23/6/2023 King Salami & The Cumberland 3 + Black Rooster The Hope & Anchor

Down to Islington on a Friday night - I always look forward to visiting the Hope & Anchor. Nice and easy to get to for me as well.

A decent bill for not much money - the monthly Rockaway Beach club nights are always excellent value. I've enjoyed seeing the sausage boys many times so I'd buy a ticket just to see them.

But on first are Black Rooster. I had the pleasure of being on the same bill as this band at this venue earlier this year and am looking forward to seeing them again.

Fronted by the feisty Lucille this band has an edge to them - imagine a punk Tina Turner with a loud and snotty attitude and you'll get the picture.

Black Rooster are a unique mixture of personalities with a singer who grabs and holds your attention - if you see this band you will remember them. Which is more than I can say for the next act.

Romeo Spy's name is probably the most interesting thing about them. It suggests an air of mystery - which I find completely lacking. They are excellent musicians, but I found them so forgettable that I can't remember anything else about them. Sorry guys.

Tonight's headliners are a very different kettle of fish - or plate of bangers. King Salami and the Cumberland Three are enormous fun!

This is full on rock 'n' roll played in the spirit it originally had. Maybe a slight punk edge from the bands members have been in previously, but this is music that makes you want to dance. Sadly there has been a change in the lineup since I last saw the sausage boys and guitarist 'Captain Not Sensible' is apparently no longer in the band. However, the new guy is no slouch in the 6 string department.

This is very much good-time music and the 'King' himself is an energetic and highly entertaining frontman. The whole band give a very spirited performance. The setlist is full of bangers - pun intended. 

The music is fun, and so are some of the band's song titles like 'Do The Wurst' and 'Less Bone - More Meat!' - yes there is a theme. If you can't enjoy a King Salami and the Cumberland Three show there is something wrong with you. Or maybe you are a vegetarian? But these sausages are for you too if you have a sense of humour - vegan sausages are available so you can still join in the fun! 😉

If you like old school rock & roll/R&B or you just want to dance I highly recommend getting yourself along to a King Salami and the Cumberland Three show at your earliest opportunity! 😁