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The John Dummer Blues Band (1967-1968)


Originally formed in 1965, The John Dummer Band had in it's many incarnations a number of noted musicians including Savoy Brown pianist Bob Hall, drummer Dave Bidwell and the original Yardbirds guitarist Adrian "Top" Topham. After several personnel changes in the first couple of years, John O'Leary who had recently departed from Savoy Brown joined a new line-up with Dave Kelly (vocals/guitar), Tony McPhee (vocals/guitar), Bob Hall (piano), Iain Thompson (bass) and John Dummer himself on drums. John's invitation to join the band came through pianist Bob Hall both of whom were former band members in Savoy Brown.  The style of this band was considerably more traditional "Chicago" than Savoy Brown was being based loosely on the more ensemble style of the Muddy Waters Band. Dave Kelly's background in the Mississippi styles of Son House and Robert Johnson further underpinned it's traditional roots.
The band played the London circuit along with occasional forays into the country  throughout 1967 and 1968. Having taken over from The Downliners Sect, they began a Sunday afternoon residency at Studio 51 Club in Great Newport Street, London. These Sunday sessions featured Dave's sister Jo-Ann Kelly as guest vocalist. The Sundays were very successful and attracted many visiting artists such as John Mayall, Keef hartley, Alexis Korner Long John Baldry, Duster  Bennett, Champion Jack Dupree, Jona Lewie  & Mick Taylor. 
Prior to being signed to Mercury Records, Bob Hall resigned once more to concentrate on his work as a patent lawyer and the band continued without a replacement. The single "Travellin' Man" and "Forty Days" (sans piano) was released followed by the album "Cabal" which were recorded 1968.  For "Cabal" Steve Miller came in on piano. Prior to the release of "Cabal" John & Tony McPhee both left.  "Cabal" was finally released in 1969 and the band regrouped with guitarist Adrian "Putty" Pietryga replacing John O'Leary and Tony McPhee. For many, "Cabal" represents the closest any British blues band had come to the sound of the Muddy Waters band.
In the course of the following years the Dummer band continued with many personnel and name changes before finally leading to the formation of Darts.




john o'Leary blues harmonica.....since 1965!

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