Brother Goose

Brother Goose

Brother Goose is a blues group from Australia formed by the original rhythm section of the Australian blues band Chain. The group centres on Ian Wilks on vocals and harmonica, Craig Claxton on guitar and vocals, and Barry “Lil Goose” Harvey on drums. The line-up also includes Kevin Mercury on bass guitar. Earlier versions of the band include Barry “Big Goose” Sullivan on bass and Owen Gray on piano and vocals.

Background

The band emerges from the Australian blues scene and is linked directly to Chain through its founding rhythm section. Barry “Lil Goose” Harvey continues to tour with Chain, while Barry “Big Goose” Sullivan dies after the music for the Brother Goose album is recorded. The album is dedicated to Sullivan, who is described as the band’s original bass player.

Style and influences

Brother Goose works within blues, with a roster of influences that ranges across rock, jazz, soul and classic blues. The band’s listed influences include The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Booker T. and the M.G.’s, Aretha Franklin, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Warren Morgan, Les McCann, Jimi Hendrix, Tony Williams, Alice Coltrane, Little Walter, Muddy Waters, Matt Taylor, Mal Logan, Max Roach and George Russell.