The Leamington Blues Mafia are a group of musicians based in and around Leamington Spa. The band features seasoned artists, including Nick Rowbotham (vocals/harmonica), Steve Walwyn (guitar/vocals), Horace Panter (bass), and Andy Bentley (drums). And this high quality line up are known for playing classic tunes from the rich heritage of blues.
It appears that the 'Blues Mafia' name came about when another of Leamington's renowned blues outfits, The Mosquitoes, were gigging. Horace would playfully refer to them as the 'Leamington Blues Mafia' being out and about again. And so this name was a great fit when this combo came together.
Collectively, at a recent gig at Temperance Bar the 'Blues Mafia' created an ardent and enthusiastic atmosphere that grew throughout the evening. It was significant that a brief but meaningful introduction about the music and the musicians who created it was pivotal. Additionally the band didn't feel limited to just one area of the blues. This was as much a celebration, as much as paying homage to, a genre that has given them so much enjoyment.
There was not a hard n fast set list, it was more a 'what shall we do next?' kind of approach. All very laid back in between numbers but absolutely attention grabbing and deadly serious while performing. Just the key was required and off they set, into that much loved place.
Hound Dog opened the proceedings. That was followed by tunes such as I'd Rather Go Blind, Roadrunner and Walking Blues. A rousing version of Gloria wound the evening down. The set finally closing with a glorious take of Bullfrog Blues. Another song, Canned Heat's 'World in a Jug' was introduced by Steve. He remembered how, during his time with Dr Feelgood and sharing the stage with Canned Heat, he was invited by Heat's guitarist, Henry Vestine, to join them on Fried Hockey Boogie. Im not sure about other folk but that was a real wow moment for me.
A combination of virtuosity, bottleneck and epic solo's were prevalent throughout throughout as Steve painting on top of a Bentley/Panter canvas using a range of styles and colours. The magnetic pole however is Nick on vocals and harmonica.
When a musician with the pedigree of Horace Panter is seen smiling broadly, purring with delight and ending with him doffing his cap by way of a round of applause for the band, as happened after a wonderful rendition of 'People Get Ready' kind of proves the band are on a roll.
Those who attended, combined with this wonderfully tight venue, just made for a memorable evening. All were there for, and clearly appreciated, the music. It all felt like a match made in heaven.
Described as a side project alongside current activities suggests that Leamington Blues Mafia gigs will be few and far between. This particular gig was the day after Martin Cure's funeral. I couldn't help hear his name mentioned several times before the gig and during the interval – not that I was earwigging, it was more because of the enclosed nature of the venue. But it was clear Martin will never be forgotten. As such, events like these have taken on added poignancy and feel just that little bit more special.
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