Past Gigs

2023




Friday 24th November 2023 - CHICAGO BLUES TRIO Oscar Wilson, Jimi Primetime Smith and Bob Corritore | Doors 7.45pm
Support | Giles Robson Duo



After the sell out success of our Chicago Living Legends in January we have another special Chicago blues night with three superb musicians.

A trio of powerful Chicago blues musicians with incredible musical pedigrees who are responsible the most acclaimed real deal house rocking and soul quenching Chicago blues of recent times. 

True blues fans won’t want to miss Southside Chicago born Oscar Wilson, the lead singer of the much-loved Alligator Recording artists “The Cashbox Kings”. 

Fellow Chicagoan, Westside born Living Blues Magazine cover star Jimi “Primetime” Smith, the son of Jimmy Reed’s one time drummer, songwriter and manager Johnnie Mae Dunston. Jimi’s 2023 album “The World In A Jug” with our third legendary member Chicago born Bob Corritore, the fabled blues harmonica ace, record producer and owner of Phoenix’s legendary The Rhythm Room is tearing up the blues world with much critical acclaim and high charting radio play. Joining forces for a rare set of UK dates – the real deal Chicago blues played by the real deal musicians is coming to the UK!




Jimi “Primetime” Smith “Plays guitar that stings behind his rich vocals” Blues Roadhouse.

Jimi “Prime Time” Smith was born in Chicago in 1959 His mother, Johnnie Mae Dunson aka; The Big Boss Lady,” worked alongside blues legend Jimmy Reed, as his song writer, drummer and manager.

He began playing guitar at age 12 under the teachings of Jimmy Reed, Hubert Sumlin and Eddie Taylor and spent his teenage years playing around the blues clubs of Chicago with the likes of Big Walter Horton, Floyd Jones, Playboy Vinson, Sunnyland slim, Jimmy Johnson, Queen Sylvia, Playboy Benson, Eddie Taylor, Fenton Robertson, and many more Chicagoland blues legends.

After decades of success with bands such as R-Section, Lynwood Slim and The Shuffles, Big Walter Smith and The Groove Merchants, True Blue, and Jimi Prime Time Smith and the Primetime Players, 2023’s “The World In A Jug” Album with Bob Corritore has seen an incredible response form the blues community and heaped attention on this great figure. Goldman magazine writes “10 rollicking slices of pure raw organic Chicago blues”

Oscar Wilson “Huge, emotive vocals” Forbes Magazine. 

Blues with a feeling is something that Wilson has known about from an up-close-and-personal perspective ever since he was a young child growing up on the south side of Chicago on 43rd Street in a six-room apartment split by two families.

His talent was undeniable from the get-go, as Wilson was virtually born to play and sing the blues. His mother knew a lot of bluesmen like Junior Wells and Big Smokey Smothers and Elmore James … Little Mack Simmons, Honeyboy Edwards who all used to come their house Friday night fish fries and would sit there and play. As a little boy, he was always more interested in what they were doing than anything else.

Now the highly acclaimed front man of the much-loved Alligator Records Recording artists, The Cashbox Kings, where his vocals not only the icing on the cake of this highly popular outfit but also the albums have showcased his knack for powerful and humorous song-writing.

Bob Corritore “Corritore is a master of the Chicago sound and his lead and backup harp work here add tons of conviction and soul” Rock And Blues Muse USA. 

Born in 1956 in Chicago, Bob cut his teeth sitting in on Maxwell Street with John Henry Davis and others until old enough to attend blues clubs. He hung around great harp players such as Big Walter Horton, Little Mack Simmons, Louis Myers, Junior Wells, Big John Wrencher, and Carey Bell, and received harmonica tips and encouragement from many of them. He would regularly see the Aces, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Billy Boy Arnold, John Brim, Sunnyland Slim, Smokey Smothers, and in many cases became personal friends with these blues veterans.

Corritore worked with Tail Dragger, Big Moose Walker, Willie Buck, Louis and Dave Myers, in the late 70s and early 80s. He also produced his first recordings during that time, taking unheralded harmonica greats such as Little Willie Anderson and Big Leon Brooks into the studio to produce their now classic debut albums. Now owner of the Rhythm Room in Phoenix and the producer of a huge catalogue of powerful albums if real dal blues with a huge array of blues giants Bob is considered one of the most important pillars of the USA and international blues scenes.


Saturday 18th November 2023 - THE RUSS BALLARD BAND | Doors 7.45pm



We are delighted to welcome one of the most iconic performers and songwriters to the club for his first visit.

Russ Ballard’s music career started when he was only 14 years old and he wrote a tune, which was recorded by the Shadows, appearing on their album, ‘The Sound Of The Shadows’ in 1964. He went on to write for many others and has given us some of the greatest rock classics like ‘Since You Been Gone’ (Rainbow), ‘God Gave Rock’n’Roll To You’ (Argent and Kiss) , ‘So You Win Again’ (Hot Chocolate), ‘New York Groove’ (Hello and Ace Frehley) – just to name a few. 

As a singer and instrumentalist he first found fame with The Roulettes, who started out as Adam Faith’s band in the 60s. After a stint with Unit 4+2, he went on to be front man of Argent in the early 70s. Since he left Argent he has followed a solo career. On his first solo album, Russ Ballard, he played all the instruments himself. Later, on America’s recording of his song, ‘You Can Do Magic’, he did the same again – except the strings.

Backed by an all star band who have played with everyone this is going to be one special show. He is such a prolific songwriter on songs that everyone knows but are surprised that Russ wrote them. We are confident that this show will see a huge demand for tickets so please get tickets early!


Friday 3rd November 2023  
SUSAN SANTOS
Support The Lightnin' Hobos | Doors 7.45pm




At very short notice we have been informed that Alastair Greene has cancelled his UK tour, including the date in Devizes.

We are gutted by this as we had booked him in a double-header with the amazing Susan Santos. Susan Santos is now supported on the night by the superb live band The Lightnin Hobos

We are delighted to welcome the amazing Susan Santos to the clube for her first visit

A great passion for the music led Susan Santos to learn, in a self- taught way, how to play guitar and sing. Step by step the lefty guitarist and singer was creating her own songs and her particular style of understanding the music.

A great passion for the music led Susan Santos to learn, in a self- taught way, how to play guitar and sing. Step by step the lefty guitarist and singer was creating her own songs and her particular style of understanding the music.

"Susan Santos is a guitar hero. She has chops to spare. Blues Blast Magazine, USA"


She has had intense years of performing in famous clubs and at numerous festivals around Europe,Mexico & USA, sharing scene with very important artists as Billy Gibbons.

Susan won The Best Musician Performance 2018 in The European Blues Awards & Best Female Album 2019 in The-LA Critics Awards. She has recorded 5 albums "Take me home", (Grasa Records, 2010), "Shuffle Woman" (Peer Music,2012) and “Electric Love” (Paella Records,2014) ,“Skin & Bones” (Paella Re- cords,2016) & “NO U TURN” (TWH Records, January 2019).

Susan’s outstanding voice and appealing guitar style, along with her strong stage presence is very refreshing in the con- temporary blues scene. Blues-rock of XXI Century.

Susan Santos - 'Dirty Money' on YouTube


Friday 13th October 2023  
Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia - Blood Brothers Tour
Support Liam Alexander Ward Duo | Doors 7.45pm


We are pleased to announce a new date for Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia with full band including two drummers and Freddie Kings keyboard player! This will be a huge gig!

Mike Zito blew the roof of the club last February. 

We do not usually book returning acts in such a short space of time. However when we discovered that Mike was teaming up with Albert Castaglia an artist we had been trying to book for ages for this special tour we simply had to book them. 

Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia come together to create a musical journey unlike anything seen before in the Blues and Roots genre. Armed with a history of the Blues and Rock 'n' Roll, they bring both bands together to create the tour of 2023, "Blood Brothers." 

Mike Zito is a five-time Blues Music Award winner and Albert Castiglia is the 2020 BMA winner for Blues Rock Album of the Year, Masterpiece. With both artists on the exciting Gulf Coast Records label, it only made sense to join forces and give the fans what they wanted. 

The "Blood Brothers" tour is a high-energy show of epic proportions! Daring and full of excitement, Albert and Mike come together in 2023 to bring you the most-awaited tour in years, "Blood Brothers"! 

Check out their latest official video on YouTube.
This will be one master class in the blues!


Saturday 7th October 2023 | BILLY WALTON BAND | Doors 7.45pm
Acoustic support ALEX VOYSEY

We have been absolutely barraged with requests to get this amazing band back. Normally we wouldn't do this so early but it so happens they are playing an indoor festival in Cornwall the night before so, OK everyone, you win! We will not be rebooking them for a while as we have a backlog of bands wanting to play so this is your chance to witness the house band in their natural environment

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and has supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band.

The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

Rest assured this gig will be a total sell out in record time so you have to get tickets for this show as early as possible.

Check out the latest official video on YouTube
The new season opens with one of the finest blues musicians this country has produced over the last thirty years.

A songwriter genuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian is an original craftsman. 

Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal delivery, Ian's songs hold nothing back. His ability and willingness to share with his audience, naked honesty and genuine emotion, is what sets him apart.

Ian's career took off in the summer of 2003, when he signed to Ruf Records following a personal introduction to US record producer, David Z (Prince - Purple Rain).

His debut album 'INSIDE' (Ruf1094) was released in October of that year. Further albums, live DVDs and extensive tours of Europe and the USA followed, with Parker always seeking new musical avenues to explore, never content to merely rehash old ideas, no matter how successful they may have been. To this end, Ian is something of journeyman, guided by his art and his self-confessed emotional need to express his soul through music.

His journey has taken unexpected turns, testing his loyal following from time to time, but the integrity of his writing, the quality of his distinctive voice and the soulful nature of his signature guitar playing have always been the bedrock of his work. Following the release of Politik Blues (Eye-Pea002) in April 2015, Ian refocused his attention on the Stratocaster-driven blues music he began building his reputation on, more than twenty years ago.

A return to the iconic Rockfield Studios (Queen – A Night at the Opera) in the summer of 2018 resulted in the blues album many long-standing fans and critics alike are lauding as his best work to date. ‘Spoonful of Gold – Blues for Willie’ celebrates the music of Willie Dixon, delivered in Ian’s inimitable style.

Freed from the shackles of being the new kid on the block vying for attention in an over-saturated market, Parker approaches his music, these days, with the calm, self-assurance that accompanies one who has, to some extent, been there and done it.

Nothing to prove and still so much to say, Ian Parker remains an act not to be missed.

Advance Tickets are £16.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £18 on the door


Saturday 10th June 2023 - ERIC BELL BAND | Doors 7.45pm
Support | A Smile Two Bangs and a Legend



Having had to postpone the original February date due to an illness to the bassist we are delighted to welcome Thin Lizzy founding member and original guitarist Eric Bell and his Band to the club.

The original and, one of the very best, guitarists to play with Thin Lizzy, he will be forever be associated with Whisky in the Jar and The Rocker which were staples of the bands live sets.

Eric played with Van Morrison in the back end of Them before helping form Thin Lizzy. He has since played with many artists and formed his own band.






















Saturday 27th May 2023 - GERRY JABLONSKI BAND | Doors 7.45pm



All the way from Aberdeen the longest journey for any UK band we have ever booked, they are well worth it!

Rory Gallagher fans will love this band great blues rock band who have spent the last ten years relentlessly touring and have spent this year playing a host of prestigious festivals both here and in Europe.

"Go see this band - the best band you never heard of"
Classic Rock Magazine2018 was another milestone year for the UK’s favourite contemporary bluesman and renegade Americana'man. He scooped Best Male Vocalist and Best Acoustic Artist in the UK Blues Awards, adding to a long list of accolades in the UK, Europe and USA.

Gerry Jablonski & the Electric Band are a standout act with an energetic, no-holds-barred stageshow. They have a unique, trademark Heavy Blues Rocksound and style producing gutsy music with hooks, melodies and an intense presence that wins over any audience, anywhere, anytime. Guaranteed.


Saturday 6th May 2023 - Kyla Brox Band | Doors 7.45pm



Kyla is no stranger to Devizes having appeared several times with husband Danny but this is the first time we get the full experience of the electric band.

Blues and soul become inextricably entwined in award-winning singer-songwriter, KylaBrox, whose raw talent has seen her described as “the finest female blues singer of her generation”.

Winner of the UK Blues Challenge 2018and the European BluesChallenge2019, voted Best Female Vocalist in the 2019 European Blues Awards and semi-finalist in the International Blues Challenge2019 and 2020, Kyla Brox is at the very top of the UK Blues scene. 

Daughter of cult blues figure, Victor Brox, the Mancunian vocalist began her career as a teenager in her father’s band and has now honed her own sophisticated sound, as heard on her last two critically acclaimed and award-nominated albums, Throw Away Your Blues and Pain & Glory, which reached No.1in the IBBA Charts for 2019 and was nominated Best Album in both the European and UK Blues Awards

"The finest female blues singer of her generation "


Manchester Evening News

Her voice; tender, urgent, gritty, blurring the distinction between pleasure and pain, mixed with the enchantingly fluent guitar work of Paul Farr, inspired bass playing of Danny Blomeley and in-the-pocket drumming of Mark Warburton, combine to make a unique and powerful, often joyous, always emotional experience

Kyla also plays in duo form with her husband, virtuoso acoustic guitarist, Danny Blomeley, whose playing, by turns delicate and unrestrained, has earned him a following in his own right. A completely independent artist, Kyla has built her career year on year; starting out at grassroots with local pub gigs and growing to headlining concerts all over the globe, including some of the most prestigious Blues festivals in the world. With thousands of albums sold and a constantly growing fanbase, Kyla Brox is widely regarded as one of the very best soul-blues singers the British Isles has ever produced.

Devizes and the Long Street Blues Club is in for one special night!

Advance Tickets are £17.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £19 on the door


Saturday 15th April 2023 | BILLY WALTON BAND | Doors 7.45pm



After one of the finest gigs we have ever seen at the club we had to get the "house band" back as soon as possible! 

 If we had to put our hand on our heart and pick out the best band to have played the club over the last decade this would be the band. They have now replaced King King as the house band of Long Street Blues Club!

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and has supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band.

The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

Rest assured this gig will be a total sell out in record time so you have to get tickets for this show as early as possible.

Check out the latest official video on YouTube


Saturday 25th March 2023 - THOMAS ATLAS | Doors 7.45pm
Thomas Atlas (aks Tom C Walker) comes to the club with a two piece horn section...
A great young band



Thomas Atlas is a British guitarist, singer and songwriter. His early career saw him touring the UK and USA with Soul and Blues outfits before pursuing his own musical endeavours. A new line up saw a difference in direction with players from “The Brand New Heavy’s” and “The Brothers Groove” coming on board.

The first Glimpse into what Atlas had in store came from a series of successful Youtube videos released in 2018 under the title “Garage Funk”, resulting in a sensational response from fans and industry alike. 

Atlas found himself venturing out of the garage to play some of the most prestigious venues in the UK such as Ronnie Scott’s, 100 Club, The Borderline, Birmingham Town Hall, Birmingham Symphony hall and a residency at Jools Holland’s Jam House.

In 2019 Atlas was touring Europe, Electrifying audiences with his unique style of guitar playing. Fusing roaring Blues solos over his Funk-laden arrangements.

Check out Thomas earlier this year at the 'Giants of Rock' festival


CHICAGO LIVING LEGENDS | Friday 13th January 2023 | Doors 7.45pm

SOLD OUT!

We welcome the Chicago Living Legends to our club. This is the biggest show we have put on in nearly fifteen years of the Long Street Blues Club.

A show featuring some of the biggest Chicago stars and many upcoming faces being brought together for one show.

Billy Branch (Chicago USA) - Blues giant Billy Branch is among today's greatest harmonica players. With his inventive, deeply rooted playing and gritty, soulful vocals, Branch carries on the Chicago blues tradition that he learned first-hand from icons including Big Walter Horton, James Cotton, Junior Wells, Carey Bell, Willie Dixon and many others. 

His famous teachers made it clear to anyone who would listen that Branch was the heir apparent to the Chicago blues harmonica throne. Branch is among the very last living bluesmen to have been tutored and mentored by the original blues giants. The young bluesman was able to absorb the tradition and over the years develop a style and sound all his own. 

With a huge blues vocabulary and dynamic versatility, Branch brings elements of soul, funk and rock to his playing. His upper register licks and his emotional, melodic ballad playing define his sound even further. He is a gruff and potent vocalist, a groundbreaking solo artist, an in-demand session player and consummate band leader. He is an Emmy Award Winner, three-time Grammy nominee, a three-time Blues Music Award winner, a two-time Keeping The Blues Alive Award winner (for Education) and a two-time Living Blues Critics' Award winner. Branch has recorded eleven albums under his own name and has appeared on scores of other recordings.

"An incredible package featuring the greatest living examples of the art of Chicago Blues both from the established verterans of the scene and the “Youngblood” talent be prepared for an incredible concert experience.

John Primer (Chicago USA) - Lead guitarist of the Muddy Waters Band and preceding that, the Willie Dixon band and then after Muddy’s death an integral part of the Magic Slim Band the Blues Music 2x grammy nominated and Blues Music Award winning Chicago Blues Legend has gone on to become an incredible front man and an internationally renowned solo artist in his own right. Since his debut solo album “The Real Deal” on Atlantic Records his career has Been a nonstop triumph - from great award winning recordings to international touring and unforgettable live performances John has fulfilled and continues to fulfil the dreams of success in music that he had when he made his first guitar attached to the front porch out of a broom wire, two nails and a brick to make it tight at his house on sharecropper land deep in the Mississippi. 

Jamiah Rogers (Chicago USA) - Personally Handpicked by Billy Branch as example of a rising star and young living legend of Chicago Blues, Jamiah Rogers has the virtuosic guitar chops, incredible voice and showmanship of a legend and at only 26 has decades of incredible work waiting for him! He has traveled to Canada and Europe to play several international music festivals including the Montreal International Jazz and Blues Festival. The band continues to play local venues and festivals in the U.S. and Canada and toured France as part of the new generation blues tour. The tour started in Paris and traveled through 14 cities and towns covering south and west France. 

Special guests Bruce Katz (New York USA) and Giles Robson (UK) - The legendary keyboardist bruce Katz and renowned UK harmonica virtuoso Giles Robson first worked together on Alligator/Munich Records Journey To The Heart Of The Blues which won a Blues Music Music Award and was a Living Blues album of the decade. Collaborating once more on Robson’s “Don’t Give Up On The Blues” the album went on to be named a Mojo Magazine album of the year and Jefferson blues magazine (the world’s oldest in print blues magazine) called it the best blues release of the year.

2022


XMAS PARTY!
Friday 23rd December 2022 - GEE BABY I LOVE YOU | Doors 7.45pm



End the year in style with Bristol's favourite SOUL band at our XMAS bash. The first club visit for this iconic UK soul band. This will be a fitting end to a huge year of live music.

A tight, horn-orientated band, famed for their live shows. Widely hailed as the UK's leading soul cover exponents, the band's motto is 'passion and respect' - and that's what they bring to every performance!

Gee Baby I Love You - many years in the making - blended, matured and still going strong!

BUTCH HOPKINS MEMORIAL GIG
Friday 16th December 2022 | Devizes Corn Exchange The Unravelling Wilburys and Kingstreet Turnaround featuring Jon Amor and special guest Innes Sibun | Doors 7:45pm



This special memorial gig is a special celebration of the life my younger brother Andrew Butch Hopkins. This will simply be one special night.

There will be a very high demand for tickets and all profits will go to Dorothy House.


DOUBLE HEADER!
HARDWICKE CIRCUS and ALEX VOYSEY BLUES TRIO | Saturday 19th November 2022



Hardwicke Circus are fast building a reputation as the most exciting band to emerge from the UK in recent years. Having gained a large internet following, and fans all over the UK through playing countless live shows, this band has what it takes to go all the way. 

 Watching them live only enforces this belief. Their sound brings comparisons with the brio of the E Street Band and the dark passion of classic Doors, but with plenty of British authenticity and perhaps even a hint of Dexy's in their high voltage attack.""Meet the five-piece band who are not only turning heads with the confident glide in their stride; they're literally bulletproof” - Paul Sexton (Sunday Times) 

 Proudly based in the border city of Carlisle, Hardwicke Circus have played over 150 gigs this year - supporting Bob Dylan & Neil Young in Hyde Park, Madness, Alabama 3, Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Bob Geldof’s Boomtown Rats and The Blockheads. They have gigged at the legendary Isle of Wight Festival, Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, headlined the Yam Riot Stage at Kendal Calling and gained airplay on BBC Introducing, Radio 1, Radio 2 & 6 Music. 

HC have recently completed a four month residency at the famous Hope & Anchor in London and have just released their third EP. In March 2020 they play the legendary South by Southwest Festival in Austin Texas, USA.

The first local band to sell out their hometown venue “The Brickyard” four months in advance, Hardwicke Circus have added a second night - playing two sell out hometown gigs back-to-back. With every new show, more and more fans get on board, because this is a group where there's so much to watch as well as to listen to. The focal point of it all is lead singer and chief songwriter Jonny Foster, who draws the eye as he exudes all of the 'Brown Sugar'- era swagger of Jagger. But on stage and on record, there's also an echo of the energy of such modern-day heroes as Arcade Fire. “It's a very visual thing, and I think people like to see the seven of us on stage,” avows Foster. “You don't really find that in modern bands. I've always liked the big band and I always aspired to play in one, with cinematic songs. To have six people channel that same vision, I think we're really lucky.”

 “Imagine The Rolling Stones creating an album with The Doors jamming with Primal Scream...This is Hardwicke Circus. Transforming their influences into their own originality, this night was one to remember for some time to come.” "One the best gigs I've ever seen; raw visceral rock music, before it all got too damn perfect and corporate" "Every so often a band comes along that has something special. This is a young band with talent to burn and huge potential" Their ever expanding army shows no sign of stopping.



Following a barnstorming support slot earlier we have been inundated to get Alex Voysey back so opening tonight's show is his highly rated trio.

Relatively new to the scene and at 26 now a rising star in the blues world, the Alex Voysey Blues Trio shows are packed with incredible guitar performances, phenomenal musicianship, breath-taking grooves and riffs, and a deep passion for blues.

The band bring together new and virtuosic twists on great artists from Robert Johnson and BB King through Stevie Ray Vaughan, to the more lyrical blues of Eric Clapton and John Mayer, right up to contemporary artists Joe Bonamassa, Joanne Shaw Taylor and many more in between, plus Alex's original blues material from his debut album ‘Head In A Blur’ released last year and forthcoming release ‘Blues In Isolation’ coming soon. 

"A brilliant night – Alex Voysey’s guitar playing is out of this world.

Heavily inspired by the prowess of Joe Bonamassa, Alex is fast becoming a leading exponent of his virtuosic and complex blues writing. Together with Ben Hands on bass and Paul Arthurs on kit, the trio bring diverse musical backgrounds to the table but share a huge breadth of experience between them and revel in their shared love of blues.

Whatever your passion, look no further for consummate musicianship and a show not to be missed.

Alex Voysey is not only a superb musician but plays with a feeling and a passion that is true to the meaning of the blues.


CERES with LONGCROFT Promotions presents at the Corn Exchange, Devizes     
Friday 11th November 2022 - BEAUX GRIS GRIS and the APOCALYPSE | Doors 7.45pm
Support CALIBRE 




This is a triumphant homecoming gig for Hoax member Robin Davey. Based in California this band has seen a meteoric rise. With two albums under their belt and now heavily featured by Planet Rock this will be one special gig to savour.

Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse is the musical creation of Greta Valenti and Robin Davey. The pair met when their respective bands crossed paths on YouTube, having already established themselves as performers and musicians. When LouderSounds preaches “Let Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse twist yer melons and remind you of the wonder of life” it might be because the band vibe is easier to pin down than their unique take on the roots genres. Rockshot Magazine elaborates “This extremely entertaining collective is a New Orleans-inspired, American blues-folk-soul band, who refuse to be pigeon-holed”

To fully understand Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse is to experience the band live, a mix of soulful songs, intense energy, and world-class award-winning musicianship. RhythmBooze summed up the show finale as “A mind-boggling, blistering finish with everything thrown in including the kitchen sink...truly memorable”

Beaux Gris Gris and The Apocalypse debut album Love & Murder spurned Top 10 hits in genre charts across Europe. The albums wide-reaching appeal earned it a #13 placement in the “Top 50 Albums of the year” by Classic Rock Magazine, describing it as “A sensual, vibrant cocktail“

Guitarist Robin Davey was the youngest ever inductee into the British Blues Hall of Fame. He spent time as an artist on Atlantic and Interscope Records, and has recorded with a wide spectrum of artists from Mick Jagger to Katy Perry. Multi-award-winning vocalist and songwriter Greta Valenti is Louisiana-born-and-bred creative with generations of her family dating back before the Louisiana purchase. Her rock outfit Well Hung Heart (OCMA’s Best Live Band) toured the USA opening for the likes of Fitz & The Tantrums, Twenty One Pilots, Foreigner, and Offspring. 

While Beaux Gris Gris is the musical arm of their creativity, the pair have also established their own multi-award winning creative agency, Grow Vision, as a sought-after multimedia content and development team. Daryl Hall asked them to direct and produce his TV show Live From Daryl’s House for Viacom, elevating the show from a 30 min syndicated TV show to a 1 hour, dolby surround premium mainstay on VH1 and MTV Live. Their latest feature documentary The Unbelievable Plight of Mrs. Wright has won over 50 film festival awards and secured distribution through Gravitas Ventures. Their visual work on the Taco Bell 50th Anniversary celebrations secured them a prestigious W3 Award. The duo are currently producing a documentary on blues veteran Larry McCray for Joe Bonamassa’s Keeping The Blues Alive Records.

Having headlined festivals across Europe, including Upton Festival (UK), The Great British R&B Festival (UK), Moulin (Netherlands) and Blues Alive (Czech Republic), the band were nominated for Band of the Year at the European Blues Awards.



Support act Calibre is a dynamic power-house hailing from Bristol. At their core Calibre is a rock band – with bags of swagger. Big riffs and soaring choruses blend with gutsy vocals and a powerful rhythm section to create their earthy sound. With their foot to the floor, the band is recording in August and poised to rock out the rest of 2022! Check them out here  www.calibrebanduk.com


Saturday 5th November 2022 - ROBBIE McINTOSH BAND
Acoustic Support from Vince Bell & Tamsin Quinn | Doors 7.45pm




We are delighted to welcome the Robbie McIntosh Band to the club. Robbie has legendary status among his fellow musicians. His career to date includes spells as guitarist with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Tom Jones, John Mayer, and Norah Jones.

Robbie has played many of the world’s top festivals and venues. Among his numerous TV and radio appearances, Robbie was with Sir Tom Jones on Jools Holland’s Hootenanny BBC TV show on New Years Eve 2015, and with Zucchero in 2016. As a long-term member of The Pretenders, Robbie played at Live Aid in 1985 and on their top-10 UK hit, Don’t Get Me Wrong.

The Robbie McIntosh Band has existed in name since 1997 with only Robbie himself and drummer Paul Beavis remaining from the original line up.

Robbie’s long time friends and collaborators Stephen Darrell Smith (keyboards, co-producer) and Steve Wilson (bass guitar) along with legendary harmonica man Peter Hope-Evans and, just as legendary, percussionist Jody Linscott complete the current line up: 

Robbie McIntosh - Guitar, Slide Guitar and Vocals
Paul Beavis - Drums
Peter Hope Evans - Harmonica and Jaw Harp
Jody Linscott - Percussion
Stephen Darrell Smith - Keyboards and Vocals
Steve Wilson - Bass Guitar and Vocals

Robbie McIntosh’s ‘blues’ tinged songwriting draws from many influences; Little Feat, Ry Cooder, Freddie King, Bob Dylan and should appeal to blues stalwarts and fans of singer songwriters alike. Some old favourites are thrown into the mix too. 

Blues harmonica fans will have the pleasure of seeing and hearing Peter Hope-Evans, famous for his work with Medicine Head and Pete Townshend. One of the greats! 

As session players, sidemen (and woman) combined credits of the band amount to quite a large, star studded list including Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, The Who, Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, Medicine Head, Norah Jones, Dido, Elton John, Tom Jones, Bad Company, John Mayer, Robert Palmer, Andy Fairweather-Lowe, Kokomo, Robert Fripp, Tears For Fears, Bill Wyman and many more. 


Friday 14th October 2022 | From the USA - BLACK SABBITCH | Corn Exchange, Devizes



Since 2011, the all female Black Sabbitch have been selling out shows and wowing even the most difficult to please Sabbath worshipers, gaining a rabid fan base and the respect of critics, fans and musicians alike. 

They were hand picked by Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne to open the inaugural Ozzfest and by Nick Zinner of The Yeah Yeah Yeahs to headline his curated festival Bedrocktoberfest.

 In 2018 Black Sabbitch were picked by legendary street artist Shepard Fairey to play the opening of his Black Sabbath retrospective, Never Say Die and by Dave Grohl to play Cal Jam with Foo Fighters and Iggy Pop, after which the FooFighters shared photos of Black Sabbitch saying "we were spellbound".

 Electroclash superstar Peaches recently sat in as lead vocalist with Black Sabbitch for a special two night run in Los Angeles. The LA Weekly recently said of Black Sabbitch. "Finally Black Sabbitch took the stage and pretty much melted everyones' faces. The all-female Black Sabbath... were not only talented — nailing every note of the legendary group's familiar repertoire — but were captivating to an almost distracting level. Looking up at them from the crowd (which had erupted into a mosh pit...) I couldn't help but wonder what these women's stories were. They emanated the effortless cool of rock and roll, but with about 10 extra ounces of sexy confidence... LA WEEKLY


Saturday 8th October 2022 - EDDIE MARTIN'S BIG BLUES BAND | Doors 7.45pm



...“with house-rocking slide and Buddy- Guy-like pyrotechnics..he is among the UK’s most respected blues musicians....” The Times

London-born Martin was weened on a folk, electric blues and classic rock soup that left him as at home with acoustic as electric instruments and imbued him with deep respect for the music’s Afro-American roots. 

 A prolific songwriter since the age of 16, his albums have ranged from One-Man-Band to Big Band to Power-Rock trio as he has wrung every drop of inspiration and instrumental technique out of Blues tradition and pushed it ever outwards with his own writing. 

 Touring 35 countries with 15 acclaimed original albums and a string of National and International Awards and Nominations (including Winner, Best Solo Artist category in 2018 European Blues Awards) he has become known as “The Ambassador of British Blues”.


Saturday 20th August 2022 - SKINNY MOLLY | Doors 7.45pm



SOLD OUT 


Back by overwhelming popular demand - Blues Club favourites Skinny Molly. The band are doing select club dates in between UK festivals and Devizes is one of their preferred choices!

This band is a major force on the Southern Rock scene. Skinny Molly's mantra is "Never let one fan leave a show disappointed"

The music and live reputation of the band caught the attention of legendary Ruf Records label president Thomas Ruf. Skinny Molly subsequently signed a deal with Ruf Records, becoming the second "southern rock" band to be signed in the wake of Ruf's expansion into the genre. At the time of the signing, Skinny Molly was in the studio cutting what would become their new and widely acclaimed CD, "Haywire Riot" released last year.

This is no retro act though... these guys stand on solid songs, unique playing and creative instrumentation and arrangements to make even the most jaded rock fan (or even country or blues fan) a fan for life. Jump on and enjoy the ride!

Their live sets are awesome so expect the modern southern rock they are known for mixed in with all the Skynyrd classics. They have sold out on the all the times they have been to the club. This will be no exception.

SOLD OUT


Saturday 4th June 2022 - Errol Linton Band | Doors 7.45pm

We are delighted to welcome the Errol Linton Band to the club.

Ever since John Walters declared Errol Linton the 'future of British Blues' back in 1993 this Brixton born gentleman has been plying his trade and perfecting his art at home and across the world.

Over the decades Errol has collaborated and played with many musical greats from the blues world and beyond including Bo Diddley, Tony Allen, Abram Wilson, Doctor John, Screaming Jay Hawkins and most recently US guitar supremo Joe Bonamassa. Linton contributes the haunting harmonica on 'Lookout Man' from Joe's 2021 Grammy nominated album 'Royal Tea' recorded at Abbey Rd.

Errol has produced several albums himself; the last two studio albums in collaboration with Brassdog records are his first on Vinyl. 'Packing My Bags' ('Chess Records meets Studio One') recorded at world famous Dean St Studios and 'No Entry' recorded at the equally iconic Toerag Studios have been great critical successes for Errol and his band.

After 30 years as a singer, songwriter and the world's best harmonica player Errol and his exceptional band are still amongst the hardest working groups in Britain. 'The tremendous King of the UK Blues' ( Arcadianegra, Spain) perform shows around the capital at least 4 times a week making The Errol Linton band the hottest, happening gig you are likely to go to. As well as sell out shows at the Jazz Cafe & Nells this year the band have headlined many music festivals over the years including Cerys Matthews 'Good Life Festival' in Wales.

 Errol's band comprises some of the music industry's most sought after & respected musicians. Suffice to say, in the words of author & journalist Garth Cartwright; 'that Errol Linton leads the best blues band in Britain. Or, perhaps that should read, the best band in Britain.'

"The Greatest British Blues Performing Artist, catch him while you can"
Cerys Matthews, BBC Radio 2 Blues Show 

  "The most authentic Chigago Blues I've heard in a long time... Ladies and Gentleman, Brixton's own Errol Linton"
Joe Bonamassa.

"Errol is as good a Harmonica player as anyone can reasonably hope to become, he is the real Deal"
John Walters 

Check Out Errol on the Paul Jones Blues Show

Friday 6th May 2022 - BIRDMENS | Doors 7.45pm
EXCLUSIVE - This is their ONLY UK DATE



We are so excited to welcome this band prior to making an appearance at The Moulin Festival in Holland.

Formed during the pandemic they produced the critically acclaimed album Lockdown Loaded.

An Allstar band featuring Ian Siegal,  Jon Amor, Dave Doherty on guitar,  Giles King on harmonica, Jonny Henderson on keyboards, Mark Barrett on drums and Rob Barry on bass. 

“I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this...the guttural depth and raw honesty achieved...I will have to come back for another dose of this again and again! Fucking brilliant!” Sheldon Gomberg - Grammy Award Winner 

“It’ll grab you by the short and curlies so that your hearts and minds follow. Lockdown Loaded is ragged glory, it’s the real deal” Blues Enthused “Swampy Delta blues…crying harmonica…thumping beats…groaning vocals…funky grooves…’Lockdown Loaded’ is one of the few positive things to come about due to the pandemic” ConcertMonkey 

“Sprung from a desire to push on, to create, to do something creative…and it most assuredly does. Testament to the talents involved it emerges as a shining light...like a live show…this crackles with an energy.” Maximum Music Review 

Demand for this show will be huge so we are making tickets available online now .

Saturday 16th April 2022 | BILLY WALTON BAND | Doors 7.45pm



As a result of phenomenal public demand we have got the Billy Walton Band back for their third visit to the club. If we had to put our hand on our heart and pick out the best band to have played the club over the last decade this would be the band. They have now replaced King King as the house band of Long Street Blues Club!

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and has supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band.

The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

Rest assured this gig will be a total sell out in record time so you have to get tickets for this show as early as possible.

ON SALE NOW - Advance Tickets are £16.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £18 on the door



Friday 8th April 2022 - BILLY BREMNER'S ROCKFILES | Doors 7.45pm
Venue | Downstairs at Devizes Corn Exchange

ROCKFILES FAREWELL TOUR!       




Your last chance to see one of the UK's true music legend. We welcome Billy Bremner and his band on their 2022 Farewell Tour.

The evening will be dedicated to the music of Rockpile, a band he formed with Dave Edmunds and Nick Lowe and had great commercial success.

Scottish Guitar Legend from Rockpile & The Pretenders. Billy Bremner started out in Lulu’s backing group The Luvvers. After joining Neil Innes in the band Fatso he recorded some solo singles under the pseudonym ‘Bill Murray’ before joining Nick Lowe and Dave Edmunds in Rockpile.

Billy Bremner sang lead vocals on the 1980 Rockpile single “Heart”. He then wrote “Trouble Boys” which became a hit for both Dave Edmunds and Thin Lizzy. Bremner then released a few solo singles on Stiff Records before becoming a full time member of The Pretenders where he played the lead guitar on their 1982 hit “Back on the Chain Gang”.

 

 


CERES Promotions presents at the Corn Exchange, Devizes - Saturday 9th April 2022
CARL PALMER'S ELP LEGACY | Doors 7.45pm
(Limited seating at this gig)



Legendary musician Carl Palmer has announced an extensive European and UK tour. A consummate showman, Palmer promises to bring a solid evening of classic ELP material woven within the acclaimed musicianship of Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy band. “We are extremely excited about returning to the venues of Europe and England,” says Palmer, who finished his last tour in November 2019.

 “We will play many of the ELP favourites, and have added a few surprises to the show. Now with vocals on many of the songs, we are bringing a new dimension to the show we have done in the past. We started this last year and the response has been nothing short of exceptional.” 

A founding member of Emerson Lake & Palmer, ASIA and Atomic Rooster, Carl Palmer was voted by ROLLING STONE as one of the 10 Greatest Drummers of All Time. Since he began in the business in the 1960s Carl Palmer has sold over 50 million records worldwide.

We welcome Carl Palmer to Devizes Corn Exchange. It's a 'must see' for anyone who loves this amazing rock legend... or anyone who wants an education in how prog masters do it!


Saturday 2nd April 2022 - MALONE-SIBUN Band | Doors 7.45pm



Devizes own supreme guitarist Innes Sibun returns to the Club alongside Detroit born Marcus Malone.

Together the two stellar musicians provide a powerful mix of rock, blues, soul and funk, all underpinned by Malone's soulful song driven quality and triggered by Sibun's high levels of intensity and his inherent melodic feel. It's an exciting musical partnership born of the same musical influences, but one that offers them a broader canvas than before.

Innes always has a special place in our heart having opened the club way back in May 2008 and Marcus also has visited Devizes on a number of occasions.




 


Saturday 19th March 2022 - SOFT MACHINE | Doors 7.45pm



Soft Machine : One of the greatest UK avant/jazz-rock bands of all time.

Their work, from their earliest performances as a psychedelic band who were contemporaries of, and shared stages with, Syd Barrett's Pink Floyd and the Jimi Hendrix Experience, all the way to being one of Europe's best known 'fusion' groups, has influenced several generations of bands, and continues to be name-checked by today's hip experimentalists.

Whilst the line-up of Soft Machine may have changed many times since the heady days of the late 1960’s, the band’s spirit of musical adventure, and the ease with which it freely avoids being pigeon holed and can move from powerful progressive jazz fusion to atmospheric psychedelia to free improvised jazz-rock to ambient loop music continues to make it both unique and totally contemporary.


Saturday 26th February 2022 | MARK FLANAGAN BAND | Doors 7.45pm



We are over the moon that one of the great British guitarist is coming to the club with his own band as part of a rare club date.

For nearly 30 years Mark Flanagan has been the guitarist in the Jools Holland Orchestra. He’s played with all the great names including Eric Clapton, BB King, Amy Winehouse and many more. He has also built a reputation as a fine singer songwriter. Performing his rootsy blues originals this will be a night to remember.

‘A truly great guitarist’ – Eric Clapton

‘He understands everything.. He can swing it and then rock it’ - Jools Holland.

Check out Mark live - 'Where Lies My Home' on YouTube



Do not miss this opportunity to witness one the great stars of the U.K. Music scene in a very intimate setting.

 

 


Saturday 19th Feb 2022 | MIKE ZITO BAND | Doors 7.45pm



We welcome back one of the most popular artists to appear at the club. Mike Zito is founding member of the Royal Southern Brotherhood along with Devon Allman.

He may be one of the most lauded artists in the contemporary blues arena today, and rightfully so, but for Mike Zito, the thing that counts the most is maintaining his honesty, authenticity and integrity. Those are the qualities that have steered Zito’s career since the beginning and continue to define every effort he’s offered since.

“I have nothing to hide; it seems my honesty is what people relate to most,” he once told Vintage Guitar magazine. “Anders (Osborne) told me early on, ‘If you don’t believe what you’re singing, you’ll never be a good singer.’ I try not to write fluff; I try to make every word count.”

That point became convincingly clear with his last record 2018’s First Class Life, a collection of songs that detailed his journey from addiction to sobriety and the subsequent success he achieved through his award-winning body of work. A multiple award winner and nominee, Zito has built his career on an ability to tap into tradition while maintaining contemporary credence all at the same time.

Zito’s upcoming album -- his 16th -- due this November on Ruf Records and descriptively titled Rock N Roll: A Tribute to Chuck Berry, finds him broadening his boundaries still further even as it marks a return to his roots. The album consists of 20 Chuck Berry classics performed by Zito and an impressive array of 21 guest guitarists, among them Joe Bonamassa, Walter Trout, Eric Gales, Robben Ford, Sonny Landreth, Luther Dickinson, Albert Castiglia, Anders Osborne and, significantly, Chuck’s grandson, Charles Berry III.

“This was a very special project for me,” Zito says. “I lived in Chuck’s hometown of St. Louis for 32 years, and I worked at a small musical instrument store where his drummer also happened to be employed. Chuck’s son would drop by on occasion as well. He was an icon, and rightfully so. I’ve been playing his songs since I was a kid. Needless to say, he was a tremendous influence on my career, and, of course, on many other musicians’ as well.”

" If you don’t believe what you’re singing, you’ll never be a good singer.’ I try not to write fluff; I try to make every word count " Mike Zito

Produced by Zito himself, the album was recorded at his own Marz Studios and mixed and mastered by David Farrell. “We recorded the basic tracks and then sent them to each guest musician,” Zito recalls. “They added their contributions and then sent the files back to us. The process took a year to complete." Naturally, patience and perseverance have been Zito’s stock and trade since the beginning. He began playing guitar at the age of five, and by the time he reached his late teens, he was already a fixture on the local St. Louis music scene. He initially released his music independently and then signed with Eclecto Groove Records in 2008. "Pearl River," the title track of his 2009 album for the label, won Song of the Year at the Blues Music Awards and marked his first collaboration with Cyril Nevill, with whom he’d later work in the Royal Southern Brotherhood.

A steady succession of critically acclaimed albums followed, culminating in 2011’s Greyhound, which was nominated for Best Rock Blues Album at that year’s Blue Music Awards ceremony in Memphis. Two years later, he signed with Ruf Records and released Gone to Texas, the story of how he gained his sobriety, offered an emotional homage to the state that left an indelible imprint on his entire life. It also marked the debut of his band, the Wheel. 

From 2010 to 2014, Zito also played an integral role in the super group of sorts, Royal Southern Brotherhood. The group released two albums and a DVD, Songs from the Road - Live in Germany, winner of the year’s Blues Music Award for Best DVD. He also made his mark behind the boards by producing albums for Samantha Fish, Albert Castiglia, Ally Venable, Jeremiah Johnson, Jimmy Carpenter, and many others.

Meanwhile, the accolades keep coming. His album Make Blues Not War debuted on the Billboard Blues Album Chart at number one and garnered him recognition as the 2018 Rock Blues Artist of the Year at the Blues Music Awards. Last year’s First Class Life followed suit, also entering the charts at number one. Alternate Root magazine insisted that “The First Class Life that Mike Zito titles his upcoming album can be heard in the sweet sound of Blue Soul rising like heat waves from his guitar and his vocal.” American Blues Scene said “Mike Zito’s return to the blues is, in a word, triumphant!” No Depression declared, “Once again, Zito has delivered the goods, a first class package with no postage due.”

Now, with Rock N Roll: A Tribute to Chuck Berry, Mike Zito again does what he does best, making an album that’s humble, heartfelt, skilled and sublime....and, to paraphrase Chuck himself, letting it rock all at the same time.

Check out Mike Zito live on YouTube!

Fronting a superb band this will be one gig to savour. Get you tickets very early for this gig

ON SALE NOW - Advance Tickets are £16.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £18 on the door


2021


Saturday 18th December 2021 - KOSSOFF...The Band Plays On | Doors 7.45pm



We are really proud to get this band to the club. As most of the band are resident in the North East they do not venture this far south a great deal and also they carefully choose the times when they can take this project on the road.

The stunning blues-rock music of Paul Kossoff, the lead guitar prodigy whose soaring playing lit up 1970s rockers Free, is coming to Long Street Blues Club. Kossoff, of course, died tragically young after a drugs battle aged just 25, but his music lives on with The Band Plays On, a band featuring Terry Slesser, the lead vocalist of Koss’s post-Free band, Back Street Crawler.

Forty years on since Paul Kossoff, one of Britain’s finest guitarists, tragically passed away at the tender age of 25 in 1976. Singer Terry Slesser, the voice of Kossoff's critically acclaimed post-Free band Back Street Crawler, and a close friend of Koss, keeps the memory of one of the greatest British Blues guitarist and his music alive. Sless has chosen the guitarist John Buckton, of whom Simon Kirke said "If Free were to reform John would be my first choice as guitarist", to play a series of special dates reviving for the first time since the 70s the catalogue of Back Street Crawler songs as well as favourite Free numbers.

Also included in the lineup is drummer Clive Edwards (UFO, Wild Horses, Pat Travers) and highly respected keyboard player Mark Taylor (Elton John, Simple Minds, The Alarm). The Band Plays On play will feature the very best of Free’s back catalogue and also Back Street Crawler’s two-album sojourn.



The band’s name is fittingly also the name of BSC’s first album with Kossoff from 1975. Highlights include Free’s world-wide hit and rock anthem “All Right Now”, “Fire and Water”, crowd pleaser “The Hunter” and “Molten Gold”, one of the first tracks Slesser and Kossoff played together with Back Street Crawler.

ON SALE NOW - Advance Tickets are £17.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £19 on the door


Saturday 27th November 2021 | ANTONIO FORCIONE QUARTET | Doors 7.45pm



Back by overwhelming popular demand is the amazing Antonio Forcione this time with his renowned quartet.

The Antonio Forcione Quartet have been performing and wowing audiences at sell out concerts all over the world. They have also consistently been receiving 5 star reviews year after year at the Edinburgh Festival.

This is a truly international line-up with Jenny Adejayan from Nigeria/Grenada/UK, Emiliano Caroselli from Italy, Matheus Nova from Brazil and Antonio Forcione from Italy. Between them they have performed with some of the biggest names in both the pop and jazz world, done countless tours, charity concerts, workshops and albums.

The pieces performed by the Quartet are from Forcione’s prolific compositions as well as a mixture of rearranged classics but Dave Brubeck, The Police, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and many others. There is an imaginative and joyful synthesis – a world class band with spectacular technique and rich composition who have developed a unique, powerful and exotic sound.

"A one-off musical sensation. Unmissable" The Scotsman

"A major international guitar virtuoso .. one of those very few entertainers who can cast a spell on almost any audience ... remarkable personal magnetism” JAZZ FM

"One of the world’s most highly regarded guitarists .. this is John Martyn for a new generation who, when he isn’t using his guitar as a percussive instrument is literally reinventing it. The guy is brilliant." Edinburgh Evening News

“Few acoustic guitarists can match Antonio Forcione for sheer instrumental virtuosity but fewer still come close to him as a composer.” Jazzwise Magazine


Saturday 20th November 2021 - FOCUS
Acoustic Support The Lost Trades | Doors 7.45pm | Corn Exchange, Devizes
(Limited seating at this gig)



With their unique brand of progressive rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the '70s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch prog-rock exports. Fronted by founding member Thijs Van Leer, they are best known for their hits “Hocus Pocus”, “House of The King” and “Sylvia”.

This tour coincides with the 50th anniversary of their seminal album Moving Waves. Demand for this show will be huge which is why we have moved it to the Devizes Corn Exchange. We are going to turn the Ceres Hall into one big Jazz venue festooned with tables so you can get up close and  personal to the band! 

Acoustic support from local stars The Lost Trades.


Saturday 13th November 2021 - GERRY JABLONSKI BAND | Doors 7.45pm



All the way from Aberdeen the longest journey for any UK band we have ever booked, they are well worth it.

Rory Gallagher fans will love this band great blues rock band who have spent the last ten years relentlessly touring and have spent this year playing a host of prestigious festivals both here and in Europe.

"Go see this band - the best band you never heard of"
Classic Rock Magazine2018 was another milestone year for the UK’s favourite contemporary bluesman and renegade Americana'man. He scooped Best Male Vocalist and Best Acoustic Artist in the UK Blues Awards, adding to a long list of accolades in the UK, Europe and USA.

Gerry Jablonski & the Electric Band are a standout act with an energetic, no-holds-barred stageshow. They have a unique, trademark Heavy Blues Rocksound and style producing gutsy music with hooks, melodies and an intense presence that wins over any audience, anywhere, anytime. Guaranteed.


Saturday 30th October 2021 - CLIMAX BLUES BAND | Doors 7.45pm

We are delighted to have Climax Blues Band as replacements for the postponed Billy Bremner gig. The Billy Bremner gig has been postponed until Friday 8th April 2022 - venue tbc. The postponement is due to the current restrictions in travel between Sweden (where the band are based) and the UK.

Climax Blues Band were formed in 1968 by Colin Cooper who led the band with Pete Haycock through great success and recognition through the 1970s and 1980s, with huge selling albums like FM Live and Gold Plated, hit singles Couldn’t Get It Right and I Love You.

George Glover joined the band on keyboards in 1981, Haycock left in 1984 and Lester Hunt came into the re-vamped Climax in 1985, Roy Adams joined in 1987 and Neil Simpson in the early 1990s. Colin Cooper was leading the band with a return to the kind of blues that got the band started before his untimely death in 2008. His wish was the for the band to continue and the recruitment of Graham Dee and Chris ‘Beebe’ Aldridge was made with a view to broadening the Climax sound again and take on new musical influences, move forward creatively which was the Climax Blues Band trademark, rather than rely on the past glories.

"Climax Blues Band are very much still proudly flying the flag in 2021, moving forwards, blending the old with the new, and loving making music".
Classic Rock MagazineThe live album Security Alert was released in 2015 and reflected this move forward and the fact that Climax were delighting old and new fans alike throughout the UK and Europe. Roy Wood of ELO and Wizzard fame mixed the live album. Graham Dee as a focal point is a larger than life front man who holds the audience in the palm of his hand. His amazing vocal range sets him apart from the field and he is quite happy to go walk about in the audience to spread the joy.  Chris Aldridge is more laid back and does his talking with his outstanding virtuoso sax playing, easing through soul, jazz and blues influences with great style.

2019 saw the release of the album HANDS OF TIME, the first studio album of original songs since Drastic Steps in 1987. Hands Of Time went straight to the top of Amazon downloads and to No. 3 in the iTunes Blues chart. With the 30 year experienced bedrock rhythm unit of Adams and Simpson, Climax veteran George Glover holding everything together from the keyboard stand as band leader, and Les Hunt’s supreme guitar skills transcending all the musical areas Climax find themselves in. A firm statement of intent is given: Climax Blues Band are very much still proudly flying that flag in 2021, moving forwards, blending the old with the new, and loving making music.


From the USA - JIMMY CARPENTER | Saturday 2nd October 2021 | Doors 7.45pm
Acoustic Support from Lewis Clark



Jimmy Carpenter, saxophonist, singer-songwriter, and arranger, began his musical journey over 35 years ago. In the '80s, he toured the east coast with the renegade blues band, The Alka-Phonics, in the '90s with the blues-rock band The Believers, with whom he learned about the music business.

Over the years, Jimmy has toured internationally with Tinsley Ellis, Jimmy Thackery, Walter Wolfman Washington, Eric Lindell, and others. In 2012 Jimmy joined Mike Zito, his long-time friend and musical cohort, and recorded and toured as a member of Mike Zito and the Wheel. In addition to touring nationally & internationally, Jimmy has written, arranged and recorded the horns for many artists, and has gained a reputation as a master Blues, Rock-n-Roll and R&B saxophonist.

Jimmy has also released three solo albums: Toiling in Obscurity, (2008); Walk Away (Vizztone 2014), and Jimmy Carpenter Plays the Blues (Vizztone 2017). After many years in New Orleans, he currently lives in Las Vegas with his partner in crime and musical inspiration, Ms. Carrie Stowers.

In addition to leading his own band and playing with numerous others, he is the Musical Director for the Big Blues Bender, and leader of the Bender Brass, The Bender's house band. He is the current president of the Las Vegas Blues Society, and in 2019 was nominated for a Blues Music Award, his 4th for Best Instrumentalist/Horn.

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIEW - Saturday 18th September 2021
acoustic support from Kevin Brown  | Doors 7.45pm



A superb replacement for the sadly postponed Billy Walton Band date


CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIEW take you on a Swamp Rockin’ musical journey through the years of C.C.R. up around the bend, down by the green river and through the Bayou country landscape that is the career of John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

The fabulous two hour show includes hits such as Bad Moon Rising, Proud Mary, Susie Q, Green River, Up Around The Bend, Born On The Bayou, Travellin’ Band, Have You Ever Seen The Rain, Fortunate Son .....and many more.

Creedence Clearwater Review are the definitive European C.C.R. Tribute act featuring four top class musicians creating a dynamic and power packed show authentic to the original sound of C.C.R. Two one hour sets of great music – don’t miss!


The aim has been to avoid slavishly following album tracks but rather to re-interpret the bands massive back catalogue in a similar manner to John Fogerty's performances with his current band.

Dale Taylor takes up the role of John Fogerty on guitar and vocals with the boundless energy of his generation and with the solid experience of the band, providing a fantastic quality yet power packed delivery of the original band's classic songs.

We really need your help in supporting us by coming to this gig as we have such a short period of time to promote this show .

2020


Saturday 7th March 2020 - Ian Parker Band | Doors 7.45pm



We welcome back one the true greats of the British blues scene with his band.

A songwriter genuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian is an original craftsman. Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal delivery, Ian's songs hold nothing back. His ability and willingness to share with his audience, naked honesty and genuine emotion, is what sets him apart.

Ian's career took off in the summer of 2003, when he signed to Ruf Records following a personal introduction to US record producer, David Z (Prince - Purple Rain). His debut album 'INSIDE' (Ruf1094) was released in October of that year. Further albums, live DVDs and extensive tours of Europe and the USA followed, with Parker always seeking new musical avenues to explore, never content to merely rehash old ideas, no matter how successful they may have been. To this end, Ian is something of journeyman, guided by his art and his self-confessed emotional need to express his soul through music.

His journey has taken unexpected turns, testing his loyal following from time to time, but the integrity of his writing, the quality of his distinctive voice and the soulful nature of his signature guitar playing have always been the bedrock of his work. Following the release of Politik Blues (Eye-Pea002) in April 2015, Ian refocused his attention on the Stratocaster-driven blues music he began building his reputation on, more than twenty years ago.

A return to the iconic Rockfield Studios (Queen – A Night at the Opera) in the summer of 2018 resulted in the blues album many long-standing fans and critics alike are lauding as his best work to date. ‘Spoonful of Gold – Blues for Willie’ celebrates the music of Willie Dixon, delivered in Ian’s inimitable style.

Freed from the shackles of being the new kid on the block vying for attention in an over-saturated market, Parker approaches his music, these days, with the calm, self-assurance that accompanies one who has, to some extent, been there and done it.

Nothing to prove and still so much to say, Ian Parker remains an act not to be missed.

Advance Tickets are £15.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £17 on the door



Saturday 25th January 2020 - from the USA - KIRK FLETCHER BAND
Special support from Liam Alexander Ward | Doors 7.45pm



The first night of our Beat the January Blues Weekend is going to be one special evening.

Kirk Fletcher is an artist we have been trying to get for ages and finally we have managed it. Joe Bonamassa rates Kirk as one the finest guitarists in the world, some accolade from such a legend.

Kirk Fletcher has a reputation as a bonafide can’t-miss performer. His soulful playing and singing never fails to elicit chills, and his unique approach to Rhythm & Blues music is both refreshingly modern and completely authentic.

Widely considered one of the best blues guitarists in the world, he has commanded the respect and acclaim of critics, peers and fans across the globe.

He is a four-time Blues Music Award and a 2015 British Blues Award nominee and has played with a variety of popular artists, including Joe Bonamassa and a three-year role as lead guitarist of The Fabulous Thunderbirds. He released three studio albums and a live album.

Kirk first picked up a guitar at age eight, playing alongside his older brother Walter in their father’s church. One day with his older brother, Kirk visited a small L.A. guitar shop, Music Works, which ultimately became his second home after meeting Jeff Rivera, Robben Ford’s guitar tech. “We started hanging out and I would help load gear, change strings and just be a fly on the wall to some of the most amazing music I’ve ever heard,” Kirk remembers.

It was in the next few years that Kirk’s full introduction to traditional blues occurred. He started seeking out other musicians who shared this same understanding – enter Al Blake, lead singer and harp player for the Hollywood Fats Band. After hosting dinner every Sunday, Al would offer Kirk early 20th Century blues records as dessert. He also helped establish connections to other famous West Coast blues artists like Junior Watson and Richard “Lynwood Slim” Duran. So followed Kirk’s first gigs as a blues guitarist and eventually the recording of his first album I’m Here & I’m Gone for the JSP label out of England.

"An absolute master of blues, soul, gospel and funk guitar."
Music Radar

Al Blake would also introduce Kirk to Kim Wilson of The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Wilson brought Fletcher further into the blues family from California to Texas and then out touring the world. One highlight during this time was at Antone’s Night Club 25th Anniversary Week in Austin, Texas, which gave Kirk the opportunity to perform with his blues heroes Pinetop Perkins, James Cotton and Hubert Sumlin. Wilson also tapped Kirk to play on his Grammy-nominated Smokin’ Joint live album. Shortly thereafter a call to collaborate came from blues legend Charlie Musselwhite, confirming that Kirk was becoming one of the most in-demand blues guitarists on the scene.

So began three years on the road with the Thunderbirds. Kirk contributed to the Thunderbirds’ Paint It On album and time spent with many famous blues artists along the way, including a brief stint with the late Doyle Bramhall Sr. and a few guest appearances playing for Cindi Lauper, Michelle Branch and a world tour with Italian mega-star Eros Ramazzotti. Kirk more recently has been part of two projects with close friend Joe Bonamassa Muddy Wolf at Redrocks and the Grammy nominated Live at the Greek Theatre.

Demand for this gig will be very strong indeed so early booking is strongly advised.


Advance Tickets are £16.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £18 on the door



Sunday 26th January 2020 - Billy Bremner's Rockfiles | Doors 7.45pm



For the final night of our Beat the January Blues Weekend we welcome one of the true legends of the UK music scene Billy Bremner and his band. The evening will be dedicated to the music of Rockpile, a band he formed with Dave Edmunds and Nick Lowe and had great commercial success.

Scottish Guitar Legend from Rockpile & The Pretenders. Billy Bremner started out in Lulu’s backing group The Luvvers. After joining Neil Innes in the band Fatso he recorded some solo singles under the pseudonym ‘Bill Murray’ before joining Nick Lowe and Dave Edmunds in Rockpile.

Billy Bremner sang lead vocals on the 1980 Rockpile single “Heart”. He then wrote “Trouble Boys” which became a hit for both Dave Edmunds and Thin Lizzy. Bremner then released a few solo singles on Stiff Records before becoming a full time member of The Pretenders where he played the lead guitar on their 1982 hit “Back on the Chain Gang”.

Rockfiles live performances are rare these days so we are very pleased to be included on this short UK tour. As a result we again are predicting a very big demand for tickets.


2019


Saturday 28th December 2019 - The Pink Torpedoes | Doors 7.45pm



Reformed for one night only The Pink Torpedoes!

In the 1980's and 1990 they were one of the seminal West Country bands. If you like your music raw and edgy this is the band for you. Without doubt they are are one of the best RnB bands around.

At the height of their powers they all went their separate ways. Pete Gage joined Dr Feelgood when Lee Brilleaux sadly passed away. Dave Raeburn joined the Hoax as their drummer the rest is history with that band. Paul Hartshorn became one of the most in demand guitarists for miles around and bass player Pete Lowrey moved to Ireland.

Now they have decided they want to resurrect that spirit of the band one last time. A great post Xmas tonic for anyone wanting a special evening.

We are sure demand will be very strong for this one off show so get your tickets early.

Advance Tickets are £15.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £17 on the door


 

 

 

 

 


Saturday 21st December 2019 - John Coghlan's Quo
Special support from George Wilding | Doors 7.45pm



Great Xmas party show when John Coghlan's Quo make their debut appearance at the club.

The Quo were regular visitors to Devizes Corn Exchange during the late sixties and seventies with their classic line up. So we are glad that spirit of the classic Quo is in safe hands.

John Coghlan's Quo: featuring John Coghlan - The Heartbeat of Quo. Original Quo drummer John Coghlan, with his great band, brings you a night of vintage Quo from the period he performed with Status Quo 1962 - 1981.

John Coghlan joined Francis Rossi and Alan Lancaster in their newly-formed band ‘The Spectres’ in 1962. The group went through a series of name changes, including Traffic Jam, before becoming Status Quo in the late 60s when Rick Parfitt also joined the line-up. In the years that followed, a string of chart-topping hits include
*Pictures Of Matchstick Men * Ice In the Sun * Down The Dustpipe * In My Chair * Paper Plane * Mean Girl * Caroline * Break The Rules * Down Down * Roll Over Lay Down * Rain * Mystery Song * Wild Side Of Life * Rocking All Over The World * Again And Again * Whatever You Want * Living On An Island * What You’re Proposing *

"'... a joyous journey of his golden past. A night of feelgood factor Status Quo classics'"
Mark Taylor Metatalk.netFor Quo fans and critics alike, this time is often regarded as Quo’s “Classic” period. Since leaving Quo, John has worked with many noted and diverse musicians, in his own Diesel Band; with Partners In Crime; and the ‘Rockers’ featuring Phil Lynott, Roy Wood and Chas Hodges. Other collaborations have included Noel Redding (ex-Jimi Hendrix) and Eric Bell (ex-Thin Lizzy).

In 2013 and 2014, John rejoined Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt and Alan Lancaster for the two sell-out Status Quo Frantic Four Reunion Tours, appearing all over the UK and Europe and reigniting the excitement of the early days of Quo.

During the late nineties John Coghlan’s Quo was formed and through various line-ups has enjoyed regular gigs all over the UK and Europe. The current band consists of John on drums, with Mick Hughes on guitar and vocals, Rick Chase on bass and vocals, and Pete Mace on guitar and vocals completing the line-up.

John Coghlan's Quo - The prime aim is to recreate an authentic “70’s Quo Sound” in keeping with John’s time with Quo. For Quo fans and critics alike, this time is often regarded as Quo’s “Classic” period.



Saturday 30th November 2019 - Gerry Jablonski Band | Doors 7.45pm



All the way from Aberdeen the longest journey for any UK band we have ever booked, they are well worth it.

Rory Gallagher fans will love this band great blues rock band who have spent the last ten years relentlessly touring and have spent this year playing a host of prestigious festivals both here and in Europe.

"Go see this band - the best band you never heard of"
Classic Rock Magazine2018 was another milestone year for the UK’s favourite contemporary bluesman and renegade Americana'man. He scooped Best Male Vocalist and Best Acoustic Artist in the UK Blues Awards, adding to a long list of accolades in the UK, Europe and USA.

Gerry Jablonski & the Electric Band are a standout act with an energetic, no-holds-barred stageshow. They have a unique, trademark Heavy Blues Rocksound and style producing gutsy music with hooks, melodies and an intense presence that wins over any audience, anywhere, anytime. Guaranteed.


Friday 8th November 2019 - Ian Siegal - unplugged 2019 | Doors 7.45pm | Show 8.30pm (no support)



We are really proud to bring this very special artist back in a completely different guise. The intimate surroundings of the club will just add to the atmosphere of this very special show.

"the cleverest writer and most magnetic blues performer in the UK"
MOJO magazine2018 was another milestone year for the UK’s favourite contemporary bluesman and renegade Americana'man. He scooped Best Male Vocalist and Best Acoustic Artist in the UK Blues Awards, adding to a long list of accolades in the UK, Europe and USA.

This year he is touring a solo unplugged presentation of songs from his latest album All The Rage including a beautifully adapted acoustic version of the soul stunner, Sweet Souvenir.

Classic Rock tags Siegal “a national treasure,” America’s blues bible says “vast talent” and MOJO magazine ranks him “the cleverest writer and most magnetic blues performer in the UK.” While he is known as a bluesman and often seen fronting his electric band, it’s just one shade in the palette of an artist who slips between continents, eras and expectations. His forte is playing to an audience. He takes command of the stage in a way very few artists alive today can match.

Sweat, passion, humour, incendiary slide guitar and a soul-infused voice big enough to fell trees. When it’s just man & guitar those qualities shine through even stronger.

 


Saturday 2nd November 2019 - Big Dez Blues Band | Doors 7.45pm



We are  really excited to get Big Dez and his great band to the club from his Parisian base.

The Big Dez band plays rocking foot tappin' blues with with Phil Fernandez superb guitar playing reminiscent of Albert Collins and Johnny 'Guitar' Watson. The band also features hot rising stars of the blues, The Cinelli Brothers - guitarist Marco Cinelli and Alessandro Cinelli on drum plus Larry Miller bassist Derek White.

Guitarist Phil Fernandez (Big Dez) has been treading the boards for over 20 years across Europe and North America, taking several trips to the US to create his electric blues style. He has played in Chicago and Texas with the likes of Luther Allison, WC Clark, Billy Branch, Chicago guitarist 'Killer' Ray Allison, Mike Cross and has also played alongside Texas legend Uncle John Turner (drummer with Johnny Winter and Lightnin' Hopkins) and recorded with Lucky Peterson, the Fabulous Thunderbirds bassist Preston Hubbard and sax virtuoso Sax Gordon.

The latest CD 'Last Train' from Big Dez is the 8th album and was recorded in Paris and mixed in Austin, Texas. The album features special guest Lucky Peterson and Sax Gordon.


 

 

 


Saturday 12th October 2019 - Jon Amor Band | Special support Thompson Smurthwaite
Doors 7.45pm



A Hometown gig for one of Devizes finest. Glowing with praise from great reviews for his latest album Colour in the Sky, this is part of a full band nationwide tour to fully promote the album.

""Amor has always been good, but with 'Colour In The Sky', he's great. Definitely a career best"Having made his name as a guitar player with legendary UK blues band THE HOAX, Jon Amor has established himself as a fine singer/songwriter in his own right, releasing a string of highly acclaimed solo albums, spearheading the widely successful JON AMOR BLUES GROUP, and as part of the all-star UK line-up THE BOOM BAND.

2019 has seen the release of a new studio album - "Colour In The Sky". It features guest performances from Ian Siegal, Paddy Milner, Bob Fridzema Joel Fisk, Mark Barrett (The Hoax) and Clive Deamer (Robert Plant, Radiohead) and showcases Jon's wide-ranging - and never predictable - songwriting talents. "Amor has always been good, but with 'Colour In The Sky', he's great. Definitely a career best"

Following two successful solo tours this year, Jon now hits the road with an all-star band to perform tracks from the new album as well as some select choices from his extensive back catalogue.


Saturday 21st September 2019 - Malone-Sibun Band | Special support Joe Hicks | Doors 7.45pm



After playing a barnstorming gig at the end of last year we have been inundated with requests to get them back.The gig coincides with release of their debut album. This again will be a gig to savour.

Devizes own supreme axeman has teamed up with Detroit born Marcus Malone creating a great blues rock collaborations.

The new band came about with a chance meeting at a show which uncovered a surprising amount of musical common ground. Both musicians had just enjoyed the busiest 12 months of their careers and it was time to appraise their respective situations.

As Innes Sibun explains: “When the chance comes along to play with a great musician who is travelling down the same musical road as you, then you jump at it. Listening to Marcus Malone I hear echo’s of two of my favourite singers, Paul Rodgers, Otis Redding and early David Coverdale, but above all it’s Marcus’s own unmistakable style & delivery.” 

Marcus Malone has just enjoyed the most successful period of his career. His critically acclaimed album ‘A Better Man’ on Redline records has topped several ‘best of the year’ polls and he was also nominated as a finalist in the European Blues Awards.

The former UA and Motown, Motorcity artist had a diverse hard rock and soul background, before he settled in a blues/rock and direction and relocated to the UK. He played the Albert Hall with BB King and quickly established himself as a top flight blues rocker with a handful of excellent albums.

Innes always has a special place in our heart having opened the club way back in May 2008 and Marcus also has visited Devizes on a number of occasions.


Friday 28th June 2019 - From Mississippi Watermelon Slim | Doors 7.45pm



"The most exciting and authentic blues performer I've heard in years."
A.W., Paste Magazine

We have gone the extra mile to put an additional gig to our programme when we knew there was a chance of The Legendary Watermelon Slim and his band coming to the club.

Bill "Watermelon Slim" Homans has built a remarkable reputation with his raw, impassioned intensity. HARP Magazine wrote "From sizzling slide guitar...to nitty-gritty harp blowing...to a gruff, resonating Okie twang, Slim delivers acutely personal workingman blues with both hands on the wheel of life, a bottle of hooch in his pocket, and the Bible on the passenger seat."

Paste Magazine writes "He's one hell of a bottleneck guitarist, and he's got that cry in his voice that only the greatest singers in the genre have had before him." He produces one of the most original live blues performances you are ever likely to hear. He is simply the real deal.

2x Winner: 2008 Blues Music Award - Band of the Year and Album of the Year

2x Winner: 2006 & 2007 MOJO Magazine's #1 Blues Album of the Year

Winner: 6th Annual Independent Music Awards - Blues Album of the Year



Friday 21st June 2019 SKINNY MOLLY | Doors 7.45pm



This band is on the move and have become a major force to be reckoned with on the Southern Rock scene. Skinny Molly's mantra is "Never let one fan leave a show disappointed"

The music and live reputation of the band caught the attention of legendary Ruf Records label president Thomas Ruf. Skinny Molly subsequently signed a deal with Ruf Records, becoming the second "southern rock" band to be signed in the wake of Ruf's expansion into the genre. At the time of the signing, Skinny Molly was in the studio cutting what would become their new and widely acclaimed CD, "Haywire Riot" released last year.

This is no retro act though... these guys stand on solid songs, unique playing and creative instrumentation and arrangements to make even the most jaded rock fan (or even country or blues fan) a fan for life. Jump on and enjoy the ride!

Their live sets are awesome so expect the modern southern rock they are known for mixed in with all the Skynyrd classics. They have sold out on the all the times they have been to the club. This will be no exception.

Saturday 25th May 2019 - Kossoff...the Band Plays On | Doors 7.45pm



We are really proud to get this band to the club. As most of the band are resident in the North East they do not venture this far south a great deal and also they carefully choose the times when they can take this project on the road.

The stunning blues-rock music of Paul Kossoff, the lead guitar prodigy whose soaring playing lit up 1970s rockers Free, is coming to Long Street Blues Club. Kossoff, of course, died tragically young after a drugs battle aged just 25, but his music lives on with The Band Plays On, a band featuring Terry Slesser, the lead vocalist of Koss’s post-Free band, Back Street Crawler.

Forty years on since Paul Kossoff, one of Britain’s finest guitarists, tragically passed away at the tender age of 25 in 1976. Singer Terry Slesser, the voice of Kossoff's critically acclaimed post-Free band Back Street Crawler, and a close friend of Koss, keeps the memory of one of the greatest British Blues guitarist and his music alive. Sless has chosen the guitarist John Buckton, of whom Simon Kirke said "If Free were to reform John would be my first choice as guitarist", to play a series of special dates reviving for the first time since the 70s the catalogue of Back Street Crawler songs as well as favourite Free numbers.

Also included in the lineup is drummer Clive Edwards (UFO, Wild Horses, Pat Travers) and highly respected keyboard player Mark Taylor (Elton John, Simple Minds, The Alarm). The Band Plays On play will feature the very best of Free’s back catalogue and also Back Street Crawler’s two-album sojourn.



The band’s name is fittingly also the name of BSC’s first album with Kossoff from 1975. Highlights include Free’s world-wide hit and rock anthem “All Right Now”, “Fire and Water”, crowd pleaser “The Hunter” and “Molten Gold”, one of the first tracks Slesser and Kossoff played together with Back Street Crawler.

This really will be a hot ticket so we strongly recommend getting tickets very early for this show.


Saturday 4th May 2019 - Shemekia Copeland | Doors 7.45pm

TOUR CANCELLED - Refunds can be obtained from point of purchase. Season Ticket holders can exchange for any of the two June gigs at the Billy Walton gig


Friday 10th May 2019 - Tom C Walker | Doors 7.45pm



March 7th, 1995 Tom was born in Birmingham, UK.From a young age his virtuoso Performances stunned audiences with his guitar playing quickly earning him respect and admiration from musicians more than 4 times his age.

From 12 years old Tom was playing around the country in different line-ups along side much older musicians. This led to Tom's first studio sessions with legendary producer Richard Digby Smith (Island records.) Richard was one of the first people to discover Tom's natural feel on the guitar and recorded Tom's early demos.

"His voice is a fine black silk and sandpaper soul instrument that can do powerful baritone up to a smooth falsetto" Blues In Britain

In November 2014 Tom travelled to Austin Texas to play a string of shows over in the USA. Jamming with local blues players, as well as playing to packed out venues raising his profile internationally. Seven years with the Tom Walker Trio found them headlining the most prestigious venues in the UK including Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, 100 Club London, The Borderline London, Eailing Blues Club, The Birmingham Town Hall, The Birmingham Symphony hall and a residency at Jools Holland's The Jam House.

Throughout the trio toured with some of the most influential acts of the past 60 years, including The Moody Blues John Lodge, Paul Jones (Manfred Man, The Blues Band, BBC Radio 2) and The Move. As well as American blues artists including Eric Gales and Devon Alman. September 2016 Tom was interviewed on Big Centre TV's "What’s On Show" ahead of the last night supporting John Lodge at the Birmingham Town Hall.

In April 2017 Tom released the Into Space EP with the single Sweet Angel, straight in the Top 20 in the IBBA Blues charts while selling thousands of copies world wide in the first few months of release. July 2017 The Tom Walker Trio hit the road for Tom's first headline UK tour, "The Into Space UK Tour," quickly selling out the Birmingham show before playing before Mungo Gerry at the legendary Ealing Blues Festival. After the tour Tom played a live acoustic set on Birmingham TV's "The Big Engine Debate Show." 5th November 2017 was the trio's final gig at The International Guitar Festival in Liverpool. 2018, Tom C Walker will be on the road with his new 4-piece band.

Get your chance to see a new star on the way.This will be simply a brilliant gig.


Saturday 6th April 2019 - Billy Walton Band | Doors 7.45pm



As a result of phenomenal public demand we have got Bill Walton back for their third visit.They have now replaced King King as the house band of Long Street Blues Club. If we had to put our hand on our heart and pick out the best band that has played at the club over the last decade this band is the one we have chosen.

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and earlier this year supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band.

The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

Rest assured this gig will be a total sell out in record time so you have to get tickets for this show as early as possible.



Saturday 2nd March 2019 - Kyla Brox Band | Doors 7.45pm



Kyla is no stranger to Devizes having appeared several times with husband Danny but this is the first time we get the full experience of the electric band.

KYLA BROX‘s voice remains a stunning example of the soul singer’s art: turning up the heat by degrees, lulling and charming before unleashing emotional catharsis, and blurring the distinction between pleasure and pain like the soul greats of old. Whether fronting the mighty Kyla Brox Band, or harnessing undiluted soul power in a duo with musical and life partner Danny Blomeley, Kyla Brox is without doubt the most authentic UK blues and soul singer of her generation.

Born in Lancashire in 1980, she was exposed to the passion of Afro-American music at first-hand from her blues singing father, Victor. She traces her interest in singing from age three, partly from a desire to be closer to her charismatic but distant dad. She was the late product of the marriage between Victor (Caiaphas in the original cast recording of Jesus Christ Superstar) and Annette (the ‘maid by the fire’ in the same), and, unlike her elder sisters, gifted but non-professional singers, she didn’t spend her formative years in the back of a touring van under a cloud of cannabis smoke.

Kyla Brox is the greatest British female blues singer of her generation.

The line of development can be traced through Kyla’s six albums. From the 2003 debut Window, where the tone is summery and romantic, to the acoustic Grey Sky Blue (2009), where hopes and longings are freighted with deeper emotions, via the blues/soul calling card Beware (2003), the band triumph Coming Home (2004) and the more introspective Gone (2007).

The songs have developed too: the team of Brox/Blomeley have grown into a potent songwriting force, writing in the blues/soul idiom with an individual, nicely personal touch.Kyla is now rightly established at the top of British Blues singers and with every gig and recording she is just getting better and better.

Devizes and the Long Street Blues Club is in for one special night!

Advance Tickets are £15.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £17 on the door


Saturday 26th January 2019 - Rick Estrin and The Nightcats | Doors 7.45pm



Without doubt one of the best Chicago Blues bands on the planet. We are so pleased to get this band to open our 2019 season.

You will not get a better chance to sample this band in a club atmosphere.   Wildly fun, musically fearless and bursting with bravado, 2018’s prestigious Blues Music Award-winning Band Of The Year, Rick Estrin & The Nightcats, have created one of the blues’ most instantly recognisable sounds and no-holds-barred styles.

Featuring the world-class talents of harmonica master, songwriter and vocalist Rick Estrin, guitar wunderkind Chris “Kid” Andersen, keyboard wizard Lorenzo Farrell and dynamic drummer Alex Pettersen, the band serve up sharp and incisive original blues and gritty roadhouse rock ‘n’ roll.

“These are serious musicians having a hotter than hot good time. It’s tough to stay in your seat when Estrin and his musical cohorts get cooking.”. Chicago Sun-Times

With his wily and unforgettable songs and hipster, street-smart vocals, no one on the blues scene writes like, sings like or looks like Rick Estrin as he fronts a band of the most colourful showmen around. He has won a total of five Blues Music Awards and written songs for Grammy nominated albums by artists including Koko Taylor, Robert Cray and John Hammond.

"Estrin is an amazing harmonica player, a soulful lead vocalist and a brilliant original songwriter. Estrin’s harmonica sings alongside blues tunes that entertain audiences like no other in the genre.” San Francisco Chronicle

2018


Saturday 22nd December 2018 - We remember Joe Cocker | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9.15pm



After the success of our last Xmas show we have really pulled out all the stops to find another show that will send everyone home with a smile on their face and Full of Xmas Cheer!

A truly wonderful show featuring songs taken from throughout Joe Cocker’s illustrious career, and unique in that We Remember Joe Cocker is the only Joe Cocker tribute band in Europe. This 7-piece All Star band is fronted by the charismatic British Blues Awards 2016 nominee Paul Cox. Paul never fails to excite his audience with his sensual, warm and rocky voice which many have compared to Cocker himself. His interpretation of Joe Cocker’s repertoire is astonishing.

Featuring:“The best show I’ve seen all year. Cox lives the part and loses himself in the music. A quite brilliant show with a moving finale”. Bob Bonsey Blues Matters

• Mike Summerland: Guitar (Mick Abrahams Blodwyn Pig, Georgie Fame)
• Dave Neal: Drums (Suzi Quatro, Sherman Robertson)
• Dave ‘Munch’ Moore: Piano (No Dice, Bo Diddley, Main Squeeze, Dick Heskall Smith, Pete Brown)
• Nigel Hardy: Bass & Vocals (Robert Palmer, Paul Jones, Dietra Farr, Buddy Guy)

Expect all the hits including: ‘Delta Lady’, ‘Something’, ‘Unchain My Heart’, ‘Up Where We Belong’ and ‘With A Little Help From My Friends’ amongst a host of instantly recognisable songs including ‘The Letter’, ‘You Are So Beautiful’, ‘Feelin’ Alright’, ‘She Came In Through The Bathroom Window’, ‘Cry Me A River’ and ‘Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood’…

No wigs, no dressing up, just the heart, soul and passion paying homage to ‘the’ man. This is a guaranteed sing along show and not one to be missed. A class act and great tribute…

We do anticipate a real strong demand for this show being the last Saturday before Xmas.


Saturday 17th November 2018 - Lightnin' Willie with All Star US Band | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9.15pm



We welcome back to the Blues Club one of the most popular US bands we have ever had at the venue.

This band in the old fashioned sense of the phrase “really got all out to put on a show for their audience.

Lightnin’ Willie has a very distinctive approach to his music. He is a songwriter, singer and guitarist in that order. The sound is an irresistible blend of tradition and spontaneous creativity, with a deliciously insidious emphasis on the groove. It is a compelling, hard swinging brand of blues that, whenever he performs, packs the floor. He has gone from the low down beer joints to become a staple on the international circuit, with wild stops along the way, from London’s Royal Albert Hall Igniter Series to Willie Nelson’s infamous 4th of July Picnic, where he appeared alongside Paula Nelson, Willie, Bob Dylan, and Leon Russell.

Touring the United States and Europe for over twenty years has given him the relaxed, confident and sometimes humorous quality of a seasoned performer. These attributes have won him stacks of enthusiastic praise from the press while landing his original tunes on numerous film and television soundtracks.

Lightnin’ Willie has the unique knack of bringing his audience into his ‘living room’ and making everyone comfortable while forgetting their problems for a couple of hours. At a recent show with legendary blues man Robert Cray they played to a packed house receiving a well deserved standing ovation. 2018 will find Willie on tour supporting his latest album No Black No White Just Blues.

“In a world of guitar slingers, this Los Angeles-based bluesman is a rare find. His guitar, a 1950 Gibson ES-5N has a rich, deep tone and Willie’s tasteful style create a sound that’s light years away from the howling Fender Stratocasters that populate so many modern blues recordings. ” Elmore Magazine 2017
This is a gig you simply cannot miss. One of the blues music’s true entertainers!



Saturday 3rd November 2018 - The Malone Sibun Band | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9.15pm



Devizes own supreme axeman has now teamed up with Detroit born Marcus Malone into what is turning out to be one of the blues rock collaborations of the year.

Innes always has a special place in our heart having opened the club way back in May 2008 and Marcus also has visited Devizes on a number of occasions.

The new band came about with a chance meeting at a show which uncovered a surprising amount of musical common ground. Both musicians had just enjoyed the busiest 12 months of their careers and it was time to appraise their respective situations.

As Innes Sibun explains: “When the chance comes along to play with a great musician who is travelling down the same musical road as you, then you jump at it. Listening to Marcus Malone I hear echo’s of two of my favourite singers, Paul Rodgers, Otis Redding and early David Coverdale, but above all it’s Marcus’s own unmistakable style & delivery.” Marcus further adds: “To say we are moving in the same direction musically is an understatement. Not only does Innis have shades of my favourite guitar players – Jimmy Page, Hendrix and Paul Kossoff – but he also has the soulful approach and the dynamics of BB and Albert King. Put all those influences together and you get the unique style of Innes Sibun.”

Marcus Malone has just enjoyed the most successful year of his career. His critically acclaimed album ‘A Better Man’ on Redline records has topped several ‘best of the year’ polls and he was also nominated as a finalist in the European Blues Awards. The former UA and Motown, Motorcity artist had a diverse hard rock and soul background, before he settled in a blues/rock and direction and relocated to the UK. He played the Albert Hall with BB King and quickly established himself as a top flight blues rocker with a handful of excellent albums , of which his current release is easily his best: “‘A Better Man’ lives up to its conceptual title as a celebration of everything that makes Marcus one of the most exciting rock/blues bands in Europe.”

They have received rave reviews wherever this new unit has played.

Needless to say, they will be red hot by the time they get to Devizes!.

Innes Sibun was barely in his 20’s when he was produced by the legendary Mike Vernon, before joining Robert Plant’s ‘Fate of Nations’ world tour. He has subsequently built an international reputation by signing with the American label Viceroy, and then Provogue and Blues Boulevard in Europe. He theny became a pivotal member of Sari Schorr & The Engine Room, with whom he cut the acclaimed ‘A Force of Nature’ album.

He’s an explosive, but feel player, versatile enough to be able to slip from rock and blues into jazz and funk.
“Innes Sibun draws on deep wellspring of feeling that’s undeniable and immediately infectious” – Classic Rock
Together the two stellar musicians promise a powerful mix of rock, blues, soul and funk, all underpinned by Malone’s soulful song driven quality and triggered by Sibun’s high levels of intensity and his inherent melodic feel.
It’s an exciting musical partnership born of the same musical influences, but one that offers them a broader canvas than before.

Innes concludes: “I’m influenced by a melting pot of blues, rock and soul. And Marcus’s songs have that sweet blend of all three of those styles, which at times reminding me of Free, Thin Lizzy and lots of Stax influences.”
Marcus agrees: “My writing draws on classic rock to blues rock – and even a bit of 60’s West Coast – so Innes ‘suits me to a T’, as we say in Detroit. Whatever I throw his way I’m sure he will compliment with his guitar style and vice versa.”

From the buzz already around when we first announced this gig demand for tickets will be very strong indeed. Do not delay in getting in early.




Saturday 20th October 2018 - Ryan McGarvey | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9.15pm

We having been trying for ages to get this band and finally we are in luck . This guy is simply awesome.

Ryan McGarvey is a star on the rise. In just the past few years his accolades have included being selected by Eric Clapton from over 4,000+ artists worldwide to perform at his 2010 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago, to the Guitar Player Magazine’s Annual Readers Choice Award for "Best New Talent" in 2013.

2014 proved to be another epic year for McGarvey as he was voted the winner of "Best Guitarist" in the European Blues Awards. Ryan is constantly on tour internationally, and records whenever time permits. His incendiary, yet dynamic guitar playing leaves crowds around the world marveling, and wanting more.

With strong songs, award winning vocals, fierce guitar playing, an unstoppable work ethic, and an undying love for the blues flavored hard rock he pours from his soul, Ryan has been compared to the best in the business. Ryan McGarvey, though already a seasoned professional, has a bright future ahead of him that has only just begun.

He will not playing in venues of this size much longer so a chance to see him up close and personal. Catch him while you can!

Get a taster here...


Saturday 6th October 2018 - Del Bromham's Blue Devils and Ken Pustelnik's Groundhogs | Doors 7.45pm | Show starts 8.15pm



We do not do this very often, but we have two classic bands co headlining this show.

This will be a full on blues rock extravaganza Both Del and Ken both have a fantastic pedigree and we feel that it is right we get both of them together to showcase their talents.

Award winning STRAY front man and guitarist Del Bromham recently celebrated his pro 50th anniversary and now comes The Blues Devils, a project that allows him to mix his own rock/blues related songs in a big band format.

Following Stray's last studio CD Valhalla - voted 'Album of the Year' - Del took a step sideways and went back to his rock roots. His current '9 Yards' led him to a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' at the British Blues Awards, no mean feet when his fellow winners were Free's Andy Fraser and Groundhog Tony McPhee.

The Blues Devils expands his musical horizon in the company of his usual Stray rhythm section of Karl Randall (Stray/Greg Ridley's Humble Pie on drums) and Stuart Uren (Stray/Gwyn Ashton on bass) as well as Lee Vernon (Pearl Handled Revolver) on harp, Simon Rinaldo (Pearl Handled Revolver) on Hammond.

 

Ken Pustelnik, the original Groundhogs drummer, has formed a new lineup of the band.

Their show features all the classics from The Groundhogs long and very successful existence (formed in 1963), which featured Ken Pustelnik's unorthodox drumming style. All the traditional Groundhog elements will be on show, such as the high energy arrangements and the free-flowing psychedelic-tinged improvisations, all anchored by the underlying Blues Root ever present since the bands earliest days.


Saturday 8th September 2018 - Hamilton Loomis | Doors 7.45pm | Main band 9.15pm



After seeing him headline the Upton Upon Severn Blues Festival last year we were certain we had to get him to the club. Luckily for us he is headlining our opening show of our eleventh season.

Born and raised in Galveston, Texas, Hamilton Loomis at the age of sixteen he went backstage to meet Bo Diddley and before the night was over Hamilton was on stage playing alongside the legend.

Other Texas blues legends such as Johnny Copeland, Gatemouth Brown, Joe ‘Guitar’ Hughes, and Albert Collins also schooled him early on in the finer points of the music recognizing the youngster’s talent and potential.

By the time he turned eighteen, Hamilton had performed in front of thousands at the Delta Blues Festival. He has received a Grammy Nomination for “Best Contemporary Blues Album”. Hamilton has brought his funk-i-fied Texas music to audiences all over the U.S. and the world, recently earning two “Best Artist” awards in England and Wales. By deftly balancing his blues roots and penchant for experimentation and originality “His crowd-pleasing show ‘is all about that is powerful Blues, Funk and Soul,” Twelve Bar Rag magazine “He has been bridging the gap between generations of music-lovers both in the U.S. and around the world” Movin Music Agency.

Check out Hamilton live in Amsterdam...

This is the perfect show to open our new season. Live music does not get better than this band.


Friday 11th May 2018 - Woody Pines Band Support Pan Acoustic | Doors 7.45pm



We finish off our tenth anniversary season in style by welcoming from Nashville Woody Pines for his first visit to the club.

If you’re wondering where the music of Nashville troubadour WOODY PINES comes from, look to the streets.

It was on the streets as a professional busker that Woody first cut his teeth, drawing liberally from the lost back alley anthems and scratchy old 78s of American roots music, whether country blues, jugband, hokum, or hillbilly. Heavy rollicking street performances are the key to some of today’s best roots bands, like Old Crow Medicine Show (Woody and OCMS’ Gill Landry used to tour the country in their own jugband), and they’re the key to Woody’s intensely catchy rhythms, jumpy lyrics, and wildly delirious sense of fun.

Woody traveled all over the streets of this country, road testing his songs, drawing from the catchiest elements of the music he loved and adding in hopped-up vintage electrification to get that old country dancehall sound down right.

It’s tempting to call Woody Pine’s newest music “rockabilly,” and in fact he recorded the new album at Sputnik Studios in Nashville, famous for recording rockabilly and psych-twang heroes JD McPherson, Jack White, and Sturgill Simpson. But it might be more accurate to call Woody’s new songs “hillbilly boogie;” a rarely remembered genre of American music made famous by the Delmore Brothers. Hillbilly boogie sits at the exact moment when the buzzed- out, electrified hillbilly country music of Appalachia (which itself drew heavily from country blues), first hit the sawdust-floored honky-tonks of old Nashville and Memphis. It was the moment exactly before the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.

This is serious roots music that’s as much a way of life as an aesthetic choice. This music isn’t for dabblers; you gotta feel it in your bones. Let Woody Pines help.

Woody writes with a wink to this critical time on songs like “Anything for Love” and “New Nashville Boogie,” drawing in modern references at will to make his points. He also dives deep into the tradition, drawing up gems like the old gangsta- folk song “Make It to the Woods” from the Mississippi Sheiks. In Woody’s music, there’s never an idea that roots music should be a recreation of an older time. Instead, he taps the vein of this music that’s still beating today, finding common ground with the old hucksters and bar-hounds who created the music in the first place. When Woody Pines sings “when the train rolls by, I get a faceful of rain,” this isn’t some hipster dilettante twisting a faux-handlebar mustache and singing about old-timey railroads, this is a dedicated student of Woody Guthrie who used to hop freight trains to get from town to town.

"“Go and see them, you won't regret it!" American Roots UK

Sunday 29th April 2018 - Blues Caravan Tour with Mike Zito, Bernard Allison and Vanja Sky
Doors 7.45pm | No support act - Show Starts 8:15pm approx.



Almost ten years we set out on this venture to provide quality live music back on a regular basis to the heart of Wiltshire. In early May 2008 we got local guitar hero Innes Sibun to open the club in style. Since then we have not looked back producing an array of amazing shows along the way.

To our surprise we have reached our tenth anniversary and we feel we have got the show to celebrate in style.

You remember Mike Zito and what a draw he was when he appreared at the club a few years. Times that by three and you start to get a picture of what we have in store when the Blues Caravan Tour rolls into town.


Bernard Allison (born November 26, 1965, Chicago, Illinois) is a blues guitarist based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

His father, Luther Allison was a Chicago blues musician. Bernard Allison is the youngest of nine children, and had many different musical influences while growing up, including Albert King, Muddy Waters and Freddie King, and later, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Johnny Winter.

This is no ordinary club tour. This is the Blues Caravan 2018. If you’ve followed Ruf’s rolling revue since it started life in 2005, you’ll already know that these shows are must-see events, throwing together three stellar artists on one bill – then letting the chemistry do the rest.

Allison accompanied his father to blues festivals in the early 1970s. There he was introduced to Muddy Waters, Hound Dog Taylor and Albert King, amongst others. After graduating from high school, Allison began playing with Koko Taylor in her touring band. He stayed with her until 1985, when he appeared at his own gigs as Bernard Allison and Back Talk. Allison spent time in Canada with his first band, but later rejoined Taylor and her Blues Machine for another two years in the late 1980s.

After joining his father in Europe for a live recording, Allison was asked to join his father's touring band and become his European bandleader. At Christmas, 1989, while both were living together in Paris, the elder Allison arranged studio time to allow Allison to record his debut album, The Next Generation. It was recorded for Mondo Records using musicians from his father's band. His other foreign record label releases include Hang On, No Mercy, and Funkifino.

Allison released his US debut, Keepin' the Blues Alive in early 1997, receiving critical acclaim. On his tour of clubs around the US in the latter half of 1997, Allison was joined by the drummer Ray "Killer" Allison (no relation) and Greg Rzab. Luther Allison died in August that year. Times Are Changing followed a year later. In mid 2000, Across the Water was released.

Born in South St. Louis, Mo. Mike Zito grew up in a working class home with a dire love of music. It was his escape and way out. After a decade working in a local guitar shop, Mike learned his craft from the ground up playing in clubs 7 nights a week. He fell in love with the Blues of St. Louis and the stories of the country singers. His first self released album "Blue Room" hit the streets in 1998 and he has made 12 albums total over the years. He signed and recorded with Eclecto Groove Records and Ruf Records. He is a founding member of the supergroup "Royal Southern Brotherhood" with Cyril Neville and Devon Allman. In 2012 he formed his own group, The Wheel. Mike has produced albums for Samantha Fish, Laurence Jones, Albert Castiglia and others. He tours extensively in the USA, Canada and Europe. He has been honored with multiple Blues Music Awards over the past 10 years. His love of life and pursuit of happiness is felt in every note he sings and plays.


Saturday 14th April 2018 - IAN SIEGAL with special guests The Dawn Brothers: All the Rage Tour
| Doors 7.45pm



We are delighted to welcome back in our view the most significant contemporary British Blues artist around.

For 2018 blues supremo Ian Siegal tours a new album of original songs with his young band of ace musicians.

In more than a quarter century of touring Ian Siegal’s mission statement has barely changed: songs that are real, shows that resonate, vocals served raw. Today he is considered by many to be the most compelling British blues artiste since the great names of the sixties.

In 2018 he will be touring a new album, his first studio recording of new songs in six years. Produced by American Jimbo Mathus, it is classic Siegal. Every song written or co-written by Siegal and full of the dark and light, clever word play and rough-hewn voicebox he is known for. It also marks the first studio recording with the band he hooked up with in 2013. Frequent touring has evolved a distinctive sound featuring Dusty Ciggaar’s tex-mex infused guitar licks.

Classic Rock tags Siegal “a national treasure,” America’s blues bible says “vast talent” and MOJO magazine ranks him “the cleverest writer and most magnetic blues performer in the UK.” He has taken his music to more than 45 countries and presided over a trophy haul that includes 11 British Blues Awards, three European Blues Awards, two Mojo Blues Albums Of The Year not to mention three US Blues Music Awards nominations - an unprecedented nod for a non-American.

Providing a high energy opening segment will be DAWN BROTHERS, a young band out of Rotterdam that Ian Siegal has been raving about since seeing them live in 2017. Although these four young men are not related by blood, they most certainly share a genetic bond musically. Think Creedence Clearwater Revival, Otis Redding, The Band, and you’re in Dawn Brothers territory. These young souls pump out good time music with unstoppable energy. They ride a wave from the past into the future and prove there’s no time like the present to make great music. As individual musicians they shine, collectively they are a force to be reckoned with.


Saturday 24th March 2018 - Atomic Rooster | Doors 7.45pm



We were absolutely delighted when Atomic Rooster accepted our invitation to step in for Dona Oxford.

Fronted by 1970’s original members Pete French and Steve Bolton.

Atomic Rooster were formed from the ashes of the The Crazy World of Arthur Brown in 1969. Their debut gig was at the Lyceum in London (supported by Deep Purple) and their first self-titled album was released in February 1970. It was after the release of “Death Walks behind you” that they had their first taste of UK chart success with “Tomorrow Night” and “Devil’s Answer“. The band split in 1975 and briefly reformed in the early 1980’s. Main band member Vincent Crane joined Dexys Midnight Runners in 1985 for the “Don’t Stand me Down” album before he sadly passed away in 1989.

Still regarded as one of the iconic UK bands of the late sixties and early seventies we are very honoured they accepted our invitation to play at the club

It goes without saying that demand for tickets will be very high indeed

Advance Tickets are £16.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £18 on the door


Saturday 17th February 2018 - Lindsay Lou support Tamsin Quinn | Doors 7.45pm



We are delighted to welcome to the club one of the top bluegrass artists from across the pond.

With roots in the Great Lakes State of Michigan, Lindsay Lou has been on the road almost non-stop all over the USA since issuing the 2012 album, Release Your Shrouds. That recording showcased the band's instrumental ingenuity, Lindsay Lou's stunning vocal range and self-penned material that has everyone agreeing these guys really are special'.

The group's members are Lindsay Lou (vocals, guitar), Joshua Rilko (banjo, vocals), PJ George (mandolin, vocals) and Mark Lavengood (upright bass).

When Lindsay Lou & the band found each other jamming at open mics and music festivals around Michigan they couldn’t have predicted what would lie ahead of them. Touring behind the release of their most recent record, Ionia, they’ve been featured in the lineup of prestigious affairs such as The Shetland Island Folk Festival 200 miles north of mainland Scotland, Stagecoach Music Festival in California with 55,000 attendees, The Bluegrass Jamboree in Germany, and a number of the best acoustic music festivals in the US including Merlefest in North Carolina, Wheatland Music Festival in Michigan, Strawberry Music Festival in California, Redwing Roots Festival in Virginia, ROMP in Kentucky, and Pagosa Springs Folk Festival in Colorado.

"This is what happens when musicianship serves the heart and soul. This is what happens when 4 people travel 50,000 miles a year together in the same vehicle and have music for breakfast, lunch and dinner". Seth Bernard - Founder, Earthwork Music

They were named one of NPR Music’s 12 best live performance sessions of 2015 by Mountain Stage with Larry Groce, a program which has featured acts like Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, Amos Lee, Joan Baez, Regina Spektor, Norah Jones and PHISH. The summer of 2017 has seen them performing for the first time at Telluride Bluegrass Festival in Colorado and Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival in Upstate New York, and they expect to release their next full length album, which was produced by Sam Kassirer (Josh Ritter, Lake Street Dive, Elephant Revival) in early 2018.

Having earned their name late night at a Michigan Bluegrass festival from a fellow picker who proclaimed, "It's good to see you out here pickin with us Greybeards," today Lindsay Lou and the band keep one foot in The Great Lakes State and the soul of Motown, and one in Music City, USA: Nashville, TN. They still embody the soul of a good jam or late night pickin’ session, and also have honed in on a sound that’s entirely their own drawing from soul, blues, folk, jazz and maybe even a traces of that techno beat. Get a flavour of Lindsay Lou below!

All in all we think they are one of the best USA roots artists around. A great night is guaranteed.




Saturday 27th January 2018 - Billy Walton Band | Doors 7.45pm



We are absolutely delighted to welcome back Billy Walton and his fantastic band to the club for our first gig of 2018.

If we had to put our hand on our heart and pick out the best band that has played at the club over the last decade this band is the one we have chosen.

When they played in 2016 we were deluged by people to get them back and that is exactly what we have done.

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and earlier this year supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band.

The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

This band is the ultimate antidote to cold January nights. We guarantee this will be again one of the great live shows we have put on. It goes without saying there will a big demand for tickets so do not waste any time in getting yours. They also make ideal Xmas pressies!

2017

Saturday 23rd December 2017 - XMAS Party! Creedence Clearwater Review
acoustic support from George Wilding | Doors 7.45pm



We have got the ideal end to the first half of our tenth season and a great Xmas party all rolled into one.


CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIEW take you on a Swamp Rockin’ musical journey through the years of C.C.R. up around the bend, down by the green river and through the Bayou country landscape that is the career of John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

The fabulous two hour show includes hits such as Bad Moon Rising, Proud Mary, Susie Q, Green River, Up Around The Bend, Born On The Bayou, Travellin’ Band, Have You Ever Seen The Rain, Fortunate Son .....and many more.

Creedence Clearwater Review are the definitive European C.C.R. Tribute act featuring four top class musicians creating a dynamic and power packed show authentic to the original sound of C.C.R. Two one hour sets of great music – don’t miss!


Band Members:

DALE TAYLOR - as JOHN FOGERTY - Lead Vocals & Guitar
MARC NOEL-JOHNSON - as TOM FOGERTY- Guitar
BOB BAMPTON - as STU COOK - Bass Guitar
GLEN BURGESS - as DOUG CLIFFORD- Drums


The aim has been to avoid slavishly following album tracks but rather to re-interpret the bands massive back catalogue in a similar manner to John Fogerty's performances with his current band.

Dale Taylor takes up the role of John Fogerty on guitar and vocals with the boundless energy of his generation and with the solid experience of the band, providing a fantastic quality yet power packed delivery of the original band's classic songs.

A perfect end to what we think is the best series of gigs we have got together so far.

Advance Tickets are £15.00 from usual outlets or book online (online booking fee applies) Tickets £17 on the door

Saturday 25th November 2017 - Colin Blunstone Band
acoustic support from Anna Neale | Doors 7.45pm

THIS GIG SOLD OUT




We are indeed very proud to welcome Colin Blunstone and his band for their first visit to the club.

Quite rightly famed as one of the most unique vocal talents this country has ever produced he is still performing at the top of his game.

Still fronting The Zombies he has taken time out to perform with his own band of great musicians.

Colin Blunstone was born in Hatfield, Hertfordshire on the 24th June 1945. He went to school in St Albans where he was introduced to the other members of The Zombies. After attracting a large local following, the band were offered a recording contract by Decca Records which resulted in their first single, ‘She’s Not There’ becoming a world-wide hit. Three years on the road culminated in The Zombies final album the acclaimed ‘Odessey and Oracle’.

After a short break, Colin’s solo career began in earnest with ‘One Year’ on Epic Records, from which the hit single ‘Say You Don’t’ Mind’ was taken. Two more albums on Epic followed, ‘Ennismore’ and ‘Journey’ which spawned the hits, ‘I Don’t Believe In Miracles’ and ‘How Can We Dare To Be Wrong’.

This was followed by a spell living in California where he signed for Elton John’s label, Rocket Records and released three critically acclaimed albums, ‘Planes’, ‘Never Even thought’ and ‘Late Nights in Soho’.

Returning to the UK, Colin supplied the vocals for Dave Stewart’s hit version of ‘What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted’ followed by further hits with Smokey Robinson’s ‘Tracks Of My Tears’ and The Alan Parson’s Project’s ‘Old And Wise’.

Quite rightly famed as one of the most unique vocal talents this country has ever produced he is still performing at the top of his game.


These tracks were followed by three further albums, ‘Greatest Hits’, ‘Echo Bridge’ and ‘The Light Inside’, before Colin decided the time was right to play live again where he was joined by fellow Zombies founder member, Rod Argent. Together they have recorded three studio albums, ‘Out Of The Shadows’ and ‘As Far As I Can See’, a live double album and DVD, ‘Live At The Bloomsbury Theatre’ and a live album and DVD, ‘Odessey And Oracle (Revisited) 40th Anniversary’, of their sold-out concerts at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire in 2008.

‘The Ghost of You and Me’, was his first solo album in ten years, Colin wrote five new songs for it and renewed his partnership with producer Jon Sweet and arranger Chris Gunning. In February 2009, Colin Blunstone toured the UK with his own band bringing ‘The Ghost Of You And Me’ album to a live audience around the record’s release.

In 2011, as lead singer with The Zombies, Colin recorded a new album called “Breathe Out, Breathe In”, the first Zombies studio album in 9 years. It got fantastic reviews in the UK and the US and the band toured extensively in both territories to promote it. Plus dates in Holland, Belgium, France, Canada, Israel and Greece.

2012 saw a new Colin Blunstone solo album release called ‘On The Air Tonight’ which again he toured to promote in the UK. The following years were spent mostly in the USA playing live and undertaking a crowd-funding campaign on Pledge Music before returning to the studio to record a new album released under license to Cherry Red label in the UK and Europe. The Zombies featuring Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent continue to tour in Japan, USA, The Philippines, Spain, France and Great Britain.

This gig is a real coup for the club and rest assured tickets will be in very high demand so early booking is essential

Saturday 28th October 2017 - From USA - Carvin Jones
acoustic Support Vince Bell | Doors 7.45pm

We are absolutely delighted to be included on the Phoenix Thunderbolt's 20th anniversary tour of the UK.

His first and only visit to the club was in the spring of 2009 . To this today people come up to me and remember this show with fondness and when, oh when, is he coming back.

He is simply the ultimate guitar performer and showman.

Carvin Jones, "The King of the Strings" was voted one of the 50 greatest blues guitarists of all-time by Guitarist Magazine.

Prior to ther current incarnation of the band, Carvin has a long 25 year history of success worldwide.

We has released 3 LP's - What You Need (1999), The Carvinator (2008) and Victory is Mine (2014). He has played countless festivals, made numerous televison appearances and has received praise and recognition from some of the top artists in the blues world. He has pleased music fans worldwide with his high energy show and electrifying guitar style. He has shared the stage and toured with legends including BB King, Santana, Jeff Beck, Albert King, Albert Collins, The Animals, REO Speedwagon, Jimmy Vaughan, Double Trouble and many more. Carvin himself has performed with Joe Cocker and the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Carvin even played in Iraq and Kuwait in 2011.

"Carvin Jones is a young cat out of Phoenix who I think is the next up-and-coming blues player" - Eric Clapton

"Carvin Jones is one of the brightest young stars on the blues scene today" - Albert Collins

"The New King of Strings is Carvin Jones" - Buddy Miles

"'....one of the best blues guitarists in the world" - London Surrey News

Carvin Jones was born in Lufkin, Texas. His remarkable energy, showmanship and guitar ability have made him a favorite of music fans and fellow musicians alike all over the world. At a very young age, he was seduced by the blues by listening to BB King records his grandfather constantly played in the house and started playing guitar himself by age 11. He escaped a rough neighborhood by dedicating his time to his guitar and by age 19 had moved to Arizona to start his music career. In January 2001, Guitarist Magazine named Carvin Jones "one of the top 50 blues guitarists of all time!" Carvin Endorses Fender Guitars and Amplifiers.

If you have never witnessed a Carvin Jones show you are in for a treat. There will be huge demand for tickets so make sure you are at the front of the queue.

Sunday 22nd October 2017 SKINNY MOLLY acoustic support Kirsty Kace

This band is on the move and have become a major force to be reckoned with on the Southern Rock scene. Skinny Molly's mantra is "Never let one fan leave a show disappointed"

The music and live reputation of the band caught the attention of legendary Ruf Records label president Thomas Ruf. Skinny Molly subsequently signed a deal with Ruf Records, becoming the second "southern rock" band to be signed in the wake of Ruf's expansion into the genre. At the time of the signing, Skinny Molly was in the studio cutting what would become their new and widely acclaimed CD, "Haywire Riot" released last year.

This is no retro act though... these guys stand on solid songs, unique playing and creative instrumentation and arrangements to make even the most jaded rock fan (or even country or blues fan) a fan for life. Jump on and enjoy the ride!

Their live sets are awesome so expect the modern southern rock they are known for mixed in with all the Skynyrd classics. They have sold out on the all the times they have been to the club. This will be no exception

Saturday 7th October 2017 - Micky Moody Band featuring Ali Maas
acoustic Support Phil Cooper | Doors 7.45pm



One of the great British guitarists Micky Moody makes his first visit to the club and his band fronted by great female rock vocalist Ali Maas.

Playing with some of the great bands in rock music including Juicy Lucy , Whitesnake and Bernie Marsden MIcky has gone back to his roots and playing great blues music together with all the hits .

Ali Maas and Micky Moody released an album last year called Black and Chrome sharing their love of blues Americana soul and swamp music.

Touring this album with a great band including Micky Moody Jnr  on drums a superb night of great music is guaranteed.

Saturday 9th September 2017 - Rob Tognoni Band
acoustic support from Jamie R Hawkins | Doors 7.45pm



"Only Jimmi Hendrix Stevie Ray Vaughan and Rory Gallagher could shake hands with him if they were still alive . Tognoni has something that few guitarists have : character and his own style" Music Machine

We are thrilled when we found out that Rob Tognoni had accepted our offer to open our tenth season and his first visit to the club.

With over forty years of hard gigging behind him his live performances are truly legendary. He gives a no holes barred hundred per cent at every gig and has built up a large and loyal live fan base.

Been a constant feature of the European blues scene since 1994 .

His influences are wide ranging from Jimmi Hendrix AC/DC through to Tony Joe White and are reflected in his music.

His annual pilgrimages to the UK are keenly anticipated so this being the last gig go his UK tour the band will be red hot by the time they reach us.

" A stunning guitarist with killer licks and a fine blues rock feel" Jazz FM

“"When you listen to his music, you hear a 40 year legacy under his searing lead lines..."” (Total Guitar Magazine)


 

 





Saturday 13th May 2017 - Antonio Forcione Band | Doors 7.45pm



We are making a departure from our usual tried and trusted format of blues or classic rock and are delighted to welcome one of the world's foremost acoustic jazz guitarists and his band to the club.


Antonio Forcione is an artist in every sense of the word, hailed as one of the most charismatic, unconventional guitarists at large in the musical world today. With a host of international awards under his belt, this eclectic composer never ceases to stun his audience on stage, leading him to be referred to as the ‘Jimi Hendrix of the acoustic guitar”. His solo performances never fail to bring the house down, let alone when he is performing in duo, as a trio, or with his quartet of international musicians.

He breaks the mould of most conventional guitar sounds, be it in the field of jazz, Spanish, African, Brazilian or improvised music, with a ferocious virtuosity, passion and humour. He has shared the stage and recorded with some of the world’s most accomplished musicans including Charlie Haden, Angelique Kidjo, Trilok Gurtu, Larry Coryell, Diego el Cigala and many more (see list below) as well as supporting giants such as Phil Collins, Bobby McFerrin, Zucchero and Van Morrison amongst others.

“One of the great acoustic guitarists” (The Guardian)

“ferocious, rampaging, controlled power, meticulous and with great clarity of expression ... astonishing musical personality” (Audiophile)


Most recently Antonio has been touring and recording with the amazing singer songwriter Sarah Jane Morris wowing audiences throughout Europe. He has also been performing with Spanish flamenco star Arcangel and The Bulgarian Voices choir, touring under the name Estruna.

 

 

Over the years Antonio has released 19 albums of largely original material and has performed in festivals and theatres from as far as Australia and Indonesia to the USA, Africa, Canada, Caribbean, Turkey, Lebanon and all over Europe, especially in France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and the UK. He has performed at numerous charity events and his festival appearances include Womad, Glastonbury, Edinburgh, Melbourne, Koln, Verona, Granada, Hong Kong Arts Festival, Perth International Festival, Singapore Arts Festival, Wellington International Festival, HIFA International Arts Festival in Zimbabwe, Istanbul international Guitar Festival, Cuba - Leo Brouwer International Festival and the Machoire d’Or in Montreux amongst others.

A great way to finish off the season. We are sure everyone will be spellbound by the amazing musicianship of these players.

Saturday 22nd April 2017 - Stephen Dale Petit | Doors 7.45pm



We always like to profile new and exceptional blues talent and in Stephen Dale Petit you have someone whose star is on the rise.

In the age of the TV talent show and the corporate pop cabal, Stephen Dale Petit is leading the resistance. He’s a man on a mission, sworn to establish the blues as a dominant force in popular culture. He’s a riot-starter and rabble-rouser, blowing out speakers with the “thrusting hooligan blues anthems” Mojo said of his acclaimed studio work and he is "igniting a new venue each night with his raw, fresh energy” The Times said of his live show. He’s a genre spokesman and bluesman savant, whose BLUnivErSity lectures reboot the old masters for the modern age, while rallying new recruits to the cause. No wonder that Guitar & Bass cited Petit as “proof positive that the blues can move forward in the 21st century”.

At 46, Petit has walked a winding path to the peak of the contemporary scene. Born in California’s Joshua Tree desert – with some prescience, he was delivered by a passing doctor with a passion for blues – the acquisition of a Gibson SG at the age of 12 sparked a precocious ascent on the ’80s West Coast club circuit, where he jammed with titans including B.B. and Albert King.

Petit’s love of the British boom lured him to London in the ’90s, for a period whose dazzling collaborations (David Gilmour, Mick Jones, Eric Clapton) were offset by lost years of addiction. Thankfully, emboldened by the sharp-end experience of busking on the tube, he blazed into contention with 2008’s self-financed Guitararama album, and began the imperious march to 2010’s The Crave and 2013’s Cracking The Code (bolstered by A-list guests including Hubert Sumlin, and dubbed “rampant perfection” by The Blues).

Petit occupies a stunning middle ground between the fire of Freddie King, the instinct of Jimmy Page and the soul of Eric Clapton' - Classic Rock Magazine

In 2015, as Petit heads out in the support slot on blues-rock titan Walter Trout’s I’m Back Tour, there’s no mistaking a man who means every line, every lick, every fleck of spittle and drop of sweat. “I want to see the blues become mainstream,” he says. “I want to see it become common currency in the discourse of modern popular culture. I want to see it become blues city…"

A superb night is guaranteed just tell people you were a the beginning of a great talent.

Saturday 1st April 2017 - Stevie Nimmo Trio | Doors 7.45pm



Stevie first appeared at the club doing acoustic support for KING KING then two barnstorming appearances with the Nimmo Brothers followed. Now we have got him back with his fine band the Stevie Nimmo Trio.

One half of Scotland’s highly respected ‘Nimmo Brothers’, Stevie Nimmo has been a well known and respected figure throughout the blues and roots world for over two decades.

Now, having toured extensively with the critically acclaimed blues rock outfit over the last few years, as well as taking to the road in a stripped back, acoustic format to promote his debut solo project ‘The Wynds of Life’, Stevie is now setting out on a new adventure in a full-on, electric, no-holds-barred trio format.


Stevie says that, although the acoustic project is extremely satisfying and allows him to showcase his voice and song writing talents in the perfect environment, sometimes "…you just want to break out the Les Paul, crank up the old orange amp and make some noise!" Which is exactly what he plans to do.



Stevie’s new cd ‘Sky Won’t Fall’ will be released worldwide on the 4th March on the Manhaton Records label and it is already being touted as a potential album of the year by those in the media fortunate enough to have received an advance copy.



Don’t miss this chance to catch an artist at the top of his game doing what he does best – standing on stage playing his own music in his own passionate, inimitable fashion. You will not be disappointed!

He is enjoying making music now as much as at any point throughout his 20 years in the business and is fully relishing the prospect of touring and performing the new songs to his ever growing army of admirers.

Don’t miss this chance to catch an artist at the top of his game doing what he does best – standing on stage playing his own music in his own passionate, inimitable fashion. You will not be disappointed!

Every time the Nimmo boys have played they have either sold out or we are left with fewer than 10 tickets to sell on the night - This gig will be the same.

Saturday 11th March 2017 - Giles Robson & His Band | Doors 7.45pm



We welcome back the stunning Giles Robson and his amazing band after he created a real storm on his first visit almost 2 years ago.

If you want authentic Chicago blues in its raw state without being messed around with The Giles Robson Band are certainly the real deal. Giles has been rightly recognised as the best young harp player in the UK today and has received plaudits all over the world including Charlie Musselwhite who he has shared a stage with.

His reviews for his brand new album “For those who need the blues” have been praise indeed Here is just a selection of quotes and acclaim from the press:

"This is a prime example of why the blues is still relevant, still important in the 21st century, a century after its inception and 60 years after the peak of the Chicago scene that most directly inspires this release. It’s full of energy, real emotion and completely devoid of wide brush stroke pastiche or false histrionics. It creates something new, yet enticingly familiar without feeling the need to add anything from outside the real blues. Like a single malt whisky this is an album to savour, pure and full of depth, but like the tequila right next door it isn’t afraid to have a hell of a party". Charlie Musselwhite

"The entire album makes me want to drink alone in a smoky room. And I don't drink or smoke. Your harmonica playing is dizzying and great throughout (harmonica + the guitar on "G.R. Shuffle": mercy. "Sarah Lee" is an obvious and early favorite. "Summa That Good Stuff" flirts with that Black Keys, dirty bluesy rock sound that I can't get enough of."Shady Heart" fills the room. I love the mix. "Where You Been?" is slow and sexy.I also love the near-rockabilly instrumental vibe of "Andy Steps Out. You said it: It's dirty twelve bar road house blues. And I love it. Superb job!" James VanOsdel WKQX Chicago

“Giles Robson’s blues harp can only be described as exquisite. This man could well be the best harmonica player on he blues scene today” The Daily Express

“They are many living harmonica players of note, from Stevie Wonder to Giles Robson and back again” Paul Jones, BBC Radio 2


A great blues night is guaranteed with this band and their great Chicago sound.

2016

Saturday 17th December 2016 - Son of MAN | Doors 7.45pm | Special guest  appearance Deke Leonard



We are delighted to invite them back for our Xmas party gig!

Man played two classic shows at Devizes Corn Exchange in the early 1970’s and their legendary status just grew from there. They are a great outfit simply playing the West Coast sound that Man were so famous for..

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday 19th November 2016 - from New Jersey USA - Billy Walton Band | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9pm



This is really going to be a very special night indeed. We've been trying to get this band for many years and finally we have got them coming to the club!

Truly a product of his New Jersey roots, and a graduate of the same late-night jam scene which taught Bruce Springsteen and Southside Jonny their chops, Billy has been a member of the legendary Asbury Jukes for the last five years and earlier this year supported The Boss himself. Yet his funky blues deserves huge recognition on its own merits. The time has come for Billy to take his place in the pantheon of Jersey greats.

 

 

"True guitar hero fronting an old-school rock’n’soul band, you might describe Billy Walton as ‘Jimi Ray Clapton’ or ‘Exile On E Street’ – a man who will take you on a journey through the American rock and blues landscape.

There was a time when the Jersey Shore represented the best in American entertainment. Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, the Rat Pack, Dick Clark, Chubby Checker, they all made stops on the Jersey Shore. Tony Mart’s was the club Levon Helm was playing when Dylan called. Of course we all know what happened in Asbury Park. The town, ravaged by riots in the late 60’s, became a melting pot of musical experimentation. Late night jams that ended when the sun came up were the norm. Bruce Springsteen & Southside Johnny were the two acts that made their way to an international stage from these humble beginnings.

For decades musicians have come and gone, always hoping to make a living and pursue a dream. Billy Walton is no different. Billy’s proving ground was Long Beach Island. There he was chaperoned from gig to gig by his Mom, two young to drive around and enter the clubs on his own. He always was up for a jam and looking to learn some tricks. For years Billy spent his time sharpening his skills, developing his stage act until he decided to step up to center stage with the Billy Walton Band. The band has focused its’ effort in Europe. 13 tours since 2007 have established the group in the fertile British Blues Rock scene. In 2010 Billy got the call to join in with one of the masters of the Asbury Park sound, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. For years Billy toured with the Jukes. Most people don’t know that the creative force behind Southside was none other than Little Steven. A highpoint in Billy’s tenure with the Jukes was when they recorded a live version of Southside’s most acclaimed release, Hearts of Stone, with Little Steven.

This is going to be one of those those great nights that The Long Street Blues Club is getting a big reputation for For all fans of the Boss and Southside this is a must see gig

Saturday 22nd October 2016 - Focus | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9pm



We are very pleased to get this band back again to the club as a result of unprecedented demand from people who insisted we get them back at the earliest opportunity.

With their unique brand of progressive rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the '70s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch pop-rock exports. Fronted by founding member Thijs Van Leer, and best known for their hits “Hocus Pocus”, “House of The King” and “Sylvia”, as well as critically acclaimed albums 'Moving Waves', 'Focus 3' and 'Hamburger Concerto', the iconic Dutch music masters are back with their tenth album, which is guaranteed to please their legions of fans!

After a comeback in the early 2000's, which resulted in the well-received albums 'Focus 8' and 'Focus 9', the band regrouped with a fantastic new line-up. Along with Thijs van Leer on vocals, flute and keyboards, back on the drums is famed Focus drummer Pierre van der Linden, who joined the group on their second album 'Moving Waves' in 1972. Internationally renowned for his rhythmic skills, Pierre remains a defining factor in the Focus sound. Bassist Bobby Jacobs, who comes from a well-acclaimed Dutch musical family and guitarist Menno Gootjes, who participated in Focus at an earlier stage, complete the band's current line-up. Recently, Focus's biggest hit "Hocus Pocus" was used in a 4-minute Nike commercial before the World Cup broadcast. Focus music can be regularly heard on Top Gear and Saxondale on TV in the UK.

A new Focus era has arrived! There is a rejuvenated passion in the new compositions that adorn the new album 'Focus X', which features a full scale Roger Dean painting on the cover. Says Thijs van Leer, who holds the distinction of being the first ever knighted musician in Holland, “It's a thrill to have finally completed 'Focus X'; we are all ecstatic and looking forward to playing the new material on the forthcoming Focus X World Tour.”

Thijs van Leer - Hammond-organ, flute and vocals
Pierre van der Linden - drums
Bobby Jacobs - bass
Menno Gootjes- guitar

Saturday 1st October 2016 - Danny Bryant Band | Doors 7.45pm | Main Band 9pm



We are very pleased to welcome back Danny Bryant to the club after his fantastic debut performance eighteen months ago Joe Bonamassa – “A fantastic guitar player… able to take a Fender Stratocaster and really make it sing…” Walter Trout – “What sets him apart is his passion and feeling. Danny’s playing grabs you with its intensity and urgency.” Europe’s leading Blues & Rock publication, Classic Rock’s The Blues Magazine, called Danny a “National Blues Treasure”, a title that he has worked tirelessly and passionately to earn.

Riding high on the European blues scene for over a decade, yet still only 35, Danny has carved a name for himself the old-fashioned way having played over 2000 club and festival shows to his many fans around the world and is acknowledged by those in the business as one of the cream of the crop. Following many sold out club tours across Europe and numerous major festival appearances that have seen the power trio perform on the same bill as such names as Joe Cocker, Carlos Santana, Buddy Guy and Peter Green to mention a few; Danny and his band have steadily carved a huge and loyal fan base around the world.

In 2007 Danny signed with Rounder Records and released three highly successful albums with this Label, all of which topped the iTunes and Amazon blues charts in many countries. In 2009 Danny signed a licensing deal with Virgin/EMI Asia and a track from his 2007 release, ‘Live’, was included on a compilation CD entitled “The Best Blues Album In The World Ever”. Danny was featured alongside many giants of Blues, including Johnny Winter, Gary Moore, Albert Collins, Walter Trout and ZZ Top. February 2010 saw the release of Danny’s break-through album “Just As I Am’, hitting Blues charts all across the continent and receiving glowing reviews from the international music press. The album caught the ear of German based label Jazzhaus records leading Danny to ink a deal with the dynamic new label. The highly anticipated live DVD/CD “Night Life” was released in March 2012. Recorded in The Netherlands it captures the band doing what they do best, “Bryant has the kind of magic fingers that ensure the long solo sections on this live disc keep you teetering on the edge of your seat… Thrilling.” Classic Rock Mag Danny’s next studio offering 2013’s ‘Hurricane’ saw the beginning of Danny’s long time collaboration with producer Richard Hammerton. Hammerton pushed Danny to a new recording high. Danny’s next release, Temperature Rising, hit the shelves in September 2014 to glowing reviews. Guitar & Bass Mag called it ‘A blues rock gem.’ Leading website music-news.com awarded it 5 stars and said it was ‘Just stunning’.

The album appeared in many end of year ‘best of’ lists for 2014, most notably chosen by Amazon Germany/Austria/Switzerland as one of their top picks of 2014. This lead to ‘Temperature Rising’ returning to the number 1 spot on the blues download chart and staying there for over 6 weeks, ahead of such acclaimed artists as Johnny Winter, Joe Bonamassa & Buddy Guy. Having out sold his previous bestseller, Hurricane, within the first three months after release, the success of Temperature Rising is apparent in its sales figures. This is the album that has moved Danny to a new arena. On the touring front in promotion of “Temperature Rising” Danny headed to the USA to tour extensively for 5 weeks fronting Walter Trout’s band while the ailing blues legend recovered from liver transplant surgery. Before returning home to continue touring across Europe, and then traveling to China to participate in the Nanjing International Jazz & World Music Festival.

Upon returning to the UK the band played a show at the prestigious London Blues Fest at London’s Royal Albert Hall. In August 2015 Danny once again returned to the studio to cut what he describes as “an album I have wanted to make since I was 15 years old”. Once again teaming up with producer Richard Hammerton the directive was a simple one, get a great sounding studio, some great musicians and cut a live in the studio guitar laden blues rocker! The resulting album “Blood Money” featuring special guest appearances from Walter Trout and Whitsnake legend Bernie Marsden. This is due for release on 29th January 2016 and will be followed by an extensive world tour. The album has received the best reviews of his career to date His all star backing band includes Dave Raeburn from The Hoax and reknowned bassist Alex Phillips We are very pleased to be welcoming him back and am sure this could be one of the gigs of the year

Saturday 10th September 2016 - Sari Schorr & The Engine Room featuring Innes Sibbun | Doors 8pm



In January 2015 legendary producer Mike Vernon (Fleetwood Mac, John Mayall, Blue Horizon etc) was invited to receive a 'Keeping The Music Alive' Award at the prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis USA. This award was not the only highlight of the weekend for Mike; the second was witnessing the performance of one of the most amazing female blues singers Mike has seen in years -SARI SCHORR. Mike was so knocked out with Sari that he offered to come out of retirement again (Frank Sinatra - eat your heart out) and produce an album with Sari.

Sari Schorr is a force of nature, a meteor, a comet, and the blues speak through her...the real dirty sad funny wonderful blues, lives again!

 

 

 

 

 

Already a consummate songwriter, with tracks on major labels, Sari has written or co-written most of the songs on her new album. This album recording is now well underway. Several years of touring the USA & Europe with Joe Louis Walker and Poppa Chubby brought Sari greater prominence in the blues world. Sari was recently inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame. Sari Schorr is a force of nature, a meteor, a comet, and the blues speak through her...the real dirty sad funny wonderful blues, lives again! SARI has now put together her own band - THE ENGINE ROOM featuring British guitarist Innes Sibun, formerly with Robert Plant. Together they will celebrate the release of Sari's debut album in September 2016 and undertake a European wide tour.

Press quotes..."Sari Schorr is a force of nature, a meteor, a comet, and the blues speak through her...the real dirty sad funny wonderful blues, lives again! She’s got an amazing voice and sang with fire and grace. Go see her, and hear the living blues again, for the very first time." – DAN COHEN, NYACK NEWS AND VIEWS "

And at long last we come to the voice. Not Joplin nor Aretha, but some planet in that galaxy; Sari’s is her own unique blend of utter commitment and sweet ease, floating notes up over the tops of our heads and then swooping down into her meaty lower register and belting with the best of them. – DAN COHEN, NYACK NEWS AND VIEWS

"Sari Schorr is the embodiment of the best the blues and beyond has to offer. Sari is definitely the next big blues diva that will sweep through the blues scene" Dave Fields Big City Blues New York

AWARDED: 2012 Best Performance by a Blues Singer In a Band by Broadway World - "The sensational Sari Schorr who channeled Janis Joplin and Tina Turner during the show by the Joe Louis Walker Band at B.B. King's in August."

"A Phenomenal and Beautiful Singer who I like to say, "let's all her passion and artistry come out through her amazing voice". - WNTI' Trevor B. Power

"Sari Schorr is a stunning vocalist, powerful, energized and engaging... Sari Schorr and other members of the band took the song to church and made believers of us all." – Jimi Patricol for Blues 411

We are bowled over that this new star of the blues has featured Long Street Blues Club as part of her first major European tour. Also it is an opportunity to see Devizes own Innes Sibun in a new guise.

Saturday 21st May 2016 - Simon McBride Band | Doors 8pm



On hearing his latest album Crossing The Line, American magazine ‘Performer’ was prompted to say “The Holy Trinity of Belfast rock ‘n roll – Van Morrison, Rory Gallagher & Gary Moore – might just be on the verge of becoming a four-leaf clover.” Soon after, he was invited by Don Airey (Deep Purple, Gary Moore) to play guitar on his latest album, including a special medley of songs in tribute to the late Gary Moore. Don’s previous guest guitarist was none other than Joe Bonamassa. Rewind to the early-’90s, and you didn’t have to squint to spot future greatness in the unassuming kid from Belfast, who picked up his first guitar at ten and eschewed formal lessons to bend his fingers around the music of Free, Jeff Beck and Hendrix.

Everybody is saying that he the best guitarist to come out of Ireland since Rory Gallagher Praise indeed!

 

 

 

 

At 16, he turned pro, leaving education behind to wow the world as a hired gun in projects that ranged from filling Vivian Campbell’s shoes in Sweet Savage, to R&B and soul with ex-Commitments vocalist Andrew Strong. Even by the lofty standards of Northern Ireland, where drinkers still raise a toast to the audacious talent of the late Rory Gallagher and Gary Moore, this young maestro’s name was soon starting to be dropped in the same reverential breath.

He has supported such great names as Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck and Joe Bonamassa and played major festivals around Europe. Now it’s his turn. Step-forward a new world-class talent. "Ireland has a knack of throwing up diamonds, of which McBride most definitely is one... this boy's going places." HIFI+

Saturday 23rd April 2016 - Hundred Seventy Split | Doors 8pm

Fronted by Ex Ten years After bassist Leo Lyons and a young guitarist that just brings the music of Alvin Lee to life.

Hundred Seventy Split is an exciting, high energy Blues/Rock power trio showcasing the combined talents of Joe Gooch on guitar/vocals, Leo Lyons on bass and Damon Sawyer on drums: Leo Lyons and Joe Gooch are former members of the band “Ten Years After’. The pair initially formed a song-writing partnership to write for TYA and have continued writing together ever since. Their debut record ’The World Won’t Stop’ was released in 2010.

Hundred Seventy Split was formed to play music that rocks outside of the TYA box.

Leo and Joe resigned from Ten Years After at the end of 2013 and to celebrate a new beginning Hundred Seventy Split released a second record in February 2014 simply titled, HSS. Their live shows have already proved popular with TYA fans. The band perform TYA classics alongside new material in their show. Hundred Seventy Split’s latest live double CD titled ‘The Road’ was released in February 2015. ‘Hundred Seventy Split’ was formed to play music that rocks outside of the TYA box.

Saturday 2nd April 2016 - Boom Band | Doors 8pm



Since their debut gig at The Half Moon Putney on the 8th March 2014 The Boom Band - featuring the four guitar line-up of Jon Amor (The Hoax/solo), Marcus Bonfanti (solo/Ten Years After), Mark Butcher (solo/former England cricket star) and Matt Taylor (Snowy White/The Motives), plus keyboard player Paddy Milner (Tom Jones/Jack Bruce/solo) - have developed something of a reputation as an awesome live band.

Their studio work has had praise indeed with their debut album receiving rave reviews across the board prompting descriptions such as "hugely refreshing", "rousing songwriting" and "a special record" from the music press. It was perhaps Van Morrison who described them most succinctly, declaring "this band is great - they're on the money!", after the Booms had backed him at Paul Jones' Charity Show in December 2014. There have been several descriptions of The Booms as "one of the highlights of the festival" both in the UK and in The Netherlands, including a memorable performance at one of Europe's biggest blues festivals Moulin Blues, and they have appeared at many other festivals in the UK and beyond.

It was perhaps Van Morrison who described them most succinctly, declaring "this band is great - they're on the money!" after the Booms had backed him at Paul Jones' Charity Show in December 2014

The Boom Band is not like other bands. For a start every one of the front line is not only a great player but also a fine singer and talented songwriter. To say nothing of the contributions from former bassist Scott Wiber; his songs Sweet Alberta and Waste My Time were bashfully put forward for consideration and ended up being key tracks on the album. Everybody brings something to the party, there are no weak links. And, perhaps remarkably, at the same time there are no egos. Everyone has the experience and temperament to be able to sit back and let others shine and then step up and shine themselves when the time is right. Vocals and guitars blend in harmony and then one guitar or another, or perhaps Paddy’s Hammond organ or piano will find itself at the fore. Oh... did we mention the four guitarists? Count’em, FOUR! With four guitar players in a band they have to know how to make space for each other.

And don’t by any means get to thinking that the Boom Band is just about endless guitar solos. Yes, there are solos of course, but in The Boom Band the song is king, be it the joyful southern rock of We Can Work Together, the dirty blues of Diamonds in the Rust, the cool soul of Under the Skin or the restrained epic Moonshine. Unless you consider the craziness of the instrumental Monty’s Theme, where the guitars communicate by weaving around each other in harmonies and solos, though the piano actually wins the day and the Hammond organ gives them all a run for their money.

Although original bassist and drummer Scott Wiber and Steve Rushton have actually dropped out of regular live Boom duties (being replaced most often by John Noyce of Gary Moore and Jethro Tull fame and Evan Jenkins of The Neil Cowley Trio and Matt Schofield Band) The Boom Band are a force to be reckoned with on the live stage, something they were keen to capture on record so their show on Friday 4th September 2015 was recorded and the album ‘The Moon Goes Boom - Live in London’ is out now. Also available now is a limited edition (100 copies) acoustic CD ‘The Boom Guitars - The Fortress Session’, 9 tracks on a gold vinyl-effect CD, each one signed by Jon, Marcus, Butch and Matt. The band are an ever changing unit so line ups change according to other commitments band members may have but rest assured whatever the line up that takes the stage they will be at the top of their game

Saturday 27th February 2016 - Devon Allman Band | Doors 8pm

Note: this gig has moved from 21st November 2015

We were absolutely bowled over when we found we were on the tour schedule for the Devon Allman Band. Many people in the know say that he is one of the biggest talents to emerge out of the Sates in a long time . The dirty blond hair is the same, the body posture is also the same, and there are touches in the voice that have a similar genetic connection, but Devon Allman has toiled long and hard to establish his own musical identity, separate from his legendary dad, Gregg Allman.

In fact, Allman, who was raised by his mom (Shelley, not Cher) in Texas, took up the guitar on his own, and did not meet his father until he was 16 years old. "I was 16, and I sent him a really short letter saying, ‘Hey, it’s me. Here’s where I’m at. I’m playing guitar." I got a phone call three days later," says Devon. Soon after that phone call, the two met in the parking lot at The Fox Theater in St. Louis during a tour stop for the elder Allman.

Growing up with his mom, Devon was listening to anything on the radio he could find. Often it was the Rolling Stones or Jimi Hendrix. "I can remember listening to music at the age of four or five. Something would come on the radio and I would always ask my mom who it was. She would say ‘That’s John Lennon’ or ‘that’s Styx.’ One time "Midnight Rider" came on, and I asked her ‘Mom who’s that?’ and she said ‘That’s your dad.’"

This young Allman did not come on the music scene riding the coattails of a famous parent. Allman has been living his own musical life for decades. After playing in local bands and working in Guitar Center in St. Louis, Allman formed Honeytribe in 1999. One part blues, one part rock, and one part jam, Honeytribe was named the 1999 Jam Band of the Year in St. Louis.

Devon and Honeytribe toured for two years then took a break for a few years allowing Devon to actively parent his son to later reform in 2005. At the same time, he toured in Europe with Javier Vargas, a Spanish blues rocker. Devon and Honeytribe continued to tour in support of his 2010 release Space Age Blues.

Royal Southern Brotherhood was formed during JazzFest in New Orleans. This unique quintet combines the vocal and musical talents of Devon, Mike Zito, and the legendary Cyril Neville with the veteran rhythm section of Charlie Wooton and Yonrico Scott. Their debut self-titled release in 2012 caught fire the moment it hit the streets simultaneously catapulting them as major new attraction on the music scene. Their mixed sounds of funk, blues, rock and jazz proved to be a force to be reckoned with. RSB tours non-stop performing all over the world, including Australia, at festivals and various venues. As Devon quips, "wherever there is electricity and potato chips." Their second studio release, heartsoulblood, was released in June 2014 to another round of rave reviews.

But probably the crowning moment of the band’s career thus far, was this past May, in Memphis, TN, where they picked up a Blues Award for their live DVD/CD, Songs From The Road.

After touring the world as a fiery guitarist and soulful vocalist in Royal Southern Brotherhood, Devon is still committed to performing dates with his own band, with a renewed intensity.

His own 2013 Ruf Records debut, Turquoise, came a few months after the RSB’s debut, giving him a slew of accolades from USA Today, calling it, "...well-crafted, more reflective than fiery, and soulful.", to Relix proclaiming him as such, " He’s an elegant, soulful singer."

From one of rock's great dynasties, son of Greg Allman, a fantastic artist in his own right. One not to miss!

And as he told Billboard magazine, Devon predicted, "…this one's going to be really heavy on guitar and come out and punch you in the teeth."

A little more than a year later, Ragged & Dirty is Devon’s ticket to the big show. "I have to say that playing with Royal took my career to a new level. It’s given me more confidence and a new found love for the music. I’m delighted that there’s a new shot of fire in my music."

For Ragged & Dirty, Devon left his southern comfort zone, hired a crack Chicago band, and enlisted the producing and writing talents of Grammy winning producer Tom Hambridge (Buddy Guy, George Thorogood, Johnny Winter, James Cotton, and Joe Louis Walker).

"I’ve done all my records in the south. I decided it was time to go to the electric blues mecca (Chicago), tap into that vibe and surround myself with cats who live and breathe it. Besides producing, Tom custom wrote some songs for this record that really aligned with my path."
Though Hambridge wrote four tunes and Devon picked three to cover, it’s his original tunes that speak to his artistic journey. "RSB has been such a deep, rich, globe-trotting experience that it definitely changes your life and gives you new perspective.

But there is so much more to this record amid those genetic touches. Luther Allison’s "Ragged & Dirty" is a funk meets blues that provides Devon’s hot-shot Chicago studio band of bassist Felton Crews (Charlie Musselwhite and others), guitarist Giles Corey (Billy Branch), and keyboard ace Marty Sammon (Buddy Guy) along with Nashville’s Hambridge on drums room to show-off. Allman’s "Leavin’" provides the band the opportunity to play with a subdued delicacy, while still showing some raw power

2015

Saturday 19th December 2015 Doors 8pm - Martin Turner - Founding Member of Wishbone Ash

Martin played a wonderful sell out gig in the early days of the club and we are delighted that he has been able to close the year for us following the cancellation of Gary Moore legacy

Wishbone Ash was formed by West Country musicians Martin Turner and Steve Upton, who arrived in London in 1969 to embark on their musical journey. Intent on creating a musical sound that was rich in texture and melody, Martin Turner envisaged the band’s innovative harmony-guitar hallmark and guitarists Ted Turner and Andy Powell were recruited via a now legendary Melody Maker advert. The partnership of the original line-up of Wishbone Ash forged a unique musical identity that would produce some of rock music's best loved works and influence numerous successful bands and result in millions of album sales and concert attendances. Wishbone Ash would become one of the most enduring and best loved British rock acts and its name synonymous with high quality guitar-driven melodic rock music.

Over four decades later, the enduring music of the classic marks of Wishbone Ash continues to delight audiences worldwide through both live performances and a rich legacy of recorded work that continues to be enjoyed by fans old and new. Classic album releases such as Argus, Pilgrimage, There’s the Rub, New England and Live Dates defined the Wishbone Ash sound and have touched the hearts of several generations of music fans. As lead vocalist and key creative force, founding original member Martin Turner was central to the critical and commercial success of Wishbone Ash’s most revered albums, with his passionate vocal delivery, songwriting ability, keen melodic sense and production values being a key ingredient in the definitive Wishbone Ash sound. Martin Turner continues to perform the band’s best loved works with his current band, which features guitarists Danny Willson and Misha Nikolic, and drummer Tim Brown and remains faithful to the original Wishbone Ash blueprint.

Since 2005 Martin Turner has delighted audiences worldwide with its performances of material from the classic periods of Wishbone Ash’s history, with concert appearances in the UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, Holland, Spain, Greece, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, the USA and Canada. The band’s performances have been captured on acclaimed in-concert releases New Live Dates, Life Begins and Garden Party as well as the studio recording Argus: Through The Looking Glass, a recreation of Wishbone Ash’s seminal 1972 album.

In 2012 Martin Turner also published his personal memoirs in the critically acclaimed autobiographical book No Easy Road – My Life and Times with Wishbone Ash, documenting the defining years of one of the UK’s best loved rock bands as well as his personal life journey within music.

Martin Turner looks back fondly on his touring activities since his return to the live stage: “I have had a wonderful time over the past few years re-discovering the wider Wishbone Ash catalogue and taking this to the people. My focus so far has been on reproducing the music as faithfully as possible. When I go to see an artist live, I want to hear the songs as I remember them from the records and I believe that is true of the Wishbone audience too.”

Following an extensive period of worldwide touring that has celebrated the classic years of Wishbone Ash, Written in the Stars - Live Dates 2015/16 sees Martin Turner moving positively forwards with a show that not only contains stage favourites and classic album cuts from the extensive Wishbone Ash repertoire, but also introduces brand new music from the forthcoming studio album "Written in the Stars". “Creatively, I still have much to say,” insists Martin Turner. “My song-writing has always been a backdrop to my real-life experiences and I am looking forward to getting creative as we prepare to take my band into its next chapter.”

Saturday 28th November 2015 Doors 8pm - Karnataka


We are very pleased indeed that we have finally got this great band to the club. Symphonic rock, prog masters, call it what you will, this is certainly a gig not be missed They are simply a must see live show.

The band’s powerful live performances have entranced and captivated audiences across the UK, USA and European mainland...Do not miss out on this performance, you will certainly regret it

The band features an international line up of world class musicians. The beautiful voice of enigmatic lead singer Hayley Griffiths (Riverdance, Lord Of The Dance), the virtuoso fretwork of Italian guitarist Enrico Pinna, the melodic driving bass of Ian Jones, the innovative and symphonic orchestrations of Turkish keyboard player Cagri Tozluoglu all powerfully driven forward by the dynamic drumming of French sticks man Jimmy Pallagrosi. Together they create a beautiful tapestry of sound that transcends musical boundaries and showcases the band‘s sublime songwriting and musicianship all of which have won plaudits from Radio 2’s Bob Harris, Rick Wakeman and many others.
The band’s powerful live performances have entranced and captivated audiences across the UK, USA and European mainland and also seen them perform alongside prestigious artists such as Robert Plant and Porcupine Tree.

Do not miss out on this performance you will certainly regret it

Saturday 7th November 2015 Doors 8pm
from the USA - Mike Zito and the Wheel

We were absolutely delighted when we heard that Mike Zito had included Devizes as part of his European tour. As a mainstay of the amazing band Royal Southern Brotherhood for many years he has now embarked on a solo career .

Mike Zito has been a rising star in the blues/roots world for the past several years as a performer, songwriter and producer. In 2010, the title-track for his Pearl River album, which he co-wrote with Cyril Neville, won the Blues Music Award as “Song of Year;” and he also produced last year’s BMA winner for “Best New Artist Debut Album” by labelmate Samantha Fish.

His last solo CD, Greyhound, was nominated for “Rock Blues Album;” and he’s currently nominated as a member of Royal Southern Brotherhood in the same category for that band’s eponymous debut CD at the upcoming Blues Music Awards in May.

For Zito, the band he put together for the Gone to Texas sessions – The Wheel – is also special to him. “These musicians were hand-picked over the years,” he states. “These are some of my favourite musicians on planet earth, my dream band. We all have one thing in common - make the music feel good! It is no surprise that this most important album to me is being released on Ruf Records. I have wanted to be a Ruf recording artist since 1998. Thomas Ruf and I have tried many times to get together over the years but the Universe wasn’t ready for us until now!”

'one of the finest, most creative musicians on the competitive blues-roots scene'. Blues Revue Magazine

Mike Zito And The Wheel: Songs From The Road captures the push ‘n’ pull between Mike and his all-star lineup of Jimmy Carpenter (sax/vocals), Scot Sutherland (bass/vocals), Lewis Stephens (piano/organ) and Rob Lee (drums/percussion). “With the guys in The Wheel,” explains the bandleader, “we’re all on the same page. We’re not interested in solos, we want to play together.” The natural habitat of the true musician is not the gleaming studio, a glitzy showbiz party or a five-star hotel. It’s the road. And if multiple Blues Music Award winner Mike Zito had a dollar for every mile of tarmac he’s burnt since his breakout in the early-’90s, they’d be piled up to his chin. “There’s just something in me,” considers the solo bandleader and Royal Southern Brotherhood co-founder (with Devon Allman and Cyril Neville), “It’s there in all musicians. You gotta love the road to be a part of this world. You’re right there, looking in people’s eyes, swapping stories, shaking hands…” There’s an undeniable romance about a life in motion – and an enduring magic about the moment when the house lights go down, the roar of the crowd goes up and the shadows take the stage.

For Mike, who began touring the Midwest circuit at the age of eighteen, and has since crossed twenty-plus countries as guitarist with the Brotherhood, this is when things get serious. “In my band, The Wheel, if you’re not already with us, you’d better get on board,” he grins. “Because otherwise we’re gonna knock you down!”

What the Critics say …"his fiery Strat playing elevates each and every song, as do the swallow-your-emotions vocals". Vintage Guitar …one of the finest, most creative musicians on the competitive blues-roots scene. Blues Revue Magazine His music flows into the veins and moves the body in ways that can only be described as free and wild… Jazz Times

Saturday 10th October 2015 Doors 8pm - Rod Garfield Blues Band

We were absolutely distraught when we found that Larry Miller had to cancel a number of shows as he is such a showman but what a great replacement we have found in the Rod Garfield Blues Band

Blues like it used to be played. Just celebrated his 72nd birthday he is still one of the best blues harmonica players around.

Rod Garfield... Once described as a UK-born Blues Legend and quoted by BBC Radio One Blues Show Presenter, Alexis Korner as “The best white blues harmonica player in the world”...

Once described as a UK-born Blues Legend and quoted by BBC Radio One Blues Show Presenter, Alexis Korner as “The best white blues harmonica player in the world”

After performing around Australia and New Zealand for the past 18 years, Rod returned in 2014 for a 'UK Rod Garfield Blues Band Reunion Tour'. Now Rod has decided to stay in his homeland. Consequently the 'Awesome Foursome', established in 1987, has reformed and are better than ever! So enjoy an evening of classic Blues 'n' Rock with one of the best bands in the land!

They played a absolute blinder at this years Devizes Beer Festival and we were just inundated with people saying PLEASE PLEASE get them to Long Street Blues Club

We were originally to put them on in 2016 but am delighted they can play for us a little earlier than that This will be an absolute gem of a gig.

Saturday 19th September 2015 Doors 8pm
Back by overwhelming popular demand - The Nimmo Brothers

We are absolutely thrilled that the Nimmo Brothers have included Devizes as part of their 20th Anniversary tour.

We were simply inundated with requests to get them back after their first visit to the club last year. Simply, they are one of the best blues rock acts to appear in the UK in many a year.

Now due to other commitments they just do one tour a year and what an opener to our new season. It does not get better than this.

The Nimmo Brothers have proved themselves to be one of the most respected exponents of modern blues the UK has seen since the blues boom of the 1960’s.

Coming Your Way marked the beginning of a hugely successful relationship with Armadillo Music. This album captured the true spirit and energy that makes The Nimmo Brothers so special and also catapulted them to the forefront of the British and European blues scenes, winning best UK blues album and best UK blues band awards in 2002.

2003 was time for a change of pace with their first acoustic album New Moon over Memphis focusing on the vocal and song writing talents of The Nimmo Brothers. At the Low County Blues Bash in Charleston, South Carolina they were given two consecutive standing ovations.

In 2006 Armadillo released Live at Cottiers recorded in their home town of Glasgow. The Nimmo Brothers were back with a bombardment of new killer songs in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Seventeen years performing together, with five successful CD releases behind them, Stevie and Alan Nimmo, went back to their roots with their latest CD, Brother to Brother. Arguably they have written their best songs to date, influenced by "everything we’ve ever listened to over the past 20 years".

2009 The Nimmo sound is stronger and more powerful than ever as they dust down the old orange valve amps and haul out their treasured Les Pauls and Strats to promote the Picking up the Pieces. Once again becoming THE band to be reckoned with.

Seventeen years performing together, with five successful CD releases behind them, Stevie and Alan Nimmo, went back to their roots with their latest CD, Brother to Brother. Arguably they have written their best songs to date, influenced by "everything we’ve ever listened to over the past 20 years".

Recorded in Austin, Texas with Jamie Oldaker (Eric Clapton) on drums, Michael Ramos (Robert Plant, John Mellencamp, Paul Simon and Los Lonely Boys) on Hammond organ, Bill Whitbeck (Robert Earl Keen) and Jimmy Pettit (Joe Ely Band) on bass guitar.

There is something for every rock fan in their original material as well as a couple of handpicked covers.

The band almost sold out on their first visit to the club. We confidently expect them to do so this time so early booking is imperative!

Saturday 9th May from Detroit MARCUS MALONE

A great end to the season is assured with this superb rocking blues band making their first visit to the club

Detroit-born Malone has been making quite an impact on the European concert and festival circuit during the past few years and this earthy performer's sixth album is a gem of the highest order, boasting some compelling original material delivered by a finely honed band steeped in the spirit of blues.

This singer-guitarist's vocals may be eerily reminiscent of Paul Rodgers of Free and Bad Company fame on tracks such as Living The Blues and Under Pressure but he's a major talent in his own right too, and Stand or Fall should be an essential purchase for blues enthusiasts everywhere."
Kevin Bryan / Northants Telegraph 24 March 2014

Marcus - from Detroit, Michigan - was first signed by Al Teller of United Artists Records (now EMI Capitol). Taking us residence in LA he recorded the classic heavy metal ‘Marcus’ album which was re-released on Zoom Records throughout Europe and the US in 2001. The band consisted of Gene Black - now guitarist for Joe Cocker ; Sandy Genero - drummer for Pat Travers and Tim Bogart of Vanilla Fudge on Bass.
Marcus has performed at the Royal Albert Hall, Burnley and Colne Festivals in the UK; Harlebeke Blues Festival in Belgium; the Bospop Festival in NL; Valdagno(Vicenza ) Blues Festival in Italy; and various UK Art Centres and Blues Clubs. Marcus ended 2013 by headlining the Tenby Blues Festival.

 

Saturday 11th April DEBORAH BONHAM BAND Duchess of Blues Rock

Born in Worcestershire, the younger sister of the late John and Michael Bonham. Deborah was only five when John joined Led Zeppelin, and this powerful introduction sparked in her the overwhelming desire to write and perform.

A blistering live set adds to the magic of Deborah Bonham and suggest that this is a band that must be seen and heard live.

"Despite bonham's Stevie Nicks-ish gypsy vibe, her vocals most closely resemble thatof her idol, Scottich Blues belter Maggie Bell ... Bonham is a sympathetic storyteller and lyrical interpreter capable of expressing vulnerability and confidence at once." Blues Review

Having played festivals from Canterbury to Glastonbury, Bulldog Bash to Donington, Cambridge to Cropredy, Ripfest to Harley Davidson's European Festivals, Deborah's live performances have seen her open shows and duet with such luminaries as Paul Rodgers, Jools Holland, Fairport Convention, Ann Peebles, Paul Weller, Robert Plant, Foreigner, Nazareth, (Dan McCafferty performed his first-ever duet on tour in the UK with Deborah, singing the Lorraine Ellison soul classic 'Stay With Me Baby'). Humble Pie, Lonnie Donegan, Van Halen, Alannah Myles, Peter Frampton and Donovan.

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Saturday 14th March 2015 Special gig...
Son of Man

Deke Leonard guested with the band at this gig. Deke's songs tend towards the short and sharp, with some of the wittiest, smartest couplets this side of Shakespeare's sonnets. He's equally capable of coming up with a memorable riff to hang a song on.

This was a very rare gig. The guys do not play that often and this is the first time in a very long while that they have played this area.



Man played 2 classic shows at Devizes Corn Exchange in the early 1970’s and their legendary status just grew from there. They are a great outfit simply playing the West Coast sound that Man were so famous for..

Saturday 21st February Aynsley Lister

We are very pleased to get Aynsley back to the club after such a long wait

When explosive natural ability collides with fiery, emotionally charged compositions, the result is Aynsley Lister; an incredible guitarist whose brand of blues-based rock delivers contemporary song writing fueled with the kind of heart and soul that’s missing from so much modern music.

Whether passionately writing and recording his own material or mesmerising audiences at his live shows one thing is abundantly clear: music is hard-wired to his DNA and flows from his fingertips like sonic bolts of lightning. With over 86,000 albums sold, lashings of critical acclaim and years of high profile touring, Lister’s resumé speaks for itself and firmly secures his position as a leading light in the resurgence of British blues-infused music.

In hindsight, it's clear Aynsley was born to be a musician. As a child he was hypnotised by his dad's old guitar and at the age of eight was finally gifted his very own. The moment he held that first six-string the outcome was inevitable; he was going to be a guitarist. Blessed with the coolest dad in town, regularly spinning Hendrix, Cream, Fleetwood Mac and a whole host of bewitching blues for his spellbound son, Aynsley taught himself to play with relentless dedication and a precociously attuned ear, spending hours copying his favourite records note for note. Peter Green, Albert King, Clapton and Kossoff weren't just his heroes; they became his teachers. Blazing a trail in a bar band from the age of 13 honed his skills.

By 18 he'd started singing and had also formed his first group, during which time he landed a dream support slot with Buddy Guy and released two low key CD's featuring his earliest original material. In 1998 those self-penned titles caught the attention of Ruf Records owner Thomas Ruf, who immediately signed Aynsley and hooked him up with Stevie Ray Vaughan's producer Jim Gaines. With a maturity that belied his years, the self titled debut announced Aynsley Lister as a major new talent and kicked off a successful relationship with Ruf Records, releasing 7 albums and 2 DVD's in ten years. Their influence, coupled with his dynamite live shows and intense touring schedule, earned high profile support slots with established artists like Walter Trout, John Mayall and Robert Cray, whilst rousing festival appearances alongside artists like the Fun Lovin' Criminals cemented his standing as an artist whose work, although rooted in blues, transcended the genre with a fiery modern sound that was eagerly embraced by fans of rock, pop, soul and acoustic music alike.

In 2007 Aynsley was the only British artist to be named in Classic Rock magazine's "Top 10 Contemporary Blues Artists", alongside John Mayer, Derek Trucks and Joe Bonamassa. In 2008 Aynsley's huge crossover potential saw him sign to Manhaton Records, where he released the best two albums of his career to date. Produced by Steve Darrel Smith and featuring Paul McCartney guitarist Robbie Macintosh, 2009's 'Equilibrium' exposed Lister in his best ever form, throwing all his musical influences into a delicious melting pot that delivered sultry melodies, full throttle hard rock riffage and introspective ballads. 'Equilibrium' received fantastic reviews and stormed into Classic Rock’s Top 50 Albums of 2009.

One of the finest guitarists around the UK at present his live show is simply awesome

The subsequent tour saw Aynsley playing to sold out shows to over 16,000 people whilst opening for the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd, after which he and his band relocated to the Tower Arts Centre and with the tape rolling, nailed a cracking rendition of their high-octane live set to produce the storming 'Tower Sessions' record, which was consequently voted ‘Best Live Album’ in the 2011 Blues Matters Writers Poll. With his stock firmly in the ascendancy Aynsley is currently hard at work on his next record, intent on creating the finest album of his career. He's wisely chosen to refine the material the best way he knows how; by playing it live. “When you record songs in the studio and then go out and tour, they evolve and take on a life of their own. I want to capture that on the new record and want a whole album of songs that translate to the live setting as well as being well written enough to engage the listener of an album”.

The eagerly anticipated new material, slated for release in early 2013, will be distributed on his manager's label as he's sagely decided to take control of his career by bringing everything in-house, following other successful artists who've cut out the record companies with astonishing results. Needless to say, a tour in support of that album will surely follow, and that promises to be something special, not just for the fans, but for the main man himself: “Music is a release for me. When I play I get lost in it and it's a very happy place to be” - Aynsley Lister

Saturday 31st January SKINNY MOLLY

It has taken us a while but we have finally got this great live band back to club to kick off 2015

 

This band is on the move and have become a major force to be reckoned with on the Southern Rock scene. Skinny Molly's mantra is "Never let one fan leave a show disappointed"

The music and live reputation of the band caught the attention of legendary Ruf Records label president Thomas Ruf. Skinny Molly subsequently signed a deal with Ruf Records, becoming the second "southern rock" band to be signed in the wake of Ruf's expansion into the genre. At the time of the signing, Skinny Molly was in the studio cutting what would become their new and widely acclaimed CD, "Haywire Riot" released last year.

The band hit the road over the next year, playing all over the world. They are now cutting their as of yet untitled third CD, and have begun booking dates for next year as well. 2014 has taken Skinny Molly from California and all over the USA to Scandinavia and all points in Europe. They have made good on that promise, and by all accounts are committed to keep it for many, many years to come. Check out Haywire Riot for the best songs in southern rock since the good ol' days...

This is no retro act though... these guys stand on solid songs, unique playing and creative instrumentation and arrangements to make even the most jaded rock fan (or even country or blues fan) a fan for life. Jump on and enjoy the ride. You won't be disappointed!

We anticipate a huge demand for tickets so we strongly advise buying tickets as soon as possible

2014

Saturday 20th December  IAN PARKER BAND

A welcome return for one of the greatest guitarists and singers around

A songwriter genuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian is an original craftsman. Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal delivery, Ian's songs hold nothing back. His ability and willingness to share with his audience, naked honesty and genuine emotion, is what sets him apart.

Ian’s career took off in the summer of 2003, when he signed to Ruf Records following a personal introduction to US record producer, David Z (Prince - Purple Rain). His debut album 'INSIDE' (Ruf1094) was released in October of that year.

In March 2004, Ian appeared on Germany's top live music TV show, 'Rockpalast'. and a live DVD of his incendiary performance was released in June 2005, entitled '…WHILST THE WIND' (Ruf3007). In addition, a live album documenting Ian's performance in Hannover during his December 2004 European Tour, was also released in June 2005 under the same title (Ruf1102). Both releases met with high critical acclaim and continue to notch up impressive sales.

A songwriter genuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian is an original craftsman. Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal delivery, Ian's songs hold nothing back. His ability and willingness to share with his audience, naked honesty and genuine emotion, is what sets him apart.

In September 2005, Ian wrote and recorded five songs for a Ruf Records project album, 'PILGRIMAGE' (Ruf1112) which was recorded in Clarksdale Mississippi and Memphis Tennessee, and released in January 2006. The release of ‘PILGRIMAGE’, extended Ian's touring activities throughout Europe and importantly, into the US.

On return from America in September 2005, Ian began a lengthy artistic process based around his rediscovery of the roots artists who had inspired him as a teenager. The resulting album, 'WHERE I BELONG' (Ruf1120), was released in January 2007 and produced by Matt Butler, whose extensive CV includes none other than Sir Paul McCartney. The ensuing promotional tour culminated with the recording of ‘THE OFFICIAL BOOTLEG’ (MT006) which captures the highlights of the final UK leg of a gruelling eighteen month long tour of Europe and the UK.

Ian spent much of 2008 writing new material, and at the beginning of 2009, under the management of Ralph Baker of Equator Music, sessions began in Bath's famous Riverside Studios. The resulting five track EP, 'DEMONS AND DOUBTERS' (Equator), was recorded under the guidance and supervision of Clive Deamer (Robert Plant, Portishead, Massive Attack), and Jon Jacobs of Sir George Martin's Air Studios fame.

With these songs, Ian began an exciting new chapter in his career. Much of his live work over the last couple of years has been solo acoustic, and following tours on both sides of the Atlantic in this format, 'THE BARE BONES' (MT007) live album was released in April 2011. Back in the studio with other musicians again, Ian is currently working on a new album which is expected to be released soon.

Saturday 29th November



First visit to the club for the legends of prog rock!

With their unique brand of progressive rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the '70s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch pop-rock exports. Fronted by founding member Thijs Van Leer, and best known for their hits “Hocus Pocus”, “House of The King” and “Sylvia”, as well as critically acclaimed albums 'Moving Waves', 'Focus 3' and 'Hamburger Concerto', the iconic Dutch music masters are back with their tenth album, which is guaranteed to please their legions of fans!

After a comeback in the early 2000's, which resulted in the well-received albums 'Focus 8' and 'Focus 9', the band regrouped with a fantastic new line-up. Along with Thijs van Leer on vocals, flute and keyboards, back on the drums is famed Focus drummer Pierre van der Linden, who joined the group on their second album 'Moving Waves' in 1972. Internationally renowned for his rhythmic skills, Pierre remains a defining factor in the Focus sound. Bassist Bobby Jacobs, who comes from a well-acclaimed Dutch musical family and guitarist Menno Gootjes, who participated in Focus at an earlier stage, complete the band's current line-up. Recently, Focus's biggest hit "Hocus Pocus" was used in a 4-minute Nike commercial before the World Cup broadcast. Focus music can be regularly heard on Top Gear and Saxondale on TV in the UK.

A new Focus era has arrived! There is a rejuvenated passion in the new compositions that adorn the new album 'Focus X', which features a full scale Roger Dean painting on the cover. Says Thijs van Leer, who holds the distinction of being the first ever knighted musician in Holland, “It's a thrill to have finally completed 'Focus X'; we are all ecstatic and looking forward to playing the new material on the forthcoming Focus X World Tour.”

Thijs van Leer - Hammond-organ, flute and vocals
Pierre van der Linden - drums
Bobby Jacobs - bass
Menno Gootjes- guitar

Saturday 1st November  VIRGIL AND THE ACCELERATORS

Renowned for pushing the boundaries of the blues rock genre and delivering incendiary live sets VATA have been making a huge impression across Europe.

Touring in their own right and on premium support tours with the likes of Michael Schenkers Temple Of Rock, Uriah Heep and Wilko Johnson. Exploding onto the scene in 2009 they working relentlessly through the pub and club scene. 2011 saw the release of their critically acclaimed debut album called The Radium. The released gained many 5 star reviews and notably Classic Rock Magazine included it in their best of year round up. Also gaining 2nd place to The Black Keyes in the coveted Best Albums award by USA magazine Blues Rock Review. Not bad for 3 teenagers.

Guitarist Virgil McMahon was recently Voted 'Best Guitarist' in European Blues Awards.

Their second studio album with Mystic Records UK and produced by legendary producer Chris Tsangarides (Black Sabbath, Gary Moore, Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy) will be released in the autumn.

 

Saturday September 27th THE PRETTY THINGS

In the early 1960s, three bands led the British Beat Boom: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Pretty Things. But the wildest, most dangerous of them all were the Pretty Things. Their hard-edged blues-rock, influenced by Bo Diddley and Jimmy Reed transformed into psychedelic rock. "SF Sorrow" was the first rock opera, preceding The Who's "Tommy" by six months.

In the intervening years The Pretty Things have lost none of their power or edge and are still led by lead singer Phil May and original Rolling Stones guitarist Dick Taylor.

 

Saturday September 6th THE NIMMO BROTHERS

Great start to Autumn 2014 gigs, the first visit of this amazing band from Glasgow.

The Nimmo Brothers have proved themselves to be one of the most respected exponents of modern blues the UK has seen since the blues boom of the 1960’s.

Coming Your Way marked the beginning of a hugely successful relationship with Armadillo Music. This album captured the true spirit and energy that makes The Nimmo Brothers so special and also catapulted them to the forefront of the British and European blues scenes, winning best UK blues album and best UK blues band awards in 2002.

2003 was time for a change of pace with their first acoustic album New Moon over Memphis focusing on the vocal and song writing talents of The Nimmo Brothers. At the Low County Blues Bash in Charleston, South Carolina they were given two consecutive standing ovations.

In 2006 Armadillo released Live at Cottiers recorded in their home town of Glasgow. The Nimmo Brothers were back with a bombardment of new killer songs in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Seventeen years performing together, with five successful CD releases behind them, Stevie and Alan Nimmo, went back to their roots with their latest CD, Brother to Brother. Arguably they have written their best songs to date, influenced by "everything we’ve ever listened to over the past 20 years".

2009 The Nimmo sound is stronger and more powerful than ever as they dust down the old orange valve amps and haul out their treasured Les Pauls and Strats to promote the Picking up the Pieces. Once again becoming THE band to be reckoned with.

Seventeen years performing together, with five successful CD releases behind them, Stevie and Alan Nimmo, went back to their roots with their latest CD, Brother to Brother. Arguably they have written their best songs to date, influenced by "everything we’ve ever listened to over the past 20 years".

Recorded in Austin, Texas with Jamie Oldaker (Eric Clapton) on drums, Michael Ramos (Robert Plant, John Mellencamp, Paul Simon and Los Lonely Boys) on Hammond organ, Bill Whitbeck (Robert Earl Keen) and Jimmy Pettit (Joe Ely Band) on bass guitar.

There is something for every rock fan in their original material as well as a couple of handpicked covers.

Saturday May 17th IAN SIEGAL BAND

We could not of got any more prestigious name in British Blues to close our 2013/14 season.

• Contemporary Album of the Year – BLUES MUSIC AWARDS NOMINEE 2012 & 2013
• Album of the Year – BRITISH BLUES AWARDS 2013
• Male Vocalist of the Year – BRITISH BLUES AWARDS 2011, 2012 & 2013
• Song of the Year – BRITISH BLUES AWARDS 2013
• Acoustic Artist of the Year – BRITISH BLUES AWARDS 2012
• Blues Band of the Year – BRITISH BLUES AWARDS 2010
• Blues Album of the Year – MOJO MAGAZINE ‘09

“One of the most innovative, gifted and engaging blues performers on the planet today.” MOJO
“A national treasure.” CLASSIC ROCK

Ladies and Gentlemen: Ian Siegal has entered the building. If you know the name, but not the game, it’s high time you made his acquaintance. He’s the multiple British Blues Awards winner and hot tip of everyone from Mojo to Classic Rock. He’s the songwriter whose recent CD releases sound like career peaks, but are only the start. From one night to the next, he might be a solo acoustic performer or a blood-and-thunder bandleader. Siegal is known as a bluesman, but it’s just one shade in the palette of an artist who slips between continents, eras and expectations.

They say you can’t sing the blues until you’ve lived the life, and when Ian Siegal steps up to the mic, you can hear the slings and arrows. Recent years have seen the songwriter catch fire, with British Blues Awards raining down and consecutive nominations in 2012 & 2013 for Contemporary Album of The Year in the Blues Music Awards - in effect, the Grammys of the Blues.

THE EARLY YEARS: It has been said that had Siegal been around in the sixties he would today be accorded the same reverence as artists such as Van Morrison and Joe Cocker. Instead, he is a child of the seventies who dropped out of art college in the late eighties to go busking in Germany. From the streets of Berlin Siegal progressed to clubs around Nottingham in the UK, then to London and ultimately to major stages around Europe.

Siegal’s forte is playing to an audience. He takes command of the stage in a way very few artists alive today can match. Sweat, passion, humour, balls-to-the-wind slide guitar and a soul-infused voice big enough to fell trees! It has won him an ever-growing following of fans and a horde of female admirers.

His career got under way in 2003/04 with two successive European tours as the opening act for ex-Rolling Stone Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings (Wyman also invited Ian to record with the Rhythm Kings). This was followed by UK tours as a duo with Big Bill Morganfield (son of Muddy Waters). During this time Siegal was also capturing the hearts of audiences in Holland, Belgium, Austria and Hungary. In 2005 he topped the Soul/Blues/Jazz charts in Holland.

His 2005 album Meat &Potatoes has been universally praised and gained a maximum four star (excellent) rating in the Penguin Book of Blues Recordings – Ian is one of only two living British Blues artists to gain this distinction. Meat & Potatoes was later re-released as a limited edition together with a DVD of his stunning performance on the main stage at the North Sea Jazz Festival.

That was followed by Swagger his 2007 release, which again received universal praise, “No less of a testament to the talents of one of the most innovative, gifted and engaging blues performers on the planet today.” MOJO magazine ranked Swagger as their no.2 Blues album of 2007. Siegal is equally accomplished solo as he is fronting his band.

He takes command of the stage in a way very few artists alive today can match. Sweat, passion, humour, balls-to-the-wind slide guitar and a soul-infused voice big enough to fell trees!

In response to fans requests for an acoustic album, The Dust was released at the end of 2008. A collection of new songs and some old favourites (with noted pedal steel guitarist B.J.Cole appearing on a few tracks), the CD quickly entered HMV’s roots chart, and again made No.2 in MOJO magazine’s Blues album chart – this time for 2008. His Oct 09 release Broadside finally gave Ian the top spot in MOJO’s annual Blues album chart.

Siegal’s May ‘11 release The Skinny is an album recorded in north Mississippi with Grammy nominee Cody Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars as producer. A band was assembled from musicians in the area including Gary Burnside, Robert Kimbrough and Rodd Bland, all offspring of notable bluesmen.

Ian returned to north Mississippi in May 2012 to collaborate with another dream-team of local legends that he collectively coined The Mississippi Mudbloods. Joining Ian and Cody Dickinson were Cody’s bother Luther Dickinson, and Alvin Youngblood Hart. Ian first met Alvin during The Skinny sessions, when the Grammy-winning guitarist swung by the studio and ended up tracking some guitar and backing vocals. The end result of this second visit to the Zebra Ranch Studio is Candy Store Kid, which released October 2012 and quickly reached no.1 in the iTunes UK blues chart and garnered a swathe of awards in the UK and nominations in the USA.

Ian Siegal is the only artist outside North America to be nominated in the 2013 Blues Music Awards. This is in the Contemporary Album category for Candy Store Kid. Ian has become established in Europe as one of the most natural, exciting and vibrant talents on the scene today. Each year the stages get bigger, but what sticks most in Ian’s mind is his guest appearance with then 92-year old Pinetop Perkins and some of the other remaining members of Muddy Waters’ band. This was at London’s Jazz Café in 2005 to a packed house. Then later at a festival in Norway, in a role reversal, these legends of post-war Blues spontaneously joined Ian on stage for what turned into a memorable hour-long set.

We are very proud indeed that in our view the leading light in contemporary British Blues is making his first visit to the club.

Saturday April 26th The Move

"Without doubt, it was The Beatles, The Stones and The Move in that order in England" - Tony Secunda.

Formed by Ace Kefford and Trevor Burton, The Move became one of the best & most significant bands of the late sixties, with five top-five Roy Wood penned hits during 1967 & 1968.

Good bands come and go, but great bands just regenerate. 21st Century and still rockin. Trevor Burton and Bev Bevan back together as The Move after forty years. Bev Bevan besides the Move was the powerhouse behind ELO and Trevor Burton was a Stalwart with The Steve Gibbons Band for many years.

 

 

 

Saturday April 5th 2014 Stan Webb's Chicken Shack

Stan Webb's Chicken Shack We are very pleased indeed to get one of the true legends of the British Blues scene to play at the club. Stan Webb is recognised high in the top ten of British blues guitarists. He started Chicken Shack in 1965 and within two years they were topping the charts with ‘I’d Rather Go Blind’ featuring Christine Perfect (aka McVie), later of Fleetwood Mac‘ Rumours’ era.

Stan’s style owes much to his friend and mentor, the legendary Freddie King, who inspired Stan Webb’s delicate vibrato and sustain, and above all else his emotive blues tone. Aside from a stint with Canned Heat (the only UK guitarist to ever play with them) and Savoy Brown, Stan continues to tour Chickenshack in Europe and occasionally in the UK.

In 1968 Chicken Shack were a major signing to MIKE VERNON'S now legendary BLUE HORIZON label. Led by the mercurial Stan Webb on guitar and vocals, Chicken Shack were a band brimming full of talent, far outweighing the bands, groups and solo performers purveying the BLUES - a musical tradition in many forms, taken from the 'Folk Roots Of Black America'. Probably the bands most well known member was CHRISTINE PERFECT (later McVie) who went on at a later date to even greater fame and fortune with FLEETWOOD MAC.

The late sixties were a prolific time for Chicken Shack with their first two albums "40 Blue Fingers Freshly Packed And Ready To Go" and "O.K. Ken" storming into the U.K. top twenty, whilst the singles "When The Train Comes Back" and "Tears In The Wind" also scored heavily in the charts.

Stan's blistering guitar style matched with a huge stage presence have made Chicken Shack a firm favourite of rock and blues fans everywhere.

Since those heady days of the late sixties a further fifteen albums have been released together with numerous compilations proving that Stan, really is "The Man".

Throughout a distinguished career Stan Webb has played and recorded with the very best, including, STEVIE WONDER, HOWLING WOLF, TAJ MAHAL, PETER GREEN and CANNED HEAT

As the '60's have given way to the '70's; '80's and '90's, Stan Webb and Chicken Shack show no sign of slowing down, continually touring the U.K. and Europe to packed houses and rave reviews. In 1997 Stan received the BLUE HEART AWARD for services to Blues in Germany, the previous recipient had been BB KING, a glowing testament to Stan Webb and his ongoing love of playing the blues.

Since that time Stan Webb has continued to release quality CD’s (“Webb” and “Still Live after All These Years” to name but two) and a great DVD recorded livein the UK. His back catalogue continues to pop up in the record store racks as interest in Stan Webb and his product show no sign of abating.

Saturday 15th March 2014  Danny “Red Eye” Bryant

It has taken a long time to get Danny Bryant to the club but finally in our 6th season we have made it. It will be well worth the wait! One of the UK’s finest guitarists he mainly plays in Europe but we are lucky to get him on this UK tour

Joe Bonamassa - “A fantastic guitar player… able to take a Fender Stratocaster and really make it sing…”

Classic Rock Blues “… a new career high for Bryant. It lives up to its name and fully-deserves to blow the house down.”

Guitar & Bass Mag “An album of rare power. …one sincerely talented young Bluesman. All facets of the genre shine on this sterling nine-strong set.”

Mojo Magazine – “His most mature performance yet. The firestorm of guitar is carefully contoured from wistful to impassioned”

Europe’s leading Blues & Rock publication, Classic Rock Blues, recently called Danny a “National Blues Treasure“, a title that he has worked tirelessly and passionately to earn. Riding high on the European blues scene for over a decade, yet still only 32, Danny has carved a name for himself the old-fashioned way having played over 2000 club and festival shows to his many fans around the world and is acknowledged by those in the business as one of the cream of the crop.

Joe Bonamassa - “A fantastic guitar player… able to take a Fender Stratocaster and really make it sing…”

Following many sold out club tours across Europe and numerous major festival appearances that have seen the power trio perform on the same bill as such names as Joe Cocker, Carlos Santana, Buddy Guy and Peter Green to mention a few; Danny and his band, Ken Bryant – bass guitar and Trevor Barr – drums, have steadily carved a huge and loyal fan base around the world.

In a career already littered with many highlights, Summer 2013 will see the release of the Danny Bryant signature guitar, Fret-King Corona DBR. Fret-King is one of the industry-leading guitar brands designed by master guitar builder and innovator, Trev Wilkinson.

So far the band have released nine internationally acclaimed CDs, in 2007 they signed with Rounder Records and released three highly successful albums with this Label all of which topped the iTunes and Amazon blues charts in many countries. In 2009 Danny signed a licensing deal with Virgin/EMI Asia and a track from their 2007 release, ‘Live’, was included on a compilation CD entitled “The Best Blues Album In The World Ever“. Danny was featured alongside many giants of Blues, including Johnny Winter, Gary Moore, Albert Collins and ZZ Top.

February 2010 saw the release of Danny’s break-through album “Just As I Am’, hitting Blues charts all across the continent and receiving glowing reviews from the international music press. The album caught the ear of German based label Jazzhaus records leading Danny to ink a deal with the dynamic new label.

The highly anticipated live DVD/CD “Night Life” was released in March 2012. Recorded in The Netherlands it captures the band doing what they do best, “Bryant has the kind of magic fingers that ensure the long solo sections on this live disc keep you teetering on the edge of your seat… Thrilling.” Classic Rock Mag. Following the success of “Night Life”, Danny signed a further two album deal with Jazzhaus Records and in April/May 2013 released his 7th studio album, ‘Hurricane’. ‘Hurricane’, produced by Richard Hammerton, pushed Danny to a new recording high both vocally and through the melodic yet gutsy guitar, but most noticeably it was his songwriting that caught the ears of the mainstream press. Critically acclaimed by both the blues/rock and guitar media, it was the respect from the mainstream music-world that has helped Danny to attain his highest sales figures so far and make ‘Hurricane’ his best selling album.

Friday February 7th 2014 The Strawbs Full Electric Line up featuring Adam Wakeman

The Strawbs Full Electric Line up featuring Adam Wakeman In the 1970s Strawbs had seven consecutive albums on the Billboard Top 200 chart, and globally sold over three million albums including 'Bursting At The Seams', 'Grave New World', and 'Hero and Heroine'.

Adam Wakeman was born in 1974 and started playing classical piano at the age of eight. Much of his early touring was with his father Rick Wakeman in the UK, Europe, Russia, South America, USA and Canada. Rick Wakeman was the first Strawbs keyboard player before he left to join Yes. Adam Wakeman has previously toured and recorded with Strawbs, as has his brother Oliver Wakeman, an unprecedented sequence of events! No other band has had three Wakemen in the line-up! At the age of 24 Adam Wakeman won the award as "Best New Talent" in America's 'Keyboard Magazine'. He is currently touring the world with Black Sabbath, has recently toured as part of Slash and Friends, and has recorded and toured with Annie Lennox.

This is a very rare opportunity to see the full electric line up of the band as they mainly tour as an acoustic. Tickets are on sale from the end of November 2013

Strawbs will be joined on drums by Adam Falkner who has played for the past year with Dido. Another recent highlight of his career was acting as MD for multi-million selling singer Amy Macdonald.

The front line of Strawbs for the tour is as it was in 1974 comprising leader David Cousins guitar & vocals, Dave Lambert lead guitar & vocals, and bass player Chas Cronk.

2013

Saturday December 7th Eugene Hideaway Bridges

EUGENE HIDEAWAY BRIDGES Think of Eugene Hideaway Bridges as a combination of a young and powerful B.B. King meets the soulful Sam Cooke. When Bridges lives the blues, his voice and Gibson awaken memories of B.B. King circa his Live at the Regal days. When Bridges mixes soul into his set, his warm tenor calls to mind an era when Cookes music was the soundtrack to our days. Bridges owns real blues genetics.

Born in Louisiana in 1963 to a blues guitar father and a mother whose family has ties to Tina Turner, Bridges moved to Houston and began playing his own guitar in the local churches by the age of five. Since then, his musical life has taken him around the world. Whether he’s fronted his own bands or played guitar in Big Joe Turners Memphis Blues Caravan, the band of B. B. Kings bassist, Bridges has miles of hard road time under his belt.

We are very privileged to welcome one of the world great blues guitarists to the Long Street Blues Club. Many of his peers regard him as one of the best in the business.

Eugene is a nomadic musician living his life on the road. His home is wherever the next performance takes him, and every year this is from America through Europe, to Australia with many other stops in between.

Born in 1963, son of the blues guitarist Hideaway Slim, Eugene is the fourth child of five. His mother was from the Bullock family (the same as Anna Mae Bullock better known as Tina Turner) and Eugene claims he got his guitar skills from the Bridges side and his voice from the Bullocks. At five he was already playing with his father around Louisiana. With his brothers as The Bridges Brothers he sang gospel and was the musician of his church touring with the Pastor, Elder A A Edwards. At thirteen Eugene was entering R&B talent shows and had formed his first R&B band The Five Stars.

Eugene moved to Texas to join the Air Force at sixteen, playing in the Air Force band for the next three years. On leaving he joined The New Chosen on guitar and vocals and went on to play with The Mighty Clouds of Joy. Following a move to Houston, Eugene released Blues, Gospel and R&B recordings by the three bands he was running at the time. These included the first line-up of the Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges Band. They toured the USA from coast to coast. Eugene then travelled alone to Europe, where B B King Bassist Big Joe Turner spotted him in Paris and offered him the position of Guitarist / Vocalist with Big Joe Turners Memphis Blues Caravan.

A year later Eugene left to work under his own name again and formed The Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges Band. Signed to the Blueside label, Eugene recorded Born to be Blue, produced by Mike Vernon. His live performances received rave reviews and Eugene was awarded UK’s Blueprint magazine Vocalist of the Year. He also won The Trophees France Blues 99 Chanteur De L’Annee.

Saturday 23rd November Larry Miller Band

Larry Miller Band We are so glad to welcome back to the club for his second visit Larry Miller and his band, Larry Miller is fast becoming Europe's number one guitar slinger. Headlining The Colne British Blues Festival in 2008; gaining accolades from The Sunday Express and The Guardian newspapers; and in Classic Rock magazine being described as ‘the fieriest, fruitiest ballsiest guitarist you're likely to hear'. Larry has received rave reviews from across the world and is picking up new fans daily.Hendrix, Gallagher and B.B.King are just some of Miller's heroes, but he definitely remains his own man.

‘the fieriest, fruitiest ballsiest guitarist you're likely to hear' Classic Rock Magazine

Recent tours with Americans Johnny Winter and Walter Trout described Larry as a ‘great, great guitarist'. Larry Miller is charismatic, and a bona fide showman blues guitarist. The Larry Miller Band features bassist Allan Penford and ex Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) Scott Hunter on the drums ‘In case you don't know it, Miller is a stunning guitarist, and arguably the best currently active british born axeman, with the possible exception of Jeff Beck .... that good!' TOTAL KIT CAR Fantastic World class guitarist.

`Fantastic World class guitarist ` - Bluesrockers USA

`The Best in-yer-face rock band around` - The Guardian

`Highly impressive, a total victory' - Kerrang

Expect a real total full on show from one of blues rocks total showmen.

Saturday 9th November Martin Barre Band

Martin Barre Band We are delighted to persuade one of the UK’s most famous guitarists to come to Devizes for his first visit. Martin Barre has been the guitarist of Jethro Tull for 43 years, his sound and playing having been a major factor in their success. Album sales have exceeded 60 million units and they continue to be played worldwide, representing an important part of classic rock history.

Martin has worked with many other artists including Paul McCartney, Phil Collins, Gary Moore, Jo Bonamassa and Chris Thompson and has shared a stage with such legends as Hendrix, Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin.

Martin’s guitar playing has earned him a high level of respect and recognition; he was voted 25th best solo ever in the USA and 20th best solo ever in the UK for his playing on 'Aqualung'. His playing on the album ‘Crest of a Knave’ earned him a Grammy award in 1988.

As Jethro Tull are taking a long break from touring, Martin has put together a band to play the "classic" music from the Tull catalogue. His band, is a total commitment to give the Tull fans and a broader audience the chance to hear tracks not performed for many years.

Saturday 12th October Pat Travers Band

“From the streets of Toronto…” Patrick Henry Travers was thirteen when he saw Jimi Hendrix play live in Ottawa in 1968, and by fourteen the Toronto native was playing guitar with a competence that belied his age. By fifteen he was playing in his first group, Red Hot, before Merge then featured the teenage Travers. Pat then grabbed the opportunity to play with rock and roll/ rockabilly artist Ronnie Hawkins, a move that allowed him to gain valuable touring experience. However in the seventies the other side of the Atlantic was the place to be for any budding rock musician, and in May 1975 Pat left his homeland for London, with not much more than his guitar and a change of clothes…

“To the streets of London…” A successful demo led to a recording contract with Polydor Records and that eponymous 1976 debut release, with the album featuring right-hand man Peter ‘Mars’ Cowling on bass (an ever present for nearly three decades) and Roy Dyke on drums. That same year Pat and band toured the U.K. in support of the album, and an appearance at the Reading Festival certainly did no harm as regards musical exposure.

We are amazed when we found out that the legendary Pat Travers Band has included Long Street Blues Club as part of his 2013 UK tour. This is indeed a real coup for the club and we already know there is a great deal of interest in this gig.

The ‘Pat Travers’ album proved this was no one-dimensional rock musician, featuring tracks such as the heavy rock of fan favourite ‘Makes No Difference’, his interpretation of J.J. Cale’s ‘Magnolia’, and the song now most associated with Pat – the old rocking blues standard ‘Boom Boom (Out Go The Lights)’. ‘Makin’ Magic’ and ‘Putting it Straight’ followed in quick succession in 1977, with Nico McBrain replacing Ron Dyke (drummer Clive Edwards and guitarist Mick Dyche also had stints in the 1977 touring band). Not only is Pat’s sophomore release a classic Travers album, it’s a classic rock album, period. Highlights include the Hendrix-esque title track, ‘Rock and Roll Suzie’, a smokin’ cover of Willie McTell’s ‘Statesboro’ Blues’, and the powerful ‘Stevie’. ‘Putting it Straight’ added further Travers textures with more keyboard work and even some saxophone, and the ‘bookend’ tracks deserve special mention – ‘Life in London’ opened proceedings with a vibrant energy, while ‘Dedication’, a beautifully crafted seven minute studio piece complete with groovin’ Hammond organ intro (and this writer’s favourite all-time piece of music) closed out the album. Now in his fifth decade as a touring musician Pat Travers band have reverted to a four piece. The Pat Travers are right up there as one of the powerhouse units of blues rock Do not miss this opportunity to see them up close and personal.

The Pat Travers Band currently consists of Pat Travers (guitars, vocals, keyboards), Kirk McKim (guitars, vocals), Sandy Gennaro (drums), and Rodney O'Quinn (bass).

Saturday 7th September Chantel McGregor Band

CHANTEL McGREGOR BAND Imagine the tone of Robin Trower, the inspiration of Hendrix, the influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the energy of Bonamassa, the intensity of Walter Trout and the haunting vocal of Stevie Nicks all rolled into one........ then let me introduce Chantel McGregor, one of the most exciting rock and blues musicians that the UK has ever produced! At the age of eight Chantel became the youngest person in the country to pass a Rock school exam and at 12, she was jamming in her native Bradford and evolving into an incredible musician.

Described as a prodigy, at 14 Chantel was told by major labels "great voice, but girls don't play guitar like that!" Wisely ignoring that advice, she enrolled at the world-renowned Leeds College of Music and became the first student in the college's history, to achieve a 100% pass mark, with 18 distinctions. Chantel left with a First Class Honours degree in Popular Music and a coveted prize, for outstanding musicianship. Chantel has since stepped out in the pro-musician world and her stunning live performances are proving that this is rock blues for the new age, played by a musician born with an effortless virtuosity, peppered by flights of incendiary guitar and flanked by moments of poise, grace and fluidity............

her stunning live performances are proving that this is rock blues for the new age

In the words of distinguished London music promoter Pete Feenstra "Think of all the pained expressions, all the grimaces and all the exaggerated shapes ever thrown by your favourite rock guitar heroes. Then think of every exclamatory yells, every pose and every macho gesture that ever populated rock's historic landscape. Over the course of her two hour show Chantel binned them all. For this was rock blues for the new age played by a musician born with an effortless virtuosity, peppered by flights of incendiary guitar and flanked by moments of poise, grace and fluidity…

Saturday 18th May Eddie and the Hot Rods

Final gig of the 2012/13 season now confirmed!

EDDIE & THE HOT RODS began life in 1976, when four teenagers from Southend on Sea got together and playing their own style of fast energetic rock and roll / r'n'b, were soon a big hit on the London pub rock scene. Catching the eyes and ears of the music press and the major record companies, they were soon signed up by the legendary Island Records and went on to have three hit albums and four Top Forty UK singles including the Top Ten hit, ‘Do Anything You Wanna Do’.

A success in the USA too, they have toured alongside The Ramones, Tom Petty, Squeeze, The Police and Talking Heads.

There have been numerous TV appearances and they have filled almost every major venue in the UK. A success in the USA too, they have toured alongside The Ramones, Tom Petty, Squeeze, The Police and Talking Heads., Fresh from their appearances as guests of STATUS QUO on their 'QUOFESTIVE' arena shows and still led by the 'very Rock n Roll' BARRIE MASTERS, for the last 15 years or so the band have been playing all over the world, including France, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Croatia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Poland, Japan and Russia – as well as four successful tours of the USA in 2006, 2008, 2009 & 2011. They have also found time to record to albums of new songs and a live DVD....

 

Friday 5th April The Pink Torpedoes

REFORMED FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY! The Amazing PINK TORPEDOES

They are just reforming for this gig. Second gig this century for what many people call the cult band of the area. Fronted by Pete Gage Ex Dr Feelgood and comprising Dave Reaburn Ex Hoax drummer and two of the best musicians in the area in Paul Hartshorn and Pete Lowrey you have the most full on rythmn and blues band going. If you like your music raw and racous the Pink Torpedoes are the band for you. People will be coming out of the woodwork for this gig.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday 2nd March   King King

Winners of ‘Best Band’ & ‘Best Album’ – The British Blues Awards 2012.

Support Act Stevie Nimmo

It is almost two years since they last played at the club and we have been constantly barraged to get them back for a record third appearance. You have a very special opportunity to see why they have become in many people’s eyes the best blues rock band around. The meteoric rise to prominence of British blues breakers King King has seen them racking up a host of accolades culminating in this year’s Best Band and Best Album at the British Blues Awards.

Since they began touring three years ago, King King’s unique brand of multi-faceted blues rock has won over audiences as diverse asThe Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival, the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival, the internationally acclaimed Belgium Rhythm & Blues Festival in Peer and even Glastonbury. Touring throughout Europe and Scandinavia, the band have attracted enthusiastic audiences both as an impressive live act and on the airwaves, with veteran BBC DJ and blues aficionado Paul Jones being moved to remark: “Here at Radio 2, we think Alan Nimmo and King King are going to go all the way”, following their two live sessions at the BBC’s legendary Maida Vale studios.

This is real chance to see a young band in its infancy but also at the top of its game. Live is where they are really at and we are very pleased that they have chosen to come to Devizes in 2013.

The driving force behind King King’s unstoppable charge is Alan Nimmo, a virtuoso frontman possessed of an almost impolite level of charisma and the talent to back it up.

An award winning bluesman in his own right and widely known across the UK and Europe, Nimmo's full-blooded style, technical brilliance and impassioned vocals are infectious and instantly recognisable. Surrounding himself with the hottest talent currently working the scene has made King King an irresistible melting pot of influences. The result is a sound which is energetic, potent and irresistibly funky, to quote Guitar & Bass: "King King play the kind of blues that’ll lift the most stubborn of frowns". We like to think they are the Long Street Blues Club House Band.

Saturday 16th February   The Motives featuring Matt Taylor

We are proud to bring this group who are really creating a huge big splash in Europe despite only being together a really short time “Tough urban blues with lyrics to match delivered in a style that’s as sharp as James Brown’s footwork and as solid as Alcatraz… reminiscent of those Stax-era Albert King and Little Milton songs with Booker T on keyboards.” John Clarke, The Independent “It’s time for the blues boys and girls to sit up and take notice. The men are back” R2 Magazine, July 2012

The Motives brings together some of the finest talent from the European blues scene, drawing their musical inspiration from 40′s New York, 50′s Chicago and 60′s London. January 2011 saw them take to the recording studio and their eponymous debut album is out now receiving excellent reviews. In the last year, they have played all over the UK, Holland and Germany where the album is receiving an excellent reception, opening for Robert Cray at Shepherds Bush Empire in June 2012 and on tour in Holland in October.

This is real chance to see a young band in its infancy but also at the top of its game. Live is where they are really at and we are very pleased that they have chosen to come to Devizes in 2013.

The name Matt Taylor is becoming more and more familiar as a highly regarded guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer. He has made four albums with his own band and several others in collaboration with the likes of Long John Baldry with whom he toured Europe twice, releasing one live album and The Snowy White Blues Project who he began working with in 2008, touring all over Europe and releasing one studio and one live album. As a session musician he has worked with a huge variety of artists in many genres including European and US tours with French superstar Patricia Kaas, TV & radio work with Take That’s Gary Barlow, live work with Tony Hadley and TV appearances with Belinda Carlisle, Shelby Lynne and Lulu. He has backed artists as diverse as Jamie Cullum, Shane McGowan and Tony Christie and jammed with Joe Bonamassa and David Gilmour, his career taking him to as far-flung places as the Middle East and Siberia. Recently Matt has also turned his hand to production

Saturday 26th January  Band of Friends

Just get one thing straight. We do not do tribute bands hence we are very careful when choosing acts.

However the Band of Friends are quite different when they formed just over a year ago they just wanted to concentrate on celebrating the music of one the greatest blues/rock guitarists ever.

Hence, let's introduce the Band ...
Gerry McAvoy- Bass Gerry played with Rory for twenty 20 years between 1971-1991 and played on everyone of his studio albums. With this experience comes a great insight into the man’s music and the man himself.
Ted McKenna-Drums Best known for his work as an original member of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band he has worked with some of the greatest names in rock music Gary Moore and worked with Rory Gallagher himself for a number of years. Regarded by drummers as one of the best in the business.

Even though he died in 1995 Rory Gallagher music is as popular as ever. When we got the opportunity to book this band it was a no brainer. As they say they are the BAND.

Marcel Scherpenzeel - Guitar This young guitarist grew up with Rory’s music and according to Gerry McAvoy “is the closest to Rory you will ever hear” - He should know.

Although the great man is no longer around this is going to be a evening of the celebration of his music. They mainly tour in Europe so this is going to be a hot ticket.

2012

Saturday 8th December Nine Below Zero



For high-energy blues you can dance to, 9BZ will not be beaten.

Tickets sold out very quickly last time so for this Xmas show get your tickets early.

Since they played at the club nearly two years ago we have been inundated with requests to get them back so why not have them at our Xmas bash. Featuring Brendan O'Neill, Brian Bethell, Dennis Greaves and Mark Feltham For three decades Nine Below Zero have delivered an explosive mix of blues & rock in live performances that never fail to leave their audiences illuminated and exhausted.

The definitive line-up of this tightest of live bands has been in place for eighteen years, and they play with a discipline that only experience & confidence brings. After thousands of shows together, this incendiary on-stage chemistry has enabled Nine Below Zero to sell-out venues all over Europe. The six albums Nine Below Zero recorded for A&M, Warner Music and EMI between 1979 and 1995 brought chart success and media attention.

However, in 1997 the band decided to take control of their own affairs, and have since quietly built their own Zed Records into a solid business, releasing four albums and two DVDís in the process.

In the mid-1970s, Dennis Greaves and Mark Feltham arrived with their South London R&B-fuelled 9 Below Zero, and impacted on Britain's stagnant music scene like a cold shower.

Tickets £15.00 in advance

Saturday 3rd November   Larry McCray Band

We are very excited indeed to get one of the leading blues guitarists in the world to come to the Long Street Blues Club. On his first UK tour for many years with his full American touring band this indeed is a great coup for the club.

Larry McCray is one of a handful of talented young blues performers leading the genre across boundaries and into the new century. McCray’s savage blues-rock guitar and warm, soulful vocals have drawn attention worldwide. McCray’s hard work paid off when he became the first artist signed by Virgin Records’ blues division – Pointblank Records.

In 1990, they released his debut, “Ambition” , which was well received by the U.S. and European press. In 1998, Born To Play The Blues moved the story of McCray’s broadly appealing music forward another giant step.

McCray also sights a career highlight as being honored as the Orville Gibson 2000 Male Blues Guitarist of the Year. “Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, like seven or eight other people were nominated, as well” stated McCray.

Bold, brawny, often dazzling guitar lines are matched with confident, soul-drenched vocals. Understated funk rhythms and crunchy rock riffs meet earing slow blues and booty-bumping shuffles.

This was one of the biggest gigs we have put on to date.




Saturday 29th September 2012 Hokie Joint

'The Music Starts To Play' is the highly anticipated second release from UK-based roots band Hokie Joint.
True to their beliefs, the band sidestep the “virtuoso” blues/rock idiom, and concentrate more on what matters to the both the band and the listener – the song.

Hokie Joint
by Alan White at earlyblues.com

Twice a year we devote the evening to the best upcoming bands in the country.

Hokie Joint are one of the major breakthrough artists on the blues rock scene.

Born in late 2007 through a mutual dissatisfaction of the guitar driven swill swamping the 21st Century Blues scene, Hokie Joint takes 5 pieces of youth and experience to create a ground breaking, song-driven twist on the genre.

In just over 3 years together through performing their own unique brand of dirty, roots based groove music, Hokie Joint have reminded the blues world via their dramatic and raw live shows, that the music they hold so dear is about more than just a guitarist’s dexterity!

Since releasing their début album ‘The Way It Goes…Sometimes’ through Amsterdam based label Cool buzz in 2008, Hokie Joint have had the honour of sharing the bill alongside legendary artists including Steve Winwood, Booker T and the late great Solomon Burke, coupled with opportunity to grace some of the most prestigious stages on the UK & European circuit. Including two wildly received main stage performances at the BRBF 2009 (Peer, Belgium) and Maryport Blues Festival 2010 (UK), where the band was seen by some as the show stoppers at each festival.


The ten ‘self-penned’ tracks draw on many of the bands’ influences, ranging from Eastern European folk, to British Rhythm & Blues with a dash of Rock n Roll for good measure.

This band puts on some of the best live shows that you are ever likely to see. It has taken us quite a time to get them to the club but we are re you will fall in love with them.

Saturday 1st September 2012
Carnival Night with LIGHTNING WILLIE AND THE POOR BOYS

The new 2012 season kicked off in in style with a cracking gig from one of the true blues entertainers.

Emerging from the clubs and bars of the U.S Blues scene, Lightnin' Willie is an accomplished and hard-working guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. Now based in Los Angeles, Willie is a seasoned musician who has paid his dues. With four albums under his belt, this eloquent storyteller has his own story of time on the road, personal loss, fresh beginnings and an over-riding love of playing the "Devil's Music".

Originally from Texas, this bluesman's years of steady gigging have given him as much polish as his performance. He is tall, with an expressive face, piercing eyes, and the kind of confident all-American swagger that allows you to walk up to total strangers on the street and introduce yourself.

Lightnin' Willie and the Poorboys are by no means destitute. In fact the musical vein they mine is rich indeed. They steer away from dry academia and combine a seductive exchange of swinging Blues and R&B with a hint of Rockabilly. A lively, interactive, face-to-face approach to their music has had audiences waving their banner throughout the United States and Europe for over ten years.

Saturday 12th May 2012

Curved Air

The last gig of the 2011-12 season sees the classic band Curved Air play a very rare club gig.

Formed in the late 60s with virtuoso violinist Darryl Way and singer Sonja Kristina they soon became one of the cult bands of that era. Mainstream fame followed with Back Street Luv the band continued on till the late 70's.

Reformed in 2008 with orginal members Sonja Kristina and drummer Florian Pilkington-Mika and joined by Paul Sax on violin and Kit Morgan on guitar with keyboards and bass added. Playing all over Europe to wide critical acclaim this is just a superb way to sign off the current season.

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Saturday 31st March 2012

Giles Robson And The Dirty Aces

We told you about King King. This is another band that will take the blues live music scene by storm! Fronted by the amazing harp playing of Giles Robson and backed by a band that has played with all the great names from Eric Clapton downwards this is a gig not to be missed.

Had to wait for over a year to get them!

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Saturday 3rd March

Mick Ralph Blues Band

One of British rock music's most tasteful and understated guitarists, from the same 'school' as Joe Walsh and Mick Ronson where, thankfully, the mission statement is thought, feel and melody rather than speed! Hertfordshire-born Ralphs' was influenced by Berry, Cochran, James Burton and Leslie West and his undoubted guitar skills and ability to 'play for the song' are evident in his work with Mott The Hoople and Bad Company - and he still tours with both.

between 1969 and 1974, Mott The Hoople created astounding music, fired by Ian Hunter and Mick's blistering guitar, becoming one of the most influential British rock acts of the decade and precursors to punk. Ralphs contributed some of Mott's best material including Rock And Roll Queen, Half Moon Bay, Thunderbuck Ram, Whiskey Women, Midnight Lady, The Moon Upstairs, Moving On, Ready For Love and One Of The Boys.

Leaving Mott almost on the cusp of major success in '73, Ralphs formed Bad Company with Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke and immediately contributed Can't Get Enough, Good Lovin' Gone Bad and Feel Like Makin' Love. Impressive stuff!!

Joined here by some of the best-known names on the current blues scene (Sam Kelly drums // Son Maxwell vocals and harmonica // Jim Maving guitar & vocals // Dicky Baldwin bass) to play blues and R'n'B favourites from B.B. King and Otis Rush to Robert Johnson and Sonny Boy Williamson - alongside fresh interpretations of some of Mick's own classic songs.

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Saturday 28th January

The Pretty Things

In the early 1960s, three bands led the British Beat Boom: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Pretty Things. But the wildest, most dangerous of them all were the Pretty Things. Their hard-edged blues-rock, influenced by Bo Diddley and Jimmy Reed transformed into psychedelic rock. "SF Sorrow" was the first rock opera, preceding The Who's "Tommy" by six months.

In the intervening years The Pretty Things have lost none of their power or edge and are still led by lead singer Phil May and original Rolling Stones guitarist Dick Taylor.

We are very privileged indeed to get them to Devizes.

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