I was extremely fortunate on Thursday the 15th August to be present when local Kent band Big River presented their new Album to a busy and appreciative crowd at Leo’s Red Lion, Gravesend.

This is probably one of the best debut albums I can remember, if I’m perfectly honest. But then they are extremely talented and seasoned musicians as well as having one of the best in Jim Riley from Ranscombe Studios to produce the album. The album begins with JimJam an offering by Mr Riley, who let’s be honest is a great Harp player and has been for many years, and then rips into track two, Blues Blood Baby, also with a Harp accompaniment by Jim Riley.

This album is going to appeal to a cross section of Rock Fans. It contains some great songs, most of them have been written by members of the band. With my Blues/Rock head on I would certainly recommend ‘Hometown Hustler’ and ‘Devils Whiskey’. For the Hard Rock fans, I reckon you’re going to love ‘Blackened Rain’

No matter how good an album is in its entirety, there is always, I believe, a standout track. On this album it’s ‘You Are My Sun’, I love this track, sends shivers down the spine and Goosebumps to boot. Adam Bartholomew’s Vocals are tremendous, as is Damo Fawsett’s Guitar playing. Supported by the tight pairing of Ant Wellman on Bass and Joe Martin on Drums.

I recommend you get this album and go and see the Band perform it live, it really is as good live as it is recorded.

Steve Kellam