Events

E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Performing Arts (map)

The Yardbirds are one of the most proficient bands to come out of the mid-1960’s British Invasion .The Yardbirds started the careers of three of the most famous rock guitarists, Eric Clapton, Jeff Back, and Jimmy Page. When the group was resurrected in 1991 none of these guitarists rejoined the group. The current lineup includes founding drummer Jim McCarty and rhythm guitarist Chris Dreja. With their mix of blues, rock and psychedelia this group is said to be as musically sharp as ever. The Yardbirds had a string of hits in the 1960’s including ‘For Your Love’, ‘Over Under Sideways Down’ and ‘Heart Full of Soul’. The Yardbirds who made great innovations in guitar music are thought to be the most impressive guitar band in rock music. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. The two veteran Yardbirds are joined by lead singer and harmonica player Andy Mitchell who has the Chess Records’blues sound which was idolized by Eric Clapton. The new lineup also includes a brilliant young guitarist, Ben King and bassist David Smale. The Yardbirds do not depend on nostalgia to draw fans but rely on the blues, the experience of the original members as well as the freshness brought by the new members.