The Leonard Jones Potential

The Leonard Jones Potential

The Leonard Jones Potential are a funk and soul group formed in 2006 and active from that point to the present. Their line-up centres on a tight rhythm section, Hammond-led keyboards, brass harmonies and lead vocals, with Meeshelle Newell on vocals, Michael Sharkey on drums, Anthony Standing on guitar, Andy Gajda on bass, Ruairidh McKay on keys, Andy Pearce on percussion, Doug Hutchison on trumpet and Andrew Morgan on trombone. The group also features Captain Keys on Hammond.

Style and influences

The band plays a groove-led sound rooted in funk, soul, pop and mod influences. Their references range from classic funk acts including The Meters, Kool & The Gang and Charles Wright & The 103rd Street Rhythm Band to later groups such as Speedometer, The Bamboos and The Haggis Horns.

Live work and appearances

The Leonard Jones Potential build a reputation as a dancefloor-focused live band. Their appearances include serving as house band for the Ironworks’ New Soul City club night, performing on the main stage at Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, playing at Edinburgh Jazz Bar and appearing as live session guests on The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show.

Notable collaborations

In July 2012, the group is invited to perform with the Brand New Heavies at Carl Cox’s private 50th birthday party in Brighton. On another occasion, they are fronted by guest singer Laura Vane of Laura Vane & The Vipertones.