Brave Rival are a rock band on a mission. No gimmicks, no frills—just raw, high-energy, riff-driven rock that demands to be heard. Since forming in 2019, the Portsmouth-based quartet—vocalist Lindsey Bonnick, guitarist Ed ‘the Shred’ Clarke, bassist Billy Dedman, and drummer Donna Peters—have built a reputation as one of the UK’s most electrifying live acts. Their debut album Life’s Machine (2022) put them on the map, catching the attention of critics, fans, and even Joe Bonamassa, who called them one of his “favourite discoveries.” Their 2024 follow-up, Fight or Flight, upped the stakes, earning a 9/10 review from Classic Rock Magazine, who hailed it as “an album packed with ambition, fire, and killer songs.” With massive hooks, blistering guitar work, and unstoppable energy, the album set the stage for their biggest year yet—festivals, headline tours, and sharing stages with rock legends like FM. Brave Rival are only getting started. Get on board or get out of the way.

Blue Nation are: Neil Murdoch (Singer / Guitar), Luke Weston (BV / Bass), Nick Sharman (Drums)

Get ready to be blown away by the electrifying force that is Blue Nation! Hailing from the heart of Birmingham, this powerhouse 3-piece band unleashes a seismic fusion of Riff based Melodic Blues Rock, crafted from a reservoir of iconic influences including the likes of Beatles, Cream, Zeppelin, and Brit Pop 90’s, along with more recent inspirations like Rival Sons and Vintage Trouble. Brace yourself for their unforgettable sound!

Fronted by a mesmerizing vocalist, Blue Nation’s songs are delivered with soul and passion, showcasing the remarkable talents of three accomplished musicians who have mastered their craft. Their live performances are nothing short of awe-inspiring, with an impressive gig experience and an undeniable stage presence that leaves audiences begging for more.

These rock virtuosos have conquered the top venues and festivals not only in the UK but also on an international scale, having embarked on two triumphant tours of New York City’s Greenwich Village and Manhattan. From stripped-down acoustic gigs to full-blown electric spectacles, they command the stage like true masters of their art.

Among their numerous illustrious feats, Blue Nation has graced the Main Music Stage at the F1 British Grand Prix in Silverstone, not just once but twice! Their journey includes unforgettable tours and gigs alongside musical giants like Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy), Laurence Jones, Dom Martin and many more. They’ve shared the spotlight with remarkable acts, solidifying their position as a standout force in the music scene.

Critics rave about their powerful performances. One review likened their style to legendary bands Free, Cream, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, acknowledging Blue Nation’s rich collection of songs that set them apart from the sea of retro bands. Another praise highlights their unique identity, being too blues for rock, too rock for blues, and simply too exceptional to be confined by labels.

Notable accolades have come their way, including their victory on The Introducing Stage at The Great British Rock & Blues Festival, being spotlighted as “Ones to Watch” by Planet Rock, and securing a top five finalist position in the fiercely contested UK Blues Awards “Emerging Act of the Year 2023 and 2024” category.

With their latest studio album “THE ORDINARY PEOPLE” released on all major platforms in September 2024. The band state:

“After three years of dedicated work, we are thrilled to present “The Ordinary People.” This album represents our growth and evolution as a band. It would not have been possible without the guidance of Trevor Gibson, the strategic management of Ron Murdoch, and the unwavering support from our friends, family, and loved ones.

Our journey began with a vision, but it was the collective effort of many that brought it to life. Trevor’s mentorship pushed our creative boundaries and helped us explore new depths in our music. Ron’s management ensured that every step we took was purposeful and aligned with our goals. Our friends and family were our constant pillars of support, giving us the strength and motivation to persevere even when the road was tough.

This album is a testament to our growth, not just as musicians, but as individuals. Each track tells a story, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and triumph. We have poured our hearts into every lyric, note, and beat, hoping to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

We dedicated this album to our fans, both old and new. Your passion and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind us. Without you, we are nothing. While every band says this, we genuinely hope “The Ordinary People” resonates with you and becomes a meaningful part of your life’s soundtrack.“

Blue Nation have also conquered the United States not once, but twice, Blue Nation has honed their live show to perfection, making them the ultimate purveyors of a stomping, electrifying experience for any venue or festival they grace.

Connolly Hayes

Having only debuted earlier this year, Connolly Hayes have already made giant strides within, and beyond, the blues/rock/soul community, largely on the reputations of the principal members. Jess Hayes emerged onto the South London scene as a teenager having been raised on classic rock and soul by her musician parents and quickly gained a reputation amongst the blues and soul cognesenti. She has also recently enjoyed a 4 chairs turn on ITV's 'the Voice', but more importantly, Jess is finding her own 'voice' with this new project, alongside her friend Frankie Connolly, who himself has gained a stellar reputation as both a great singer and astonishing guitar player. Connolly Hayes aren’t just a duo though, they are a fully fledged band with Richard Clarke, another noted vocalist/guitarist, alongside Joe Mac on keys, Beau Barnard on bass and Andy Wilder on drums. Their 2024 debut album 'Remember Me' release was an immediate IBBA (collaboration of 100 blues radio stations) 'Pick of the Month' and the band has already attracted an exceptionally high volume of Festival and touring offers, internationally. 

BLUES 'N' TROUBLE made a name for themselves in the '80's with a  No nonsense 'Head's down & Boogie' attitude playing Classic electric Blues & good time Rock 'N' Roll, including many self penned numbers.

Throughout the Decade they played well over 1000 Gigs in the UK, Europe & the USA.

Notable achievements include a W.C. Handy Award for the comeback album by Lazy Lester, Having Rolling Stones piano player Ian Stewart & Robert Cray play on their Second Album, playing support to B.B. King, Albert King, Buddy Guy & Junior Wells, Jack Bruce & many many more!

Three fifths of the original '80's line up are back in action & very much looking forward to playing their high energy Rockin' Blues once again in 2025.

Brian was the guitar player in Belfast band, The Tearjerkers (Good Vibrations/Phonogram) who toured with Thin Lizzy, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Doll by Doll and Rachel Sweet and played guitar with Jimmy Bain (Rainbow/ Wild Horses/Dio) on demo’s for the band, Rogue Male which Jimmy produced and played bass.

Brian relocated to the U.S. and played guitar on singer/songwriter Jon Lacabanne's album "Amen", The Groove Monsters debut album and Gary Stipe & Whiskey Hill’s E.P.

He recorded all the guitars on Irish singer/songwriter, Deidre Cunningham's album "Sunny Days" and returned to the U.S. to play a one-off gig in Nashville with "Handsome" Mick Rowe's band, "Nineteen88" before returning to the UK where he joined Brian Connolly in "Sweet" for a UK tour. He formed the Brian Rawson Band eight years ago and the current line-up consists of bass player, Doug Heede, of the Scottish band, Sinister Flynn, who have released three albums to date, vocalist, Darran Anderson formerly of the bands, Davy Jones Quest and Black Friday and drummer, Adrian Treacher who has toured the UK, Europe and USA with artists such as Marti Webb (Howards Way BBC), the late Kenny Baker, BBC Big Band, Al Woods, Pete Minns and the late John Briggs Concert Pianist.

Adrian has performed with artists such as Eric Faulkner’s Bay City Rollers, Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet), the late John Rossall, Dave Hill`s Slade, Sally Carr (Middle of the Road) and shared the stage with drummer extraordinaire, Dave Weckl.