The Worry Beads

Ones to Watch

The British record industry may always be looking for the next big thing in any group of enthusiastic teens or twentysomethings, but in doing so will overlook bands such as The Worry Beads, who do not fit that youthful mould. And more the pity, because this is a band that deserves a wider audience. Boasting 60 years of playing and 100's of gigs between them, the band demonstrate that there is more to good music than youthful enthusiasm and following the latest trend.

The Worry Beads started as a studio project between three friends, Noel Fraser, Andy Chemney and John Synnott, simply to play and record some of songs Noel had written over the past few years. However, when guitarist Dean Casement joined, the band took on a new edge and the band realised that they should start playing live. And when they do, they are an impressive outfit whose years of experience ensures a polished performance. I caught up with them as they were about to play to an enthusiastic crowd at the Hark to Towler in Tottington.

They make their intentions clear with an opening track ‘We are not a covers band’ before moving through a repertoire of excellent original material. The joy of watching this band is that they have no need to fit into any mould. For the band, the songs are important and they are played in the style that suits them best, whatever that may be - from rock to country and western. Fraser's vocals move effortlessly through the full range styles and emotions, whilst his songwriting touches upon years of experience - listen particularly to Heaven's Waiting Room, written after the death of his mother.

As to the future, they realise that it would take something huge for them to give up established careers. However, they want to continue playing as often as possible around Lancashire and Manchester, and hope to start playing to larger audiences and to play some festivals in 2009. Hopefully that ambition will be realised.

Neil Pilkington

www.theworrybeads.com/