our interviews with artists and promoters
Another string to our ever increasing bow now is the interview. We've carried out a few now with more in the pipeline. Here is a selection.
Important stuff. All images and words are copyright, by all means copy the link to our site, but please do not copy and paste material from here to your sites without asking us first. The Bettajive Review name, design, content and logo are the property of Andrew and June Smith
If you enjoy our website and like what you see, help us keep it free to use by dropping us a donation by using the button below. Many thanks
Important stuff. All images and words are copyright, by all means copy the link to our site, but please do not copy and paste material from here to your sites without asking us first. The Bettajive Review name, design, content and logo are the property of Andrew and June Smith
If you enjoy our website and like what you see, help us keep it free to use by dropping us a donation by using the button below. Many thanks

Jerry Chatabox follow up interview (scroll down to the original)
Since the last interview with Jerry in 2013, a lot of milestones have been passed, the Rockabilly Rave had it’s 21st birthday, as did the Riot, and Atomic Vintage Festival debuted. Last year (2108) saw the Cochran Connection event at Frimley Green, Surrey. Now it’s time for an update, catching up with the activities of the last six years, and what’s in the pipeline for the next (six)!
BJR So, starting with Atomic, how pleased have you been with that event? We’ve spoken to a number of people from abroad who’ve attended and they are really taken with the whole site at Sywell. The Aviator, the big top, drive in movies and the different music venues within the site. We recall the gorgeous weather of the first one in the May, and the flood that caused the postponement of another event. It must be a massive undertaking
JCB Yes outdoor events are always very challenging and ATOMIC is indeed a huge undertaking but we have a great experienced team with decades of festival planning between us. It’s also very interesting that even when we had a storm of biblical proportions it didn’t put people off enjoying the show! I guess everyone knows even Chatabox can’t sort the weather… (Although a few did call me Rain Man for a while)! ATOMIC has weathered the storm (see what I did there?) and now in its sixth year is getting the numbers to make it a stand out show. Our aim was to provide a 1950’s US County Fair type atmosphere and combining it with elements of the old Hotrod Hayride has made it unique.
BJR 2019 also sees the twenty third Rockabilly Rave. The tribute shows have been a massive hit, and the appearance of Doug Kershaw in 2018 was one of many highlights. Do you sit down at the end of a Rave like that, and wonder how to equal or better it the following year?
JCB No I never worry about that, I’m always looking to the future. Every year there are excellent new bands from all over the world that I can bring to the Rave, or old bands reforming for special one off shows, or big tributes with stars of our scene doing songs that you don’t usually see them perform, or collaborations between musicians from different countries, that only a big budget show like the Rave can put on.
BJR As inevitably, time marches on, and we are all, numerically getting that older, what do you think of the current Rock n Roll scene? Some clubs command large audiences consistently, whereas others have fallen by the wayside. Many of us, are from the 1970’s and 80’s crop of Rock n Rollers, diehards if you will. How do you see it all panning out?
JCB There was a promoter who predicted that the rockin scene would die when the original acts all passed away. What a load of nonsense! The Rave sold out again last year and is heading for another sell out this year! Much as we revere the originals, we also revere their legacy, which is the music itself. The music will never die away, there will always be die hard nutcases such as ourselves as well as the new young breed who will take rockin music in whatever direction they want. That is very exciting!
BJR We wonder whether there’ll ever be another explosion like there was in the 70’s, there doesn’t seem to be the cultures based on your music taste anymore. However, moving on. Last year was your first rock n roll event at a venue many consider the home of World Darts, Frimley Green in Surrey. Tell us how the Cochran Connection event came about?
JCB We were disappointed when the Eddie Cochran events in Chippenham failed and in the same year Hemsby in October closed, so there seemed to be a need for a quality event that celebrated Eddies music at that time of year. The most respected Cochran fan and performer on the planet was obviously Darrel Higham and he had some great ideas about how to produce the show. The venue was a no brainer… one of the most famous live music venues in this country, Lakeside Country Club, and the owner, Bob Potter was an Eddie Cochran fan!
BJR Any plans for another event at the same venue?
JCB The first Cochran Connection sold over 650 advance tickets. The show was amazingly well received and the beautiful venue (with everyone getting a seat at their own table) was of course unique. The rockin crowd drank more that even the darts crowd (which didn’t surprise us)… so yes, of course we were invited to return! The second Cochran Connection will be on Saturday 12th October 2019.
BJR Can you see the dreaded ‘B’ word (Brexit) having a dramatic effect on bands and people from Europe visiting our events?
JCB No I can’t see anything changing. We already get Work Permits for visiting musicians from anywhere in the world and people will be allowed to come and go on holiday as before. The great thing about our scene is that we don’t have to listen to all the lying politicians greedily trying to line their own pockets… let them all cheat and lie to each other while we’re all enjoying getting on with everyone and enjoying our shared love of rockin music!
BJR (One from June) Will there ever be a time when Jerry Chatabox DJs again? Not the odd set in the far reaches of a campsite for insomniacs only, a proper blue chip set at a weekender like Atomic. Naturally being at the helm of these events it’s a bit difficult we’re sure.
JCB: I did a set at High Rockabilly last year, so never say never, but I rarely get the time and there are a lot better new young DJs coming through. I must say I don’t really understand the sort of DJ that seems quite common now, who only plays original 45s and doesn’t say a word on the mic. As a promoter (and former DJ) I look at this and notice three things: many rare 45’s empty the dance floor and no one knows who is playing them anyway because no words are spoken, so there is a lack of atmosphere… it also seems negative to dismiss any bands who have recorded great music on CDs.
BJR. With that we thank Jerry for another brief glimpse, nay, veritable nosegay into the workings of today’s Rock n Roll scene, from one of the promoters at the sharp end. This interview was conducted around the time that a number of festivals requested that the Confederate flag nor be displayed at their events. So we are publishing, below, the notice that Jerry wrote and uploaded on social media which clarifies his position on the subject.
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review, April 2019. Photographs (c) by June Smith unless supplied by the interviewee
Since the last interview with Jerry in 2013, a lot of milestones have been passed, the Rockabilly Rave had it’s 21st birthday, as did the Riot, and Atomic Vintage Festival debuted. Last year (2108) saw the Cochran Connection event at Frimley Green, Surrey. Now it’s time for an update, catching up with the activities of the last six years, and what’s in the pipeline for the next (six)!
BJR So, starting with Atomic, how pleased have you been with that event? We’ve spoken to a number of people from abroad who’ve attended and they are really taken with the whole site at Sywell. The Aviator, the big top, drive in movies and the different music venues within the site. We recall the gorgeous weather of the first one in the May, and the flood that caused the postponement of another event. It must be a massive undertaking
JCB Yes outdoor events are always very challenging and ATOMIC is indeed a huge undertaking but we have a great experienced team with decades of festival planning between us. It’s also very interesting that even when we had a storm of biblical proportions it didn’t put people off enjoying the show! I guess everyone knows even Chatabox can’t sort the weather… (Although a few did call me Rain Man for a while)! ATOMIC has weathered the storm (see what I did there?) and now in its sixth year is getting the numbers to make it a stand out show. Our aim was to provide a 1950’s US County Fair type atmosphere and combining it with elements of the old Hotrod Hayride has made it unique.
BJR 2019 also sees the twenty third Rockabilly Rave. The tribute shows have been a massive hit, and the appearance of Doug Kershaw in 2018 was one of many highlights. Do you sit down at the end of a Rave like that, and wonder how to equal or better it the following year?
JCB No I never worry about that, I’m always looking to the future. Every year there are excellent new bands from all over the world that I can bring to the Rave, or old bands reforming for special one off shows, or big tributes with stars of our scene doing songs that you don’t usually see them perform, or collaborations between musicians from different countries, that only a big budget show like the Rave can put on.
BJR As inevitably, time marches on, and we are all, numerically getting that older, what do you think of the current Rock n Roll scene? Some clubs command large audiences consistently, whereas others have fallen by the wayside. Many of us, are from the 1970’s and 80’s crop of Rock n Rollers, diehards if you will. How do you see it all panning out?
JCB There was a promoter who predicted that the rockin scene would die when the original acts all passed away. What a load of nonsense! The Rave sold out again last year and is heading for another sell out this year! Much as we revere the originals, we also revere their legacy, which is the music itself. The music will never die away, there will always be die hard nutcases such as ourselves as well as the new young breed who will take rockin music in whatever direction they want. That is very exciting!
BJR We wonder whether there’ll ever be another explosion like there was in the 70’s, there doesn’t seem to be the cultures based on your music taste anymore. However, moving on. Last year was your first rock n roll event at a venue many consider the home of World Darts, Frimley Green in Surrey. Tell us how the Cochran Connection event came about?
JCB We were disappointed when the Eddie Cochran events in Chippenham failed and in the same year Hemsby in October closed, so there seemed to be a need for a quality event that celebrated Eddies music at that time of year. The most respected Cochran fan and performer on the planet was obviously Darrel Higham and he had some great ideas about how to produce the show. The venue was a no brainer… one of the most famous live music venues in this country, Lakeside Country Club, and the owner, Bob Potter was an Eddie Cochran fan!
BJR Any plans for another event at the same venue?
JCB The first Cochran Connection sold over 650 advance tickets. The show was amazingly well received and the beautiful venue (with everyone getting a seat at their own table) was of course unique. The rockin crowd drank more that even the darts crowd (which didn’t surprise us)… so yes, of course we were invited to return! The second Cochran Connection will be on Saturday 12th October 2019.
BJR Can you see the dreaded ‘B’ word (Brexit) having a dramatic effect on bands and people from Europe visiting our events?
JCB No I can’t see anything changing. We already get Work Permits for visiting musicians from anywhere in the world and people will be allowed to come and go on holiday as before. The great thing about our scene is that we don’t have to listen to all the lying politicians greedily trying to line their own pockets… let them all cheat and lie to each other while we’re all enjoying getting on with everyone and enjoying our shared love of rockin music!
BJR (One from June) Will there ever be a time when Jerry Chatabox DJs again? Not the odd set in the far reaches of a campsite for insomniacs only, a proper blue chip set at a weekender like Atomic. Naturally being at the helm of these events it’s a bit difficult we’re sure.
JCB: I did a set at High Rockabilly last year, so never say never, but I rarely get the time and there are a lot better new young DJs coming through. I must say I don’t really understand the sort of DJ that seems quite common now, who only plays original 45s and doesn’t say a word on the mic. As a promoter (and former DJ) I look at this and notice three things: many rare 45’s empty the dance floor and no one knows who is playing them anyway because no words are spoken, so there is a lack of atmosphere… it also seems negative to dismiss any bands who have recorded great music on CDs.
BJR. With that we thank Jerry for another brief glimpse, nay, veritable nosegay into the workings of today’s Rock n Roll scene, from one of the promoters at the sharp end. This interview was conducted around the time that a number of festivals requested that the Confederate flag nor be displayed at their events. So we are publishing, below, the notice that Jerry wrote and uploaded on social media which clarifies his position on the subject.
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review, April 2019. Photographs (c) by June Smith unless supplied by the interviewee

Bamboozle, a name we heard couple of years ago, and a band we wanted to seek out and watch play live. The first time was at Chesterfield’s Viva Chez Vegas event in June 2017, where they played a cracking set. So, we though it was about time we caught up with the band and see what makes them tick (Bettajive Review bass playing pun intended). The Bass Pixie Serena Sykes herself, takes up the story
BJR. Firstly, we need to know, who are Bamboozle?
Bamboozle are known for their world class musicianship and high energy performances. They seamlessly combine the vibe of the swinging 1950's with the sounds of today, in a way that mesmerises both retro loving and modern audiences.
The band is comprised of internationally renowned singer, guitarist and songwriter Jim Knowler (The Keytones, Gotz Alsmann), whose exciting and instantly recognisable guitar riffs provide the perfect coupling with new face on the scene, singer, double bassist and songwriter Serena Sykes. Her dynamic performances, electric vocal and daring double bass stunts always leave audiences wanting more. The line up is completed by the slick, thrumming grooves of drummer and vocalist, Les Curtis (Imelda May, Darrell Higham, Wanda Jackson).
BJR How long have you been together as a band? And how did you come together?
We originally started Bamboozle just over 2 years ago and started performing under the name, “The Dixie Pigs”. The original idea for the band was to go down a Western swing style route, incorporating the pedal steel, however over the first year we spent a lot of time testing out our sound and shuffling band members around. The songs we were writing heavily influenced the direction of the music, and we finally settled as a three piece, when Les Curtis, Darrel Higham’s long term drummer, joined the band to complete the line up.
Meeting Les felt a little like fate to us. Our original drummer had an operation scheduled with just two weeks notice, so instead of cancelling a gig we had booked, we asked the venue owner, who is also a drummer (“Stix” Outram, formerly of The Nagasaki Three) to step in.
Stix sat in for the first set, but having recently met Les and being aware of his stellar
reputation, he thought he would be a good fit for us and asked him to join us for the
second set.
Les turned up during the break, never having heard the band before, and jumped straight in starting with an Imelda May number, which show’s off our Bass Pixie on double bass and vocals. He blew us away during that first song, and when our original drummer decided to leave in 2018, we didn’t hesitate to ask Les if he’d like to join.
BJR And who are your influences?
This is a tough one as we have a really wide range of influences. Bamboozle was born out of Jim and Serena’s love for the 1950s. Bamboozle started out playing a host of dance floor classics from Wanda Jackson, Janis Martin, Louis Jordon, Bill Haley, Elvis and more, and then began incorporating their original material in the set.
The original songs are heavily influenced by the music of the 50s, including Rockabilly, Rock and Roll, Swing and Western Swing. They are written by both Jim, who has had European success with many of his original numbers performed with his first band ‘The Keytones’, and Serena, Bamboozle’s Bass Pixie, who brings her love of Rockabilly and Swing into her songwriting, usually with a bit of a dark twist.
BJR Serena, do you recall the first time you saw and heard a slap bass?
I do, and I also remember the moment when I knew it was something I wanted to do. Before meeting Jim, I hadn’t heard of Rockabilly, aside from knowing a few
Elvis numbers, but to me, it was all just Rock and Roll.
I first saw Jim performing with The Keytones, with their singer/bassist, Jarrod Coombs. The bass looked great, and the music had a real swing to it. I’d never even seen a double bass, before, and never dreamed a string instrument could be played in such a cool way.
I picked up the double bass on a holiday in 2013, and finally bought myself one in 2014, however I mostly played Jazz for the first 2 years, and hadn’t found my love for rockabilly at this point.
I truly fell in love with it though, the first time I saw a video of Steve Whitehouse (Frenzy, The Blue Cats), performing. Steve gave such a performance, he had me hooked. His
sound was amazing and his energy was brilliant. I met him for the first time a few
months later. He’s a true Gent and has helped me a lot with the double bass over the last couple of years.
BJR One of the classic images of your band, as per our picture, is you balanced on your bass playing it, tell us how that came about please.
I’ve always been one for a challenge...
As most of you will know, standing on the bass is a classic rockabilly stunt, and looks fantastic when done. I hadn’t seen any ladies do it before (although I now know a few amazing ladies who make it look soooooo sexy), and decided I had to give it a try. The guys were all really supportive and gave me the confidence to first try it live, which, let’s just say, didn’t quite go smoothly, but thats another story. It just looks great, and really adds an element to the show.
BJR. Firstly, we need to know, who are Bamboozle?
Bamboozle are known for their world class musicianship and high energy performances. They seamlessly combine the vibe of the swinging 1950's with the sounds of today, in a way that mesmerises both retro loving and modern audiences.
The band is comprised of internationally renowned singer, guitarist and songwriter Jim Knowler (The Keytones, Gotz Alsmann), whose exciting and instantly recognisable guitar riffs provide the perfect coupling with new face on the scene, singer, double bassist and songwriter Serena Sykes. Her dynamic performances, electric vocal and daring double bass stunts always leave audiences wanting more. The line up is completed by the slick, thrumming grooves of drummer and vocalist, Les Curtis (Imelda May, Darrell Higham, Wanda Jackson).
BJR How long have you been together as a band? And how did you come together?
We originally started Bamboozle just over 2 years ago and started performing under the name, “The Dixie Pigs”. The original idea for the band was to go down a Western swing style route, incorporating the pedal steel, however over the first year we spent a lot of time testing out our sound and shuffling band members around. The songs we were writing heavily influenced the direction of the music, and we finally settled as a three piece, when Les Curtis, Darrel Higham’s long term drummer, joined the band to complete the line up.
Meeting Les felt a little like fate to us. Our original drummer had an operation scheduled with just two weeks notice, so instead of cancelling a gig we had booked, we asked the venue owner, who is also a drummer (“Stix” Outram, formerly of The Nagasaki Three) to step in.
Stix sat in for the first set, but having recently met Les and being aware of his stellar
reputation, he thought he would be a good fit for us and asked him to join us for the
second set.
Les turned up during the break, never having heard the band before, and jumped straight in starting with an Imelda May number, which show’s off our Bass Pixie on double bass and vocals. He blew us away during that first song, and when our original drummer decided to leave in 2018, we didn’t hesitate to ask Les if he’d like to join.
BJR And who are your influences?
This is a tough one as we have a really wide range of influences. Bamboozle was born out of Jim and Serena’s love for the 1950s. Bamboozle started out playing a host of dance floor classics from Wanda Jackson, Janis Martin, Louis Jordon, Bill Haley, Elvis and more, and then began incorporating their original material in the set.
The original songs are heavily influenced by the music of the 50s, including Rockabilly, Rock and Roll, Swing and Western Swing. They are written by both Jim, who has had European success with many of his original numbers performed with his first band ‘The Keytones’, and Serena, Bamboozle’s Bass Pixie, who brings her love of Rockabilly and Swing into her songwriting, usually with a bit of a dark twist.
BJR Serena, do you recall the first time you saw and heard a slap bass?
I do, and I also remember the moment when I knew it was something I wanted to do. Before meeting Jim, I hadn’t heard of Rockabilly, aside from knowing a few
Elvis numbers, but to me, it was all just Rock and Roll.
I first saw Jim performing with The Keytones, with their singer/bassist, Jarrod Coombs. The bass looked great, and the music had a real swing to it. I’d never even seen a double bass, before, and never dreamed a string instrument could be played in such a cool way.
I picked up the double bass on a holiday in 2013, and finally bought myself one in 2014, however I mostly played Jazz for the first 2 years, and hadn’t found my love for rockabilly at this point.
I truly fell in love with it though, the first time I saw a video of Steve Whitehouse (Frenzy, The Blue Cats), performing. Steve gave such a performance, he had me hooked. His
sound was amazing and his energy was brilliant. I met him for the first time a few
months later. He’s a true Gent and has helped me a lot with the double bass over the last couple of years.
BJR One of the classic images of your band, as per our picture, is you balanced on your bass playing it, tell us how that came about please.
I’ve always been one for a challenge...
As most of you will know, standing on the bass is a classic rockabilly stunt, and looks fantastic when done. I hadn’t seen any ladies do it before (although I now know a few amazing ladies who make it look soooooo sexy), and decided I had to give it a try. The guys were all really supportive and gave me the confidence to first try it live, which, let’s just say, didn’t quite go smoothly, but thats another story. It just looks great, and really adds an element to the show.

BJR You have written a number of your own songs, what is the process for that? What comes first, the lyrics or the medley?
Jim and I both write songs and it’s funny as we both do it so differently! For me, the first thing that usually comes is a few lyrics with a melody. Songwriting is something that’s always in the back of my mind, and I think the first part always happens subconsciously. I’ll be driving or walking along, or just lying in bed, and something just pops into my head. I always grab my phone and record what comes up, getting everything down, usually playing around with the initial idea for 5-10 minutes.
Not everything that goes in the phone makes the cut though. I have hundreds of voice clips with ideas, and probably only around 20 songs at the moment, but they’re always there to come back to if I need inspiration.
When I sit down to do a songwriting session, I’ll listen through all the ideas I’ve recorded and see if any of them grab me, and then try to expand on them. I usually finish the melody first, and then fill in the lyrics before adding the chords. Once I’m at that point, with a mostly solid idea, I’ll take it along to the boys to work with. I usually have an idea of what I want, so I’ll give them a few guidelines, but then open it up to each of their own individual styles to really finish it off.
I never write the guitar solos though, what’s the point with Jim in the band! I’ll generally just tell him which part of the song I’d like him to solo over, wind him up and let him go! His solos are some of my favourite parts of the songs I’ve written for the band, he’s a really big inspiration to me.
BJR Favourite current artists and favourite artists from the fifties?
Currently there’s a few artists who have piqued my interest, although I’ll probably be judged for them (I won’t blame anyone if they do either!). I used to really hate pop music, but as I’ve got older and more into songwriting and performing, some modern artists have really stood out to me.
Meaghan Trainor, Taylor Swift, Jace Everett, Miranda Lambert, George Ezra, Paloma Faith, Paramore, a Swedish artist called Miss Li, Emiliana Torrini. There are also some great bands on the rock and roll scene today, especially some great ladies who I love to watch perform like Laura from Screaming Rebel Angela, Laura B, Sister Suzie, Celine Lee, May West, Aisha Kahn and lots more. They’re all fab ladies and we all support each other as much as we can, which I think is great.
As far as artists from the 50’s go, I’m a massive Janis Martin fan, she’s probably my top inspiration, followed very closely by Johnny Burnette. I also love good old Wanda Jackson, Louis Jordon for his amazing lyrics and songwriting, Carl Perkins... a lot of the classics. You really can’t go wrong with any music from this era!
BJR? If you could play with one artist or,group, living or not, who would that or they be?
I think it would have to be Elvis and any of his bands, although I might have to ask Bill Black to share the bass with me! I can imagine it being so much fun being on stage with him in his hey day, he always seemed to love it up there and be so relaxed and easy going. I love that kind of vibe on stage.
BJR. Are there any future record releases in the pipeline?
We’ve just released our final single for this year, one of Jim’s tracks called “The Lowdown”, which was our last bit of prep for our debut album. It doesn’t have a name yet, but we’ll be announcing the full details hopefully in mid-March, for a May release, although nothing is set in stone quite yet.
It will have nine tracks, eight of which are original tunes with the final one being our rockabilly version of Fever, which has become a crowd favourite at gigs.
It will be a big moment for us, as it’s been a long time coming, but we wanted to wait
until we were truly ready to say “here we are”, and now we have a great line up and
are happy with our original numbers, I think it’s that time!
BJR Anyone wanting further information on how to book Bamboozle for their event, what are your contact details
You can find us at www.bamboozlehq.co.uk. Our bookings are generally done through [email protected] but there is a number on the website too if anyone prefers to speak in person. We love hearing from new people and are really excited about what 2019/20 and the future has in store gig wise. We’re already playing some amazing festivals, clubs and venues this year, and also into mid 2020. Its such an exciting time and we can’t wait to see what the future has to hold, so watch this space!
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review, February 2019. Photographs are by June Smith unless otherwise indicated
Jim and I both write songs and it’s funny as we both do it so differently! For me, the first thing that usually comes is a few lyrics with a melody. Songwriting is something that’s always in the back of my mind, and I think the first part always happens subconsciously. I’ll be driving or walking along, or just lying in bed, and something just pops into my head. I always grab my phone and record what comes up, getting everything down, usually playing around with the initial idea for 5-10 minutes.
Not everything that goes in the phone makes the cut though. I have hundreds of voice clips with ideas, and probably only around 20 songs at the moment, but they’re always there to come back to if I need inspiration.
When I sit down to do a songwriting session, I’ll listen through all the ideas I’ve recorded and see if any of them grab me, and then try to expand on them. I usually finish the melody first, and then fill in the lyrics before adding the chords. Once I’m at that point, with a mostly solid idea, I’ll take it along to the boys to work with. I usually have an idea of what I want, so I’ll give them a few guidelines, but then open it up to each of their own individual styles to really finish it off.
I never write the guitar solos though, what’s the point with Jim in the band! I’ll generally just tell him which part of the song I’d like him to solo over, wind him up and let him go! His solos are some of my favourite parts of the songs I’ve written for the band, he’s a really big inspiration to me.
BJR Favourite current artists and favourite artists from the fifties?
Currently there’s a few artists who have piqued my interest, although I’ll probably be judged for them (I won’t blame anyone if they do either!). I used to really hate pop music, but as I’ve got older and more into songwriting and performing, some modern artists have really stood out to me.
Meaghan Trainor, Taylor Swift, Jace Everett, Miranda Lambert, George Ezra, Paloma Faith, Paramore, a Swedish artist called Miss Li, Emiliana Torrini. There are also some great bands on the rock and roll scene today, especially some great ladies who I love to watch perform like Laura from Screaming Rebel Angela, Laura B, Sister Suzie, Celine Lee, May West, Aisha Kahn and lots more. They’re all fab ladies and we all support each other as much as we can, which I think is great.
As far as artists from the 50’s go, I’m a massive Janis Martin fan, she’s probably my top inspiration, followed very closely by Johnny Burnette. I also love good old Wanda Jackson, Louis Jordon for his amazing lyrics and songwriting, Carl Perkins... a lot of the classics. You really can’t go wrong with any music from this era!
BJR? If you could play with one artist or,group, living or not, who would that or they be?
I think it would have to be Elvis and any of his bands, although I might have to ask Bill Black to share the bass with me! I can imagine it being so much fun being on stage with him in his hey day, he always seemed to love it up there and be so relaxed and easy going. I love that kind of vibe on stage.
BJR. Are there any future record releases in the pipeline?
We’ve just released our final single for this year, one of Jim’s tracks called “The Lowdown”, which was our last bit of prep for our debut album. It doesn’t have a name yet, but we’ll be announcing the full details hopefully in mid-March, for a May release, although nothing is set in stone quite yet.
It will have nine tracks, eight of which are original tunes with the final one being our rockabilly version of Fever, which has become a crowd favourite at gigs.
It will be a big moment for us, as it’s been a long time coming, but we wanted to wait
until we were truly ready to say “here we are”, and now we have a great line up and
are happy with our original numbers, I think it’s that time!
BJR Anyone wanting further information on how to book Bamboozle for their event, what are your contact details
You can find us at www.bamboozlehq.co.uk. Our bookings are generally done through [email protected] but there is a number on the website too if anyone prefers to speak in person. We love hearing from new people and are really excited about what 2019/20 and the future has in store gig wise. We’re already playing some amazing festivals, clubs and venues this year, and also into mid 2020. Its such an exciting time and we can’t wait to see what the future has to hold, so watch this space!
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review, February 2019. Photographs are by June Smith unless otherwise indicated

The Wheelgrinders
Atomic Vintage Festival, summer 2018, in the main marquee. Against the red and yellow backdrop of the canvas, a trio from Vancouver, Canada took the stage, and presented a thumping forty five minutes of cover tunes and original material. Like us, the audience loved it, and we decided to find out a bit more about the three components that make up the Wheelgrinders.
BJR. First up, for those who don't know, who are the Wheelgrinders?
WG: The Wheelgrinders are a Rockabilly trio from Vancouver, BC in Canada. Greg Tiernan (Guitar/Vocals), Caroline Helmeczi (Bass/Vocals) and Stuart Quayle (Drums). We play traditional Rockabilly, usually at a bit of a faster clip than back in the 50s, and our live shows and recordings are a mix of our own material and covers of classic Rockabilly numbers.
BJR. We first saw you play at the 2018 Atomic Vintage Festival in Northamptonshire, and Caroline mentioned she was the only real Canadian. If only to settle our own curiosity, where are you all from?
WG: Yep, although all three of us have lived in Vancouver for many years Caroline is the only 'real Canadian'. She's from Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. Stuart has Canadian citizenship but is originally from Liverpool, UK. Greg is a Canadian Permanent Resident but is originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland.
BJR. How did you all meet and form the group?
WG: We have Craigslist to thank for that. All three of us had been playing in other bands but were looking for something different. Back in 2015 Greg posted that he was looking for a drummer and upright bassist to form a Rockabilly trio and Stuart answered that post. Originally we had another bassist and played for about a year under a different name. When our bassist had to leave the band Stuart suggested his friend Caroline, whom he had played and toured with previously. As soon as the three of us played together we knew we had something exciting. Caroline also suggested the band name, The Wheelgrinders, and that's how it started.
BJR. Who are your respective musical influences
WG: Greg - Anything and everything from the 1950s, mainly original Rockabilly, but specifically Eddie Cochran and Carl Perkins. As guitar players and gifted lyricists these two Rockabilly legends have inspired me more than any other musicians. And also my buddy, Rockabilly guitar maestro Paul Pigat who taught me to play and got me started. Stuart - Early UK Punk and Psychobilly, 60s Garage bands. Caroline - Psychobilly and Rockabilly, Southern Gothic and weird Americana, 60s Garage, Post-Punk.
Atomic Vintage Festival, summer 2018, in the main marquee. Against the red and yellow backdrop of the canvas, a trio from Vancouver, Canada took the stage, and presented a thumping forty five minutes of cover tunes and original material. Like us, the audience loved it, and we decided to find out a bit more about the three components that make up the Wheelgrinders.
BJR. First up, for those who don't know, who are the Wheelgrinders?
WG: The Wheelgrinders are a Rockabilly trio from Vancouver, BC in Canada. Greg Tiernan (Guitar/Vocals), Caroline Helmeczi (Bass/Vocals) and Stuart Quayle (Drums). We play traditional Rockabilly, usually at a bit of a faster clip than back in the 50s, and our live shows and recordings are a mix of our own material and covers of classic Rockabilly numbers.
BJR. We first saw you play at the 2018 Atomic Vintage Festival in Northamptonshire, and Caroline mentioned she was the only real Canadian. If only to settle our own curiosity, where are you all from?
WG: Yep, although all three of us have lived in Vancouver for many years Caroline is the only 'real Canadian'. She's from Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. Stuart has Canadian citizenship but is originally from Liverpool, UK. Greg is a Canadian Permanent Resident but is originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland.
BJR. How did you all meet and form the group?
WG: We have Craigslist to thank for that. All three of us had been playing in other bands but were looking for something different. Back in 2015 Greg posted that he was looking for a drummer and upright bassist to form a Rockabilly trio and Stuart answered that post. Originally we had another bassist and played for about a year under a different name. When our bassist had to leave the band Stuart suggested his friend Caroline, whom he had played and toured with previously. As soon as the three of us played together we knew we had something exciting. Caroline also suggested the band name, The Wheelgrinders, and that's how it started.
BJR. Who are your respective musical influences
WG: Greg - Anything and everything from the 1950s, mainly original Rockabilly, but specifically Eddie Cochran and Carl Perkins. As guitar players and gifted lyricists these two Rockabilly legends have inspired me more than any other musicians. And also my buddy, Rockabilly guitar maestro Paul Pigat who taught me to play and got me started. Stuart - Early UK Punk and Psychobilly, 60s Garage bands. Caroline - Psychobilly and Rockabilly, Southern Gothic and weird Americana, 60s Garage, Post-Punk.

BJR. You've released two CDs in the past two years, both have a mix of cover tunes and your own material. Who is the main songwriter of the original material?
WG: To date Greg has been the main songwriter, but Caroline wrote two of the songs on our last album and we're planning our next album as all originals from all of us.
BJR. What's the process of the songwriting? Words first or music and melody?
WG: Greg - Being a guitar player, for me a new song is usually built around a riff that I've been working on. So music and melody first, followed by the lyrics. Caroline - I'm pretty new to songwriting, so I definitely don't have a process yet! A song will most likely grow out of a bass hook. Then I try to explain to the guys what I'm hearing in my head for guitar and drums, or we mess around on top of the bass line and see what evolves. And I have a pile of lyric scraps waiting for the right melody.
Even though the current crop of originals have been written by Greg and Caroline, all three of us contribute to the crafting of each original song before it goes into our live set or is included on an album.
BJR. Any plans for further recordings?
WG: We are planning on recording album number three later this year, in time for a European tour also in the planning stages for later this year. As mentioned, we hope that the next album is comprised of 100% original Wheelgrinders songs.
BJR. How does the Rock n Roll scene differ in Canada from your experience in the UK?
WG: The Rock 'n' Roll/Rockabilly scene in the UK is much bigger and more widespread than here in Canada. The amount of 1950s Rock 'n' Roll and Rockabilly gigs, weekenders and festivals in the UK is staggering and as you know there are lots of Rock 'n' Roll clubs in many areas of the country. We don't have that in Canada. The country is enormous, second largest country on the planet, and the Rockabilly/Roots scene tends to be localized in small pockets. There are some great bands on the scene here and there's a very passionate fan base for the music and the lifestyle, but compared to the UK the scene is not as busy nor as widespread.
BJR. How do people get in touch with the Wheelgrinders?
WG: We are on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thewheelgrinders/ and Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thewheelgrinders/ and also have a website https://thewheelgrinders.com/
Anyone can get a hold of us on email at [email protected]
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review January 2019
Photograph credits, Atomic performance June Smith. Wheelgrinder promotional photos, Cole Stinn, supplied by the Wheelgrinders
WG: To date Greg has been the main songwriter, but Caroline wrote two of the songs on our last album and we're planning our next album as all originals from all of us.
BJR. What's the process of the songwriting? Words first or music and melody?
WG: Greg - Being a guitar player, for me a new song is usually built around a riff that I've been working on. So music and melody first, followed by the lyrics. Caroline - I'm pretty new to songwriting, so I definitely don't have a process yet! A song will most likely grow out of a bass hook. Then I try to explain to the guys what I'm hearing in my head for guitar and drums, or we mess around on top of the bass line and see what evolves. And I have a pile of lyric scraps waiting for the right melody.
Even though the current crop of originals have been written by Greg and Caroline, all three of us contribute to the crafting of each original song before it goes into our live set or is included on an album.
BJR. Any plans for further recordings?
WG: We are planning on recording album number three later this year, in time for a European tour also in the planning stages for later this year. As mentioned, we hope that the next album is comprised of 100% original Wheelgrinders songs.
BJR. How does the Rock n Roll scene differ in Canada from your experience in the UK?
WG: The Rock 'n' Roll/Rockabilly scene in the UK is much bigger and more widespread than here in Canada. The amount of 1950s Rock 'n' Roll and Rockabilly gigs, weekenders and festivals in the UK is staggering and as you know there are lots of Rock 'n' Roll clubs in many areas of the country. We don't have that in Canada. The country is enormous, second largest country on the planet, and the Rockabilly/Roots scene tends to be localized in small pockets. There are some great bands on the scene here and there's a very passionate fan base for the music and the lifestyle, but compared to the UK the scene is not as busy nor as widespread.
BJR. How do people get in touch with the Wheelgrinders?
WG: We are on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thewheelgrinders/ and Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thewheelgrinders/ and also have a website https://thewheelgrinders.com/
Anyone can get a hold of us on email at [email protected]
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review January 2019
Photograph credits, Atomic performance June Smith. Wheelgrinder promotional photos, Cole Stinn, supplied by the Wheelgrinders

Boston Jive
At the beginning of 2018, we became aware of a brand new weekender event, run by Boston Jive. A bit of research via social media, and we found Claire and Neil Seabrook, who run the Lincolnshire based event, Hot Rock and Boogie. Soon we discovered the other strings to their bows, being full time jive dance teachers, and event organisers. So we thought we’d let them tell their story in this interview
Bettajive Review (BJR). A bit about you and Boston Jive. How did you get into the 1950s Rock n roll scene and music?
Claire Seabrook (CS) - I've always loved it from as early as I can remember. My mum would tell me about how she made her own circle skirts, the dances she went to where she would jive with her cousin and I loved the music from the moment I heard it. There was just something that drew me to the period, the clothes, the music, the vibe and it's never left me. I was in my early teens when I went to my first lesson and it seriously changed my life!
Neil Seabrook (NS) - I was later on to the scene, as my love it of grew from when I met Claire. I had never been in to it prior to that (nearly 10 years ago) and was blown away when Claire took me to my first gig of our friends, The Houndogs! It really opened my eyes but it still took a little while for me to fully immerse myself... and now I can't get enough of it! The change for me has been massive, going from full on 'modern' life to now loving the vintage life 24/7.
BJR. You're dance teachers, but where did you first learn to jive?
CS - I learnt with Maddy's Jiving School and was at their very first class in Ealing Broadway, having seen them dance in the town centre. I knew it was what I wanted to do... but I sent my mum to ask for a flyer as I was far too shy to talk to them myself! Me and a friend started the following week and I have never looked back. It is such a huge part of my life and to now be teaching so many people myself and truly loving what I do all stems from those early days. I went to Maddy's but then on to other classes including Jive After 5 with Tom & Kate Jennings to learn a variety of styles
NS - Claire taught me a few moves for our wedding in 2011 but it wasn't until just over 3 and a half years ago that she convinced me to try again and then I really got into it. I love passing on what I've learnt to others and when they know that I'm still relatively new to the scene compared to Claire, it helps put people at ease.
At the beginning of 2018, we became aware of a brand new weekender event, run by Boston Jive. A bit of research via social media, and we found Claire and Neil Seabrook, who run the Lincolnshire based event, Hot Rock and Boogie. Soon we discovered the other strings to their bows, being full time jive dance teachers, and event organisers. So we thought we’d let them tell their story in this interview
Bettajive Review (BJR). A bit about you and Boston Jive. How did you get into the 1950s Rock n roll scene and music?
Claire Seabrook (CS) - I've always loved it from as early as I can remember. My mum would tell me about how she made her own circle skirts, the dances she went to where she would jive with her cousin and I loved the music from the moment I heard it. There was just something that drew me to the period, the clothes, the music, the vibe and it's never left me. I was in my early teens when I went to my first lesson and it seriously changed my life!
Neil Seabrook (NS) - I was later on to the scene, as my love it of grew from when I met Claire. I had never been in to it prior to that (nearly 10 years ago) and was blown away when Claire took me to my first gig of our friends, The Houndogs! It really opened my eyes but it still took a little while for me to fully immerse myself... and now I can't get enough of it! The change for me has been massive, going from full on 'modern' life to now loving the vintage life 24/7.
BJR. You're dance teachers, but where did you first learn to jive?
CS - I learnt with Maddy's Jiving School and was at their very first class in Ealing Broadway, having seen them dance in the town centre. I knew it was what I wanted to do... but I sent my mum to ask for a flyer as I was far too shy to talk to them myself! Me and a friend started the following week and I have never looked back. It is such a huge part of my life and to now be teaching so many people myself and truly loving what I do all stems from those early days. I went to Maddy's but then on to other classes including Jive After 5 with Tom & Kate Jennings to learn a variety of styles
NS - Claire taught me a few moves for our wedding in 2011 but it wasn't until just over 3 and a half years ago that she convinced me to try again and then I really got into it. I love passing on what I've learnt to others and when they know that I'm still relatively new to the scene compared to Claire, it helps put people at ease.

BJR. Do you have a particular favourite genre of music to dance to?
CS - I LOVE really hard hitting rock n roll, something with a hard beat I can really get into. Equally though I love the likes of Si Cranstoun, Sugar Daddy & The Cereal Killers, Ray Collins Hot Club, JD McPherson, Cherry Casino and the Gamblers to name but a few. We go to a great deal of 40s dances too and Neil loves dancing to swing bands etc, as do I but my heart lies with rock n roll.
NS - Yes, I do really enjoy the 40s scene as well as the 50s. My favourite artists though are Little Richard, Wynonie Harris and Jackie Wilson and Tennessee Ernie Ford.... as soon as 16 tons comes on, I'm in my element!
BJR. So how did Boston Jive come to be, and how long have you been running
CS - Well, some friends a few years ago really wanted to learn to jive, as we were going to a 40s hangar dance so I taught them in their garden in exchange for a cuppa! Neil wasn't jiving at this time. They kept saying I should start a class but I kept putting it off, as I was very busy with my job as a property manager for a letting agent. Eventually they wore me down! I then told Neil that I wanted him to do it too so I taught him ahead of starting the class and people loved the fact Neil was only about 2 months ahead of them! We started that class with 6 people and were just so thrilled that anyone turned up! Now we teach over 200 per week - it's incredible. We have now been running almost 3 and a half years and had our 3rd anniversary dance last Sept.
BJR. Yes, we were there, it was packed! Anyway, what areas do you cover (geographically)
CS - We cover 5 areas in Lincolnshire. Boston (our original class, hence the name!), Pinchbeck near Spalding, Woodhall Spa and our two newer classes in Cranwell and Holbeach.
BJR. Is there a cross section of people that come to the classes or do you notice one particular age group
CS - There is a great cross-section of people who come to class. Our youngest is 11 years old and our oldest well into their 80s! We love how diverse it is and how everyone mixes and dances together. You'll have the teens dancing with our oldest members and everyone is just loving it. It makes us so proud that we have helped create that environment.
BJR. Last year was the first Hot Rock n Boogie weekender. Tell us how that came about please.
CS. - Umm... it was a bit of a shock to Neil to start with!! I planned the whole thing, including booking the venue and bands, on a 2 hour trip to see Neil's sister! He went a bit white when I told him what I had done!! I had been thinking about it for ages, it was something I had always wanted to do and I knew how I wanted it to be. I was blown away by the amazing feedback we had from it, people were so kind and it really spurred us on to make improvements and keep going!
NS - Yes, a shock is one way to put it!! I thought Claire had been a bit quiet in the back of the car while I chatted away to my dad on the journey, ha ha. It was a very scary prospect, just the two of us in the planning with no backup but we did it and we couldn't be happier. I knew as soon as Claire told me though that, as shocked as I was to start with, she had always wanted to do this and she had my full support. I'm very proud of what we achieved for our first weekender, here's to many more!
CS - I already have all of 2020 and half of 2021 line up booked now!! Ha ha.
CS - I LOVE really hard hitting rock n roll, something with a hard beat I can really get into. Equally though I love the likes of Si Cranstoun, Sugar Daddy & The Cereal Killers, Ray Collins Hot Club, JD McPherson, Cherry Casino and the Gamblers to name but a few. We go to a great deal of 40s dances too and Neil loves dancing to swing bands etc, as do I but my heart lies with rock n roll.
NS - Yes, I do really enjoy the 40s scene as well as the 50s. My favourite artists though are Little Richard, Wynonie Harris and Jackie Wilson and Tennessee Ernie Ford.... as soon as 16 tons comes on, I'm in my element!
BJR. So how did Boston Jive come to be, and how long have you been running
CS - Well, some friends a few years ago really wanted to learn to jive, as we were going to a 40s hangar dance so I taught them in their garden in exchange for a cuppa! Neil wasn't jiving at this time. They kept saying I should start a class but I kept putting it off, as I was very busy with my job as a property manager for a letting agent. Eventually they wore me down! I then told Neil that I wanted him to do it too so I taught him ahead of starting the class and people loved the fact Neil was only about 2 months ahead of them! We started that class with 6 people and were just so thrilled that anyone turned up! Now we teach over 200 per week - it's incredible. We have now been running almost 3 and a half years and had our 3rd anniversary dance last Sept.
BJR. Yes, we were there, it was packed! Anyway, what areas do you cover (geographically)
CS - We cover 5 areas in Lincolnshire. Boston (our original class, hence the name!), Pinchbeck near Spalding, Woodhall Spa and our two newer classes in Cranwell and Holbeach.
BJR. Is there a cross section of people that come to the classes or do you notice one particular age group
CS - There is a great cross-section of people who come to class. Our youngest is 11 years old and our oldest well into their 80s! We love how diverse it is and how everyone mixes and dances together. You'll have the teens dancing with our oldest members and everyone is just loving it. It makes us so proud that we have helped create that environment.
BJR. Last year was the first Hot Rock n Boogie weekender. Tell us how that came about please.
CS. - Umm... it was a bit of a shock to Neil to start with!! I planned the whole thing, including booking the venue and bands, on a 2 hour trip to see Neil's sister! He went a bit white when I told him what I had done!! I had been thinking about it for ages, it was something I had always wanted to do and I knew how I wanted it to be. I was blown away by the amazing feedback we had from it, people were so kind and it really spurred us on to make improvements and keep going!
NS - Yes, a shock is one way to put it!! I thought Claire had been a bit quiet in the back of the car while I chatted away to my dad on the journey, ha ha. It was a very scary prospect, just the two of us in the planning with no backup but we did it and we couldn't be happier. I knew as soon as Claire told me though that, as shocked as I was to start with, she had always wanted to do this and she had my full support. I'm very proud of what we achieved for our first weekender, here's to many more!
CS - I already have all of 2020 and half of 2021 line up booked now!! Ha ha.

BJR. What other events do you put on
CS - We put on regular dances in Spalding as well as two official dances for the Woodhall Spa 1940's weekend. Our last dance was our Christmas Party with Si Cranstoun and for our anniversary last year we had the amazing Mike Sanchez over from Spain. This year we have Phil Haley & His Comments for Valentines, The Jive Romero's & Porky's Hot Rockin for a special event at the iconic Gliderdrome here in Boston, Memphis Lee & The Creepers in April, Cherry Casino & The Gamblers for our anniversary Dance in Sept and other exciting things happening from October onwards too. We're even hosting our first New Years Eve party this year - we are very excited!
BJR. As dance and Rock n Roll music is your day job, do you still attend other events without it feeling like a bus mans holiday?
CS - It's never a busman's holiday for us. It's our life and we love it! We love to support other clubs and go to as many as we can when we aren't working ourselves. We go to as many weekenders as we can and it's never a chore! It's great when we get our dance students wanting to come along too, it makes for a great night out or weekend away for us.
BJR. Where can people contact you
CS - They can get hold of us on 07767 149167, can message us through our Boston Jive facebook page or visit our website www.bostonjive.co.uk and drop us a line.
Thanks to Claire and Neil for their time, the Hot Rock n Boogie event is 4th & 5th May 2019
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review January 2019
Photographs from Claire and Neil Seabrook, and reproduced with their permission
CS - We put on regular dances in Spalding as well as two official dances for the Woodhall Spa 1940's weekend. Our last dance was our Christmas Party with Si Cranstoun and for our anniversary last year we had the amazing Mike Sanchez over from Spain. This year we have Phil Haley & His Comments for Valentines, The Jive Romero's & Porky's Hot Rockin for a special event at the iconic Gliderdrome here in Boston, Memphis Lee & The Creepers in April, Cherry Casino & The Gamblers for our anniversary Dance in Sept and other exciting things happening from October onwards too. We're even hosting our first New Years Eve party this year - we are very excited!
BJR. As dance and Rock n Roll music is your day job, do you still attend other events without it feeling like a bus mans holiday?
CS - It's never a busman's holiday for us. It's our life and we love it! We love to support other clubs and go to as many as we can when we aren't working ourselves. We go to as many weekenders as we can and it's never a chore! It's great when we get our dance students wanting to come along too, it makes for a great night out or weekend away for us.
BJR. Where can people contact you
CS - They can get hold of us on 07767 149167, can message us through our Boston Jive facebook page or visit our website www.bostonjive.co.uk and drop us a line.
Thanks to Claire and Neil for their time, the Hot Rock n Boogie event is 4th & 5th May 2019
© Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review January 2019
Photographs from Claire and Neil Seabrook, and reproduced with their permission

Rockin Bonnie & Western Bound Combo interview from July 2016
You’ve seen them play readers, sharp western outfits, accomplished musicianship and well rehearsed vocals. Two bands from Italy with Honky Tonkin on their minds.
The Starliters, well they were something else, right from the first time we saw them play in the UK, as well as stellar performances at the Rockabilly Rave, Rhythm Riot and Atomic. They had a canny knack of adding Western swing into the mixture of Hillbilly Bop and Rockabilly, with a beat like one of the best parties you could be invited to.
Then in 2004, there was talk of a new collaboration, this time with a raven-haired lady singer with a passion for the Western Swing sound. So was born Rockin’ Bonnie and the Rot Gut Shots. Bonnie’s voice was the perfect tone with the backing of the boys, looking suspiciously like the Starliters (*wink*)
You’ve seen them play readers, sharp western outfits, accomplished musicianship and well rehearsed vocals. Two bands from Italy with Honky Tonkin on their minds.
The Starliters, well they were something else, right from the first time we saw them play in the UK, as well as stellar performances at the Rockabilly Rave, Rhythm Riot and Atomic. They had a canny knack of adding Western swing into the mixture of Hillbilly Bop and Rockabilly, with a beat like one of the best parties you could be invited to.
Then in 2004, there was talk of a new collaboration, this time with a raven-haired lady singer with a passion for the Western Swing sound. So was born Rockin’ Bonnie and the Rot Gut Shots. Bonnie’s voice was the perfect tone with the backing of the boys, looking suspiciously like the Starliters (*wink*)

Bonnie also made a guest appearance at the Janis Martin Tribute show at the Rockabilly Rave in 2010, alongside the likes of Lynette Morgan, Lil Esther and Miss Mary Ann.
Hot on the heels of a pair of memorable performances from the Starliters and Rockin’ Bonnie & The Mighty Ropers (still looking suspiciously like the Starliters) at the inaugural Atomic Festival, came Rockabilly Rave 2015, and another top performance from both bands.
Being a ‘fan’ of the band, we’ve got to know them over the past few years, since the early performances, the CD Jubilee Cocktail, astonishingly released as long ago as 2009, and ‘What am I Worth’ remains a track to have on repeat in the Bettajive household, right up to the 45rpm collaboration with Shaun Young.
Now in 2016, a new project. Rockin’ Bonnie and the Western Bound Combo. So we thought it a good idea to catch up with the band and ask a few questions:-
Hot on the heels of a pair of memorable performances from the Starliters and Rockin’ Bonnie & The Mighty Ropers (still looking suspiciously like the Starliters) at the inaugural Atomic Festival, came Rockabilly Rave 2015, and another top performance from both bands.
Being a ‘fan’ of the band, we’ve got to know them over the past few years, since the early performances, the CD Jubilee Cocktail, astonishingly released as long ago as 2009, and ‘What am I Worth’ remains a track to have on repeat in the Bettajive household, right up to the 45rpm collaboration with Shaun Young.
Now in 2016, a new project. Rockin’ Bonnie and the Western Bound Combo. So we thought it a good idea to catch up with the band and ask a few questions:-

Bettajive Review (BJR). First of all, let’s go back to the beginning. How did you become interested in this music, and at what age?
ROCKIN’BONNIE My uncle introduced me to this "world" when I was 15 and I'm into that since then.
MAX I was 14 years old when I attended my very first Rockabilly live show in Milan. It was 1990.
BJR:- We were talking at the Rave 2016, just after the Jets’ show, and it turns out Max saw them when he was age 14. So did I, but shall we say, I was 14, in a different year…..!
SERGE My interest in rockabilly and 50’s as musician started in 1984 when I was 20, I had several original 7” that my uncle who lives in the Manchester area gave to my mom when I was teen, so I had that sound in my ears since the early days.
ROCKIN’BONNIE My uncle introduced me to this "world" when I was 15 and I'm into that since then.
MAX I was 14 years old when I attended my very first Rockabilly live show in Milan. It was 1990.
BJR:- We were talking at the Rave 2016, just after the Jets’ show, and it turns out Max saw them when he was age 14. So did I, but shall we say, I was 14, in a different year…..!
SERGE My interest in rockabilly and 50’s as musician started in 1984 when I was 20, I had several original 7” that my uncle who lives in the Manchester area gave to my mom when I was teen, so I had that sound in my ears since the early days.

JR. Is there much Rock n Roll and Rockabilly in Italy? (Beyond bands like the excellent Dale Rocka and the Volcanoes, Ballroom Kings and the Da Silva Trio for example)
MAX A Few bands of quality, a lot of fake.
SERGE In Italy there is a scene but very few bands worth..
BJR.A test of memory now, do you remember the very first song you sang on stage?
RB. I'm walking the floor over you, Ernest Tubb. It was in a club with the Starliters back in 2004 (?). Who would have thought that they would become my band about 10 years later? J
MAX The first song I sang was "Tenessee four blues". It was a self-penned one and "Tennessee four" was the name of the Rockabilly band which I played with at that time (my very first one)
BJR. You have played a number of weekenders and festivals, are there any that you remember particularly?
RB. The Rockabilly Rave 2007. That was the very first important stage for me. That year the line up was already closed, but Jerry, the promoter, wanted to add me as an extra act. It was incredible, I got an amazing welcome from the crowd.
BJR. Yep, that’s where we first saw you sing, an excellent show that was!
MAX 50s R'n'r festival in Rubi Barcelona in 1997 when I performed with Sonny Burgess and Dj Fontana.
SERGE: High Rockabilly, Rockabilly Rave, Rhythm Riot
MAX A Few bands of quality, a lot of fake.
SERGE In Italy there is a scene but very few bands worth..
BJR.A test of memory now, do you remember the very first song you sang on stage?
RB. I'm walking the floor over you, Ernest Tubb. It was in a club with the Starliters back in 2004 (?). Who would have thought that they would become my band about 10 years later? J
MAX The first song I sang was "Tenessee four blues". It was a self-penned one and "Tennessee four" was the name of the Rockabilly band which I played with at that time (my very first one)
BJR. You have played a number of weekenders and festivals, are there any that you remember particularly?
RB. The Rockabilly Rave 2007. That was the very first important stage for me. That year the line up was already closed, but Jerry, the promoter, wanted to add me as an extra act. It was incredible, I got an amazing welcome from the crowd.
BJR. Yep, that’s where we first saw you sing, an excellent show that was!
MAX 50s R'n'r festival in Rubi Barcelona in 1997 when I performed with Sonny Burgess and Dj Fontana.
SERGE: High Rockabilly, Rockabilly Rave, Rhythm Riot

BJR. When talking to these guys, their English is exceptional, shaming us Brits! So I asked about their original songs. You write a number of your own songs, where did you learn English?
RB. First at school, then going to other countries during the years.
MAX. Same as Bonnie.
BJR When you are writing a song, I’m interested as to what comes first? The tune, melody, or the lyrics?
RB. Lyrics and melody.
MAX Sometimes tunes, sometimes lyrics.
SERGE Music
BJR Tell us about your new venture, Western Bound
R.B. Rockin’Bonnie Western Bound combo was born as the joining of members from the band “The Starliters” and “Rockin’Bonnie”. I started playing the rhythm guitar and other two members came on board: a new drummer (new for this line up, but already playing with the Rot Gut Shots, my first backing band) and a fiddle player coming from different bluegrass and hillbilly bands.
The line up is now a six piece.
Serge: Rockin Bonnie Western Bound Combo is the natural evolution of what we wanted to do. I mean “Starliters” and “R. Bonnie and the Mighty Ropers” were great bands, but we couldn’t play Hillbilly, Western Swing, Honky Tonk in the most proper way with a four piece line up.
Now we got acoustic guitar, fiddle, and three real singing voices and it works great, we are very happy!
BJR. Any news on recording with the new band?
R.B. Sure, we are working on a new EP for EL TORO Records which we will be out this year.
BJR. Now that will be something we’ll be looking forward to. Thanks guys for chatting to us. Good luck with Western Bound
RB. First at school, then going to other countries during the years.
MAX. Same as Bonnie.
BJR When you are writing a song, I’m interested as to what comes first? The tune, melody, or the lyrics?
RB. Lyrics and melody.
MAX Sometimes tunes, sometimes lyrics.
SERGE Music
BJR Tell us about your new venture, Western Bound
R.B. Rockin’Bonnie Western Bound combo was born as the joining of members from the band “The Starliters” and “Rockin’Bonnie”. I started playing the rhythm guitar and other two members came on board: a new drummer (new for this line up, but already playing with the Rot Gut Shots, my first backing band) and a fiddle player coming from different bluegrass and hillbilly bands.
The line up is now a six piece.
Serge: Rockin Bonnie Western Bound Combo is the natural evolution of what we wanted to do. I mean “Starliters” and “R. Bonnie and the Mighty Ropers” were great bands, but we couldn’t play Hillbilly, Western Swing, Honky Tonk in the most proper way with a four piece line up.
Now we got acoustic guitar, fiddle, and three real singing voices and it works great, we are very happy!
BJR. Any news on recording with the new band?
R.B. Sure, we are working on a new EP for EL TORO Records which we will be out this year.
BJR. Now that will be something we’ll be looking forward to. Thanks guys for chatting to us. Good luck with Western Bound