Personnel:
Gerry McAvoy (Bass Guitar): Played, recorded and toured with Rory for 20 years, from 1971 to 1991. Gerry played on every album Rory ever made.
Ted McKenna (Drums): Best known for his work with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band, drumming legend Ted McKenna played with Rory Gallagher from 1978-81.
Marcel Scherpenzeel (Guitar/Vocals): Grew up with Rory's music and Gerry promises, "This is the closest guitarist to Rory you will ever hear".
European Blues Award Winner 2013 (Best Band)
European Blues Award Winner 2015 Ted McKenna (Best Musician, Performance)
With the exception of 'A Sense Of Freedom' (Written by Frankie Miller, and performed by Frankie, Rory Gallagher, Gerry McAvoy and Ted McKenna for the film of the same name in 1979), 'Repeat After Me' is an album of entirely original songs.
McAvoy says "the band adopted an old school approach of fully rehearsing the pieces before a record button was hit.
We both rehearsed and wrote the songs at the same time.
At times it was quite daunting"
With a focus on all our musical influences.
Marcel's love of Rock & Roll and blues and Gerry and Ted's background, playing top 40 songs in the sixties, Tamla Motown, Soul music.
Plus being influenced by the likes of Rory Gallagher, Alex Harvey and other writing talents.
This became a melting pot, when stirred became potent.
This music is as technically demanding as anything BOF have ever played.
As a whole, it's a confident and assertive exploration of the possibilities of a modern trio.
Lyrically, 'Repeat After Me' is extremely diverse. Taking on all aspects of life, on and off the road.
'Repeat After Me' is a vital addition for Band Of Friends, and Rory Gallagher fans alike.
Whilst essentially the core of Rory Gallagher's band (1978-1981) - Band Of Friends have progressed towards being a songwriting team in their own right.
Peerless and relentlessly creative; Gerry McAvoy and Ted McKenna have played as a rhythm section together for a total of 8 years - with the addition of guitar supremo Marcel Scherpenzeel in 2012, the band have gone from strength to strength - Winner of the European Blues Award in 2013, and Best musician award (2015 Ted McKenna) Keeping alive the spirit of Rory Gallagher with their perfect renditions of old favourites, with the addition of their own material, Band Of Friends continue to impress audiences around the World.