Black Cat Bones

Black Cat Bones

Black Cat Bones are a London blues rock group active from 1966 to 1971. The band forms in the middle of the 1960s with Paul Tiller on vocals and harmonica, lead guitarist Paul Kossoff, brothers Derek Brooks on rhythm guitar and Stu Brooks on bass, and Terry Sims on drums. Their sound centres on heavy blues rock and deep blues, reflecting the style that is popular in England at the time.

Line-up changes and related acts

The group undergoes a series of line-up changes during its short existence. Simon Kirke replaces drummer Frank Perry, and the band becomes notable for including both Kossoff and Kirke in its line-up. Kossoff and Kirke then leave to join Free in 1968. Kirke later becomes a founding member of Bad Company in 1974. After their departure, guitarist Rod Price and drummer Phil Lenoir join the band.

Recording and later formation of Leaf Hound

With singer Brian Short alongside Stu and Derek Brooks, Black Cat Bones release their only full-length album, Barbed Wire Sandwich, in 1969. When the album does not achieve success, Short, Price and Lenoir leave, and the band effectively ends. Derek and Stu Brooks then join vocalist Pete French and guitarist Mick Halls from the Brunning Sunflower Blues Band, later adding drummer Keith George Young; this line-up becomes Leaf Hound in 1970.

Legacy

Paul Kossoff’s playing in the band shows early signs of the style he later brings to Free, particularly in his riffing and melodic lead guitar work. Rod Price later plays in Foghat. Black Cat Bones remain a cult name, with original albums attracting considerable collector interest.