Wille and the Bandits will be heading to Oxford’s O2 for what promises to be an electrifying evening, October 13.
The band go further than is expected of a band operating in the Rock arena, they are carrying the genre into unknown territory, mixing award winning musicianship with the ability to produce intoxicating songs without compromise.
Each Bandit can be seen at points playing instruments simultaneously, some of which, such as the tongue drum, mohan venna and djembe, are rarely seen in western music and almost never in the Blues Rock scene.
Classic Rock Magazine commented: “Socially aware lyrics and planet hopping instrumentation makes for the most refreshing sound heard in ages.”
The lyrics of many of Wille Edwards’ songs delve deep. Some lead us through a journey of self realisation, others paint a picture that unashamedly draws on global issues such as climate change and immigration for inspiration, but in a package which doesn’t sound pretentious, forced or preachy.
Like many great bands they deliver their message by the power of song, and when revealing the heavier angry side of their music they can rock out with the best as tours with Deep Purple have proven.
And yet, the softer side of Wille and the Bandits has almost peotic, athemic qualities which draws comparisons with Bob Dylan and Ben Harper.
Mojo added: “Deep Purple rate them as does Joe Bonamassa, this super tight trio can compete with any rivals in the head banging states.”
The bands’ strength as musicians and their ability to pull in lovers of all types of music has seen them play Rock, Folk, Blues and Jazz festivals globally to critical acclaim. There are not many people who watch this band, regardless of music taste, and don’t leave with their jaw firmly planted on the ground.