Live Wire

@ The Marr's Bar, Worcester - 4/5/01

This is a band I’d not seen before but, like many Marr’s Bar Wednesday Jammin’ night regulars, I'd seen lead man Lol (Laurence Cook) in action many times. I knew that Lol was capable of playing almost anything. The band’s pedigree sounded pretty good as well; once called The Strands (during the ‘80’s) they were well known in the Worcester area and had also been seen around the country and had some Radio air time.

The band slipped quietly on to the stage and began playing a mixture of standard electric blues, soul, rock and good, original material such as 'Bookworm', 'Sister Joy' and 'Coast To Coast'.

With Lol on lead guitar and vocal, the band also comprises former Strand members Graham Thatcher - bass and backing vocals and Ray Clarke - drums & percussion along with new member Fin Steele - keyboards; no frills, no messing, they performed tightly and soon had the audience on their side.

Performing such goodies as 'Fire And Water', 'Messing With The Kid' and a great version of Gary Moore’s 'Still Got The Blues' (just because someone asked for it!) they filled their set with quality numbers. Lol’s vocals are always great no matter what he plays; and he seems comfortable playing in any style; in fact they like to sell themselves as being a band for all occasions.

There’s only two things that Live Wire lack - exposure and a manager; but with the latter they should be able to get the former - they should be playing out there more than they are at the moment. A fine exhibition given by a fine band in a supporting role.

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