SUMMER SATURDAY: COALTRAIN

COALTRAIN is a 5-piece band of seasoned musicians, whose history is built on decades of playing in every
aspect of the Leeds music scene. Their mix of rockabilly, country and blues music is a sound showcase of
their skills.
....
DAVE VERMOND (gtr / vocals).
A talented singer-songwriter who has been a folk scene regular at The Grove back in the day, and also
frontman for The Upsiders and The Recidivists, both well-known and respected bands. Dave’s versatile
skills as a performer is one of Coaltrain’s greatest assets. He continues to perform sporadically as a solo
artist, and flies under the radar as brilliantly as ever.
JOHNNY HARDCASTLE (lead gtr / slide guitars)
One of the most talented and respected guitarists of the West Yorkshire music scene, Johnny has been a
vital part of Preacher’s Dream, The Charlie Speed Band, The King Ivory Band and Blonde On Bob,
among many others. He has a wealth of experience, and is as keen and dedicated to his craft as he’s
always been. A master of styles and expression, he has earned a legendary status as the man who
embodies “Have Guitar, Will Travel.”
CHRIS SWINDELLS (bass / vocals)
Chris has spent his musical life, from his teenage years onward, playing in a host of Leeds’ finest bands –
ever the consumate bassist, he has anchored and steered Way Out West, Ten Legged Friend, Bayou
Gumbo, Wang Dang Doodle and many others. He is a fine vocalist, and his team spirit
and musical prowess are all a vital part of his performances with Coaltrain.
ANDY THORNTON (Drums / percussion)
Andy has been the go-to drummer for many bands over the past decades. His enthusiasm, technical know
how and versatility are all hallmarks of Andy’s reputation. Coaltrain are lucky to have him. Andy is also a
leading light of the Grassington Festival, where his backstage miracle-working and sheer graft are highly
prized.
SI HOLMES (tenor sax / vocals)
Si Holmes is a founder member of Coaltrain, and his sax playing and judgement have proved to be
invaluable. As a member of the Woodside Big Band, and formerly Des The Miner, his awareness and
talent are hallmarks of his work through the local jazz world and beyond. As a soloist and colourist, Si
Holmes rides the rails and knows the track.
In a world of tribute and imitation bands, Coaltrain, who are all old enough to have seen the real thing,
build their set around the Not So Blindingly Obvious Covers – by Fogerty, Dylan, Carl Perkins, The Band
for instance – but Coaltrain deliver the songs these artists gave us that you will know, but rarely hear
performed live. Couple up one or two old rockabilly treasures, and a brace of Dave Vermond’s songs from
his large treasury, add an audience and Coaltrain is ready to roll. Be there or be octagonal!