Blues Band began in 1987 as a three piece blues and Rock-a-Billy band in Van Nuys, California. The original members we're Joe Westbrook on guitar, Kevin Huddleson (The Fixtures) on drums and vocals, and Brian Batchley on bass guitar. The band began to play out regularly at local Los Angeles venues. David Reo joined the band in 1992 when the band had a steady Friday night gig at The Beverly Hills Roadhouse on Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Hills, Ca. The band has continued to work regularly since that time. At present the band is fronted by original member Brian Batchley on blues harmonica and vocals, David Reo AKA "Rhode Island Red" on guitar and vocals. On bass at the moment the duties are being shared amongst Ron Anderson , Sam Bolle and Saul Issac as for drums it is Louie Brossard and Pete Gallagher. The Preachers blues band is currently in the studio and intend to release a classic rocking CD in January 2007. It will definately be one for the collection. Brian Batchley was born in Queens,New York City. He lived in New York until he was 20 years old and then relocated to Southern California where he has lived ever since. He began playing music at the age of 14 with the electric guitar.He spent many years playing the guitar.He recieved his first harmonica at the age 10 and fooled around with it alot. In 1987 he auditioned for the Preachers on bass guitar and was quickly hired on and refered to as "Jack" for his playing similarity to Jack Bruce of Cream. Eventually Brian put down the bass to focus on his true calling the blues harmonica and has become a premier front man and a true entertainer. He is well known for his high energy style of harmonica playing as well as his gut wrenching blues singing style.
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