THE Blues Band may be retiring from touring, but their two lead vocalists are still on the road – catch Paul Jones and Dave Kelly one their acoustic tour at Bridport’s Electric Palace on Saturday 20th January.

Ruggedly durable and timeless, the blues is as popular today as it has ever been. Young musicians still cut their teeth on its enticing 12-bar appeal, but its real rewards, true virtuosity, poise and knowledge, only come with age.

Founder members of The Blues Band, Paul Jones and Dave Kelly’s tangled and colourful roots go way back into the deep undergrowth of the tradition. As well as their own original material, they not only know and perform the work of the greats, including Howling’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker and Sonny Boy Williamson – they actually played alongside them, and enjoyed their friendship.

After more than a quarter of a century as presenter of his BBC Radio 2 R&B show, as a charismatic singer and harmonica maestro, what Paul Jones doesn’t know about the blues can be written on a pinhead. The same can be said about Dave Kelly, who has played with them all, including legends such as James Burton and Buddy Guy. Superb blues vocals and guitar virtuosity have elevated him into the higher echelon of international blues performers.