Following the loss of a singer in Beelzebozo and then my hurling myself from a moving vehicle (unrelated), I found myself in a quiet period where I was either looking for a new vocalist or recuperating from the accident. So not much playing for a few months.
That situation has been resolved on a few counts:
Beelzebozo have decided that rather than trying to replace the irreplaceable Mike, we are going to try some new things. Can’t really say too much yet as it’s all shrouded in secrecy and the Corporation takes a very dim view on leaking company plans. What I can say is it will involve three men and some instruments. Any further elaboration could result in another “accident” and nobody wants that.
In other news, I’ve just got involved with a couple of bands which should keep me out of mischief for a while:
The Gentlemen Of Distorted Sound are a band who deal in “sleazy, bluesy, classic rock, with a modern crunch”. It’s good heavy rock with strong songs and a pleasing solid groove and I’m really enjoying it.
So far I’ve only done a few rehearsals with them to get ready for our first gig at a Hells Angels Charity Fundraiser on 15th June in Chalgrove.
The G.O.D.S (see what they did there?) had been playing festivals in Europe and the UK during the previous few years, including the Bulldog Bash a few times but have been on temporary hold due to some recent trying times. They’re hoping to get back into regular gigging and recording again soon.
The Missing Persians are described as Original British Americana and play mostly their own compositions, but also may throw in a couple of covers by the likes of The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers or Sticks McGhee. Completely different vibe from anything else I play and gives me a chance to get the old upright bass out from time to time!
First gig is at the Talbot Inn in Eynsham on Saturday 8th June, followed by a couple of spots at Thamesfest on the 19th and 20th July.
What with these two additions, the regular rehearsals with The Acoustic Duo (whatever their name is going to end up being) and Beelzebozo, and fitting in a few gigs with Hot & Horny and Blake’s Heaven, it looks like I’m going to be a busy bunny…