Mick Abrahams was one of the crop of British blues/rock guitarists and he was highly respected along with Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Jimmy Page, Geoff Beck and Rory Gallagher. His origins included playing with The Hustlers, Toggery Five, Screaming Lord Sutch, Neil Christian's Crusaders (replacing Jimmy Page) and Mecregor's Engine which he founded. He jointly founded Jethro Tull with Ian Anderson in 1967 but by the end of '68 left to form what became known as Blodwyn Pig. Musical differences led Mick to abandon his own band, leading to its death. He then formed the mick Abraham's Band but in '74 there was a brief reunion of Blodwyn Pig with a Radio 1 live broadcast.

Through most of the '80's there was an occasional appearance at charity gigs, the enthusiastic response persuading Mick to re-form Blodwyn Pig and the '90's saw him writing and recording new music with the group and solo. He has guested on many albums notably on the Peter Green tribute " Rattlesnake Guitar" along with many other of the blues greats.
Watch him playing Cat Squirrel at Bishop's Stortford Blues Club November 2003

Originating in Wales, Gwyn and his family emigrated to Australia in 1965 when he was just four years old. Brought up in Adelaide, he saw a live performance by Chuck Berry when he was turned on to and rock music. After his musical experiences broadened to discover John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, Cream and then to the American bluesmen such as Freddie King, Muddy Waters and of course Robert Johnson he developed a deep love of the blues.
Gwyn formed his first band in 1979 with a couple of friends, playing local bars and pubs in Adelaide's beach area. Moving to Sydney in 1983 he played for a couple of respected bands of the era on the city's blues-rock club circuit, but Gwyn formed his own three piece band and hit the road travelling throughout Australia.
He then went on to New Zealand and the USA and finally back to the UK and Europe where interest in the blues was stronger than in his adopted home. In the mid nineties he settled back in the UK where he is now based. Gwyn tours the world with his three piece band and has supported some of the biggest names in blues including Junior Wells, Albert Lee, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray and Peter Green, to name but a few.
Plays a rousing, rocking blues on his Fender or Gibson - or just as well on a National steel guitar. Song list is his own original material

The reviews he has received have been second to none :-

"Another blues guitarist? Boy was I wrong! This guy doesn't just play the guitar, he becomes part of it! His slide work is breathtaking!" - Riffs Magazine ( U.K. )

"Excellent songwriting combined with ballsy blues-rock soloing and shit-kickin' slide guitar!" - Dominic Pedler, Total Guitar Magazine

"A shining light in the world of slide guitar." - David Mead, Guitar Techniques

"This is guitar music of the very first order." - Blue Miller, BSH

"Pyrotechnic wizardry on his Duolian National Steel had everyone gasping. Great strength in the rhythm department and fantastic slide technique." - Blueprint

Over the years, the Barrelhouse Band has included many well known musicians. Guitars: John Moorshead (Ainsley Dunbar's Retaliation), Paul Hart, (200 Fingers) Bass: Alex Dmochovsky (John Mayall & Ainsley Dunbar's Retaliation), Marion Dolton (Bill Thomas, Pinetop Perkins, Eddie Martin), Chris Lonergan (Robbie McIntosh, Ben Waters, Big Bill Morganfield); Keyboards : Tim Mycroft (Thursday's Child, The Gun, Sounds Nice) Mark Skerritt (ABB); Sax : Clive Ashley ; Drums : Alan Edwards ; Flute : Mutter Slater (Stackridge). The image shows the first incarnation (clockwise from top left) with Alan, Paul, Greg and Tim. You can find more information including members on Paul's page.

The Barrelhouse Blues Orchestra was put together by Paul Hart in January 2003. It is a 21 piece band with an exciting pedigree and the players have played or written for many star acts including Wings, Cream, Deacon Jones, Vandergraf Generator, Sphere/ Andy Sheppard, (Lion - Be Bop Delux, The Who, 200 Fingers, Robbie MacIntosh, Kenny Jones Band, Roger Chapman, Clarence "Big" Miller, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and James Last to name but a few!). The whole outfit is conducted by the enormously talented Marcus Marriot who, with Chaz Dickie and Dave Burgess, are largely responsible for the smooth and exciting arrangements. The band and Johnny had an album due out in autumn 2003 to coincide with a double feature on the Paul Jones Show for Radio 2.

Formed from the split of Jethro Tull in 1968, Guitarist, Mick Abrahams with Jack Lancaster the saxophonist formed the first BP lineup and recorded "A head rings out". There have been many lineups since, which you can check out here. Following in the tradition of Jazz/Blues/Rock fusion the band were very successful in their various lineups. The band that played at the Barrelhouse were literally the rhythm section from Gary Moore's Bluesband fronted by the old stalwart Mick Abrahams

Claude Bourbon appeared at the Barrelhouse at the festival in June 2001. Claude performed solo on stage with his stomp box. The sound of authentic blues. He's a skilled guitarist with a great voice.

To quote from his website, "Claude's musical roots are blues, however, his music has and will continue to evolve over the years. Bourbon gets his musical inspiration from around the world including Spanish Middle Eastern, Russia and Europe. Claude Bourbon takes the different sounds heard from different regions and molds them into the songs and melodies you hear at his shows. His songs may be blues-sounding, ballads, rock, jazz or even unique and unclassifiable." More here on Claude's website"

Eugene performed at the Barrelhouse as the featured artist with Big Joe Turner's Memphis Blues Caravan.
Born in 1963, the son of the blues guitarist Hideaway Slim who taught him to play. He has been touring Europe for the past five years. He played guitar with his father around Louisiana for two years after which his father gave up playing to become a preacher. He formed his own band the "Five Stars" in his early teens playing rhythm and blues. He joined the Air Force at 16 and joined the band. After leaving the Air Force he played and sang with gospel bands but soon formed the Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges Band touring all over the USA.
After coming to Europe, Eugene toured Belgium, France and Spain and after meeting Big Joe Turner he was offered a spot as featured artist with the Memphis Blues Caravan.
He has since reformed his own band and was elected Best Male Vocalist in 1998 and 1999 in the British Blues Connection's yearly poll. Still very active, you can hear more of Eugene here

Pete Brown has been involved in music for a long time. As part of a songwriting team with Jack Bruce with whom he wrote, White Room, Swlabr, I Feel Free, Wrapping Paper, Politician and Doing That Scrapyard Thing. He still writes with Jack Bruce. Although absent from the mainstream of British music as an artist since his last major label records in 1970, Pete Brown has never really gone away! In the 1990's, his production work has brought him considerable recognition worldwide, notably with anthologies such as RATTLESNAKE GUITAR (The songs of Peter Green), KNIGHTS OF THE BLUES TABLE (featuring Brtitish blues veterans such as Mick Jagger, Georgie Fame and Jack Bruce) and this year with DESTINY ROAD , Peter Green's first studio album of new material in 18 years. In the 90's, he has also released two records with his longtime partner PHIL RYAN (ex-Man), the well received ARDOURS OF THE LOST RAKE and COALS TO JERUSALEM. From 1971 to 1983 Pete released no new product, although he did continue on the road with his last fulltime band, 'Back to the Front', until 1977. 1983's PARTY IN THE RAIN, now re-released by Mystic, was mastered from demos and now includes unissued material. The record had previously only had limited distribution!
Concurrent with his rise as a producer Pete worked as a sideman on vocals and percussion with leaders as diverse as B B King musical director CALVIN OWENS and South African jazz pianist. MERVYN AFRIKA. In 1998, he worked with U.S soul/funk man DAVID HADLEY.
Pete is currently working with The INTEROCETERS, and is performing a set live which is drawn from all parts of his career, and which reflects a move towards his first loves of Soul and Rhythm & Blues. There are also some crowd pleasers from the 33 year old writing partnership with JACK BRUCE, with whom Pete is now working on new material. His last appearance at the Barrelhouse was in 2007.

The Kyla Brox Band are, Kyla (vocals and flute) - Danny Blomeley (bass and acoustic guitar) - Marshall Gill (electric guitar) - Anthony Curtis Marshall (saxophones) - Phil Considine (drums). Kyla, Victor's daughter sang on stage from a very young age with her father so she is rooted in the blues and the blues runs deep through the band's original material, but they build on that to create their own sound. They are anything but your average blues band, yet they keep the fundamentals of the Blues alive and they play with a feeling that is infectious.
I pinched that bit from their site but it is true and they are a fantastic live band. All are accomplished musicians but in addition they have an amazing stage presence. I bought two of their CD's and I have never had better value. Catch them if you can.

Victor Brox is one of Britains greatest ever blues vocalists ranking alongside the likes of Chris Youlden, Joe Cocker and Steve Marriot at their best. This has been endorsed by Jimi Hendrix who was a great fan of Victor jamming and playing with him and the Ainsley Dunbar Retaliation on many occasions. Immediately prior to this, Victor was to be seen around the London clubs with Alexis Korner and was eventually replaced by Robert Plant (who was later to be in Led Zepplin).
The Victor Brox Blues Train appeared at the Cavern back in 1965 so he has a long track record as a Blues performer but his performances remain dynamic to this day.
He was the frontman of Ainsley Dunbar's Retaliation from the late 60's and also appeared as member of many blues outfits or as guest on several blues albums (vocals and sometimes keyboards). For instance, Victor appeared with Eric Clapton on Dr John's "Sun Moon & Herbs". Victor frequently appeared alongside his highly talented wife Annette Brox (vocals & percussion) and continues the tradition by singing with his daughters Kyla and Anna. Kyla now has her own highly rated blues band (see above).
He appeared with Annette in "Jesus Christ Superstar" where he played Caiphas and he has appeared alongside many of the big names of blues as well as in his own right and has a string of recordings across the musical spectrum. He is a musical virtuoso and as well as playing keyboards and singing he plays brass and guitar and probably a few other things too.
The Victor Brox Blues Train still exists and re-surfaces regularly. He is an amazing performer and if you want to contact him send us an e-mail with your contact details and we'll let Victor know.

Malcolm Bruce, Son of the legendary Jack Bruce, is a fine guitarist, bassist, vocalist and pianist and performed with Pete Brown's Band when he appeared back in 2002 at The Barrelhouse. He has played on many of his father's recordings and played piano with John O'Leary's Band through 2002. In addition he has appeared with Eric Clapton, Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward, Dick Heckstall-Smith, Bernie Worrell, Gary Husband, Mike Ratledge, Carl Jenkins, Kip Hanrahan, Vernon Reid, Ginger Baker, Kofi Baker, El Negro Horacio Hernandez, Robbie Ameen, and Dr. John.

Bob Brunning is probably best known as Fleetwood Mac's first bassist. The image shows him when he appeared at the Reading Festival in 1967 as part of Fleetwood Mac. He was soon replaced by John McVie who Peter Green had previously asked to leave John Mayall to form the band. Bob moved on to Savoy Brown and later formed his own band, The Brunning Sunflower Blues Band with pianist Bob Hall, also of Savoy Brown. If you go to Bob's Website, you can hear them playing with Peter Green and you will find Bob's history and details of the books he has written about the blues.

Stan and Chicken Shack have appeared before at The Barrelhouse and with his blinding guitar playing and great showmanship made it a night to remember.
Stan was allegedly born in London in 1946, his parents moved to Worcestershire soon after. He formed his first band, the "Blue Four", at the age of 18 based in Kidderminster. His next band "Sounds of Blue" included Christine Perfect, Andy Silvester and Chris Wood but soon after Stan went on to form the first incarnation of "Chicken Shack" with Andy Silvester which Christine Perfect later joined. The band in this form had two top ten albums "Forty Blue Fingers" & "Ok Ken" which featured Stan's thespian and impressionist talents between tracks. The single "I'd rather go blind" was the highest blues track to feature in the charts making the number 3 spot. Even Fleetwood Mac's "Need your love so bad" only made it to number 12. Stan also features in Eric Clapton's Cricket Eleven.

There were so many versions of "Chicken Shack" that it would be simpler to go and look at Stan's "Unofficial approved website" rather than have me re-type the lot. So you do that, I'll go and have a cup of coffee and next time they're at the Barrelhouse you'd better be there.

Clem Clempson has a long and varied career from his early years with Bakerloo, then Humble Pie, the many incarnations of Colosseum to his associations with Jack Bruce, Cozy Powell, Steve Marriot, Bob Dylan (and Chris de Burgh but try to keep it to yourself). When you hear his guitar playing you can understand why so many big names are pleased to stand alongside someone such great skill. If you want to be blown away, click the arrow below (which may not work if you don't have Shockwave installed. You will also see Dick Heckstall-Smith blowing a bit at the end.

He joined Lionel Hampton's Band at 15 and was a member of Count Basie's and Ray Charles' Bands. In the 60's through to the 70's played in Johnny Otis' Band where he featured in "Play Misty For Me" where he was the triple tongueing trombonist. He played 3 times at Barrelhouse, the last time alongside Johnny Mars.

"So much of Minhinnett's superb playing echo's Clapton at his best. Oh!, if only the man himself played with such passion these days". Jeremy Gomm - Evening Gazette (Lancs.)
Playing a set of classic powerhouse rock blues from the late 60's and early 70's Cream'd offer a tantalising glimpse of how it used to be at the Genesis of rock. The set includes such Cream classics as Sunshine of Your Love, White Room (from which the band's tourname derives) I Feel Free, Badge, Theme from An Imaginary Western and Tales of Ulysses as well as highlights from the band's million selling albums such as Disraeli Gears, Fresh Cream, and Wheels of Fire.
Cream'd are fronted by former Frankie Miller guitarist Ray Minhinnett who wrote the TV series and book History of The Fender Stratocaster a definitive series that included interviews and music by Eric Clapton.
Minhinnett also has won the Best British Blues Album award in his own right in 1997 and is joined in this magnificent band by Savoy Brown bass player Ian Ellis and top session drummer Steve Dixon.

 Alex is an inventive and highly regarded bass player who declined an offer to play on "Whiter Shade of Pale" with Procul Harum opting to take the harder edged blues route playing with Champion Jack Dupree and the Ainsley Dunbar Retaliation. He then joined John Mayall later rejoining Ainsley Dunbar. He played bass on "End of the Game" for Peter Green, Graham Bond and Country Joe McDonald and as part of the rhythm section for Frank Zappa on "Waka Jawaka". His association with Frank Zappa was maintained appearing on other albums including "The Grand Wazoo" and "Apostophe". Alex was a member of the Barrelhouse Blues Band for 4 years through the 90's and his involvement led to many of the contacts in the music business that the Barrelhouse has today.
Alex continues his musical activities to this day and still plays a mean bass. If you want to contact him, send us an e-mail with your contact details and we'll let him know.

A native of Minnesota, Kent developed his style listening to the music of Robert Johnson, Lightning Hopkins, T-Bone Walker, Muddy Waters and Elmore James. As his skill developed he backed up Boogie Woogie Red, Luther Tucker, Big Walter Horton, Hubert Sumlin, Eddie Burns and Margie Evans. Kent later went on to share the bill with BB King, Albert King, John Lee Hooker, Howlin' Wolf, Bukka White, Buddy Guy, Junior Wells and many more.
Kent also did a lot of playing with Lazy Bill Lucas. He played with Kim Wilson for three years until Kim went on to form the Fabulous Thunderbirds. For nearly three years and 200 shows he worked with Johnny Shines, helping the older bluesman to re-discover his skills and reach a wider audience before their relationship was cut short by Johnny's death in 1992. Their album "Back to the Country" won the W.C. Handy Award for the best Country Blues album of 1991. He also recorded with Mr. Shines and a host of other bluesmen on the Grammy nominated album, "Roots of Rhythm and Blues: The Robert Johnson Era."
For more information visit Kent's website

Thanks to Sheri for permission to use image and text

John Etheridge has been at the top of the jazz and contemporary guitar world for 25 years. His career has covered a huge musical range. He first came to the attention of music press in the early 70s while playing with a number of progressive rock groups.
In 1975 he joined Soft Machine replacing Allan Holdsworth. International touring and recording followed until the band’s demise at the end of the 70s. In 1976 Etheridge joined the touring group of jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli. Etheridge left Grappelli’s quartet in 1981. Over the last twenty years his career has involved associations with many of the great players of the jazz world. Either in single concerts, touring or recording he has appeared with – Barney Kessel, Didier Lockwood, Nils Pedersen, Gordon Beck, Herb Ellis, Mundell Lowe, Dick Heckstall-Smith, Vic Juris, Miroslav Vitous, Birelli Lagrene, Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Williams, Yehudi Menuhin, Pat Metheny, Andy Summers, Nigel Kennedy and John Williams.
In the late 80s, Etheridge started to lead his own bands and is currently fronting a quartet dedicated to Stephane Grappelli, as well as an 8 piece group Zappatistas (performing the music of Frank Zappa) and also leads a trio with the legendary drummer John Marshall.

Andy is probably best known for his fronting of Amen Corner which began as a Cardiff-based blues/jazz outfit. The impression of Amen Corner as a pop band is as a result of the route they took under pressure from their record labels. After the break-up of Amen Corner, Andy went on to form the band Fair Weather which had some success with "Natural Sinner". He returned from a brief period of retirement to success in the 80's with "Wide Eyed and Legless" and "Reggae Song" and went on to act as sideman to a string of famous frontmen including Roger Waters, Joe Satriani, George Harrison and he was Eric Clapton's rhythm guitarist for 13 years and played on many of his albums including "From The Cradle". He toured with Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings and in 2006 was with Roger Waters in the Dark Side of the Moon tour. Andy appeared at the Barrelhouse on 27th October 2007 with Chris Stainton (keyboards), Dave Bronze (bass) and Paul Beavis (drums). They played a fantastic set including blues, rock, gospel and pop and the audience loved it. Andy said he really wanted to return to Stur for another gig, let's hope he does.

There are so many albums that Andy appears on fronted by other people that there are too many to list but here are his own.

• 1968 - Round Amen Corner (Amen Corner)
• 1969 - Explosive Company (Amen Corner)
• 1969 - Farewell To The Real Magnificent Seven (Amen Corner)
• 1981 - Beginning From An End (Fair Weather)
• 1974 - Spider Jiving
• 1975 - La Booga Rooga
• 1976 - Be Bop 'N' Holla
• 1976 - Andy Fairweather Low
• 1980 - Mega Shebang
• 2006 - Sweet Soulful Music

Born in Kent in 1948, he was bought his first guitar when he was twelve and by the age of fourteen was playing in a band. He left school at the age of fifteen but and with a lack of qualifications Gordon found himself working as an unskilled labourer. He was interested in art and he hoped to make career for himself. He continued to develop his skills on the guitar and he channeled his creativity into composing and playing.

He was completely self-taught and he developed his own unique style. By the mid-1960s Gordon's musical career was developing strongly. By 1966 he was playing solo at 'Les Cousin's' in London alongside the likes of Bert Jansch, John Renbourn, John Martyn, Roy Harper, Al Stewart, and Sally and Mike Oldfield. He signed his first recording contract in '68 with Transatlantic Records, and released two albums.

His development as a composer of instrumental music led to the release in 1976 of the album "Visionary" and on to the formation of the Gordon Giltrap Band and many successful tours throughout the UK. During the last two decades he has been involved with and composed for many for many "Orchestral" and "Popular" musical events as well as writing music for television and radio. He remains a superbly skilled guitarist not to be missed.

If you want to know more - visit Gordon's website

In the early 1960s Tony McPhee joined the 'The Dollarbills'. He didn't like the 'pop' music they played and he persuaded them to start playing Blues and R&B after seeing The Cyril Davies All-Stars at the Marquee. He suggested 'Groundhogs' as a name for the band, after a track on John Lee Hooker's album 'House of the Blues'.
Tony and the Groundhogs have released over 20 new albums since then and have appeared on numerous compilations and collaborations The Groundhogs lead by Tony McPhee (and various line ups) have been gigging ever since until October 4th 2004, when they were finally disbanded.

A skilled Boogie-Woogie piano player, he partnered the late Alexis Korner over many years and performed regularly with the great bottleneck bluesman, Dave Kelly and the late Jo Ann Kelly. He was a founder member of The Groundhogs, and worked and recorded with Peter Green and Mick Fleetwood and was also a long serving member of the highly influential British blues band Savoy Brown.
Over the ensuing years Bob’s own big band, Rocket 88, included Charlie Watts and Ian Stewart of the Rolling Stones, and Jack Bruce from Cream. He continues to be a featured guest with The Blues Band, starring Paul Jones, on their nationwide tours.
His confident grasp of the tradition and authentic style were developed by working as a sideman accompanying such blues originals as John Lee Hooker, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, Homesick James, Lightnin' Slim, Lowell Fulsom, Charlie Musselwhite, Snooky Prior, J B Hutto, Lazy Lester, Mickey Baker, Eddie Clearwater and many more.
He had a UK tour with Savoy Brown in November 1997 in addition to his regular annual tour programme with partner Hilary Blythe.
In '98 the duo toured of Belgium and Holland with slide guitarist Stewart Carr. In '99 they made their first tour of Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and in July 99 Bob toured the UK with Chicago bluesman Phil Guy. In October 99 the duo toured the UK with legendary guitarist Kim Simmonds, and in December they performed in Key West, Florida for the first time.

For more information visit Bob Halls's Website

Now in their twentieth year the Hamsters are established as the UK's premier blues-rock attraction. This has been achieved purely by hard work with the band handling all their own affairs, thereby disproving the popular misconception that it can't be done without major-label "muscle". Although primarily performing their own brand of material, they are widely regarded as leading interpreters of the music of Jimi Hendrix and more recently ZZ Top. Members have performed with artists such as Eric Clapton, Alison Moyet, Doctor Feelgood, Walter Trout and the late, great gentleman of British Blues, Alexis Korner.
FABULOUS! ONE OF BRITAIN'S VERY BEST LIVE BANDS" - Bob Harris, Radio 2
"THE HAMSTERS ARE A GREAT BLUES BAND" - Johnny Walker, Radio 2

Dave Harrington and his band Swift Half comprising Dave with his long-term rhythm section, 'The Bowman Brothers', John on Drums and Graham on Bass, are a rare sight indeed and many wonder why the band do not gig more often!
Guitarist Dave (dubbed 'The Legendary Dave Harrington' by some local musicians including the late Paul Hart, who had enjoyed jamming with Dave on several occasions) only plays very occasionally for his own pleasure, doing various gigs for Charities and when possible, slots at The Barrelhouse and other similar venues, which is what he really enjoys.
Not only your average punter, like me, but also great guitarists are blown away by Dave's playing. His style is unusual if not unique, just sheer pleasure to watch and hear. If you like your Blues with aggression come and see this band…………….!

If Paul had been alive he would have complained that I had included him in this list - so I'm sorry Paul but if there is anyone who deserves to be included it is you. Paul started the Barrelhouse Blues club in September 1989 with Stuart Booth. He told me that the first gig he put on was in the Legion in Stur and starred Dick Heckstall-Smith and it was packed. But Paul's involvement with music pre-dated that event by many years. His first band which surfaced in the late 60's was Rusty Blade with James Shepherd on drums (now of the Larmer Tree Festival), Greg Russel (bass) and Mark Skerrit (keyboards). The band's existence was interrupted by Paul's attendance at Darlington College but Alan Edwards, who replaced James as drummer, remembers a long trip in a worn out transit to Darlington to put on a gig that Paul had arranged at the college. There were a number of incarnations under various names. Paul spent some time in a band called 200 Fingers which included a significant brass section - I think that makes 20 members if we include thumbs, perhaps someone can tell me who they were! Over the last 20 years the Barrelhouse Band became the established lineup with Alan on Drums, Marion on Bass, often with Mark on keyboards frequently joined by Dave Burgess on sax and Alan Jenkins on trumpet. There is more about Paul on his biography page

Gordon Haskell has been known in the past for his association with some of this country's most successful bands but since then he has developed into one of the most talented singer/songwriters performing today. His albums, "Hambledon Hill"," Plot to drive you crazy" "Butterfly in China" and "All in the scheme of things" highlight the sensitivity and power of this very special performer. This talent has been endorsed by Paul McCartney, Mark Knopfler and a host of other icons of the music industry. Gordon's songs always suit the mood, from the ethereal mystery of "Hambledon Hill", the catchy bounce of "Walking in the wilderness", the drive of "More yin than yang" to the beautifully constructed and emotive "The other side". Gordon has been playing the club since its inception and we have always found him to be warm and responsive, these qualities are complemented in his creative work which as a result is both honest and relevant - a rare commodity in the music industry these days. His hit single "How Wonderful You Are" changed Gordon's fortune led to him being recognised by the public as the talent that those in the music industry always knew he was.
Try Gordon's Website for more information.

Dick was the first artist to appear at the Barrelhouse. He fell in love with the saxophone at 15 and went to Dartington Hall, renowned for it's music making. It was there that he first heard Sidney Bechet and was stimulated to join and then lead the Dartington School Jazz band. After going up to Cambridge he joined the University Jazz Band and in 1955 won the silver cup for playing a good solo in the Cambridge University Jazz Band Competition.
Sandy Brown was judging the Cambridge and gave Dick his first professional job. Just as for many of his colleagues, the holiday camps provided invaluable experience, in particular the Filey Butlins Camp as a member of the Ronnie Smith Quintet. Dick remembers it as a great learning experience, playing 8 times a week. Then followed a year with the Bert Courtley Sextet which started a life long association with Germany. After leaving Bert he freelanced as a modern jazz Saxophone player and in 1957 was asked to be a guest on the new Bob Wallace LP and that was the first time he met and worked with Ginger Baker. In 1962, he turned his back on the conservative British Jazz Scenes and dived heart and soul in to the Blues joining Alexis Korner Blues Incorporated in the summer for love rather than money.
Dick related that from the first moment he heard the Blues, way back in the 40s at Dartington, it felt like musical home and joining Alexis was an easy and natural progression. He was the instigation for Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker joining the band, which as it turned out was an important step for them in the eventual emergence of Cream as the pre-eminent British Blues/Rock band. Leaving Alexis in summer 1963 to form the Graham Bond Organisation. Between 1968 and 1971, Heckstall-Smith worked with a sophisticated, blues-oriented rock band, Hiseman's Colosseum, led by the brilliant drummer Jon Hiseman. This band, later involving saxophonist/composer Barbara Thompson, passed through various incarnations, and he was still recording and performing on reunion gigs in the mid-1990s. He also worked with Hiseman, Barbara Thompson and others in the elegant New Jazz Orchestra, a Gil Evans-influenced ensemble that was directed by composer Neil Ardley.

After two decades of blowing the harp as a way of life, Simon "Honeyboy" Hickling is now established as a virtuoso player of international repute.
His harp technique, honed through years of touring and recording, combined with a live wire stage presence and a voice that can justifiably be described as 'authentic', have won over an ever increasing fan base, united in their conviction that when it comes to the thing he does, nobody does it better.
Past credits include three years of touring and recording with Steve Marriot, sharing lead vocals and playing the Harp. Recordings with Bo Diddley, Paul Rodgers, and occasional appearances with Anthony Thistlethwaite's (Ex Waterboys) Blue Stars - (A session band featuring the 'Kick Horns' and Mick Taylor.)
Appearances on the Paul Jones Blues Show, and Radio 2 programmes, along with show stopping performances at many of Europe's largest Blues Festivals have increased his fan base still further.
He is a superb performer with a warm wit and a great personality and if you want to spend an evening being entertained by a skilled musician you'd better catch him next time because he's coming back. I just wish I'd asked him how he got the nickname.

Formed in 1991, The Hoax hit the British blues scene with their explosive energy. Their combined talent set them apart and in 1993 Mike Vernon caught them live on stage and noted "They're the most exciting band I've heard for twenty years". He offered them a contract which they signed within the year.
Oct '94 saw the release of their debut album "Sound Like This". It met with vast critical acclaim and was voted Best Blues Album '95 by the British Blues Connection.
The Hoax voted Best British Blues Band in '94
Singer/harpist Hugh Coltman Best Male Vocalist in '95.
They made two U.S. tours in '95 opening many concerts for U.S. blues ace Buddy Guy. The follow-up album "Unpossible" was released in '96, outselling the previous one. The Hoax formed their own label, Credible Records in a thrust for more idependence. On this label they issued one EP and two full length albums: "Humdinger" and "Live Forever".
In May '99: a press release confirmed rumours that they were to split, but it seems that at least some of the members continue their collaboration and their wesite is still active so check them out at The Hoax Home Page

OK, he never played at the Barrelhouse but "almost". Melvin Jackson was born in Tyler, Texas somewhere between 1915 and 1920. It is believed that he was the first bluesman to visit the UK when he came as a US serviceman during the war. There is film showing him performing to troops in Dorset and he was stationed very close to Sturminster. Talking to local residents who were around at the time, because the troops were segregated, the black servicemen were not permitted by the US Army heirarchy to come into the town, although many did. If you have any other information about his time in the UK we'd love to hear from you.
Having been raised in a sharecropping environment and taught to play guitar by his father, Johnny, Lil' Son ran away from home during the 30s. He has been described as a sincere man and religion seems to have played an important part in his life. He worked with the Blue Eagle Four Spiritual group before being drafted into quartermaster section of the army. He served in the UK with the contingent which was to be part of the D-Day invasion and was stationed in the Blackmore Vale while in the UK, travelled though France and Germany before returning home to take up a career as a blues singer. Friends persuaded Melvin to send in a fairground recording to Bill Quinn, the owner of Gold Star Records, in the hope that it might lead to a recording contract. It did, and between 1948 and 1954 Jackson, who had moved on to the more prestigious Imperial label, made records in Jackson played in that signature Texas style - the lazy, laid back loping rhythms punctuated by staccato note bursts, a style that combined his rural roots with currently acceptable R&B sounds. These sold well, particularly in his home state, Texas, and on the west coast, where many black Texans had settled.
Once a prolific artist, he had recorded for Houston's Bill Quinn on Gold Star in the 40s, some of which were leased to "Dot", "Modern", and "Sittin' In With". He was a prolific songwriter and . his "Rockin' and Rollin' " became better known as the often covered "Rock Me Baby". Like a number of Texas bluesmen, Lil' Son Jackson had a short-lived music career during the post-W.W.II period when labels like Gold Star put out singles for the rural jukebox trade, only to have the rug pulled out from under him when music tastes shifted to R&B and R&R. By the 50s he had signed with Lew Chudd's Imperial Records of Los Angeles and issued a slew of singles during the period up to 1954, after which he retired following a serious car accident (the driver fell asleep at the wheel) on route to a gig in Oklahoma. Lil' Son is quoted as saying that he "took it as a sign from God that he should give up the business". For Jackson that meant he went back to making a living as a garage mechanic and occasionally singing in church.
In 1960 he was tracked down by Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie who had remembered that the bluesman, who also recorded as Little Son Jackson, had lived in Dallas but a search of the recent phone books proved fruitless. Chris thought that a library might be helpful because it retained such references from the past, and, sure enough, they discovered that he still had the same number from years gone by. Jackson was finally found working as a salesperson in a breakers yard auto parts store, hence the record cover above.
"Lil' Son, surprisingly, like a lot of bluesmen, was a shy, very introverted person. He confessed that he would "often drink to combat stage fright" and that he "had to quit that stuff because it was killing him". Despite Jackson's initial reluctance, Chris was able to prevail upon him to record and a session was set up for July 10, 1960 which yielded Arhoolie 1004 - "Blues come to Texas". From these sessions came nearly two dozen songs in the traditional Texas blues style that seems to be an offshoot from the music of the Mississippi delta region. Its cover was shot by Paul Oliver.

In the 1970's Chris made two records for Billy Gaff and David Geffen and these albums have now achieved cult status. In the 1980s Chris worked as a lyricist with Franck Langolf and contributed to two Stones albums (Dirty Work and Steel Wheels). As you might guess if you didn't already know, he is the brother of Mick of that ilk and you can see them performing together somewhere in Barnes here (well - just about). Although his roots are in the rocking blues he, with his band Atcha, play a wide range of music including Cajun, Zydeco and funk. You can read more about Chis here and his band there.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio USA. He developed and refined his unique guitar playing technique in Chicago and Memphis where he was raised. He played with many of the Blues and R&B heroes including Willie Dixon, BB King and Albert Collins. He has appeared at the Barrelhouse twice, the first time with Ben Waters. He is a superb guitarist and fast - just listen to "Spank the Plank" on "Double Impact" and you'll see what I mean. Spanking the plank at that speed sounds positively dangerous. He travels regularly in the UK so try to catch him if you get the chance.

Absolutely NOT a tribute band, consisting of former Kinks members who still occasionally perform with Ray Davies, The Kast Off Kinks are John Dalton (bass guitar & vocals), Mick Avory (drums), Dave Clark (lead guitar & vocals)and John Gosling (keyboards). Appeared at the Barrelhouse 26th April 2008. They set the place alight with their authentic renditions of the Kinks back catalogue interspersed with tales of their experiences in that renowned band.

Dave Kelly made his professional debut in 1966 and today is best known as the joint lead singer (vocals and guitar) in The Blues Band, sharing the duties with Paul Jones. The Blues Band have recently released their twelfth album in 17 years "Live from the BBC".
He is generally acknowledged as the best blues slide guitarist the UK has ever produced, as well as being an excellent vocalist. He has won acclaim from many of the greats including Howlin Wolf, John Lee Hooker, Son House, Buddy Guy and Muddy Waters.
In the late sixties he switched to electric guitar with The John Dummer Blues band returning to acoustic playing in the seventies and, in 1979, became a founder member of The Blues Band with Paul Jones, Tom McGuinness and Hughie Flint. In the 80's he formed the Dave Kelly Band and toured regularly with them throughout Europe and released 4 albums under that name.,br> He released his first solo album for four years in 1993. "When The Blues Come To Call" received wide acclaim.
Dave has written and performed music for various films, TV series and ads including the Montreux rose winning Strike staring Robbie Coltrane and the BBC four part drama series King of the Ghetto staring Tim Roth. He is an honorary patron of the London Guitar College with Hank Marvin. He has been voted Best Acoustic Artist in the BBC polls 1992, 1994 and 1996.

Paul Lamb and the Kingsnakes are regarded by blues enthusiasts throughout Europe as the number one blues and R&B live act working out of the UK today. With countless rave reviews, numerous industry awards and two fine albums to their credit, the band are something special. Paul Lamb on Harmonica & Vocals is backed by a great line-up of superb musicians.

• UK Blues Band of the Year 1990, 1991, 1992
• Paul Lamb Instrumentalist of the year 1990, 1991, 1992
• UK Blues Album of the Year 1991

Drummer Ric Lee was a founder-member of the legendary Ten Years After who dominated the rock scene from 69-76 releasing 10 albums, 8 of which were chart hits with 4 of those making the top ten. TYA were one of the few British bands to appear at the Woodstock festival. TYA re-formed in 1988 and released "About Time" and spent four years after (ha-ha) touring Europe and the USA to sell-out audiences. The Breakers, at the time of their appearance at the Barrelhouse were - Ian Ellis on Bass, Paul Samson on Guitar and Jeff Bannister on keyboards.

James Litherland joined Colosseum at the age of 19 after answering and advertisment in Melody Maker. He spent a year and recorded Those About To Die and Valentine Suite with them. He left to form Mogul Thrash and a series of other bands followed but he has spent most of the last several years playing as a session musician. His latest album released in 2006, Real Men Cry, is an all acoustic work. You can find more about James here.

Leading jazz saxophonist Mornington Lockett, now based in London, spent much of his life on Isle of Wight. Born in Stepney his family moved to the Island when he was 9 years old. He first got into jazz after hearing people like Benny Goodman and Acker Bilk on the radio and he zoomed in on the clarinet. He was in the school band and sat in with some local musicians. The White Lion, Niton, IOW was often the venue. 'After You'd Gone' was the first tune he learnt. He moved on to the saxophone and studied at Dartington College in Devon. After Dartington he moved on to the Guildhall School of Music in London. He lists many influences including Bobby Wellins, Don Weller, Tim Whitehead, Stan Getz, Phil Woods and John Coltrane

Songwriter / harmonica player / vocalist Johnny Mars was born in Laurens, South Carolina the son of sharecroppers. At the age of nine Johnny was given his first harmonica. His family moved all over the South Eastern States: North Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Washington. He met many good harmonica players cultivating his love for the blues harp. In high school he formed his first band. After graduation he gigged around New York and recorded with his band "The Burning Bush" for Mercury Records. The Scandinavian press were the first to title him "The Jimi Hendrix of the Harmonica". He is an innovative musician and has a dynamic stage persona, making use of electronic effects to extend his range.
He now lives in the UK and devotes a large part of his time teaching children and adults how to play the harmonica. He promotes his own range of harps produced to his exacting standards. Speaking to Johnny about teaching brings out his enthusiasm for passing on his skills to the younger generation.
If you didn't catch his last appearance at The Barrelhouse you missed a treat so you'd better keep your eyes open - he'll be back.
There are video recordings available of Johnny's appearances at the Barrelhouse including one where he interviews and gigs with Gene "Mighty Flea" Connors.

Bernie was a founder member of "Whitesnake" though his roots are firmly in the blues. Bernie is one of the most dynamic guitarists on the scene extracting sustain of infinite length from his Les Paul. He often doubles up with his old Whitesnake partner Mick Moody for a dual guitar lineup. His tribute album to Peter Green named "Blues and Greens" gives you an appreciation of what a fine guitarist he is and his version of "Supernatural" is a masterpeice.. More information on Bernie can be tracked though
Bernie Marsden's website

Eddie Martin is a skilled all-rounder; well, he plays Guitar, Slide Guitar, Harmonica (while playing the Guitar too) and has a superb singing voice that was made for the blues - if that's not rounded I don't know what is.
He has worked with many of the greats including Dick Heckstall-Smith (who performed on Eddie's album "Blue to the Bone"), Junior Wells, Kim Wilson, Rod Piazza, Ronnie Earl and William Clarke.
If he comes back, be sure not to miss him.

Noel McCalla had a band of his own during the early 90's when they played at the Barrelhouse. He has a fantastic voice and nowadays he sings with a number of bands including Manfred Man's Earthband and records and tours with them. Noel has his own website here

Chrissie Hynde said of him "Robbie McIntosh's guitar playing thrilled and inspired me during his years as a Pretender and now, almost unbelievably, he sounds better than ever." During Robbie's time with the Pretenders on an American tour they were supported by a young Stevie Ray Vaughn.
Robbie McIntosh has been sideman to many of the top names in the music business. In addition to his four years as lead guitarist with The Pretenders, he spent six years with Paul McCartney and has also played for Talk Talk, Tears for Fears, Cher, Celine Dion, George Martin, Paul Young, Joe Cocker, Phil Collins, Annie Lennox, Carl Perkins and John Mayer. He's performed in major venues all over the globe (including, of course, The Barrelhouse) and he played on Live Aid.
It is no exaggeration to say that he is the guitarist's guitarist. He switches from jet setting around the world to minding his smallholding in Dorset. His acoustic sets are a complex but accessible blend of original tunes and arrangements of other music from folk to pop to rock to blues and classical. Beautiful melodic, technically complex but with no pretentiousness, just wonderful. For more information visit Robbbie's website

Mainly performing as a duo, Medicine Head were John Fiddler and Peter Hope-Evans. They started in 1968 and were championed by the late great John Peel who signed them to his Dandelion Record label. They used a range of backing musicians over the years including Tony Ashton and, vocalist of the Yardbirds, Keith Relf.

Clarence Horatius (Big) Miller was born in Sioux City, Iowa, 18 Dec 1922. He became a blues shouter in his teens in Kansas City and sang 1949-54 with the pianist Jay McShann and in 1955 with the Duke Ellington Orchestra. He was an accomplished trombonist and he appeared at the Barrelhouse during a tour of Europe in 1990 and enjoyed renown as an authentic Kansas City bluesman. He also appeared in the cult classic horror film "Big Meat Eater" as Abdulla. Clarence died in Canada in 1992 where he had spent much of his later life. You can read more about him here

John Mizarolli is a former guitarist for Ginger Baker of Cream.

Born in Belfast, the middle one of five children, Cliff was introduced to the heady world of rock and roll when given a drum kit at the age of five for Christmas which he destroyed. Moving to England as a lad, he took up the devils tool (guitar) at the ripe old age of thirteen having been given a beaten up old acoustic by his father, again for Christmas, fortunately this instrument lasted more than six hours.
He formed his first band aged fourteen with two erstwhile friends and started gigging on a regular basis (at least once every six months) playing schools, youth clubs, parties etc. For the last twenty years, Cliff has trodden the boards with many bands and has played with some fantastic musicians including members of; Iron Maiden, Whitesnake, Reef, UFO, Ozzy's Blizzard of Oz and others too numerous to mention! His musical influences range from Joni Mitchell to Van Halen, Stevie Wonder to Rush, Mozart to Motorhead and The Beatles to The Red Hot Chilli Peppers!! In the last year he has formed a new band, involving some of the finest musicians he knows: Rich Blake on bass guitar and vocals and Tim Price on drums and has started recording a new album and is currently setting up some tours in Northern Europe.

Guitarist, Bob Pearce is probably the longest serving blues musician on the South Coast. He ran the Onslow Blues Club in Southampton attracting many top american acts which his house band frequently backed. In the early 80's he teamed up with ex Yardbird Top Topham as a blues duo that were very successful around the clubs and festivals. Bob's influence can still be felt in both his live performances and in his publication "Blues in the South" and you can get more information on Bob here

Julian is a boogie woogie pianist of note who has played at the Barrelhouse on a number of occasions both alone and with his band "The Stuff". A local talent, Julian started playing the piano at the age of 10 and it didn't take him long to get the boogie woogie bug. Around the age of 14 he remembers first hearing boogie woogie at a friend's house. At 16 he joined a school rhythm and blues band, "The Controls", playing keyboards. The band played extensively, gigging at a range of venues including many pubs and village halls. The band split as the members went off to college, Julian attending Brighton Poly to study "Expressive Arts". There he got involved in a range of musical genres including theatre and dance. After graduating Julian worked with theatre companies as a composer and performer. After 3 years he returned to education attending The Welsh School of Musical Instrument Making and Repair at Abertridwr to obtain a diploma in piano tuning and restoration where Julian retuned to his first love, boogie woogie, performing widely around the valleys. Returning home he soon made a name as one of the South's Boogie Woogie greats. Julian's main musical influences are Cow Cow Davenport, Pinetop Smith, Montana Taylor, Cripple Clarence Loften, Big Maceo Merryweather, Mead Lux Lewis, Pete Johnson and Albert Ammons. His solo carrer has included an appearance at Axel Zwingenburger's "Long Night of the Boogie Woogie" concert in Hamburg, and performances at Arhus in Denmark. He performs regularly throughout the South of England with "The Stuff" playing boogie woogie and blues.

Dick Taylor was a very early member of the Rolling Stones, joining them as a bass guitarist, leaving in 1962. Dick Taylor left to form the Pretty Things where he would have a more prominent role as lead guitarist, along with Viv Prince, Phil May, John Stax and the late Brian Pendelton. The Pretty Things, the finest British band never to have a hit in the United States, were seen as the bad boys of British Rock, trying to out-bad the Stones percieved image. The career of the "Pretties" was kick-started with two Top-20 hit singles and you can read an interview with Dick Taylor covering their early days HERE The Pretty Things are still making music today, most of the original members having resurfaced. The group bought the rights to their own back catalogue and are re-issuing everything they ever recorded. Dick still performs with the "Pretties" and sometimes with his own band.

Detroit born Marsha Raven has an electrifying voice and is a dynamic performer. The Times described her as "a singer at the height of her powers". She is the third generation of a musical family and studied at the "Fame" school Cass Tech High in Detroit. She appeared in Richie Haven's off Broadway musical tribute "Electric God: the story of Jimi Hendrix" and wrote her own one-woman show "Blues Angels" chronicling the contribution of black black female singers to popular music which received great acclaim at both the Edinburgh Festival and Aldeburgh Music Festival. She followed this with her musical "Rock Queen" which was well received. From the reception she received for the "Blue Angels" show it is clear that Marsha is a talented mimic as well as a skilled performer in her own right who has a vast number of recordings to her name across a range of genres. She has made numerous television appearances and toured with Big Joe Turner

The Recliners have been playing together since 1992 and are the hottest band of their type in the area, drawing on the styles of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Jimi Hendrix to great effect. They sport a tight driving backline overlaid with aggressive guitar and horny hammond sounds. The band's rhythm section are brothers John and Graham with Mark on Guitar and Tim on keyboards, all four are from the Bournemouth area. They have supported "Snowy" White and appear widely at local venues including The Blue Boar in Poole where they regularly play to packed houses. Yet to be credited with the acclaim they deserve, they really are a first class act.

John Moorshead, the lead guitarist with Ainsley Dunbar's Retaliation lived in Sturminster Newton for a time and became a member of the local band. He appeared at the Barrelhouse with other members of the former Retaliation, including Victor Brox

Band Iguana, Jez Roden's Band

At age 19 after hearing John Coltrane, Andy went out and bought himself a saxophone and within 3 weeks was playing for the Bristol based band Sphere with whom he established his reputation. Moving to Paris he continued to broaden his experience, returning to the UK in the 80's. Andy has his own website where you can read full details of his career and view a portrait of Andy by Michael Taylor comissioned by Hoborne Museum in Bath.

Jim Sullivan started playing the guitar at 14 and by 16 it was his profession. He even gave a young Richie Blackmore a few lessons. At 17 he became one of Marty Wilde's Wildcats and has since performed on over 1000 recordings for a wide range of artists. Lulu - "Shout", Dave Berry - "The Crying Game", PJ Proby - "Hold Me" so many that if you want to see the list it is here. He is such an accomplished guitarist that he was called to work for a range of the big names through the years who could demand the best musicians. He played on several of Tom Jones' records and has backed him at many of his live appearances.

He didn't quite make it to the Barrelhouse but he was booked for the festival of June 2001 along with Sean Chambers.
In case you didn't know, Hubert Sumlin was Howlin' Wolf's guitarist but he also was Muddy Waters' too for some time. He is cited as the inspiration for many of our homegrown and American blues guitarists playing styles. He is still playing and recording despite having a lung removed as the result of cancer, however he is now reported to be free of the disease and more active than ever. There's a lot more on his website including photo's of Hubert with other famous people and you will find that here

When Mick Taylor plays, guitar a generation listens. With Over twenty years in rock and roll to his credit Mick has lent his talents to great artists such as the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and his first mentor, John Mayall. Mick Taylor joined the Rolling Stones at the height of the Summer of love. For the next six years Mick Taylor's unique sound would help the now legendary song writing team of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards set a precedent for all of Rock and roll to follow. His contributions are evident on Such classic albums as "Let it Bleed", "Sticky Fingers", "It's Only Rock n Roll". "Goat's Head Soup" and "Exile on Main Street". Mick Taylor's electric virtuosity added to the Stones already notorious stage antics captured on the raunchy but all telling live album "Get yer ya ya's out"! More recently Mick's guitar playing was featured on "Start me up" and "Waiting for a Friend" from the "Tattoo You" album as well as a track on Keith Richards' solo album "Talk is cheap". He last appeared at the Barrelhouse in 1998?.

Saxophonist Art Theman played in Alexis Korner's band, with Stan Tracey and with Jack Bruce.

His mother claims "He sang the day he was born" - well, that may be an exaggeration, but he certainly can now and he sure knows how to play the guitar. Bill Thomas is a powerful blues guitarist with an individual style reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix or Stevie Ray Vaughn. Like Jimi he is of native American blood. A Texan, now resident in Paris (France that is), Bill favours the power trio combination common to both Jimi and Stevie and has recorded with "Double Trouble", the SRV rhythm section.
In common with JH and SRV he is a Singer/Composer/Lead Guitarist and he lists among his influences Buddy Guy, Lightnin' Hopkins, Freddie King, Bukka White and Otis Rush as well as Jimi.
Since arriving in Europe Bill has received excellent reviews:

• "a fiery and most exciting guitarist" Soulbag Magazine
  
• "A galloping boogie, a Chuck Berry style rock 'n' roll or lamenting the blues, he immerses you in the roots of that music, without ever loosing its essence" - Dream - December 1997
  
• "We like here everything that we liked in Stevie Ray Vaughn" - Mark Villard
  
• "Preacher's Son is an incredible modern ignition of everything we love, have loved, will love in the Blues and Rock 'n' Roll music" - Rock & Folk

Rob Tognoni hails from Tasmania and is higly regarded as a skilled guitarist. Here are a few of the many glowing reports on him.
"Whilst Rob is a very powerful player, able to bring out power chords and driving riffs, there is also a subtle side to his playing that definitely reflects some of his influences, listed as including BB King, Hendrix, Grand Funk Railroad and Tony Joe White..."
Blues Matters Magazine UK

"Australian Rob Tognoni is one of the finest guitar players around today. His work is a combination of classic rock, blues & blues rock and is done with utmost passion and precision..."
Bandit Blues Radio USA

"A stunning guitarist with killer licks, and a fine blues rock feel..."
Jazz FM, London UK

You can find more on him on his website
Or just watch him playing Crossword Blues here

Top Topham has a blues pedigree as long as your arm, and, to quote from one of his releases "Lookin' Down The Backtracks", "Thousands of guitarists have walked in the footsteps of Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page but only Top Topham can claim that they walked in his." He was the original lead guitarist of the Yardbirds and so played a cruicial role in paving the way for British Blues and R&B to develop. No recordings exist of any of his performances with the Yardbirds - he was only 15 at the time - the others being around 20. He left to concentrate on his education as an artist. It was his father who introduced him to, and sowed the seed for his great love of the Blues. Over the years he has played alongside many of the greats and has recently begun to re-enter the scene revealing his truly wonderful talent for playing both hard hitting electric and sensitive acoustic blues. If you've not yet heard him, give your ears a treat.
To quote Victor Brox "You've heard of Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck from the Yardbirds, but this evening Ladies & gentlemen we have, on guitar, the underated and possibly greatest of them all . . . Top Topham". And, here's his website

Guy Tortora was born in Pasadena, California, but these days lives in London, England. He plays both acoustic and electric guitars, with a fine line in bottleneck playing. His fret action has been compared at one time or another to players from the well-known likes of Albert Collins or Ry Cooder, to the more obscure such as Mason Ruffner.

Restless feet and an urge to travel took him all across the USA & Canada & then brought him brought him to Europe, where he worked at ". . .just about anything" -- delivery boy, cook, artist's model, carpenter -- & wandering troubador, of course, while drifting around, eventually settling in London. The drifting continued, but now it was in and out of various bands playing many different musical flavors until eventually he came back to the blues, but in his own personal style. "I'm not trying to play Chicago - or Delta-style right now, that's just not me. For me the song comes first, so maybe I don't always appeal to the blues purists who want to put you in one particular pigeon hole and keep you there. I need to spread my wings a little bit."

Like other American contemporaries, he refuses to be cooped up in any box, blue or otherwise. In the mean time there are live but too-infrequent outings with his regular band in the London area, but plans are afoot for a series of gigs to promote the album very soon, at first in the UK, then further afield. The current live show is electric & acoustic blues of a fine order with G. T. on guitar, Brendan Canty on bass, Neil Littman on drums, & Janos Bajtala on keyboards.

Big Joe Turner is one of the all time great electric blues bass players and has an illustrious career to match. Born in Jackson, Tennessee on 4th July 1944. At the age of 10 he first learnt to play drums, then guitar, trombone and finally bass guitar. He has been playing professionally for 45 years.
His professional career really took off with Little Milton, with whom he played for 4 years or so. He then played bass for ALBERT KING for 7 years. One Sunday morning he received a phone call that was to organise his life for the next 5 years. There was an opening for him with B.B.KING, he had 2hrs to pack and get himself to Memphis airport. The band was on its way from New Orleans to St Louis He made that plane! Touring with B.B.King was a very intensive 335 days a year, playing at all of the major venues around the world.
When Joe left B.B.King he headed back for his adopted home of Memphis and became a cornerstone of the Blues Scene on Beale St.
In 1985 he formed the MEMPHIS BLUES CARAVAN and in 1986 Memphis recognised him by giving him the Key to the city for his contribution to Blues Music and on June 5th 1998 Jackson, Tennessee. Honoured him in the same way. He has also been given an award by The British Blues Connection for "Best bass Player" in 1997 and the "Talkin Blues Award" in Koln, Germany for "Best band of the Month" 1999.
JOE TURNER AND HIS MEMPHIS BLUES CARAVAN have opened the show for B.B.King on 3 occasions, The Temple Bar Blues Festival, Dublin 1994, The Royal Albert Hall, London 1996 and 1997. The band lineup at the time of their most recent (Feb 2001) visit to the Barrelhouse was - Clyde Spencer from Brooklyn (vocals), Mah "Slim" Todani from Hiroshima (guitar), Mattheiu Desbordes from France (drums), Loic Dasilva from Portugal (keyboards), Lucas Manderioli from Italy (tenor sax) and Frank Wlekly from France (alto sax).
JOE has written and produced 4 CDs, 3 with Mystic Records, UK and 1 with Cristal Records, France The latest is a live recording, "Blues in Chedigny". Visit Joe Turner's website. Sadly Joe died 31st January 2008.

A brilliant, gravelly voiced acoustic blues guitarist based in Dorset. If you love the Delta blues style you will really enjoy Dick's authentic performances. You won't hear Dick imitating a southern US accent to put across his songs but that is what makes it so good - genuine, from the heart.

Go to the website of Dick Wardell but last time I looked it only gave his contact address.

 Ben is an ace on the piano known for his stunning Boogie Woogie. At the age of eighteen, Ben recorded his first album "Take It Home" in one take. Producer Mike Trim commented it was the quickest session he had ever done. The album won rave reviews from the music press. The magazine Rock and Reel said of the album - "The quality of Ben's performance is spellbinding'
He has played with many of the top names Including Chris Jagger (as part of Atcha acoustic), Robbie MacIntosh and has stood in for Jools Holland on numerous occasions. He teamed up with Colin John for one of his performances at the Barrelhouse. He had played with Geraint Watkins on many occasions, the band was called Wat,Wat,Wat (Geraint Watkins, Diz Watson and Ben Waters). Three great piano players.
By the age of 26, Ben had toured the world, played for royalty and to live stadium audiences of over 50,000 people, appeared on one of the biggest TV shows in the U.S.A. (Late Night live NBC) and has had his own Radio 1 session for Andy Kershaw.
You can find more information on Ben's website

Snowy White is one of the hottest guitarists to have played at the Barrelhouse. He is known not for the great musicians he has played with (and they are numerous), but for the influence he has had on others. In terms of the blues in Britain he holds a similar respect to the likes of Peter Green and Eric Clapton. He has his own inimitable style peculiar to those artists who have "something special" - a sensitivity and a total command of their playing which makes the instrument an extension of themselves. After early success in Sweden (1967-1970) Snowy returned to Britain and continued to make an impression. The other members of the band at the time of their appearance at the barrelhouse were Walter Latuperissa and Juan van Emmerloot

The Yardbirds are Alan Glenn, formerly of 9 Below Zero on harp replacing Laurie Garmen. Jim McCarty and Chris Dreja are currently keeping the Yardbirds name alive by performing in England as The Yardbirds ??Plus John Idan on bass and vocals In addition, Jim McCarty also performs with THE YARDBIRDS EXPERIENCE, featuring Jim, Noel Redding, Creation Guitar God Eddie Phillips, Nashville Teens vocalist Ray "Tobacco Road" Phillips and Don Craine and Keith Grant of the Downliners Sect.

Chris Youlden is one of Britain's greatest Blues vocalists. His time with Savoy Brown in the late sixties and early seventies produced what critics and fans alike consider to be some of the best UK Blues. He got into the blues at around 17