Written by Flynn Herondale photos By Bobbie Cornelius
The Forum Basement was the place to be for live music Thursday night (27th)! Fans who turned up to see slide guitar star Troy Redfern, were pleasantly entertained by supporting act The Kinky Machine.
With their vintage sounding blend of Rock and Blues, the newly formed trio had the crowd foot tapping and head bobbing in appreciation of their individual talents. On bass was Pete Billing, the only member to have seen the legendary Hendrix live! Living his best life on drums and seen after the show sound mixing for Redfern Paul ‘Pablo” Annis! Finally lead vocalist and guitar playing beast Chris Gussman! With both the former providing backing vocals, Chris writing the songs and each member bringing their own humor and joy of performing to the show, it was an intimate and casual gig that made the audience feel at ease and connected to the band.
They kicked off the evening with their title track Kinky Machine, treated the audience to an expertly played instrumental Equanimity, covered As The Years Go Passing By from Albert King, and in true rock star form played one more song after the set was complete, with front man Chris stating “F**k it, you never get anywhere without taking risks!”
The crowd loved the performance and all were impressed with the musician’s skills and sense of humor. Many were shocked to learn the band has only recently formed and that this was only their second gig in front of an audience! It felt as though we were witnessing a seasoned group; living their best lives, reviving classic blues-rock with funky, fresh undertones. Whilst Paul and Chris have known each other and played in various bands over the years, it wasn’t until the pair were inspired during a Philip Sayce gig at the end of 2023 to “…do something again” that the idea for the band began to form. Pete came on board and the trio spent the first quarter of the year jamming, songwriting and prepping for debut this summer. The Kinky Machine was born, and if its first tentative steps are anything to go by, they’re a band to keep an eye on!
As their Instagram states:
“Never been clean, we’re loud and obscene, that’s why they call us The Kinky Machine!”
Learn more about the band and where you can find their music @thekinkymachineuk
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