Rock ’n’ blues festival is bigger and bolder
The inaugural Arran Rock ’n’ Blues Festival went down a treat last year. Now the event is back and even bigger and bolder for 2019.
Organised by Lamlash Events in conjunction with The Pierhead Tavern (PHT) the 2019 festival, hosted by the legendary Tom Russell, will take place in its own marquee on Lamlash Green on Saturday and Sunday July 27-28.
In 2012 Tom, who in his time has interviewed a veritable who’s who of rock, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish New Music Awards ceremony.
In 2016 he released his autobiography The Godfather of Rock, providing a behind the scenes look at his life, rock music and radio. He currently hosts his own rock show on Rock Sport Radio, Glasgow.
On Saturday eight amazing acts will play the marquee between noon and 10pm including the talented Stevie Nimmo, who is back on the road again promoting his latest album after a cycling accident kept him away from the stage last year. The Sharpeez Maximum Rhythm and Blues band are travelling all the way from London to play from their latest album Wild One.
Opening the festival will be the blistering Dr Feelguid and also on stage will be the two young bands who are making their mark in big venues around Scotland – Black King Cobra and Rigid Soul – plus many more.
Sunday will feature three bands from 1pm to 5pm including Redfish, a soul deep blues ensemble, and Greig Taylor’s latest project, The Blind Lemon Gators, 1930s’ Delta Style Blues with Iain Donald on slide and former John Martyn’s drummer Dave Cantwell.
On both days there will be more bands and live jam sessions hosted by the hugely talented guitarist Pete Parisietti on at the PHT.
And it’s not just about the music – businesses and artists will be showcasing their produce, arts and crafts, with food from island suppliers too. Scottish real ales will also be in abundance, The Arran Gin Co. plus Arran whisky tasting sessions in the marquee bar.
Tickets costing £20, available from www.tickets-scotland.com, The Book and Card Centre in Brodick and The Pierhead Tavern in Lamlash.
Children and youngsters up to age 14 are free when accompanied by an adult. Please note however there will be no admittance to children under the age of 14 without an adult, or under 18 after 10pm.
See the website for a full line up of the 14 bands performing over the weekend at: www. arranrockandbluesfest.co.uk