Review: Wille and the Bandits – Salt Roots
Self Release – (February 27th, 2026)
Reviewer – David Brighouse
When you mention the Blues and the deep south, most people think of America, but in the case of Wille and the Bandits we are talking Cornwall, and one of the most exciting and authentic bands to have emerged in the UK rock scene in recent years.
First track ‘Wheal Jane‘ is named after a Cornish tin mine; it’s a moody piece of blues dealing with the darkness of life underground and the danger and difficulties the miners experienced. Lead single ‘Trouble Round The Bend‘ has a great driving riff and is a protest against the dumping of sewage in our rivers and seas, something Wille with his connection to the surfing community I’m sure is all too familiar with.
‘King Kong‘ is a punchy rocker and gives Wille the chance to fully let rip with his vocals. Style Thing which kicks off with Hammond Organ and Tom Tom’s has a distinct 70’s funk feel and positively slithers along. ‘Take My Shoulder‘ is a much mellower proposition with an offer to support a troubled friend. ‘Know My Name‘ features a Southern style chant and Dobro Guitar, producing a very authentic blues track.
‘Sail Away (The Mayflower)‘ is another slow number with mainly guitar, lap steel and vocal and is the story of a sailor departing his family for America. ‘Stand Up‘ is another funky rocker which ebbs and flows, with periodic rap vocal and almost improv instrumental section. ‘Reina Del Mar‘ reminded me of Chris Rea’s ‘On The Beach’ to begin with and then adopted a latin flavour ala Santana as the song progressed. Finally, in a similar vein ‘Homeward Bound‘ is a laid-back track, with a smooth rhythm supported by Hammond organ and guitar and lyrics focusing on the sound of waves and seagulls.
This is an album firmly tied to the origins of Wille and the band, a tribute to Cornwall and what the band see as the uniqueness and heritage of their home county as they meld a variety of musical influences into their own distinct sound.
Tracklisting:
- Wheal Jane
- Trouble Round The Bend
- King Kong
- Style Thing
- Take My Shoulder
- Know My Name
- Sail Away (The Mayflower)
- Stand Up
- Reina Del Mar
- Homeward Bound
Line-up:
William Edwards (Lead Vocals, Dobro, Lap Steel, Electric & Acoustic Guitars)
Harry Mackaill (Bass & Backing Vocals)
Stevie Watts (Hammond Organ, Clavinet & Pianos)
Joe Harris (Drums, Percussion & Backing Vocals)
Josiah Manning (Additional Guitars & Backing Vocals)
Alex Hart & Phoebe Jane (Additional Vocals)
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