BAND OF FRIENDS

May 2016

In the era of tribute acts who deliver note-perfect renditions of their heroes' catalogues, the Band Of Friends is something different. They can do the notes played by electric blues icon Rory Gallagher. But they can also do the sound, energy and feel – because the band includes people who helped define those essential elements.

When the Irish guitarist-vocalist passed away in 1995 he left behind an elevenalbum catalogue of inspired albums, and the memory of unforgettably energetic concerts.

Bassist Gerry McAvoy [Nine Below Zero, Champion Jack Dupree, Deep Joy] appeared on every one of those albums. Drummer Ted McKenna [Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Greg Lake, Gary Moore, Ian Gillan, Michael Shenker Group] powered those live shows from 1977 until 1981 and appeared on Rory's acclaimed Photo-Finish, Top Priority and Stage Struck albums.

These old friends have teamed up with Dutch guitarist and vocalist Marcel Scherpenzeel [Wolfpin], who grew up with his bandmates' music. If they say he's the nearest thing you'll get to Rory – and that's exactly what they do say – you'd better believe them.