Ealing Blues Festival, London, July 2024 – a review
With its roots firmly planted in what is generally acknowledged to be the UK’s first true blues club, The Ealing Blues Club, founded by pioneers, Alexis Korner & Cyril Davies, Ealing Blues Festival 2024 saw the retirement of its central founding father, Bob Salmons, aka Robert Hokum after 37 years at its helm. WORDS: Iain […]
The Cold Stares embrace southern roots with “Mortality Blues” single, new album on the horizon
In a powerful blend of Delta blues and contemporary rock, The Cold Stares have unveiled their latest single, “Mortality Blues,” a haunting prelude to their forthcoming seventh studio album, ‘The Southern.’ Set for release on September 6th via Mascot Records, the album promises to be a deep dive into the band’s Southern heritage. “Mortality Blues” […]
Kentucky Rockers Mojo Thunder Set to Ignite with “The Infinite Hope”
The sun-baked streets of Kentucky are about to heat up even more as the state’s own renegade rockers, Mojo Thunder, prepare to unleash their sophomore album, “The Infinite Hope.” Set for release on August 30, 2024, the album promises to be a sonic journey through the heart of what the band calls “Southern Alternative.” Today […]
Brezoi Open Air Festival 2024 – a review
The Brezoi Open Air Festival 2024, held in the picturesque town of Brezoi in Romania, was a celebration of music, nature, and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains, this festival delivered a unique blend of genres, captivating performances, and an enchanting atmosphere that left attendees with memories to cherish. One of […]
The Commoners – LIVE at The Caves, Edinburgh – a review
The Commoners are a 4 piece roots rock outfit from Toronto, Canada. The boys began their journey into the world of music around a decade ago listening to bands like The Black Crowes, Derek Trucks, Marcus King & The Allman Brothers. WORDS: Darren McIntyre | PICTURES: Ian Potter The boys are a real force of […]
Madison Galloway – LIVE at The Caves, Edinburgh – a review
Madison Galloway is a roots / rock / blues musician from Fergus. Ontario who has been making waves in the Canadian music scene when she dropped her debut EP Who Knows Where all the way back in 2015. WORDS: Darren McIntyre | PICTURES: Ian Potter She has gigged constantly and continued to write and perform […]
Saying goodbye to John Mayall, 1933-2024
John Mayall has sadly passed, aged 90, peacefully at home with friends/family around him. When the tragic news first reached us at Blues Matters a few hours following his death, it came with a request to keep it under wraps till the family themselves were ready to post it publicly. John was always known as […]
Electrifying New Single: Joe Bonamassa and Train Unite for a Powerhouse Cover of “Hold On Loosely”
Blues-rock virtuoso Joe Bonamassa and GRAMMY Award-winning band Train are thrilled to unveil their latest collaborative masterpiece: a powerful cover of 38 Special’s classic hit, “Hold On Loosely.” This release marks a significant fusion of talent, passion, and mutual admiration between two giants of the music industry. The magic of this collaboration lies in the […]
Mark Harrison and Band Release New Single “Them and Us” Ahead of New Album “Fools & Clowns”
Mark Harrison, the unique songwriter known for his wholly original songs and insightful storytelling, is set to release his new single “Them and Us” on August 23rd. This track offers a pointed look at the modern workplace from the perspective of those doing the “real” jobs, contrasting sharply with the highly paid managers whose roles […]
LIVE REVIEW: ZZ Top, Wembley Arena, London – 11/07/24
Might this only UK show on their current and ongoing Elevation tour be ZZ Top’s swan song to these isles? Maybe, maybe not. Well, only time will tell, and time is something it seems that, as a group, they must gradually be aware is finite. WORDS: Paul Davies Thankfully, they are back and at the […]
