, are a tight-knit unit and have worked through these challenges to produce a hard-hitting album.
Camden Rocks On 15/4/19
Camden Rocks Festival recently announced a further sixty bands for the weekend of 1st and 2nd June including The Pigeon Detectives, scheduled to perform on Saturday. Hailing from Yorkshire, the all-English quartet has established itself amongst the country’s best Indie bands. From their platinum selling debut album 'Wait For Me' to the deeper and more reflective fifth record 'Broken Glances', The Pigeon Detectives have the catalogue and the experience to deliver a show to be remembered. Also announced are English Reggae-influenced Punk Rockers The Ruts DC, celebrating the 40th anniversary of debut album 'The Crack', critics’ favourite Metal-Core four-piece Glamour Of The Kill, singer-songwriter Sean McGowan, anthemic Pop-Rock Londoners Luna Bay, acoustic-duo Undead Raisins (Andy & Colin from Hundred Reasons) and more.
Nine Shrines Chain Reaction 15/4/19
Today's Track Of The Day is Nine Shrines brand new track 'Chain Reaction', taken from their upcoming debut studio album 'Retribution Therapy', due to be released on Friday 26th April. Nine Shrines blend the most extreme elements of active-Rock/Metal-Core with well-crafted, melodic songwriting. Touring the US they have shared the stage with Volbeat, Halestorm, Chimaira, Shinedown, All That Remains and Nonpoint. The Cleveland quintet arose on the scene in 2014 from the ashes of aggressive 00’s Ohio band pedigree: drummer Andrew Wetzel (Attack Attack!), bassist Devon Voisine and lead guitarist Andrew Baylis (Life on Repeat), rhythm guitarist Even McKeever (Downplay) and singer Chris Parketny (Strangers to Wolves).
A New Revenge 15/4/19
LA based Metallers, A New Revenge, featuring an all-star line-up of Classic Rock players, released their debut album 'Enemies & Lovers' at the end of last month, of which their single 'Never Let You Go' is today's Video Of The Day. Featuring one of the finest voices in Metal of all time, Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens (who’s voice is all over albums from Judas Priest, Iced Earth and Yngwie Malmsteen), one of the most versatile and name checked guitarists in Rock, Keri Kelli (Slash’s Snake Pit, Alice Cooper, Vince Neil Band and a hundred more), the most iconic bass player in Heavy Metal history, Rudy Sarzo (who’s work with Ozzy Osbourne, Dio, Whitesnake and many more has earned him an almost revered status in heavy music) and long-time Scorpions drummer James Kottak (also from Montrose, Warrant, Kingdom Come & more) - the band will hit the road across the US in support of 'Enemies & Lovers' throughout 2019 and are looking at locking in a European tour later in the year.
Black Heart Photo Gallery 14/4/19
With a brilliant audio interview with Alex Matthews (bass) and Craig Steen (drums), plus a review to come, as promised, check out today our initial Photo Gallery here of At The Sun's The Black Heart, Camden, London, headline gig from Friday including great support from Hell's Addiction and Ravenbreed.
Sweet Oblivion 14/4/19
Frontiers Music have announced a debut release on Friday 14th June by Sweet Oblivion, an exciting new project featuring legendary former Queensryche and current Operation: Mindcrime singer Geoff Tate. Sweet Oblivion sees Tate teaming up with a stellar cast of Italian musicians led by Simone Mularoni, the mastermind of Prog Metal masters DGM. Musically, this album marks a return to a more Melodic Metal style for Tate and showcases a fine collection of songs that also highlights the talent of Mularoni and his hand picked ensemble. The opening track and first single ‘True Colors’ (Video Of The Day) sets the pace for the entire release and shows what listeners can expect from the record. Excellent musicianship and a sound that harkens back to the massive melodies and hooks of classic albums like ‘Empire’, ‘Rage For Order’ and ‘Operation: Mindcrime’.
Underworld Curse 14/4/19
"However, Eden’s Curse saved their very best for their encore. Audience participation got well underway with the well-known ‘Symphony of Sin’ but, when Evolve and C.O.P. UK joined Eden’s Curse on stage for a cover of ‘Highway to Hell’, the volume reached a new level, shaking The Underworld to its foundations. Which only left one song, ‘Angels & Demons’, another powerful duet with Helen Hurd, a truly fitting finale that nearly brought the house down." That was part of our take on Eden's Curse at London's The Underworld way back in November 2016 (pictured) and the band return to the same venue in Camden tonight to begin their headline Testament UK Tour in support of their 'Best Of' album with two very special guests in German Melodic Metal legends Mob Rules (Track Of The Day) and up and coming Swedish Melodic Rock sensations Degreed.
It's Record Store Day 13/4/19
Today is Record Store Day 2019 - the one day of the year when over 200 independent record shops all across the UK come together to celebrate their unique culture. Special vinyl releases are made exclusively for the day and many shops and cities host artist performances and events to mark the occasion. Thousands more shops celebrate the day around the globe in what’s become one of the biggest annual events on the music calendar.
Although there’s only one Record Store Day a year, Record Store Day also work throughout the year to celebrate our independent record stores by spotlighting exclusive releases, events and special news. For more information go here.
Sun Sets In Camden 13/4/19
With their debut album, ‘Leave Before The Light’, being released last month, 2019 looks set to be a big year for rising Rockers At The Sun, as the band, consisting of Harry Dale (vocals), Alex Matthews (bass), Chet Jogia (lead guitar), Craig Steen (drums) and Kieron Heavens (rhythm guitar) stopped off last night in their hometown at Camden's The Black Heart, 75% of the way through their UK headline tour. With great support also from Hells Addiction and Ravenbreed - plus an interview, Photo Gallery and a review to come - check out today's Video Of The Day.
Gigs Today 13/4/19
With doors opening at 12.45pm till 9pm today, Camden Rocks Festival presents another all-day Rock-n-Roll bonanza featuring Mercutio + Collateral (pictured and Track Of The Day) + 10 Gauge + Sinka + 7he 7ouch + Cutting Teeth + Dead Writers + I Within + Our City Fires + PollyPikPockets - all live at The Monarch. Meanwhile, at 2pm today the Guy Tortora Band take to the stage at Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF. And later, John Lodge, legendary bass player, songwriter and vocalist of The Moody Blues and recent inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, brings his The Moody Blues John Lodge: The 10,000 Light Years Tour to London's Cadogan Hall.
Savoy Brown Under The Bridge Tonight 12/4/19
Over 50 years of rocking the Blues – Savoy Brown (Video Of The Day), return with 'City Night' – their 40th album – which will be released on Friday 7th June via Quarto Valley Records (distributed by Proper), and to support its release, the band have embarked on a five-date UK tour this week which includes London's Under The Bridge tonight. On the back of a number one Billboard Blues hit in 2017, expectations are high for this new band offering. The album features Kim Simmonds on vocals and searing lead guitar, and he is complemented with the most consistent line-up in the band’s history, going strong for more than 10 years now with Pat DeSalvo on bass and Garnet Grimm on drums. 'City Night' is comprised of 12 high energy Blues Rock songs to surely please the worldwide fan base. 'Walking On Hot Stones', 'Payback Time' and 'Don't Hang Me Out To Dry' will catch the attention of radio DJ's looking for the fresh new sound Savoy Brown brings to roots music.
Focus On The Blues 12/4/19
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 and much more, including music from Erja Lyytinen, Reese Wynans, Lena & The Slide Brothers, Lachy Doley, Anthony Gomes, John Mayall, Watermelon Slim, Big Al And The Heavyweights, Mighty Mike Schermer, Matt Pearce, Glen Clark, Cara Being Blue, Eric Gales, Gary Hoey, Mike Ross & Elles Bailey, Sugaray Rayford, Focus (pictured), Connor Selby, Never The Bride, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Kyla Brox, Southbound, Broken Levee, Brandon Santini, Tiffany Pollack and Co., Ryk Mead & The London Blues Machine, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Sun Forecast In Camden Tonight 12/4/19
With their debut album, ‘Leave Before The Light’, being released last month, 2019 looks set to be a big year for rising Rockers At The Sun, with UK festivals lined up, along with a UK tour supporting the album that includes London's Black Heart in Camden tonight. Formed in 2016, Harry (vocals), Kieron (guitars), Alex (bass), Chet (guitar) and Craig (drums) spent a year honing their skills on the live circuit before heading into the studio to record their new album late last year. With a driving but melodic sound, At The Sun believe in writing songs people can move to, combining big riffs with big rhythms and singalong choruses, so there's no excuse not to journey to see these guys in their natural habitat: live!
A Rock Supreme 11/4/19
Rock ‘n’ Roll ain’t no luxury item. It’s essential. It’s the blood in our veins and the fire in our hearts. And nobody does it better than Danko Jones. Formed in Toronto in 1996, this six-legged riff ‘n’ refrain machine have spent the last two decades delivering huge, jolting doses of stripped back ‘n’ strutting Hard Rock with the relentlessness of men possessed. Led by Danko himself, the closest thing the modern world has to a credible king of Rock ’n’ Roll, and now deftly supported by suave bass maestro John Calabrese and loose-limbed drum God Rich Knox, this pumped-up Canadian power trio grabbed the world’s attention with a flurry of early EP's, before exploding fully into action with 2002’s full-length debut 'Born A Lion'. Fast forward to 2019, and Danko Jones are back with a brand new album, 'A Rock Supreme' (see today's Video Of The Day), due to be released on Friday 26th April. Serving up precisely what its title promises, the new record boasts yet another non-stop blitzkrieg of irresistible, energy-packed anthems. Sharper than ever after yet more years on the road, the Canadian three-piece sound somehow bigger, tougher and more thrillingly plugged into the Rock ‘n’ Roll mainframe than ever.
Melissa's Medicine Show 11/4/19
Today's Track Of The Day is Melissa Etheridge's brand new video for ‘Wild And Lonely’, the latest track to be taken from her forthcoming studio album, 'The Medicine Show', out this Friday 12th April via Snakefarm Records in the UK /Concord Records. The video was filmed during her recent trip to the UK, which saw her play a run of headline dates including shows in Manchester, Glasgow and London. Exemplifying the passionate and dynamic performances she is known for, the video sees Melissa perform the track with a captivating raw power and intensity. Since the release of her unforgettable self-titled 1988 debut, Melissa Etheridge’s incredible career to date includes sales of over 25 million albums, five platinum and three multi-platinum records, 15 Grammy Award nominations and two wins, a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, plus an Academy Award for ‘I Need to Wake Up’ from the climate change documentary, ‘An Inconvenient Truth’. Her last release, 'Memphis Rock & Soul', debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Blues Chart.
Suzi Reaches Wembley Tonight 11/4/19
The "Queen of Rock 'N' Roll" Suzi Quatro plans to debut a couple of new tracks amongst her greatest hits as she stops off at London's Wembley SSE Arena tonight as part of her major UK/Australian/European tour. The songs are taken from her recently released studio album 'No Control' which includes eleven new songs (plus two bonus tracks). The American musician has been in the music business for more than 50 years, delivering her greatest hits such as ‘Can The Can’, ‘48 Crash’, ‘If You Can't Give Me Love’, 'She's In Love With You' and ‘Devil Gate Drive’ with unbridled energy.
Savoy Brown City Night 10/4/19
Over 50 years of rocking the Blues – Savoy Brown, return with 'City Night' – their 40th album – which will be released on Friday 7th June via Quarto Valley Records (distributed by Proper). To support its release, the band will be embarking on a five-date UK tour this week which includes London's Under The Bridge this Friday. On the back of a number one Billboard Blues hit in 2017, expectations are high for this new band offering. The album features Kim Simmonds on vocals and searing lead guitar, and he is complemented with the most consistent line-up in the band’s history, going strong for more than 10 years now with Pat DeSalvo on bass and Garnet Grimm on drums. 'City Night' is comprised of 12 high energy Blues Rock songs to surely please the worldwide fan base. 'Walking On Hot Stones', 'Payback Time' and 'Don't Hang Me Out To Dry' will catch the attention of radio DJ's looking for the fresh new sound Savoy Brown brings to roots music.
Sir Curse Tarot 10/4/19
Described as "Kate Bush meets Panic At The Disco!"; today's Video Of The Day is 'Tarot', the debut single by Sir Curse. Recorded at Chairworks Studios (Marmozets / Skindred), 'Tarot' was produced by David Watts (Bryan Adams/Bring Me The Horizon). Featuring dark and sinister undertones whilst staying upbeat and happy; 'Tarot' combines diverse yet elegant Rock, Folk and Gypsy style Jazz elements that make Sir Curse a tangible young prospect for the future of British music. Influenced by the likes of The Brothers Grimm fairy tales and American Horror Story, the band consisting of Lyndsay Dale - vocals, Ellen Davis - keyboards, Bill O’Dwyer - guitar, Eric Lock - bass, Henry Broomfield - drums and Joe Martin - trumpet, have just been announced for Hampshire’s prestigous Boomtown Fair, playing the Flying Moustache stage in Copper County division. Set in the Matterly Bowl and now in its 11th year, Boomtown Fair takes place from 7th to the 11th of August.
Rock On The Ridge Shakedown 10/4/19
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from Red Sky Mary, Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, Piston, Nine Miles South, Gasoline Outlaws, Vulture Vibe, Monster Magnet, Hatfield Rising, Tesla, John Diva & The Rockets Of Love, The End Machine, Ozzy Osbourne, The Quireboys, Clutch, Black Whiskey, Devilskin (pictured), The Last Internationale, Reignwolf, Wolfmother, Rival Sons, Tax The Heat, The Rising Souls, Black Orchid Empire and on their Introducing Stage, two in a row from Mississippi Nova.
UFO Shepherd's Bush Empire Review 9/4/19
"The main set came to a close with the anthemic and killer 'Doctor Doctor' from the 1974 'Phenomenon' album. The intro build up to the main riff is tantalising, raising up the tension before exploding into life, exciting the senses as it chugs along like a juggernaut. A mosh pit developed down the front, just like the good old days! For the encore we got the excellent 'Shoot Shoot' from the 1975 'Force It' album. Time for more audience participation and moshing! At the end Moore descended the stage into the pit to allow the front row to strum his guitar. A great ending to a fantastic night of classic Heavy Rock."
Read the whole of Steven C. Gilbert's UFO Shepherd's Bush Empire gig review from last Thursday night here.
Hard Rock Vambo Tonight 9/4/19
"Openers on stage 1 are Epsom's Vambo. Having seen this 4 piece powerhouse perform on the tiny Orange stage at the Stone Free Festival, it was great to see them spread their wings across the expanse of the main stage. The small crowd arousing from the previous night’s revelries grew as did their appreciation of Vambo's 70's inspired Rock. Frontman Jack Stile cavorted around the stage like a madman, despite suffering from 'proper man flu' blasting out powerful lyrics on a set that included a cover of Zeppelin's 'Good Times Bad Times' as well as their last single 'Why, Why, Why' and next release 'Misery'. Which it wasn't. Drummer Steve Price and bassist James Scott keep the powerful groove going whilst axeman Pete Lance shows his awesome chops, not least of which on the closing cover of Deep Purple's 'Burn'." That was our take on Vambo (Video Of The Day) at Hard Rock Hell last November (pictured) and the guys are back on stage at 9pm tonight at London's Hard Rock Cafe W1K 1QZ supported by KilliT and Izzy Thomas.
Stevie Watts At TNMC Tonight 9/4/19
On today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day you'll be hearing music from Kyla Brox, Lena & The Slide Brothers, Gwyn Ashton, Kerry Kearney Band, Grainne Duffy, Al Lerman, Dom Martin, Broken Levee, Tiny Flaws, Tony Campanella, L'il Chuck The One Man Skiffle Machine, Baboon Blues County plus The Stevie Watts Trio (pictured) and Alice Armstrong who are appearing at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF tonight.
Welcome To The Machine 8/4/19
The burning question on everybodys lips is just who the hell are Glitter Machine? So why not do yourselves a favour and give today's Video Of The Day of their single 'Black Bird' - due to be released this Friday 12th April - a listen? With current viewing figures on YouTube of over 205k views (since November) for the single, it appears that quite a lot of people out there already know just who this band are and what it is that they're up to. One thing is for sure, if they continue to write, record and perform music like this, then they certainly won't be hanging out for fame too much longer. So if you like your music loud with raw vocals, searing guitars, a driving bass and thumping drums, then do keep Saturday 18th May free and get yourself along to their first live show at The Lexington in London.
Samantha Fish Special Guests Announced 8/4/19
Multi-Award-winning American Blues guitarist and singer-songwriter Samantha Fish has added London-based Americana band Curse Of Lono as special guests on her May 2019 UK Tour. The band released their second album ‘As I Fell’ last year and their sound can best be described as a “sumptuously cinematic record that combines harmony-laden Americana with driving, Gothic Alt-Rock”. The tour coincides with Samantha’s new studio album, which is the follow-up to her critically acclaimed 2017 albums 'Belle of the West' and 'Chills & Fever'. After launching her recording career in 2009, Samantha quickly established herself as a rising star in the contemporary Blues world. Since then, the charismatic young singer-guitarist-songwriter has earned a reputation as a rising guitar hero and powerful live performer, while releasing a series of acclaimed albums that have shown her restless creative spirit consistently taking her in new and exciting musical directions.
Fortune Favours II 8/4/19
Fortune (Track Of The Day) release their latest CD ‘II’ on Friday 26th April, an album that will surely prove to be an AOR highlight of 2019. Formed by brothers Richard and Mick Fortune in the late 70’s and cutting a self-titled album, they subsequently revamped the group with new members such as vocalist Larry 'L.A.’ Greene (of Top Gun soundtrack fame) and keyboard player Roger Scott Craig (ex-Liverpool Express), and made a second self-titled record in 1985 (recently reissued) that is regarded by many as perhaps the best AOR album ever. The band subsequently remained silent until a number shows as a trio in 2006, while a full band reunion took place at the Rockingham Festival in Nottingham in 2016 and went so well that they returned the following year and also signed to Frontiers in the process.
Captain Marvel 7/4/19
Today we finally catch up with the last Captain's Video Rock Show which is today's Track Of The Day. His mission: to get Rock music back into mainstream music again with wall to wall Rock videos from new and established bands. Episode 6 includes Hardline (pictured), Jimi Anderson Group, Revolution Saints, Animal Drive, Jeff Scott Soto and Steelheart.
Sari Schorr Beaverwood Review 7/4/19
"Closing track is a cracking Country Blues track from the new album called 'Back to L.A.' (I thought you said you were from Brooklyn?). Although it’s a song about looking back at how quickly life goes by, and wishing you hadn’t wasted so much of it, it’s a feel good song with an up beat tempo that skips along to the only too quickly reached conclusion. But it’s a finish with a flourish to an excellent set that showcases not only Sari’s impressive vocal talents, but also thoughtful and interesting songwriting skills. In an ever more chaotic world, the Beaverwood Club is an island of tranquility in a sea of madness. The woes weighing us down are temporarily lifted to allow us a window of calm. Doctor Feenstra has written his prescription. No medication is required other than that dispensed by barman Dan, along with a large dose of Sari Schorr. Take both before retiring to bed and everything will be fine in the morning."
Read the whole of Mother's Sari Schorr, Beaverwood, Chislehurst gig review from Tuesday here plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Connor To Support The Who 7/4/19
"Must admit I was bit miffed that we missed the start of Connor Selby Band's set, based on the evidence of what we saw when we finally arrived. With Andy Corby on bass, Rob Shearer on drums, Jon Getty on rhythm guitar and a nice young Scottish guy on keyboards (sorry we didn't get your name) - it was one Connor Blues guitar solo, after guitar solo, after guitar solo, including their own funky composition 'This Old World', the soul of James Brown & The Famous Flames 'Cold Sweat', the Blues of Ray Charles' 'I've Got News For You' and just to wrap things up, The Beatles 'With A Little Help From Our Friends' of course Cocker style. Awesome." That was our take when we first saw Connor Selby supporting Erja Lyytinen at the 100 Club two year's ago (pictured) and we've followed Connor's progress ever since. So we were obviously delighted to hear that Connor will be supporting The Who, no less, at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 6th July. Congratulations Connor!
Hope & Anchor Gold 6/4/19
We saw Cheri Lyn support Erja Lyytinen at London's 100 Club just under two weeks ago, and on Thursday night we came back for more as the blonde powerhouse vocals of Cheri Lyn and her band plus Helen Hurd & The Mavericks (pictured) returned to London's Islington's Hope & Anchor, as they hosted Toxic Gold 2, yet another great night of Rock and Blues.
Wille & The Bandits Review 6/4/19
"Talking of which, that particular legend’s name was invoked as the band kicked into their own superb version of ‘Black Magic Woman’ which fused ‘Mac with Santana plus their own added Bandit sauce. Each song had its own dynamic, a couple of my personal favourites were the funky groove and infectious chorus of ‘Keep it on the Down-Low’ (that’s going to stay in the live set for a long time) and the excellent ‘Judgement Day’ with its distinctive jaunty guitar hook. The slow burn of the acoustic based ‘Mammon’ was another highlight. The word eclectic often gets misused but not in the case of Wille and the Bandits who take a variety of rich ingredients from the past and put it into their particular blender to produce an imaginative take on the Blues that is totally original. Catch them when you can."
Read the whole of Simon Green's Wille & The Bandits, O2 Academy Islington, London, gig review from last Saturday here plus check out our Photo Gallery courtesy of Simon and Ivan De Mello here and live footage here.
Barleylands & Camden Rocks Today 6/4/19
Camden Rocks Festival presents an all-day Rock-n-Roll bonanza featuring Pet Needs (Track Of The Day), Adrenaline Animals, The Widows, Strange Planes, Prisoners Of Mother England, Slip Digby, Gasoline Thrill, Clarence Oddbody, The Road Atlas and Sonic Cartel live at The Monarch today (doors - 12.45pm to 9pm). Meanwhile, at 2pm today Sam Kelly's Station House (Video Of The Day) take to the stage at Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF.
Introducing ....... Ryk Mead 5/4/19
Rewind back to late January, and allegedly a Black Cab protest that caused gridlock in London, that consequently delayed the arrival of two members of support band Big River for their gig at the iconic 100 Club in Oxford Street. Despite this, two members of the Ryk Mead Band jammed with the Big River duo present, until the other two members of Big River finally arrived. On a cold and very wet night, the Tuesday Night Blues faithful were rewarded with a great gig with further outstanding sets from both headliner Aynsley Lister and indeed, The Ryk Mead Band (pictured), who proved that they are not only a Blues band, but by definition, a lot more. A Stunning Power Blues, Jazz, Rock trio, check out today's Video Of The Day, taken from their latest album 'Me & The Blues', released in October last year.
Voodoo Child 5/4/19
Back in December, we shared a Facebook posting by proud Dad David Strange, a Wrinkly Rocker, naturally in his sixties, and having been weaned on Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Free etc. David told us about his guitarist son Dave, who has played in both original and covers bands, and is now fronting NWOCR's Voodoo Lake. Well the band, also consisting of Mark Bomber Randon and James Fileman, are special guests to AC/DC tribute Bad Boy Boogie at The Con Club, 139 High Street in Lewes next Friday 12th April at 8pm.
Join The Club 5/4/19
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks and much more, including music from Brandon Santini, Buddy Guy, The Blues Spiders, The Marcus King Band, Erja Lyytinen, Reese Wynans, John Primer, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Shady Frank, Larry McCray, Steve West Weston, Leroy Ellington's Sacred Hearts, Lethbridge Owen, Eldon Backhouse, Tomiko Dixon, Saverio Maccne, The Mustangs, Sean Pinchin, Mike Farris, Stef Paglia, Luca Kiella Chiellini, Sugaray Rayford, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Stone Foundation & Graham Parker, Ag Weinberger, Tommy Castro, Dee Miller Band, Jo Harman, Elles Bailey, Ariel Posen (pictured), B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Toxic Gold Blues Tonight 4/4/19
"Following the catchy and very un-German 'Rules Are Meant To Be Broken', Cheri's two trusty backing vocalists left the stage, to be replaced by her Toxic Gold bandmate/vocalist Helen Hurd for a final rocker. So if you like traditional roots music together with contemporary, catchy and smokey sounds and distinctive and seductive powerhouse vocals, then why not get along and check out Toxic Gold at The Hope & Anchor, Islington, this Thursday 4th April?" That was part of our take when we saw Cheri Lyn support Erja Lyytinen at London's 100 Club last Tuesday, and tonight the blonde powerhouse vocals of Cheri (Track Of The Day) and Helen Hurd return to London at Islington's Hope & Anchor, as they host Toxic Gold 2, another night of Rock and Blues, with four great bands. See you there.
Chelsea Blues, Rhythm and Rock Photo Gallery 4/4/19
Today, thanks to Bruce Biege, we have our Photo Gallery here of the inaugural Chelsea Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival that took place at London's Under The Bridge last Saturday with headliner's Martin Barre's Jethro Tull, special guest Chantel McGregor, The Stevie Nimmo Trio, Bourbon Street Revival, Deep Blue Sea and JFK Blue.
Eel Pie's New England Tonight 4/4/19
As part of his Wishbone Gold Spring Tour, ex-Wishbone Ash bass guitarist and vocalist Martin Turner (today's Video Of The Day) will be playing tonight at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ. Fresh from their 2017/18 shows which have featured Wishbone Ash's seminal albums, 'Argus', 'There's The Rub' and 'Wishbone Ash' in their entirety, Turner and his band return to the concert stages to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the formation of the original Wishbone Ash to perform another classic album - 1976's 'New England'. Doors open at 8.15pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
John Lodge To Headline Stars Charity Show 3/4/19
Birmingham born John Lodge, legendary bass player, songwriter & vocalist of The Moody Blues, will headline the Birmingham Night of Stars Charity Show at the Symphony Hall on Friday 12th April. The show will be hosted by comedian Jasper Carrott and as well as Lodge, Carl Palmer (ELP, Asia & Atomic Rooster) will also perform. Jasper will also host a Q & A with John and Carl. The event is in collaboration with the Westside Business Improvement District, DIS and proceeds will be going to Birmingham Children's Hospital Charities and Westside Charitable Endeavour, dedicated to recording the areas historical attributes. Lodge will perform an hour long set of favourite solo and classic Moody Blues songs including 'Isn't Life Strange' and 'Ride My Seesaw'. This Show is part of Lodge's solo UK '10,000 Light Years' tour, whilst Carl Palmer's 20-minute set will feature classic tracks including 'Nut Rocker' and 'Fanfare For The Common Man'.
Brighter Days 3/4/19
Robert Randolph and the Family Band (Video Of The Day) will release their new studio album, 'Brighter Days' on Friday 31st May via Provogue/Mascot Label Group. Robert Randolph grew up playing sacred steel music – basically gospel played on pedal steel guitar – and began taking his joyous, Gospel-infused music out to clubs and into the world. When it was time to record 'Brighter Days', after releasing the Grammy-nominated album 'Got Soul', Robert chose to work with producer Dave Cobb. Cobb is best known for his work with new Country stars like Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson, Brandi Carlile, and Jason Isbell. 'Brighter Days' is a full dive back to Randolph's Gospel roots, effortlessly mixing it up with Blues, Soul, Funk and the unmistaken sound of the pedal steel guitar. Robert Randolph makes the instrument weep, wail, scream and holler! Highly recommended for fans of furious slide guitarists like Sonny Landreth, Derek Trucks and the almighty Duane Allman.
Rock On The Ridge Rising 3/4/19
On today's WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from Ugly Kid Joe, Dead City Ruins, Crobot (pictured), Ryders Creed, Broken Empire, Scott Stapp, Fozzy, Deadland Ritual, L.A. Guns, The King Lot, The Gasoline Gypsies, Uriah Heep, Sunday Brave, The Brew, Wolftooth, Aaron Buchanan & The Cult Classics, Red Sun Rising, Tax The Heat, The Underground Thieves, Empyre, Disturbed and on their Introducing Stage they have two in a row from Black Tree Vultures.
Hands Off Gretel Nambucca Review 2/4/19
"The lyrical content of their songs are self -confessional and packed with raw emotion as you would expect from this genre. This gives the album a self-cathartic feel, but I would be interested to see if Tate could make more political/satirical observations about the world around her, which may develop in later material. Musically, the bassist, Becky Baldwin has a punchy urgency in her playing and an animated stage presence characterised by a swirl of head-banging hair. At one point the band break into a rendition of the Stooges ‘I Want to Be your Dog’ which kicks off an impromptu mosh-pit, and it’s palpably clear that the energy on stage has permeated into the room."
Read the whole of Ivan De Mello's Hands Off Gretel, Nambucca, London, gig review from last Thursday here plus check out today's Video Of The Day.
Tamara Stewart & Sean Taylor At TNMC Tonight 2/4/19
Today's Track Of The Day is another Blues On The Radio Podcast filled with music from Trevor Sewell, Giles Robson, The Primitive Noise Band, Sugar Queen, Lethbridge Owen (pictured), Big Daddy Wilson, Andy Knight & The Remedy, Mike Ross with Elles Bailey, Joakim Tinderholt and, of course, both Tamara Stewart and Sean Taylor, ahead of their show at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF tonight.
Beaverwood For Schorr Tonight 2/4/19
"Sari announces it’s the last song and intros the band - well done chaps - and gives a shout out to the promoters Gig Cartel for putting the tour together. The song is 'Valetina', another of the highlights from the 'Never Say Never' album. Not that there’s any lowlights, the album is all killer no filler - as has been this set. There’s a line in the song “Welcome the latest great pretender to the stage” Well, Sari’s no pretender, she’s the real deal and leaves the stage tonight with some happy new fans." That was part of our take when we last saw Sari Schorr (pictured) supporting King King at London's Koko in February and Sari is back headlining tonight at The Beaverwood Club, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6HF with special guests The David Sinclair Four.
Erja Lyytinen 100 Club Review 1/4/19
"It's been good fun with you folks" as Lyytinen spoilt us with a mouthwatering Mississippi Delta Blues medley. "Robert Johnson eat your heart out. How about this girl from Finland?" she added as her pink slide guitar proceeded to orchestrate some obligatory foot tapping and hand clapping from her enthusiastic faithful. It was time then for another Finnish language masterclass as we all counted down to in Finnish (yes, seriously) to the final song from her set, the unusual time signature of the head banging 'Rocking Chair' - another from 'Stolen Hearts' - essentially a true Blues track with trademark in yer face slide guitar plus a nice grooving riff and vocal, before finishing off the night with an excellent encore/cover of Hendrix's 'Crosstown Traffic', with Erja also playing a green kazoo! On a night of real Blues Rock quality, not quantity, Lyytinen once again proved that she is not only the Goddess of the slide guitar, but also has the voice, charisma, banter and looks as well. And if you made the mistake of missing Erja on tour, do console yourself by getting 'Another World' when it's released later this month. You won't be sorry!"
Read the whole of AJ's Erja Lyytinen, Blues Engine and Cheri Lyn 100 Club, London, gig review from last Tuesday here plus check out Bruce Biege's Photo Gallery here.
Wrinklystock 8 Line-Up Announced! 1/4/19
Following on from the success of last year’s Wrinklystock 7 charity concert with The Kast Off Kinks - and with support once again from Wrinklystock legends The Replicants, there are two, yes two awesome tribute bands playing this year’s Wrinklystock 8 at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, on Friday 6th December at 7.15pm! Jamie & The Jets present the 'Don't Shoot Me, I'm Not Really Elton John' Show, featuring a full set of non-stop classic Elton hits including 'Your Song', 'Candle in the Wind', 'Bennie & The Jets', 'Saturday Night', 'Sad Songs', 'Nakita', 'Funeral For A Friend', 'Love Lies Bleeding', 'Take Me To The Pilot', 'Tiny Dancer' and many more! Meanwhile, Status Quo tribute act Just Supposin’ capture the raw energy and excitement of the original ‘Frantic Four’ line up of this classic British Rock band. From 'Caroline' to 'Rockin’ All Over The World', through the epic '4500 Times' and the mighty 'Roadhouse Blues', all the elements of a classic Quo concert are here and delivered with all the energy, power and humour of the original. To buy tickets priced £20, call the MJC Box Office on 01322 291100 or go here.
No Foolin' - WRC Bulletin Out Today 1/4/19
As well as Wrinklystock 8, today's April 2019 WRC Bulletin looks forward to our April gigs including Sari Schorr, The Brew (Track Of The Day), Glossii, JD Simo (pictured), Suzi Quatro, At The Sun, John Lodge, Eden's Curse, Papa Roach, Flight Brigade, Airrace (Video Of The Day), Superfecta, Joe Bonamassa, Collateral, Monster Truck and Storm Warning. We also look back at our March gigs including Lynne Jackaman, Bernie Marsden, Elles Bailey, Tyketto, Tommy Emmanuel, Rod Argent & Colin Blunstone, Flight Brigade, Colt48, Henrik Freischlader, Erja Lyytinen and the Chelsea Blues Festival plus our Trevor Babajack Steger and Elles Bailey CD reviews. Don't forget that if you ever want to contribute a gig or CD review to our website then please get in touch!