‘One More Time’ was released back in 2022, by the rocking blues band, based mainly in Lancashire. Temporarily dropping ‘Blues’ from their title, to reflect this more rock inspired EP. John Angus has been playing since he was a teenager, now fronting his own outfit, delivering original songs, he’s finally getting the notice he deserves. If you want to mix the influences of Muddy Waters, Howling Wolf and Paul Rodgers, you set yourself a high benchmark, however John and his crew are quite capable of achieving it and more. After listening to this band it’s hard to believe they’re from the Northwest of England not the Mississippi Delta. Although they did share the same space as their idols, when some tracks from their previous EP ’Heartbreak’, were recorded at the Sun Studios in Memphis.
‘Hey Mama’ is the first number off ‘One More Time’ and I’m taken with John’s voice from the outset, clear and unwavering, he sings with effortless clarity. The guitars herald luscious melody, that charms you down to your studded boots, Stewart Speirs adds harmonica and it simply rolls along with easy going, fluidity. The drums of Andy Hurley introduce ‘Life’s What You Make It’ and continue to make their mark throughout, securing the base line. Again John’s vocals are pristine and the lyrics pour out with chilled ease. Bram Duckworth on lead guitar, takes control mid way for a solo that gets into a deep groove of some refinement, before the track dissolves with melting sublimity.
‘Cry On My Shoulder’ has all the components required to impress. The bass of Tim Hopkins and Andy’s drumming, back the mellow feel perfectly. Bram’s chords dig low to give depth and the harmonies add balance. Soft keyboards from Adam Hutchins chime, as ‘Sinners’ wraps up the EP. This is a slower ride, more poignant notes are displayed and the sombre tone is quite moving alongside more stunning guitar. Four lengthy tracks from John Angus and his band and an EP that any lover of blues/rock, should have in their collection.
‘Hard to believe they’re from the Northwest of England not the Mississippi Delta’
BAND MEMBERS – John Angus – lead vocals and guitar, Bram Duckworth – lead guitar, Adam Hutchins – piano and keyboards, Andy Hurley – drums, Tim Hopkins – bass and Stewart Speirs – harmonica.
The band will soon be releasing a double live CD and DVD from their recent show at the The Forum Music Centre and have a string of live dates lined up, check out their social pages here for more details – FACEBOOK WEBSITE
