A very happy new year to one and all. Wonder what your favourite gig of 2013 was. Perhaps you might comment on the blog. But now into the coming season. And what a season it will be. From the accomplishment of the likes of Winter Wilson to the sensational new talent that is Sunjay Brayne, there will be no shortage of surprises.
First off, we are proud to present Belper's latest singing sensation. With exquisite harmonies, admirable stage presence, and an unparalleled knowledge of car maintenance, Red Ruff will start the new season in style. For those in the know, this is clearly unmissable and for those who don't, prepare to be bemused, beguiled and entertained.
All this and Sally Barker, Pete Morton, Andy White and the fabulous Winter Wilson yet to come.. So, Happy New Year 1

Hailing from Statesboro' Georgia, where they know a thing or two about the blues, Brooks Williams is the archetypal guitarist's guitar player. Back in the days when he was a visitor to these shores he enjoyed a regular slot on The Paul Jones Blues Show and quickly developed a wide following. Now of course he lives here although he arrives in Belper on the back of extensive touring in the US.. Rated as one of the world's top 100 guitarists, where he surely belongs in the upper echelons, Brooks has been described by the likes of Martin Simpson as 'the real thing' and his latest album,'New Everything' was acclaimed in Roots as 'absolutely beyond criticism'. His recent collaboration with Boo Hewardine in 'State of the Union' showed a blend of fine songwriting and exemplary playing and gave Brooks yet another new direction.

Possessed of rare talent and technique, Brooks also has that essential third quality of taste. Now he returns to The Queens Head to show what the folk blues idiom can be in the hands of a true master.