24 Pesos

24 Pesos

24 Pesos is a London-based band formed in 2008 by four musicians with roots in blues, soul, funk and the rhythms of New Orleans. The line-up includes Julian Burdock on guitar, vocals and songwriting, Silas Maitland, Moz Gamble on Hammond, and Mike Connolly on drums. The group develops blues-based material with influences from the Meters, John Scofield, John Mayer and Ray Charles, while aiming to keep close to blues traditions.

Formation and early work

Before the band starts, Julian Burdock and Silas Maitland write and produce a record for soul singer Geno Washington in 2006, focusing on his live energy and improvisational style. After working for a period as sidemen, they decide to form their own group. In 2008 they recruit Gamble and Connolly, and 24 Pesos begins.

The band writes and rehearses through 2008, with an emphasis on material that is fun to play, musical and challenging. It records its debut album, The Boogieworm, in July 2008. The album is well received, and the band tours heavily in late 2008 and 2009 to support it.

Live activity and releases

24 Pesos builds a live reputation through club dates and festivals in London, the wider UK and abroad. In 2008 it plays events including Fête de la Musique in Le Touquet, Festival Boule Rock in Boulogne, The Rock Store in Montpellier and the Bataclan in Paris.

By late 2009 the band has enough new material for a second album, originally titled Neckbones and Gumbo before being renamed Busted Broken and Blue. The album reflects themes of Westminster, political corruption and recession, while remaining an upbeat blues record. The band also notes the influence of working with Geno Washington and Beverly Knight, particularly their emphasis on energy.

Style

The band plays blues rock with strong elements of soul and funk. Its sound combines traditional blues with New Orleans rhythms and a broader groove-based approach.