19/08/2026
Hidden in plain sight, Stevie Williams and the Most Wanted Band are one of the most accomplished collectives of musicians you are likely to see anywhere π. You can catch them at their monthly residency at the Carlton Club next Thursday from 8pm, the 27th, for free (donations to the band are appreciated). We'll see you here! π
All from the Greater Manchester area, each individual carries their own huge reputation amongst their peers for being at the top of their trade. When put together, the sum of the parts is far greater than the whole π. They have the magic that comes with being impressed by each other's consummate skills whilst being totally respectful of each other's place at the party. If you have had the undoubted pleasure of seeing them perform, you will understand what I am describing. πΆ
When you mention Stevie Williams (bass) to a northwest muso, you get a knowing nod and a "huge player" kind of response. Much respected for his work on 4 strings, he is the driving force behind this outfit and the man responsible for their original material. No slouch as a vocalist either. π€©
Markie Cresswell, whose Fatboy western swing/rockabilly/fingerpicking playbook adds a distinctive style and flavour to their sound, and is a perfect foil for Billy Buckley's plethora of styles on lap steel, telecaster, Rickenbacker, Les Paul, etc... π
Clive Mellor seems to be everybody's choice of a harmonica player. Expert, versatile and intuitive - just 3 words that could be used to describe him. There is nothing he can't play to a stunning level. He can enhance, improve, show off and shut up - the true mark of a class player. π
Dave Hassell - drums. That doesn't quite cover it. Dave is one of those drummers who, if you provided him with a biscuit tin and a couple of coconuts, would get the job done. Amazingly. What he does, with what sometimes looks like the contents of a skip with stuff dangling all over the shop, is a little short of astonishing. A true juke joint percussionist of the first water. π
