First island rock ’n’ blues festival in Brodick Hall
Guitar legend in surprise visit
Around 200 music fans packed Brodick Hall last Saturday for the inaugural Rock ’n’ Blues Festival.
And they were given a real treat with the appearance of legendary Sensational Alex Harvey Band guitarist Zal Cleminson, who introduced the headline act, which are his favourite tribute band.
Zal told the Arran audience that he was back on the road himself with his new band Sin Dogs, who also have a new album out. He said he had thoroughly enjoyed his day at the festival.
Before all that, the hall was rocking all day with band after band belting out their rock and blues to an appreciative audience. Organisers Jane Howe of the PHT and Nelson McFarlane plan to make the show an annual event and are hoping to grow it every year.
Some of the bands had previously played on Arran, but for others it was their first time.
Joining the headline The Sensational Alex Harvey Experience on stage were Raising Bail, Dr Feelguid, the George Lindsay Band, Blues Mama and Storm Warning, who were a big favourite on the day.
Jane told the Banner: ‘I was humbled by the support from the audience who came from far and wide to attend and were just wonderful, appreciative music lovers.
‘The quality of the musicianship took my breath away from the crisp precise sounds of Raising Bail, the gravelly notes of the superb vocalist in Blues Mama and the theatricals of Sensational Alex Harvey Experience plus the sound was mixed superbly by Stevie Calder from LT – Audio. So many friends made, a lovely atmosphere and lots of encouragement for an annual Rock ’n’ Blues Festival on Arran. A big thank you to everyone who helped me make this happen.’