By popular demand - The Hicksville Bombers.

In the distance you can hear an air raid siren sounding with the rhythmic beat of a set of drums.. "Bomb’s Away", I hear you call… Well, you’re not wrong. Bomber Command has been called, and another raid on your senses has been sanctioned.

The Hicksville Bombers started way back in 1992, three lads from Lincoln (Hicksville to the locals), and since the second world war, the locality is well known as Bomber country. So, there you have it, the Hicksville Bomber had been born. Their first line up was: Dave Brown on guitar and vocals, Peter (Gordie) O’Brian on upright slap bass, and finally Bryn Jones on drums. They toured the length and breadth of the UK and Europe for a few years until Pete and Bryn moved on to other things. They’re still as fierce now as they was then.

The Bombers have released quite a few albums over the years with their unique rockabilly style. This, their new release entitled; “Heaven In Hell” has their named stamped all over it. From the first song, right through to the last I defy anyone who won’t be taping their feet from start to finish.

More of Bomber Command later... 

So, who's who?

Dave Brown – Guitar / Vocals.

Landon Filer - Dawg house Slap Bass.

Paul Saunders - Drums.

What's on the disc?

1: Devil’s Fight - 2: Don’t Let Me Face The Rain - 3: Take A Bite - 4: Heaven In Hell - 5: Grease Monkey - 6: So Long I’m Gone - 7: The Man You Want Me To Be - 8: Bottomless Pit - 9: Concrete Jungle SE28 - 10: Can’t Get Drunk On You - 11: Fake Whiskey - 12: Born To Be Wild.

As I was saying.... The Hicksville Bombers, a sight, and sound that hold’s the interest from the young and old alike. I guarantee that if you see these, the dance floor will be well populated all night, with a cataclysmic, ground shakin’ cacophony of the hottest form of rockabilly, raw rockin’ rhythm and blues and a great sense of humour to match.

I’ve followed the career of this band for many years, and they have never failed to entertain. The most recent was in Birmingham on New years Eve 2022 in to 2023. Wow, what a night. From Dave’s immaculate Gretsch guitar playing, Landon’s triple slap on that dawg house bass, to Paul’s machine like rhythm on his pearl white Slingerland drums. The crisp, sharp timing to the ear-splitting guitar licks, and thunderous back beat, you won’t be disappointed. Now that’s enough singing the praises of the lads, back to their latest CD; Heaven in Hell.

12 tracks that’ll make you thirsty for more. I first played it in the house on a little Cd player, but that didn’t quite do it justice. So, in the car it went, and the following day, on my drive to work along the M60 towards the M62, my attention was moved from the chore of driving in commuter traffic, to the thrill of getting the volume turned up, and feeling the excitement building with each track. I’ll tell you this, it’s bloody brilliant! Well done lads, you’ve really set the benchmark that many others can only follow, and not pass.

Where can I get a copy of the CD?

Hicksville Bombers    Raucous Records

Introducing - Dylan Kirk And The Killers

Introducing Dylan Kirk And The Killers.

Well what do you know? We have a killer in the ranks! Yes, a genuine killer. Enter Dylan Kirk. A quiet unassuming lad until he gets in front of the piano, and with raging adrenalin coursing through his veins, he launches into an almost uncontrolled assault on the keyboard. Now we've all seen various piano acts from the UK over the years, but we haven't seen one as raw and as ready as Dylan Kirk. When you watch archive footage of Jerry Lee Lewis it's extremely evident what Dylan's influences are.

From a very early age he was obsessed with the sounds of early Rock N Roll . Artists such as Elvis, Eddie Cochran and many others inspired him to pick up a guitar. He taught himself some very basic chords which could be played alongside most Rock N Roll records.

More of the phenomenon of Dylan Kirk later... 

So, who's who in the combo?

Dylan Kirk - Piano / Lead Vocals. - Sam French - Lead Guitar.

Luke Nichols - Slap Bass. - Shaun O'Keeffe - Drums.

What's on the disc?

1: Rollin' Dynamite - 2: Junkie - 3: You'll Be My Baby - 4: Sinner Not A Saint - 5: So What - 6: Down The Line - 7: Monkey Beat City - 8: Pretty Jane - 9: Long Time No Love - 10: Ten Long Fingers - 11: Call Me Shorty - 12: Dream Catcher.

So, as I was saying.... By the time this young prodigy had reached his teenage years he delved deeper into the 50's era. He then discovered Jerry Lee , a man, in Dylan's own words; "I owe everything to", in the hot summer of 2016 he decided that it was time to pick up an instrument again.. Enter the huge box with the black n white keys. Thanks to his grandparents, he took possession of a Yamaha keyboard, and now with the tools to his trade, he commenced to learn and master the skills needed.

Now, a few years later he's appeared at regular club events, weekenders, and festivals all over the UK and Europe. I'll tell you one thing; he's a thoroughbred British rocker of the highest degree. Off stage he's meek and mild, on stage he's as wild as they come. When the opportunity arises, I recommend seeing this young pad in action. He'll blow the roof off, that's for sure!

I've had the pleasure to see him and the lads perform a few times, and even shared the same stage. He produces a knock out sound and a real mean act. I for one will be looking forward to seeing him again in 2021. I wish them all the very best of luck for the future. From what I've seen so far, the future is bright for this kerosene fuelled combo. 

So get finger crunching those keyboards and treat yourself to this "KILLER" CD.

Where can I get a copy of the CD?

Dylan Kirk   Bear Family Records  Raucous Records

 

The Tony Marlow Anthology - 40 years of Rock N Roll.

Introducing The Tony Marlow Anthology - 40 Years on the Rock N Roll circuit.

Every now and then one comes across an absolute gem of an album, and in this case a double album that charts the career of one of the nicest people that I have had the pleasure to meet. Tony has been either beatin' the drums or strumming the lead on songs dating back to pre 1978. It career spanning 40+ years has seen him take a leading role in bands such as "The Rockin' Rebels", "Betty & The Bops", "Les Bandits Mancho", "The Tony Marlow Trio", "The Tony Marlow Guitar Party", and of late "K'Ptain Kidd". He's played at venues right across Europe and the United Kingdom. In-fact there isn't much he hasn't done. 

The Anthology was professionally put together to celebrate the 40 year milestone in his career, and I'll say one thing, it's not for the faint of heart either. Not many bands have competed 40 years of smooth performances, and Tony will admit himself that it hasn't always been an easy ride. From the very start of his career, the guitar wasn't his chosen weapon, no, as I mentioned a little earlier, he was a fellow drummer. Some guitarists will say he came from the dark side. Me, well no.. It's a pleasure to know someone who's as multi talented and as professional as Tony. When you listen to his music, it's faultless and you'll hear the professionalism in it's entirety. 

So what's inside the albums? This sensational double CD package is loaded 50 songs, all of Tony's finest work.

So, what's in the box?

CD1: "The Rockin' Rebels" - 1; Western - 2: Ravin' Sound - 3: Water Wheel - 4: Dynamite - 5: Train Hit The Tracks - 6: Gonna Rock Tonight - 7: Hey! Jump Le Blues - 8: Bleu Comme Jean - 9: Branche Le Poste. "Tony Marlow Et Les Prives"  - 10: Frenesie - 11: Mademoiselle Voulez-Vous? - 12: Cliche Nocturne - 13: Hello Baby Mademoiselle. "Betty & The Bops"  - 14: Swimming Through The Bayou - 15: Rockin' Guitar Man - 16: Crazy Little Daddy - 17: Laisse Les Filles. "Tony Marlow"  - 18: Hot Rod Special - 19: Hillbilly Blues. "Betty & The Bops"  - 20: All I Can Do Is Cry -21: The Memphis Train. "Les Bandits Mancho" - 22: Beyond The Sea - 23: Paris Boogie - 24: Au Clair De Blues. "Tony Marlow" 25: One Week In Memphis.

CD2: "The Rockin' Rebels" - 1: Rock-A-Like-That - 2: Wild Cat On The Loose - 3: 60 Thousand Feet - 4: Crocodile Swamp - 5: Guitar Man - 6: Gentle On My Mind - 7: My Happiness. "Tony Marlow" - 8: The Missing Link - 9: Lonesome Rider - 10: The Booze Fighters - 11: Devilish Woman - 12: Girl On The Loose - 13: Even Rockers Got The Blues - 14: 59 Club - 15: Searchin' For You - 16: L'Homme A La Moto - 17: Miss Brighton - 18: Already Gone - 19: Le Cuir Et Le Baston - 20: Laissez-Moi Dormir. "K'Ptain Kidd" - 21: Le Diable En Personne - 22: So What - 23: K'ptain Kidd. "Tony Marlow" - 24: Rock'N'Roll Princess - 25: R.D.V. Au Ace Cafe.

Right from the very start this action packed double whammy had my feet tapping throughout. The genres covered are just the right blend of raw rockabilly that's of the right calibre that would have been perfectly suited to have fallen straight out of Sam Phillips studio on Union Avenue. It's direct, hard hitting and grabs you by the throat and says: "Oi, listen to this"; in a nice way of course... Hand on heart, I have to say that my CD collection wouldn't have been complete had I not had this. It's a right little fire cracker of a double album and I urge the readers to get a copy of this sensational 2 x disc album NOW! 

So what's he up to now? Tony still has The Tony Marlow Trio and The Guitar Party, but since 2019 he's taken on the role of supporting Alicia's project, the tremendously successful "Alicia F!" and not to forget his very own Rock / Blues combo; "Marlow Rider". Keep you eyes peeled for these once live concerts start up again, you won't be disappointed.

Where will I find this?

To order your copy, visit tonymarlow.bigcartel.com or alternatively, visit Rockparadise
 

TIMEBOMBS ARE GO! - The Timebomb Allstars

Timebombs Are Go! is the opening track on the debut album from The Timebomb Allstars, incidentally called "Timebombs Are Go". After listening to the Bombtastic album I realised that I was smiling from ear to ear as I relived memories of being a young Teddy Boy in Manchester in the 80's. The sounds are very much reminiscent of such bands as Crazy Cavan, Hot Foot Gale, Rock Island Line, Matchbox, Vernon & The GI's, and Shotgun, to name a few. Throughout my feet were a boppin, and my hands a poppin to this digital sensation.

So, what's on board this pocket rocket ship?

1: Timebombs Are Go - 2:Teddyboy Rock N Roll - 3: Gretsch 59 - 4: Motorbike - 5: Endless Sleep - 6: Baby Be Mine - 7: Dare Devils - 8: Greenback Dollar, Watch & Chain - 9: Rockin' With The Jukebox - 10: Puttin' On The Style - 11: 1974 - 12: house Of The Rising Sun - 

13: T-R-O-U-B-L-E.

To continue with the feelings brought back from listening to this explosive debut album. It's raw, originally sounding and I could imagine these going down a storm at the likes of The Roman Way, Caister and The Pavillion, these venues are sadly no longer with us. However, there's a pedigree of talent within this four piece combo.. So, let me introduce you to the powerhouse behind the Nitro fuelled release. On the inside cover of the album they describe themselves as four recycled teenagers who refuse to behave like adults.. My kinda guys!

So, who are they?

Johnny Spaceman - Lead Vocals.

Dave Spaceman - Drums / Backing Vocals.

Age Spaceman - Lead Guitar / Backing Vocals.

Marky Spaceman - Bass Guitar / Backing Vocals.

From the very first track I lost years off my age and found myself boppin' all over the house, jumpin' into backdrops and half splits. (my bones have suffered since.. hehehehehe), but I don't care. There aren't too many bands out there that genuinely take me back to my youth. Hearing the last two tracks "House of The Rising Sun" and "T-R-O-U-B-L-E", lets not get confused with the Elvis song of the same name, but this one self penned by Dave himself is a pure tribute to the king of British Rockability, Crazy Cavan. 

Moving forward, these boys, yes, I say boys and not men as they've taken guys like me back to our teens will look forward to seeing these blow the roof off venues at such weekenders as The Skegness Stomp, Weton-Super-Mare, The Ted Do, The Wildest Cats. What you see is what you get. Pure, honest true rockers!

The album recorded on the Foot Tapping pedigree label is a MUST HAVE for all DJ's and fans alike. This seriously needs some airtime on the rockin' radio stations around the cosmos. No interstellar planetary system is too near or too far for these lads!

Where do I buy this cataclysmic time machine?

Dave Diamond or Timebomb Allstars Official Facebook Page

Time to play it again... Can't stop, gotta keep on boppin!

 
 

Rockabilly Troubadour - Tony Marlow.

Rockabilly Troubadour, the 3 minute 27 second opening song on this sensational disc from the ever talented Tony Marlow.

The first time I developed an interest in this album was from listening to the content on YouTube. The entire disc in recorded in both French and Corsican, but that didn't matter at all! Rockabilly has one universal language and that's the rhythm in its veins, and the thumping beat of its heart. 

So, what's in store when you open the album?

1: Rockabilly Troubadour - 2: Le Cuir Et Baston - 3: Piun'da Che L'Amore - 4: L'Ivresse - 5: Debout! - 6: Le Garage - 7: Elle Revient - 8: Paso! - 9: Le Diable Au Corps - 10: Buchi Vuchi Tu - 11: Le Prochain Train - 12: Get Your Motor Runnin (Part 1) - 13: Get Your Motor Runnin (Part 2) - 14: Laissez Moi Dormir - 15: Monte Cintu.

15 action packed tracks performed by the maestro himself, Tony Marlow.  Tony has quite a pedigree on the rockin' circuit, he's played all over Europe and performed in the UK too. In fact in his 40+ years on the rock n roll / rockabilly scene there's not many places where he hasn't graced the stage. Now, back to this explosive album. The disc is loaded with a very powerful mix of rockabilly, rock n roll and rhythm n blues. On playing this my feet are tapping and my soul is jumping! Again, I must be quite firm that no matter the language, it's one outstanding piece of work that get's plenty of play time for me, and I urge any readers to go out, jump on your MAC or PC and order your own copy. I love it!

Who's who on the disc?

Tony Marlow - Guitar / Vocals.

Gilles Tournon - Slap Bass.

Denis Baudrillart - Drums.

In addition to the above, Mathias Lusztinski - Saxophone (tracks 3 & 11) and Steve Verbeke - Hamonica (tracks 6 & 14). 

The album was recorded under the Rock Paradise (Paris) label under the expertise of Patrick Renassia back in 2013. The first thing that struck me was the album's brilliant artwork. The disc

A caricature of Tony astride a classic Harley with his trusty Gretsch sticking out of the pannier bag on the side. The songs, no matter the language are boptastic! A message to any budding DJ, this album is an absolute MUST HAVE to your collection, and one that MUST have some air time. 

This is seriously French Rockabilly at it's very best! Tony Marlow has calved a path for others to follow with this album. Tony's lightning fast guitar licks, razor sharp timing, and excellent vocals you can't go wrong.

Where do I buy a copy?

To order your copy, visit tonymarlow.bigcartel.com or alternatively, visit Rockparadise 

 

Vauxhall A-Go-Go by "The Diamond Daddio's"

 

A short time ago I received a 4 track CD from Diamond Dave Prince, "The Diamond Daddio's - Vauxhall A-Go-Go". Well, what a crackin' lil' CD this is. The history behind the concept had been discussed between Dave and his lovely wife "Susie". She encouraged him to pursue this project. So, with Susie giving Dave her full support he set off and joined forces with Zac Mondo. 

1: Vauxhall A-Go-Go, 2: My Baby's Gone, 3: Who Put The "R", 4: Diamonds From Outer Space.

Zac did the recording and played bass too. The inspiration for the title song (Vauxhall A-Go-Go) was Dave's old 1956 Vauxhall Wyvern that he wrote over 6 years ago. My baby's Gone was a song the he wrote back in 1994, and after a few recent updates with a few word changes, very reminiscent to Roy Hamilton and Jim Dale's song (Don't Let Go), which had always been a favourite tune of Dave's.  Who Put The "R" again was put together and Dave wanted to include the words Memphis and how the music get's into your heart and soul. Diamonds From Outer Space.. Now that's a tune! This Diamond of a track was written and composed by Zac Mondo. The getting together of Dave and Zac inspired them to put two genius minds together. It's pure British Rock N Roll at it's very best. Dave had always wanted to get his songs out there for the people to listen to. These had been recorded back in 2019 but never made it to vinyl.

Susie throughout remained Dave's inspiration. During the current lock-down situation Dave decided that life was too short and set about getting things moving and once the CD had been created he put the disc out himself. Over 100 copies sold within the first 24 hours, and that's dedication! A subsequent 2 re-releases had been pressed, these too had sold out. He put the disc out himself on his very own "Diamond Discs Label".

Having listened to the CD thoroughly I'll tell you this.. It's a right little pocket rocket! I love it! The powerhouse creating the beat on his forever faithful "Trixon" drums and Zac providing the guitar and bass, well I'll tell you; No body will be able to find fault with this set up.

So, what has Dave got planned for the future? As he never sits down for long (unless he's playing), he already has plans for a further CD release for 2021, there's no news yet on the title or content so you'll have to watch this space for further news. I for one will wish Dave and indeed his lovely wife Susie all the very best for the future. No doubt what ever Dave decides to release, it'll soon be up for grabs and will sell like hot cakes.

The Shakin Pyramids - Skin'm Up!

Skin Em Up

Who can’t forget the opening guitar riff on the headline song “Take A Trip?” Pure genius; I saw these on a couple of occasions, the first being when they first launched their debut vinyl LP outside the HMV store on Market Street, Manchester in 1981. The second encounter was at The Manchester Apollo Theatre as they played support for Shakin’ Stevens. The scene as they walked on stage, no introduction, just quietly, yet calmly. Dave was carrying an old snare drum and brushes. Whilst Railroad Ken and James had their guitars slung over their shoulders. A stage hand rapidly set up the microphones as the auditorium watch and waited. Within minutes, you heard Dave shout out; “1-2-3-4” and they kicked off with Take A Trip. The roof almost exploded with excitement.

The album entitled “SKIN EM UP” (Virgin – LA-356) contained 12 of the most exciting, foot stompin’, and quiff shakin’ tracks that you’ve ever heard. A full house of both self-penned and covered songs, from the outrageously wild “Take A Trip” to the mellow “Sunset Of My Tears” with its haunting guitar intro and fade out. – Anyway, as I was saying. They played a couple of songs outside the store before moving off to Piccadilly train station to board the train back to Glasgow. Without prompt, they got together on the platform and entertained the forever watchful eyes of their fans with the headline song; “Take A Trip”.  The station staff didn’t know what to make of it, but the 100s of fans boppin on the platform was some spectacle.

Who Are They?

Three young guys from Glasgow formed a Scottish Neo Rockabilly band back in the late 1970’s, the band members being: Dave Duncan – (Vocals / Harmonica / Percussion), James G. Creighton – (Acoustic / Electric Guitar & Vocals), “Railroad” ken McLellan – (Acoustic Guitar / Vocals). The early part of their career had been spent busking on the streets of Glasgow and for a short period, in France too. Whilst in France they honed in on their writing skills to produce some the best rockabilly that you’ve ever heard.

During the band's recording career from 1980-83, they released two studio albums (Skin Em Up / Celts & Cobra's), four singles (Reefabilly Boogie 1980 - Tennessee Rock N Roll 1981 - Just A Memory 1982 - Pharaoh's Chant 1982) and 3 extended plays (EP's) (Take A Trip 1981 - Tennessee Rock N Roll 1981 - The Shakin' Pyramids with Lonnie Donegan 1981). A 1983 compilation album was released shortly after the group had split up, and a live album followed in 2001. Even though the band didn't enjoy major chart success, their work was generally well received by critics. They earned a loyal fan base through their energetic live performances, which was originally honed on the Victorian streets of Glasgow and later displayed via their extensive touring and television appearances. In recent years, their work has been described as having helped define the short-lived rockabilly revival of the early 1980's.  

Track List:

Side one:

1: Take A Trip, 2: Tennessee Rock N Roll, 3: Let’s Go, 4: Teenage Boogie,

5: Tired N Sleepy, 6: Wild Little Willie.

Side Two:

1: Cry Cry Kitten, 2: Sixteen Chicks, 3: Pretty Bad Blues, 4: I Got A Baby,

5: Sunset Of My Tears, 6: Hellbent On Rockin.

Reviews from back when...

In a review by New Musical Express (NME) and Rolling Stone both gave the album perfect review ratings, awarding it 10/10 and 5/5 respectively.

Trouser Press had written: "The album pounds furiously, putting the average megawatt metal band to shame. Songs, mostly non originals zip by at a blinding rate; the records only flaw is its brief running time. Then again, if brevity be the soul of music, The Shakin' Pyramids are the rockabilly version of The Ramones".

All Music gave the album a resounding 4.5/5 star rating, calling it an "Explosive Boppin and mostly acoustic set"... Which helped define the short lived rockabilly revival of the early 80's.

All in all this album is an absolute must for all music lovers, not just those of us who love rockabilly. It's now joined the ranks of many other timeless classics, one that I still play today and recount the days of the albums first release and the fever that it created for its demand.

If you haven't got a copy of this outstanding piece of vinyl, then check out the links below. It's now available on CD too.

Discogs / The-Shakin Pyramids - Skin Em Up

Raucous Records

Mike Cookson

Tony Marlow - Knock Out

“Action Baby, don’t stay home.

Action Baby, I call you in the phone.

Action Baby, I’ll meet you tonight.

Action Baby, don’t stay hangin’ on the line”.

 

These are the opening lyrics to the headline song on this superb vinyl LP; “”Knock Out”, from France. Stage name is Tony Marlow who has over 40 years under his belt on the rockin’ scene. I was aware of Tony’s skills from way back when after I had purchased a few imports from a record shop in Manchester that specialised in imports from the USA and Europe. Yanks records were fairly unknown and resided within the basement of an old mill that had later been converted to office space. However, just over a year ago I had the pleasure to share the stage with Tony at The Cruise Inn, Amsterdam. Talk about being a perfectionist. It was an honour and a privilege to see him perform. 

Well, he’s as professional as they come. Since then we've become pretty good friends.

This album entitled “Knock Out ” is loaded with 13 pure ton up tracks and produced under the professional watchful eye of Marc Zermati of Skydog Records (RPLP03), and recorded at Kaiser Studios in March 2009. The eye catching theme, and album art by Dom S-D, is Tony on the cover ready for a fight. This is a definite must have for any modern day “Ton-Up” kid. All songs self-penned by Tony Marlow with the exception of (Side One - track 4: Side Two - Tracks 6 & 7).

So, who's who? As you guessed, Tony Marlow on lead vocals and Guitar. Andras Mitchel on Bass / Upright Bass and  Backing Vocals and last but not least Vintage Bob on Drums and Backing Vocals.

Side One:

1: Action Baby,  2: Just The Talk Of The Town, 3: Swamp Sinner,

4: Ghost Riders In The Sky, 5: Even Rockers Got The Blues, 6: Get Krazy,

Side Two:

1: Ridin To the Ace, 2: Devilish Woman, 3: Fifty Nine Club, 4: My search,

5: Girl On The On The Loose, 6: Jezebel, 7: I Fought The Law.

 

To start this spectacular album Tony gives you that Cajun rockabilly feel, one that you could almost imagine the late great Charlie Feathers could have performed. Throughout the album he ups the ante and increases the pulse rate as he draws you closer to the ton. Couple of the classics that Tony included really set the pace. Ghost Riders in the Sky with its country origins now a firm rocker. Couple this with the mean and moody Jezebel, one that’s been covered by Marty Wilde, Frankie Laine, and such modern day bands such as The Jets. And who can forget I Fought The Law? Originally penned by Sonny Curtis and later performed by such artists as The Bobby Fuller Four, The Clash, Green Day, Dead Kennedys and now a new kid on the block; Alicia F!, where you’ll hear Tony’s guitar skills.

 

Throughout this disc it kept my fingers tapping and feet boppin to the steady rhythm and beat. I would thoroughly recommend this to any budding rockers collection.

To obtain a copy, contact:

https://www.facebook.com/tonymarlowmusic/

www.myspace.com/rockparadiserecords

email: rockparadise@wanadoo.fr 

Crazy Cavan - Live At The Rainbow..

"Lets Stomp Stomp Stomp Everybody, Stomp Stomp Stomp Everybody!"..

These lines simple in their entirety, started a life time obsession with one of the greatest phenomenon's to come out of South Wales. As a young Teddy Boy, aged about 14, I was listening to some early Cliff Richard , Gene Vincent and others of the like.. Then suddenly a sound from my next door neighbours bedroom shook my very foundations. A sound that I only thought existed in folk law. 

South Wales produced more than just Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones.

Well, it's here and it's loud! Crazy Cavan and the Rhythm Rockers - Live At The Rainbow.

I loved this album so much, I jumped on the first bus in to Manchester, ran to HMV and bought myself a copy. This album, recorded on the Charly records label (CR30139) in 1978 was a revolution, a revelation in fact!

The sound, the energy, the vibe that rang out from this live recording at The Rainbow Theatre in Finsbury Park, London. Home to some of the greatest names in music. Frank Zappa, Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Eric Clapton, Iron Maiden and many many more.

The album consists of 11 of the greatest Rockabilly revival tracks that any 14 year old could ever wish for. In-fact, I wore it out.. I'm on for my 3rd copy.. Yes, I said third!

1; She's The One To Blame, 2: Okie Boogie, 3: Teddy Boy rock N Roll, 4: Stompin' Shoes,

5: Ollie Vee, 6: Bop Pretty Baby, 7: Tongie Tied Jill, 8: Teddy Boy Boogie, 9: Old Black Joe,

10: My Little Sister's Got A Motorbike, 11: Real Gone Lover.

Such an eclectic mix of songs, some original and others covers by such artists of Charlie Feathers, Buddy Holly, Jack Guthrie and others.. The shear power and velocity at which Cavan would thrust the mic stand forward as he launched into opening song. Sadly, the legend is no longer with us, but his memory will stay in our hearts and minds forever.

http://www.crazycavan.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Theatre

Wilko Johnson / Roger Daltrey - Going Back Home.

“I wanna live the way I like, Sleep all the morning, go and get my fun at night”..

These are the opening lines to a song that’s transfixed millions. Originally a classic written by Wilko Johnson of (Dr Feelgood and Mick Green Johnny Kidd & the Pirates), and now covered by Wilko and Roger Daltrey who’s more famous as the front man from the 60’s iconic band The Who.

The album entitled “GOING BACK HOME” is loaded with 11 songs, rock solid Rhythm & Blues. Not this thing they call R&B these days, but classic 12 bar blues. (Released in 2014 on the Chess Label) (CRCD2014).

1:Going Back Home,  2: Ice On The Motorway, 3: I Keep It To Myself, 4: Can You Please Crawl Out Your Window, 5: Turned 21, 6: Keep On Loving You, 7: Some Kind Of Hero, 8: Sneaking Suspicion, 9: Keep It Out Of Sight, 10: Everybody’s Carrying A Gun, 11: All Through The City.

After Wilko Johnson was diagnosed with Terminal cancer in early 2013 he decided that he wasn’t going to take it lying down. He teamed up with long-time friend Roger Daltrey and smashed out some of Dr Feelgood’s back catalogue dating back to the 70’s. The sound was very much in the ballsy, some say brash Essex style, with that American Rhythm & Blues feel.  Johnson, still with his signature aggressive guitar technique, as he slices it through the air like a sword wielding warrior, he then pushes his guitar into his shoulder like he’s holding a machine gun, and Daltrey with that arrestingly harsh voice, some might say like a box of rusty spanners, yet perfect in every way. So, without any further ado they took a journey back to Wilko’s roots. Wilko self-penned some of the original songs on this spectacular album sometime after the cancer diagnosis.

One question that I hear you ask: "What makes Going Back Home" so special? Wilko now Roger are trying to hide their age , nor are they attempting to recapture their lost youth. Instead in my opinion they'er reconnecting their roots and seizing the moment. They, like us aren't getting any younger so why not!

Wilko did admit in a documentary interview with the Telegraph Newspaper: “My only regret in life is the fall out with Lee Brilleaux”. The steady, surely vocals of Brilleaux the then frontman from Dr Feelgood. In comparison, Daltrey projects his vocals to that of a Rock king on a huge stadium stage.

In a nutshell, this powerhouse of a duo pushed out the music they loved, they’ve made testament to the everlasting power of music and how it enriches and strengthens life. This album has its place in musical history. To own it is a privilege, to play it is an honour.

https://www.facebook.com/ChessRecordsOfficial/

http://wilkojohnson.com/

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRogerDaltrey/

Mike Cookson.

The Tri-Sonics - Rock N Roll Remedy

“I May Be Wrong (But It Don't Seem Right)”..

The leading song from this spectacular album by The Tri-Sonics, a trio based in Germany.

The album entitled “Rock N Roll Remedy” is packed with 13 songs, solid rockabilly songs, most self penned by Derek Singleton, the bands front man, with the exception of tracks "2" (Bruce Springsteen), "5" (Hank Williams) and "13" (Richard Penniman).

(Released in 2005 on the Raucous Label) (RAUCD171).

The band members are: Derek Singleton, originally from Texas, USA, - lead vocals / Guitar. Barbara Streidl - Upright Bass / backing vocals, and finally Ralf Nickolaus - Drums / backing vocals.

1: I May Be Wrong (But It Don't Seem Right),  2: I'm On Fire, 3: Rock N Roll Remedy, 

4: Mystery Lady, 5: Dance The Night Away, 6: This Bird Will Fly, 7: Move It On Over, 

8: Move On Out, 9: Gotta Go Lil' Doggy, 10: Gypsy Eyes, 11: This Bird Will Fly (Pt2).

12: Lullaby13: Slippin' And Slidin'

I first saw these on the 30th July 2005 as they had been brought over to the UK by Noline Doran, the owner of The Nifty 50's Rock N Roll Club to play support for Restless, at Mr Earles,  Night Spot,Wigan just outside of Manchester. Up until that time I had only heard of them through word of mouth.

During this same year the band had travelled over to the UK to visit the Raucous Studios in St Annes, a little Lancashire seaside town close to Blackpool to put together a little project that ended up as this excellent piece of work.

What can I truly say about the album? I must admit that I thoroughly enjoyed listening to each and every track, but like all albums there's always one track that stands out above the rest. For me it was the 4th track on the album, one written by Derek Singleton; titled "Mystery Lady". I absolutely loved it! If I'm being brutally honest, I probably play that more than any of the others. It's rhythm,  the haunting guitar work expertly played by Derek and the drum fills by Ralf.. You'd have to listen to it to get what I mean.. It's one very under-estimated album. 

To get yourself a copy, check out the website: www.raucousrecords.com

By Mike Cookson.