Wharfedale Blues Festival presents Alan Wormald Band + CJ Smith + Eli and the Blues Prophets

Our first event of 2020 is a real treat, two top quality bands!

CJ Smith has been writing, performing and recording great blues-inspired music for nearly 40 years. His songs, tender, gritty and warm demand comparison with Van Morrison, John Martyn and James Taylor.

The CJ Smith Band features some of the best musicians Yorkshire has produced…

CJ Smith – Lead Vocals / Guitars / Piano / Harmonica

Ian Rose – Hammond Organ

Christy Herron – Lead Guitar / Vocals

John Heap – Bass Guitar / Vocals

John Shepard – Drums

Alan Wormald grew up in the 1960s worshipping The Beatles, Alan, a self taught musician turned professional in the 70's. It was around this time he also became heavily involved in jazz rock. He worked with Allan Holdsworth in a Mecca resident Band., "Allan was a great influence" says Alan. In 1976 Alan wrote and recorded "Nostradamus" with the band 'First Aid' (a concept album based on the prophet). He toured with many established acts afterwards in the 80's including: The Drifters, The Nolans, Cannon and Ball, Gerard Kenny, Alvin Stardust and many more. Alan enjoys writing and recording his own songs and is often called upon to do session work, live shows and studio "one take Al". He joined Shakatak back in 1995 and is still recording and touring with them today.

Eli and the Blues Prophets hail from North/East Yorkshire and play their own versions of classic blues and rock tunes, not be missed!