SITE UPDATED: 3/6/08

"If you like your music delivered with real honesty and passion then come check us out.    The more you want it, the more we'll give it!   Hope y'all like." - Rik

Since its launch in November 2005, this "Hot Rockin' Blues Band" has gained a reputation for energetic and enthusiastic performances.  By the end of 2007 they had played well over 100 dates. 

The band is fronted by Rik Martin; a fiery guitarist and vocalist with real passion for his craft.  Originally from Telford in Shropshire, Rik has in recent years become a regular attraction around the London blues circuit whilst gaining a big reputation with his raw emotive vocal delivery  and high energy guitar slinging.

A long time student of the blues, Rik's sound draws from and encompasses a wide variety of influences spanning from authentic old-time blues and roots to the contemporary artists of the modern era including the Vaughan Brothers, Albert Collins and BB King.

With Rik's wife Helen (www.helen-watt.co.uk) on the drumstool combining dynamic energy and feel as well as adding both frontline and backing vocals, the band brings an eclectic mix of blues / rock originals and covers.

Laying down a solid foundation for the rhythm section is Barry Pethers of Trafficker fame who has extensive experience as a session player with lots of artists including Sugababes, Robin Bibi, Marcus Malone, Roadhouse and Funkydory amongst others.  Barry is a highly accomplished and very popular bassist "BASS SOLO!".

Barry's fine talent gives him a busy diary and so when he is unavailable it is a pleasure to be able to call on Dublin's finest; Alan O'Connor on the bass, vocals (and guinness!).

The band love to play in and around Rik's first home, Shropshire and call on local musician and songwriter, Kevin Thursfield to fulfil bass duties for these gigs.  Kev, well loved for all his line ups (including Gravytrain, Space City Cowboys, Blazin' Row) is a great player, a real force to be reckoned with.  He has stage presence by the lorryload and his commanding lead vocals are always given full opportunity to rock the crowd whenever he plays with the band.  ROCK SOLID!

In recent months the band has been priviledged to have a second guitarist in Ross Ewart of Uncle Junior fame.  Anybody who has seen this young man play will know that behind his gentle friendly and humble nature lurks a storming talent.  So don't be fooled by the words "second guitarist". You wouldn't put this fella on second fiddle - we're talking "smokin' geetar". Don't stand too close - RED HOT! 

Again, the band couldn't hope or expect to monopolise such fine musicianship but is delighted to have Ross on board when he is available.

Each member of the band enjoys the freedom to stretch out musically, whilst locking together to provide the solid foundations of a driving and dynamic set of both self-penned and inspired cover material.

RIK'S BAND:  Helen Martin, Drums & Vocals

Barry Pethers (bass)      Kev Thursfield (bass & vocals)            

Ross Ewart (guitar)             Alan O'Connor (bass & vocals)