Black Cat Bone

Black Cat Bone

Black Cat Bone is a German blues rock group from Tübingen, active since 1979. The band forms around blues rock and is known for a long-running focus on live performance and collaboration with other musicians.

History

The group forms in 1979 around guitarist and singer Hans McMinamin. In later years, singer and second guitarist Tapio “Tappura” Vesa becomes the band’s main voice and creative backbone. In 2002, McMinamin moves to the USA, after which Tanja Telschow takes over lead vocals.

Line-up

Black Cat Bone includes drummer Eero Valkonen, harp player Heikki Hämäläinen, Timo Saario on bass and organ, and lead guitarist Antti Kanerva. The later line-up also features Gunter Richter on guitar, Uli Wagner on drums, Stephan Wegner on bass, and Martin Holzner on keyboards.

Live work and collaborations

The band plays many concerts in Germany and neighbouring European countries and appears at the Montreux Jazz Festival. Its reputation as a live band leads to support slots with blues artists including Katie Webster, Sidney “Guitar Crusher” Selby and Rick Derringer. Black Cat Bone also records with musicians such as Alvin Lee, Chris Farlowe, Calvin Owens, Katie Webster and Sidney “Guitar Crusher” Selby.

Recordings

The group releases 11 CDs over the course of its history. One of its noted studio projects is Taylormade, which features former Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor as a guest musician. In 2009, the band marks its 30th anniversary with the CD Viewpoint.

Style

Black Cat Bone’s music combines blues rock with dynamic guitar work, harmonica, organ and keyboards, alongside blues and jazz influences. The band is described through its emphasis on powerful grooves, extended solos and ensemble playing.