Review & Photography by Manny Manson for MPM
“Read all about it”
Canadian psychodelia rockers “The Damn Truth” are to Headline KK’s Steel Mill with Ashley Sherlock as Support
Wolverhampton! Had once again prepared for a night of unstoppable rock ‘n’ roll energy as, tonight The Damn Truth are set to play KK’s Steel Mill once again, only this time they were headliners; and on their undercard, the sensational Ashley Sherlock Band were in support! This epic pairing promises a night of blistering performances, unforgettable riffs, and the kind of raw, soulful intensity that leaves audiences bouncing long after the sustained notes of the inevitable encore have long played out.
2024 has been a landmark year for The Damn Truth. Fresh from their electrifying European festival circuit and riding high on the continued success of their latest album, Now or Nowhere, the Montreal rockers are ready to bring their powerhouse live show to Wolverhampton once again. Produced by Grammy-winning legend Bob Rock, Now or Nowhere has solidified The Damn Truth’s status as modern rock trailblazers. Tracks like “This Is Who We Are Now” and “Only Love” have become instant anthems, and their dynamic live shows have left fans across the globe hungry for more.
Renowned for Lee-La Baum’s soaring, gritty vocals with that “to die for vibrato” and Tom Shemer’s searing guitar work, through in the powerhouse drum grooves of Dave Traina and the thundering bass groove from the enigmatic PY Letellier and you have a a band that knows how to channel pure ‘hippie vibe’ emotion into every note. At KK’s Steel Mill, expect a performance packed with hits, deep cuts, and a vibe so electric you’ll be talking about it for weeks.
Joining them is none other than the Ashley Sherlock Band, one of the UK’s most exciting new blues-rock acts. 2024 has seen the Manchester-based trio take their career to the next level, with the release of their critically acclaimed album Just a Name. Tracks like “Time” and “Empty Street” showcase Sherlock’s ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with gritty, soulful guitar work, all backed by the thunderous rhythm section of Charlie Rachael Kay and Danny Rigg. Fresh off their own headline tour and a slew of standout festival appearances, the Ashley Sherlock Band is primed to set the stage alight with their signature mix of emotional ballads and hard-hitting blues-rock anthems.
Tonight, KK’s Steel Mill promises to be another celebration of raw talent and passionate musicianship. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Damn Truth or discovering the Ashley Sherlock Band for the first time, this is a lineup that brings two powerhouse bands together under one roof.
Best include a-bit about the undercard here, the last time I saw the Ashley Sherlock band was, a number of years back, in the Rescue Rooms in Nottingham, on that night they were recording a live video so it was a bit full on in the then nonexistent pit. So here we go just in case you don’t know;
The young Ashley Sherlock Band are a rising force in modern blues-rock, blending soulful melodies, raw emotion, and electrifying energy into a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Hailing from Manchester, UK, the band is fronted by singer-songwriter and guitarist Ashley Sherlock, whose powerful vocals and dynamic guitar work drive their music. Accompanied by the groove-heavy rhythm section of Charlie Rachael Kay on bass and Danny Rigg on drums, the trio delivers a unique fusion of blues, rock, and indie influences that captivates audiences and certainly, they leave a lasting impression.
The band’s journey began with Ashley Sherlock’s roots in acoustic singer-songwriter circles, where his expressive voice and intricate guitar playing began to attract attention. Inspired by a love of blues and classic rock giants like Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, and Jeff Buckley, Sherlock transitioned to a full-band format to bring greater depth and power to his music. Charlie Rachael Kay’s bass playing adds a melodic, almost hypnotic groove to the foundation, while Danny Rigg’s dynamic drumming injects energy and precision, resulting in a sound that is as rhythmically compelling as it is emotionally resonant.
Their music strikes a balance between reflective storytelling and raucous, high-energy performances, indicating the diverse influences of the band. Sherlock’s guitar work often showcases the soulful phrasing and raw edge reminiscent of blues greats like Gary Moore and Joe Bonamassa, while his vocals carry the emotional weight and soaring expressiveness of a classic rock balladeer. Charlie’s basslines weave subtle complexity into the band’s arrangements, drawing from funk and indie rock traditions, and Danny’s drumming shifts effortlessly between driving, hard-hitting rhythms and nuanced, atmospheric touches.
The Ashley Sherlock Band made their recorded debut with the If You’re Listening EP in 2019, an offering that showcased their ability to meld heartfelt lyricism with soaring instrumentation. Tracks like “Trouble” and “Why” highlighted the band’s knack for crafting songs that build from intimate moments into powerful crescendos. Their full-length debut album, Just a Name (2023), cemented their reputation as one of the most exciting acts in the contemporary blues-rock scene. The record is packed with standout tracks like “Empty Street” and “Time,” which capture the raw emotion and energy of their live performances while delving into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
The band’s influences span a broad spectrum, from the storytelling prowess of Bob Dylan and the introspective depth of Nick Drake to the electrifying energy of classic blues-rock outfits. This eclecticism is evident in their music, which shifts seamlessly between stripped-down acoustic ballads and full-throttle rock anthems. The Ashley Sherlock Band doesn’t just deliver technically proficient performances; they infuse every note with soul and sincerity, creating a connection with their audience that lingers long after the final chord.
Known for their magnetic stage presence, the Ashley Sherlock Band has earned a reputation for unforgettable live performances. Whether playing intimate venues or commanding larger stages, the trio consistently delivers a show that’s both technically masterful and emotionally impactful. Their growing popularity has seen them share stages with blues and rock luminaries, as well as embark on their own headline tours, winning over new fans with every performance.
With a deep respect for their musical roots and a fearless approach to innovation, the Ashley Sherlock Band represents the evolution of blues-rock for a new generation. Their commitment to honest songwriting, captivating musicianship, and relentless passion ensures that they are a band not only to watch but to follow as they carve their place in the modern musical landscape.
And here is where we mention their live show!
The Ashley Sherlock Band emerged through a thick wall of smoke; their figures barely visible against the swirling haze. The stage was a vision of Victorian London, dark, mysterious, and completely shrouded in murk that swallowed the backline whole. Somewhere in the depths of that fog, drummer Danny Rigg would be pounding out rhythms in total obscurity, his kit a ghostly presence in the shadows. Dep bassist Nick Baxter, stepping in for the tour, would be a steady silhouette, a ghostly specter if you will, grounding the chaos like a shadowy anchor.
The crowd cheered as Ashley Sherlock appeared, cowboy hat tipped low, tinted glasses gleaming under the dim stage lights. He cut a striking figure, stepping into the subdued spotlight with a black Gibson ES-335 slung across his chest.
The guitar, iconic and menacing in equal measure, bore a history as rich as the music it made tonight. With its six-position varitone selector, favored by blues legend B.B. King, this was no ordinary axe. Sherlock himself seemed to channel that lineage, and as he leaned into the microphone, you could almost hear the ghost of King’s advice, never run back into a burning building to save a guitar, no matter how precious. That lesson came from a bar brawl, a waitress named Lucille, and a venue engulfed in flames. Tonight, the stage seemed almost appropriately ablaze, though thankfully just with smoke and anticipation.
They launched into “Trouble,” a raw and gritty opener from their 2023 album ‘Just A Taste’. The guitar snarled with crunch and attitude, each chord a punch that hit straight to the chest. Baxter’s bassline prowled beneath, thick and unrelenting, while, lost in the back, Rigg’s snare cracked like thunder. Sherlock’s voice, a soulful rasp steeped in blues tradition, cut through the haze with conviction, drawing the crowd into the groove. His ES-335 howled during the solo, sliding seamlessly from biting, overdriven tones to silky, expressive bends that hung in the air like smoke rings. The song’s raw energy set the tone for the night; this wasn’t going to be a polite performance; it was a cathartic roar from the depths of the blues.
Barely pausing for breath, they moved into “Change the World,” another standout from the same album. The mood shifted slightly—still heavy, still driving, but with a tinge of melancholy threading through its fuzzy, distorted riffs. Sherlock’s voice carried a defiant edge, his delivery charged with emotion, while Baxter’s bass added a rumbling warmth. The guitar solo was a fiery ascent, each note dripping with passion, building to a triumphant crescendo that had the crowd erupting in cheers.
The energy took a darker turn with “Death of Me,” its descending riff and ominous tone pulling the room into a swampy blues undercurrent. This was storytelling in its rawest form, Sherlock’s voice aching with a mix of regret and defiance as his Telecaster wailed through the haze. The breakdown was haunting, the band disappearing into the smoke as the music slowed to a simmer. Rigg’s cymbals shimmered like distant rainfall, and the audience hung on every note until the storm crashed back in with full force.
“If You’re Listening” demonstrated the band’s knack for dynamics, moving effortlessly between tender verses and explosive choruses. Sherlock’s vocals were intimate, almost a whisper in the quieter moments, before soaring into full-throated belts that sent shivers through the crowd. Baxter’s basslines added depth and texture, while Rigg’s drumming danced between delicate hi-hat patterns and ferocious fills. The guitar solo was a masterpiece, weaving blues licks and ethereal reverb-soaked bends that seemed to echo endlessly into the fog. At one point, the band’s interplay became so tight it felt like a single organism moving in perfect sync.
By the time “Time” rolled around, Sherlock had again swapped his ES-335 for that stunning red Telecaster, its tone bright and biting as it cut through the murk. This slower, more introspective number gave the band a chance to stretch out, with Baxter’s basslines flowing like a lazy river beneath Sherlock’s soulful phrasing. The solo was a journey in itself, moving from tender, mournful passages to searing, overdriven peaks that drew the audience in. It felt like the room was captivated, swaying gently as if caught in the song’s hypnotic pull.
“Dear Elizabeth” offered a tender moment in the set, its heartfelt lyrics and plaintive melody bringing a hush over the crowd. Sherlock’s Telecaster added a twangy warmth, while Rigg and Baxter provided a subtle, jazz-tinged groove. The breakdown built into an emotional crescendo, with Sherlock’s vocals soaring above the mix, each word a gut-punch of sincerity. The audience was spellbound, hanging on every note until the final, aching chord.
They closed the set with “Fine by Me,” a barnstorming rocker that set the room ablaze with energy, it certainly looked like it could have been as the smokey haze hung violently in the air. Sherlock’s riff was infectious, a crunch-laden hook that had the crowd moving from the first note. Rigg’s drumming was thunderous, each cymbal crash cutting through the fog like a bolt of lightning, while Baxter’s bassline danced with playful funk. During the song’s breakdown, the band seemed to vanish entirely into the smoke, only for Sherlock to reappear at the front of the stage, tearing into a blistering solo that showed he was indeed a master at work.
As the final notes rang out and the haze began to clear, one thing was certain: The Ashley Sherlock Band had certainly delivered a performance that was as atmospheric as it was electrifying. Between the crunch of the guitars, the groove of the rhythm section, and dare I say the haunting beauty of that smoke-shrouded stage, they’d created a show that felt entirely their own. By the time the applause faded, the audience was already hungry for tonight’s headliners, the mighty The Damn Truth.
And now while the smoke clears and the crowd get themselves a libation to sooth the dry mouths and throat, caused by the smoke, the stage is set for the Headliners, all the way from Montreal, I’ll talk about my friends, the Damn Truth and what they’ve been up to
The Damn Truth are a true powerhouse of a rock band hailing from Montreal, Canada, known for their electric live performances and raw, soulful sound that bridges the gap between classic and contemporary rock. Formed in 2011, the band is made up of Lee-La Baum on vocals and guitar, Tom Shemer on lead guitar, PY Letellier on bass, and Dave Traina on drums. Together, they’ve carved out a niche for themselves as a band that refuses to compromise on authenticity, delivering music that is as emotionally charged as it is musically dynamic.
The band’s origin story is deeply rooted in Montreal’s vibrant music scene, where Lee-La Baum and Tom Shemer first connected over their shared love of classic rock and storytelling. Their creative chemistry soon led them to recruit PY Letellier and Dave Traina, solidifying the lineup and giving rise to a band that would quickly become a local favorite. Early on, they built their reputation through high-energy club performances that captured the hearts of audiences looking for music with grit, emotion, and soul.
Their debut album, Dear in the Headlights (2012), introduced The Damn Truth to the world, showcasing their unique blend of bluesy guitar riffs, heartfelt lyrics, and Lee-La’s commanding vocal presence. Songs like “Time Is Coming” and “Only Love” established the band as a formidable force in the rock world. Their follow-up album, Devilish Folk (2016), further refined their sound, with standout tracks like “Heart Is Cold” and “Broken Blues” highlighting their ability to meld rock energy with introspective lyricism. The release brought the band international attention, leading to larger tours and a growing fanbase. However, it was their third album, Now or Nowhere (2021), produced by the legendary Bob Rock, that marked a turning point in their career. Featuring anthemic tracks like “This Is Who We Are Now” and “Only Love,” the album captured the band’s struggles and triumphs with lush, cinematic arrangements and raw emotional power.
The Damn Truth draws from a rich tapestry of influences, blending the raw power of Led Zeppelin and the soulful intensity of Janis Joplin with the atmospheric depth of Pink Floyd and the dynamic interplay of Fleetwood Mac. Their music carries a timeless quality, honoring the past while firmly rooted in the present. Lee-La Baum’s vocals are the beating heart of the band, with her raspy, powerful delivery often drawing comparisons to Joplin and Grace Slick. Her voice conveys both vulnerability and defiance, creating an emotional connection with listeners. Tom Shemer’s guitar work is equally compelling, weaving intricate solos and textured rhythms that evoke the spirit of guitar legends like Jimmy Page, Tommy Bolin and David Gilmour. PY Letellier’s basslines provide a groove-heavy backbone that infuses the band’s sound with funk and blues-inspired nuances, while Dave Traina’s drumming anchors the music with dynamic versatility, driving the band’s energy with precision and flair.
The Damn Truth’s commitment to their craft has earned them critical acclaim and a devoted following. With three albums already under their belt and a highly anticipated fourth record set for release in March 2025, their trajectory continues to soar. Their relentless touring schedule has seen them share stages with rock legends like ZZ Top and Rival Sons, further cementing their status as a modern rock powerhouse. Their sound, a fusion of passion, heartbreak, and redemption, strikes a chord with classic rock purists while captivating a new generation of fans hungry for authenticity and soul. The Damn Truth are living proof to the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll. Their journey, fueled by unrelenting passion and unwavering belief in their music, promises to blaze even brighter as they approach this exciting new chapter.
Ok enough of me waxing lyrically, how were they live, let’s find out.
The vibe in the room was now pure 70s bliss as Jefferson Airplane’s White Rabbit pulsed through the PA, sending its psychedelic charge across the gathered crowd. Lee-La Baum appeared first, wafting an incense stick like a high priestess of rock, a trail of sweet, smoky tendrils rising as the band assembled behind her. The haze had finally cleared, revealing Dave Traina poised at his drum kit in the shadows, and Tom Shemer alongside PY Letellier, who were already singing along to the acid-soaked anthem.
The crowd joined in, voices rising as the song reached its peak. And then, just like that, the band dove headfirst down the rabbit hole into This Is Who We Are Now, igniting the night with fire and soul.
The opening chords of “This Is Who We Are Now” from their 2021 album Now or Nowhere—burst forth like a call to arms, drenched in fuzz and layered with a relentless rhythm. Lee-La’s voice cut through the chaos, her Grace Slick-meets-Janis Joplin vibrato dripping with defiance and raw passion. The lyrics carried a message of self-reclamation, and every note of Tom’s guitar solo seemed to etch that sentiment deep into the air. PY’s bassline throbbed like a heartbeat, and Dave’s drums cracked with precision, their collective chemistry undeniable.
Without pause, the band launched into “Full on You”, also from Now or Nowhere. The track’s heavy groove and swaggering riffs had heads nodding and hips swaying, with Lee-La’s vocals soaring above it all, her vibrato like a cosmic ripple through the soundscape. This was classic rock energy reinvented, with Tom’s guitar snarling in bursts of bluesy, effects pedal-soaked glory. The crowd drank in every note, hypnotised by the sheer force of the band’s dynamic performance.
Next came the first taste of their forthcoming album, set for release in March 2025. “Love Outa Luck”, the second single released from the forthcoming fourth album, exploded into the room with an upbeat, gritty energy.
The song felt like a revival of the golden age of rock, infused with modern urgency. Lee-La’s voice was a tempest, pulling the crowd into her orbit as Tom’s guitar sparkled with a raw, unfiltered tone. PY’s bass groove locked in tightly with Dave’s thunderous drumming, giving the track a sense of movement that had the audience stomping along in rhythm. “Lonely” followed, another soulful number from Now or Nowhere, that dripped with melancholy and vulnerability. Lee-La’s vocals shone in this one, her vibrato piercing the emotional core of the song as Tom’s guitar wept alongside her.
The atmosphere in the room shifted as the crowd swayed to the heartfelt rhythm, their collective energy now one of quiet reflection. The mood lifted as the band moved into “Only Love”, also from Now or Nowhere. This track bringing a pulsing urgency, its powerful refrain bursting with hope. The vocal interplay between Lee-La’s soaring highs and PY’s grounded harmonies added richness, while Tom unleashed a face-melting solo that had the crowd erupting in cheers.
And then came “Look Innocent”, with Tom deciding to leave the stage entirely during his guitar solo. He wove his way through the crowd, shredding all the while and even stopping to take selfies with fans, much to their delight. The track, another gem from Now or Nowhere, was a raw and rollicking anthem, its blues-rock grit amplified by Dave’s pounding drums and PY’s grooving bassline. By the time Tom made it back to the stage, the crowd was in a frenzy.
The band then unveiled “The Willow”, their latest single released just this month, a haunting and cinematic piece from the new album. The track’s dark, hypnotic vibe captivated the audience, with Lee-La’s vocals dipping into sultry lows and then soaring into goosebump-inducing highs. The interplay between the guitars and bass created a swirling, almost ethereal texture, punctuated by Dave’s powerful yet restrained drumming.
“Devilish Folk”, the title track of their 2016 album, came next, bringing with it a driving beat and a wall of sound. Lee-La delivered every line with fiery conviction, her vibrato sending chills through the room. Tom’s guitar snarled and sang, while PY’s bass added a thunderous undercurrent. It was a track that demanded attention and left the crowd roaring.
When the band launched into “I Just Gotta Let You Know”, the first single from the new album released back in October 2023, the room practically shook with excitement. The song’s infectious energy and blistering riffage had the crowd singing along with every word.. Lee-La’s voice was magnetic, her wails riding high above the storm of sound.
“Get With You”, a funk-infused rocker from Devilish Folk, brought a playful energy to the set. PY’s bassline was front and center, its groove impossible to resist, while Tom’s riffs danced alongside it. Lee-La’s delivery was both sultry and powerful, her vibrato adding a layer of intensity to the song’s infectious hook. The crowd was fully in the band’s grip, moving as one to the beat. Closing the main set was “Tomorrow”, a soaring anthem from Now or Nowhere that felt like the perfect goodbye, for now. The band poured every ounce of energy into the performance, with Lee-La’s voice reaching new heights of emotional power. The crowd’s cheers rang out long after the final note.
But of course, it wasn’t over yet. The band returned for a two-song encore that sealed the night’s triumph. “Too Late”, from Deer in the Headlights, the debut album from 2012, roared into life with its driving beat and blistering guitar work. Tom and PY locked into a groove so tight it was simply electrifying, while Lee-La’s vocals lit the song on fire. And finally, “Heart Is Cold”, a sing-along classic from Devilish Folk, brought the house down. The crowd’s voices filled the room, guided by Lee-La’s stunning vibrato and Tom’s self-indulgent, shredding solos. They even counted in the final chorus together, an impromptu moment that felt like pure magic.
As the band promised to return, and hopefully to a larger room upstairs, it was clear this was an experience, a journey through rock ‘n’ roll history and into the heart of The Damn Truth.
And as the band left the stage the crowd flocked to the merch stand where the band shared out hugs, took pictures with fans who purchased merch long after the curfew, until 2025’s run of album promotion dates Peace, love, and rock ‘n’ roll never felt so alive.
