Bandits look back to their roots

Acclaimed blues and roots band Willie & the Bandits are in Preston on Sunday night at The Continental.

The band have recorded two well recieved since 2010 – the debut New Breed and 2012’s Breakfree – and toured with some of the biggest names in blues rock.

Willie & the Bandits’ music covers a wide range of genres, from rock to world music to blues and roots.

With the versatility of Wille’s lap steel and guitar playing, the rhythmic diversity of percussionist Andrew Naumann and the sonic range of Matt Brooks’ upright bass and six string electric bass, they always keep audiences guessing.

The band have recently opened for US blues star Joe Bonamassa, Deep Purple, The John Butler Trio and have completed two tours with Status Quo.

Quo legend Francis Rossi is a confirmed fan, recently saying: “These boys can really groove”

US star Joe Bonamassa described Willie’s slide as “superb”.

“I love what these guys are doing,” he added.

The band grew out of Wille’s decision to leave Britain for Australia (his birth place) after he finished school.

Knowing his way round a guitar and able to sing a little he set out to pay his way by busking.

Skip forwards five years and Wille is now considered one of Europe’s finest slide guitar ists.

This incredibly talented band of musicians sets out to play not just one or two musical styles but to span genres.

Support from the inspirational eclective Preston band Mobius Loop.

Willie & the Bandits’ play The Continental on Sunday, November 17. Doors: 7:30pm til 11:00pm (last entry 10:00pm).

Tickets £4 advance, entry price (members/NUS): Tickets £4 advance.