It would be easy to dismiss DC Blues as just another working band on the blues scene, but they are so much more than that. Their self-deprecating front in some ways hides the fact that they are also terrific musicians who just love to put on a great show.
“Wherever you see DC Blues listed in a "What’s On" guide make sure you go and see them. You will be sure to have a great time". Rob Bradley- Leeds Blues Club
www.dcbluesband.com | Facebook- DCBluesBand | Instagram- dcbluesband
Originally formed under the name Hobo Joe & The Dead Cats in 2012, later shortened to The Dead Cats and finally to DC Blues. They have been through several changes in their line-up with Paul Winn (Lead Vox/Harmonica) & Ben Darwin (Bass) being the only original members left. Joining them are Lloyd Massingham (Guitar), Stephen Brandon (Hammond/Rhodes) & Paul Thompson (Drums). They have received several reviews in Blues Matters Magazine who stated "Hard bluesin' at its best! A cohesive band of top-class musicians, what is not to like?", "Highly recommended, go and see this band when you can", "Playing live they are a joy to behold, they are a tight band who really enjoy playing to a crowd".
DC Blues have released 2 albums, both of which made the Top 40 in the IBBA Chart (Independant Blues Broadcasters Association) with national & international airplay on countless radio stations. They are well known within the UK Blues scene and have performed blistering sets at The Great British Rock & Blues Festival in Skegness & Blackpool as well as The O2 Academy in Sheffield as part of HRH Blues VII. They headlined the Chapel Allerton Arts Festival, Leeds in 2023 and also played on one of the main stages at The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival in Colne in 2024. They have also made appearances at many Blues Festivals in the UK.
Paul Winn & Ben Darwin are also Radio Broadcasters and host multi-award nominated "Blues From The Ouse" on York based Jorvik Radio. They also co-organise the increasingly popular York Blues Festival & Paul has been running Ryedale Blues Club at The Milton Rooms in Malton since 2017.
"Tight band, great chemistry and just musicians having fun. What else do you need"?
"This is what live music is all about. Magic moments that you can't get in any other musical medium"
"Tremendous quality that really couldn't be bettered for style and substance"
Colin Campbell - Blues Matters Magazine