The Whiskey Poets

“The Whiskey Poets take us through a great expanse of musical countryside, yet never stray from the path of dark, blues-based rock. The lyrics are well-crafted vignettes to loneliness, family, and hope, and you could be listening to these guys break their hearts on a Louisiana stage.  Trust me, you’ll be seeing more of them on the blues-rock circuit.” Powerplay

The Whiskey Poets was formed in 2017 as a UK-based country-blues outfit, fronted by international bestselling author, Roger Ellory (aka RJ Ellory). Roger is an internationally  best-selling crime novelist who spends a large proportion of his time in France where he has a phenomenal following and is a household name. Winner of 14 literary awards, Roger Ellory’s literary output is nothing short of phenomenal: 18 novels since 2003, and now translated and sold in 26 languages.

The Whiskey Poets’ debut album ‘Low Country’ featured the late platinum-selling percussionist Hossam Ramzy (Peter Gabriel, Shakira, Page & Plant) and won The Akademia Best Americana Album 2017.  This, and their second and third albums – ‘Native Strangers’ and ‘The Garage Tapes’ are now available from Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, and all major digital outlets. Playing original material incorporating Ellory’s lyrics, they present a unique and dynamic range of songs that possess an appeal both musically and narratively.

Martin Smith – Lead Guitarist, Rob Oliver – Bassist + Roger Nunn – Percussionist + Andy Evans – Keyboards

Roger Ellory is joined by Martin Smith on electric guitar. A member of both Charlie and U Boat, Martin was also the last touring bassist with Electric Light Orchestra in Europe and the United States. Throughout a long career, he has worked with a great many artistes, including Brian Johnson (AC/DC), BA Robertson, Mike Rutherford and John Wetton. 

Bassist Rob Oliver has been a professional touring bassist for the likes of The Tornados, Tony Hadley, Mike Berry, Lenny Henry, John Miles and Alexandra Burke. Roger Nunn has been a professional drummer since 1981. Andy Evans has been a professional keyboardist for over thirty years, working as both a freelance performer and session musician.

 “The Poets are a fine band that can rock or step back as required and are clearly well-versed in Americana tropes.  And, of course, Ellory can write.  An impressive parallel career clearly beckons.” Jeremy Searle – R2

 “The songs are all from the more gritty side of Americana but delivered with a fine tune and great musicianship.” Americana UK