Biography

The Hustle was formed some 12 years ago, with the core of the band remaining largely the same over the years. During this time the band has really made it's mark on the British blues scene.

Appearances include playing behind blues legends such as the late Lefty Diz, Big Moose Walker and Lucky Lopez Evans. The band has also played support to Joe Louis Walker, Buddy Guy and a host of other big names, and is a regular on the blues club and festival circuit.

About 80% of the songs performed by the Hustle are written by singer and guitarist, Mike Atherton. Many of these are featured on the Hustle's debut CD 'Original Rhythm' on Catnap records in 1995. Sales have been very strong, and it has received much airplay on Jazz FM, Radio Lancashire, Cumbria and Tyneside.

The self penned songs are strong and varied in influence, and take advantage of the talent and diversity of sounds produced by the players. The searing vocals and instinctive raw-edged guitar playing of Mike Atherton provide a natural focal point. His guitar playing style is influenced in particular by the likes of Buddy Guy and Peter Green, though after 20 years of playing the blues, he has made his sound his own.

An integral part of the Hustle sound is the tight, fat horn lines provided by sax player Gerard McDonald and cornet player Steve Chadwick. Both have a strong jazz background, but with both feet deeply planted in the blues. As a section they appear telepathically linked, and play as if the whole thing is one instrument - shades of the Memphis horns creeping in!

This combination is complemented by the latest member of band,Steve Wren, whose skillful keyboard playing has already won him many admirers.

Steve Hughes on drums and Gary Thistletwaite on bass provide a tight and rock-solid anchor for the whole band, which moves and grooves with the feel and dynamics of each song, sometimes bordering on the downright funky.

You could not get bored during a Hustle performance. Watching this tight and talented 6 piece band sweep through a variety of blues styles and emotions whilst obviously enjoying themselves is not to be missed.