Not to be confused with the boy band ‘The Wanted’ who started out around the same time, ‘Original’ was added to the name, soon after Mark Williams formed the group in 2010. They were primarily a covers band back then, but after a short while, they included more of their own songs while performing live. Playing classic rock and glam numbers of the 70’s and 80’s, where audiences can join in, is something ‘The Original Wanted’ have always enjoyed doing and having a fun element is an essential part of their show. These days there are more original tracks on the set list, so due to the positive feedback they’ve received, it was decided to record a self titled album.
Love At First Bite – Oozes with a set of moody chords that drag along the gutter. The sharp vocals of Mark Williams burst in, to add a sense of retro charm, while the guitar of Rob Hedison opens fire mid way, scorching all in its awakening path. It’s an opening track with simple qualities, but it leaves you gasping for more.
In The Shit (2023) – This one sure as hell strikes you. There’s stacks of rapid lyrics flowing without a pause and a punk/sleaze theme that could start a riot. Mark, a present day Gary Holton (Heavy Metal Kids), delivers with such positive attitude, it’s the type of loveable shambolic noise that’s been missing for too long.
Candi’s Lil’ Sister – The drums of Martin Neeson are mighty and evident from the intro, then the guitars swing into motion. It’s another with simplistic form, but the building of rhythm, eventually pouring into a cauldron of swathing metal, takes this a step further. The chorus allows cooling and it’s blatantly sublime, then more guitar is added, just in case there’s any room left and the end result is remarkable.
That Lady (2023) – Stumbling and thumping bass by way of Tim Ellison and succulent drumming from Martin get this one underway. Cruising rock and roll follows, that drives with cushioned charm. Again the words spill with ease, but it’s the guitar giving it that extra classic coating, that I found enthralling.
Morning Train – The drums rumble and an atmosphere is soon created, that reflects a Midwest railroad setting. It has that kind of tempo, a slow journey on the tracks, with bluesy vocals and superb echo shifting guitar licks. The words ‘Leaving on the morning train’, with backing cries of ‘hey’ thrown in, give the song ample stature.
The Original Wanted – The eponymous track, starts with a speech from Boris Johnson and a siren blaring, reminding us of lockdown. That soon fades and the band turn the dials up to eleven for their signature tune. Head battering, foot stomping old school rock, this has a massive catch. No frills, no overworked technique, just a monstrous bashing in the eardrums. Raw to the bone and exceptionally well manoeuvred, this takes some beating.
A Different Song – The dazzling effect continues, with sugary vocals and vigorous cow horn. A mixture that carries this number, into the realm of sing along supremacy. It has all the segments required to blind you with astonishment and once again Rob’s guitar work is incredible.
The Only Girl For Me – Resembling an unraveled serenade, this is a love song that touches the heart. Less is often more and the wispy softness is skilfully balanced, while retaining that feeling of powerful dedication.
Back To The Glam – Going out with a retro vibe, this has the glitz of Mott The Hoople combined with the rocking fever of Status Quo. Wondrous and imaginative, having an easy to reach approach, this is outrageously brilliant.
For a band to achieve this level of innovative retro sounding rock, with such a vast amount of freshness, rings alarmingly loud bells. The Original Wanted already have a massive following, not only in their home town of Telford, but much of the West Midlands. However this album should see them gain more altitude and take them onto even more stages across the country. There’s an uninhabited area in sweetly seasoned classic rock these days, that they could fill ten times over.
‘There’s an uninhabited area in sweetly seasoned classic rock these days, that they could fill ten times over’.
HIGHLIGHTS – Candi’s Little Sister, That Lady, The Original Wanted, Back To The Glam.
Album credits – Produced, mixed and mastered by Steven Eastment & Kevin Bartlett at THE SMASH ROOMS Telford
Contact the band via socials, for your copy of the album which is available on cd for the sum of £10 plus £2 postage.
The Original Wanted WEBSITE
SOUNDCLOUD LINKS FOR ‘In The Shit’ and ‘That Lady’ – HERE
The Original Wanted are – Rob Hedison Guitar. Martin Neeson Drums/Vocals. Mark Williams Vocals/Rhythm Guitar and Tim Ellison Bass.
Upcoming Gigs – 24/3/23 Alberts Shed Southwater Telford & 7/4/23 The Wrekin Inn Wellington Telford. The band are also appearing at the Newhampton Arts Centre on 30/9/23.
