International
blues guitarist Big Dez has been a regular headliner at blues
clubs in Japan, Texas and Chicago including Buddy Guy's Legends
Club, House Of Blues, Rosa's Lounge, and Big Dez continues to be
a big draw at the biggest European Blues Festivals.
Big
Dez (Phil Fernandez) plays guitar with the chilling intensity of
Albert Collins and writes great foot tappin’ blues and
rock'n'roll grooves.
“Fernandez is heavily influenced by
Albert Collins and Chicago blues; Fernandez’s slashing guitar
combines Albert Collins’ icy tension with Johnny ‘Guitar’
Watson¹s metallic crunch, and vocals like Omar Kent Dykes” Blues
Revue USA
"Big Dez delivers an immensely tasty and
enjoyable set.....this album was mixed in Chicago, and it sounds
like it. A real winner! " Blues in Britain magazine.
Big
Dez has played in Chicago and Texas with the likes of Luther
Allison, WC Clark, Billy Branch, Chicago guitarist Alan Haynes
and harmonica player Paul Orta and many more.. He has also
played alongside Texas legend Uncle John Turner (drummer with
Johnny Winter & Lightnin’ Hopkins), Lucky Peterson and recorded
with the Fabulous Thunderbirds bassist Preston Hubbard.
JO
HARMAN & the TREMAIN SISTERS
Christened 'UK's best female soul/blues voice' by the
Daily Mirror who, according to Classic Rock, 'writes lip
bitingly beautiful songs', Jo Harman is a multi million
streaming, award winning and BBC Radio 2 play-listed artist. She
is one of Europe's most respected talents, having performed at
prestigious festivals and venues all over the world: the O2
Arena, Royal Albert Hall, and Parkpop in The Hague (to 250k
people) to name but three. Soul superstars like Michael McDonald
(whose other duet partners number Aretha, Carly Simon, Patti
LaBelle etc) and Motown songwriting legend Lamont Dozier have
duetted with Jo on record and, live, she has performed with the
likes of Joan Baez, such is her standing within the musical
cognoscenti. 'One of UK's finest talents' according to Rag N
Bone Man whose voice 'leaves you speechless' in the opinion of
Fun Lovin’ Criminals Huey Morgan on his BBC Radio 2 show.
This
power trio combine elements of folk and hard rock with the blues
rock of bands like Gov’t mule, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin.
The band was formed in 2009 in Cork city when lead singer
Christy O’Hanlon met the rhythm section of Stephen McGrath (
Bass ) and Gev Barrett (Drums ). The band immediately jelled and
went on to perform on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury
2011. They released their first raw blues rock and roll album in
2012 which was produced by Philip Magee which was lauded by both
Classic rock magazine and allmusic.com. In 2015 the band went on
to release their first live album entitled Deep South which was
voted in the top 5 live albums of 2015 by Classic Rock Blues.
In 2016 Crow Black Chicken opened for ZZ Top at the Marquee
in Cork which brought them face to face with the Texan
compatriots whom they often drew so many comparisons to. Always
determined to create a sound all of their own the band continues
to tour all over Europe and will release their 4th studio
album Ghost Dance in 2025.
From
the vibrant South Coast of the UK to stages across the nation,
join Thomas as he crafts the next chapter in UK blues. With a
style encapsulating the heart of Blues, the energy of Rock &
Roll, and the sophistication of Jazz, Thomas can command a solo
stage or drive the rhythm in his dynamic three-piece ensemble.
His musical journey has seen him share the limelight with
established acts such as Chicken Shack, Catfish, Connor Selby,
Brave Rival and The Cinelli Brothers. In 2022, he graced stages
alongside household names like Anton du Beke of Strictly Come
Dancing fame. He’s also left his mark at illustrious venues and
events such as The Tuesday Night Club Ronnie Scotts, Lincoln
Jazz Cafe, Broadstairs Blues Bash, Swanage Blues Festival, and
Weyfest.
Both his Album ’Thomas Heppell' and EP, 'Be My Home', not only
received airwaves love from, BBC, Planet Rock, Jazz FM and Blues
Radio UK but also secured him nominations at the UK Blues Awards
2023 and 2024. With nods for Best Young, Emerging, and Acoustic
Blues Artist, it's evident Thomas is a force to be reckoned with
in British Blues. His was named one of the top 5 emerging artist
to come out of the UK in 2024.
Malcolm
is out with an exciting new trio that takes a deep dive into the
free-flowing explorative side of the blues.
There's the songs and the structure. And then there's the
journey into the unknown. Inherited from his legendary father
Jack Bruce is the desire to break out of limitations and
discover a voice that is unique and true. In a world of
conformity music has the ability to awaken potential and be on
the cutting edge of possibility. Risk taking, creating in the
moment, sharing the experience of transcendence, these are the
motivations and urges inherent in the blues when it is allowed
to bloom.
With this stellar lineup anything is possible.
Blue
Nation are: Neil Murdoch (Singer /
Guitar), Luke Weston (BV / Bass), Nick Sharman (Drums)
Get ready to be blown away by the electrifying
force that is Blue Nation! Hailing from the heart of Birmingham,
this powerhouse 3-piece band unleashes a seismic fusion of Riff
based Melodic Blues Rock, crafted from a reservoir of iconic
influences including the likes of Beatles, Cream, Zeppelin, and
Brit Pop 90’s, along with more recent inspirations like Rival
Sons and Vintage Trouble. Brace yourself for their unforgettable
sound!
Fronted by a mesmerizing vocalist, Blue Nation’s
songs are delivered with soul and passion, showcasing the
remarkable talents of three accomplished musicians who have
mastered their craft. Their live performances are nothing short
of awe-inspiring, with an impressive gig experience and an
undeniable stage presence that leaves audiences begging for
more.
These rock virtuosos have conquered the top
venues and festivals not only in the UK but also on an
international scale, having embarked on two triumphant tours of
New York City’s Greenwich Village and Manhattan. From
stripped-down acoustic gigs to full-blown electric spectacles,
they command the stage like true masters of their art.
Among their numerous illustrious feats, Blue
Nation has graced the Main Music Stage at the F1 British Grand
Prix in Silverstone, not just once but twice! Their journey
includes unforgettable tours and gigs alongside musical giants
like Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey (Thin
Lizzy), Laurence Jones, Dom Martin and many more. They’ve shared
the spotlight with remarkable acts, solidifying their position
as a standout force in the music scene.
Critics rave about their powerful performances.
One review likened their style to legendary bands Free, Cream,
and Lynyrd Skynyrd, acknowledging Blue Nation’s rich collection
of songs that set them apart from the sea of retro bands.
Another praise highlights their unique identity, being too blues
for rock, too rock for blues, and simply too exceptional to be
confined by labels.
Notable accolades have come their way, including
their victory on The Introducing Stage at The Great British Rock
& Blues Festival, being spotlighted as “Ones to Watch” by Planet
Rock, and securing a top five finalist position in the fiercely
contested UK Blues Awards “Emerging Act of the Year 2023 and
2024” category.
With their latest studio album “THE ORDINARY
PEOPLE” released on all major platforms in September 2024. The
band state:
“After three years of dedicated work, we are
thrilled to present “The Ordinary People.” This album represents
our growth and evolution as a band. It would not have been
possible without the guidance of Trevor Gibson, the strategic
management of Ron Murdoch, and the unwavering support from our
friends, family, and loved ones.
Our journey began with a vision, but it was the
collective effort of many that brought it to life. Trevor’s
mentorship pushed our creative boundaries and helped us explore
new depths in our music. Ron’s management ensured that every
step we took was purposeful and aligned with our goals. Our
friends and family were our constant pillars of support, giving
us the strength and motivation to persevere even when the road
was tough.
This album is a testament to our growth, not just
as musicians, but as individuals. Each track tells a story,
capturing moments of joy, struggle, and triumph. We have poured
our hearts into every lyric, note, and beat, hoping to connect
with listeners on a deeper level.
We dedicated this album to our fans, both old and
new. Your passion and enthusiasm have been the driving force
behind us. Without you, we are nothing. While every band says
this, we genuinely hope “The Ordinary People” resonates with you
and becomes a meaningful part of your life’s soundtrack.“
Blue Nation have also conquered the United States
not once, but twice, Blue Nation has honed their live show to
perfection, making them the ultimate purveyors of a stomping,
electrifying experience for any venue or festival they grace.
An
International touring band with a 10 year portfolio of festival,
theatre and club gigs throughout Europe, Scandinavia and the UK.
Gerry Jablonski & the Electric Band are a standout act with
an energetic, no-holds-barred stageshow. They have a unique,
trademark Heavy Blues Rock sound and style producing gutsy music
with hooks, melodies and an intense presence that wins over any
audience, anywhere, anytime. Guaranteed.
Having
crossed paths in their numerous experiences on the UK scene, JON
AMOR TRIO decided to join forces in 2022 and indulge in their
mutual love of blues and funk, delivering high-energy sets
across the land.
Fronted by Jon Amor, known throughout
Europe for his time with The Hoax, but now well-established as a
performer in his own right, the band also features bass virtuoso
Jerry Soffe (previously played with Larry Garner, Malone/Sibun
Band, John Etheridge), and drummer Tom Gilkes (previously played
with Marc Ford of The Black Crowes, Elles Bailey, Willie & The
Bandits).
Promoting their brand new album ‘The
Turnaround’, which perfectly captures the band’s dynamic sound,
Jon Amor Trio are making waves throughout the UK and Europe.
Krissy
Matthews is a British Norwegian blues rock artist.
He has performed well over 1000 shows across the world
in some of the world’s most prestigious venues including Ronnie
Scott's and Loreley.
At 12 years old he performed with John Mayall sharing
an amp with the legend of Peter Green. At 15 he received career
advice from the great BB King and at 16 was the last musician to
play with the amazing Jeff Healey in UK.
Him and his band have shared the stage with some of the
biggest names in music such as Toto, Gregg Allman, Tedeschi
Trucks Band, Joe Bonamassa, Joe Satriani and Beth Hart.
Krissy is signed to Ruf Records and in Spring 2024
released his very critically acclaimed album Krissy Matthews and
Friends which is a collaboration with 80 musicians lasting over
3 hours.
Guests on the record include Paul Jones, Clawfinger,
Chris Farlowe, Arthur Brown, Dennis Chambers, Curt Cress, Inga
Rupf and many more.
It was top of the Amazon Blues Charts for two months,
received multiple radio plays and top reviews including a 9/10
highlight album in the biggest British rock magazine Classic
Rock and in Summer 2024 was the front cover feature artist in
Bluesnews Germany amongst many more.
Krissy Matthews has his own voice on his instrument
which is harder and harder to achieve in today's world and
seeing him live with his trio is an experience you will not
forget and let you escape your every day problems for those
hours he is on stage.
Lightning
Threads are an electrifying power trio, thundering out of
Sheffield’s legendary blues rock scene, and influenced by the
great rock musicians of another time. Often compared to The
Black Keys, Gary Clark Jr, Cream and the Doors.
Since forming in 2019, they’ve had HEADLINE shows at
Sheffield’s legendary The Leadmill and The Greystones, as well
as unforgettable festival appearances to thousands at Witney
Music Festival (supporting Bez, Happy Mondays); Bunkerfest
(supporting Beans on Toast); and DN One Live (supporting Sandi
Thom).
Lightning Threads have also shared stages with the likes of
Chantal McGregor, Darnell Cole, McHale’s Permanent Brew, Tom
Killner, The Fargo Railroad Co., Emilia Quinn, The Daybreakers,
and William the Conquerer at some of the UKs biggest venues.
Featuring face-melting guitars, groove-ridden bass, and a
multi-talented drummer who plays tubs and keys at the same time;
audiences can’t get enough of our fresh and uniquely energetic
electric blues rock, slipping in references to crowd pleasing
classics such as The Chain and Light my Fire.
This
young band has its roots in Blues, Rock and Country. Whilst
currently working on their own material, they are known for
playing sets made up from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Rory Gallagher,
Gary Moore, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Cream, Led Zeppelin and many more.
The J-A D Blues Band has recently formed with Jack on vocals and
lead guitar, backed up by Leon Adams on bass and Vincent Lilley
on drums.
JACK: is a talented, rising young guitar
player. His two passions are Blues and Country music. Jack
learned to play harmonica when he was six. He quickly moved on
to guitar and requested lessons when he was seven. Jack was soon
performing at school and hosting concerts in the garden. At the
age of nine he started jamming with experienced adult musicians
where he learned to improvise. At age eleven he was interviewed
and played live on Chelmsford Community Radio, and he began to
play at venues such as Chelmsford City Football Club and Bond
Street Christmas market. Jack played at the Rory Gallagher
Festival UK in Nantwich in 2021 and in 2022 was invited to open
the show.
LEON: following in his fathers’ footsteps, Leon
began playing Bass around six years ago. Initially jamming with
friends from school, he joined a band formed by his Bass
teacher, with a few of his students, and they played gigs in
Southend as part of Southend YMCA All In Music. Having joined
several bands previously, he has now found his home in this
Blues Rock band. Leon also plays guitar and is the perfect
addition to the band.
VINCENT: has been playing drums for
around eight years, playing in various bands and ensembles for
roughly five years. He also plays in his brothers’ band,
“Yesterday’s Prophecy”. He has a huge passion for drums and
any/all music containing drums. Vincent has knowledge of a wide
variety of genres and styles and is a huge asset to the band.
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