Hello Eb'ers (old ones, lurkers and hopefully new ones), There is not much traffic on these pages these days so let's give it another try to start some lively discussions and exchanges. Herm is also ready for that:-)

As the regulars know, I am a big fan of John Mayall and all of his great sidemen over the past 40 something years.

I have just looked up the 2009 tour schedule and am sure that I will have a chance to catch up with the Bluesbreakers again in either Germany or Switzerland.

When I looked up the band information I found to my great surprise a completely new set of Bluesbreakers. Buddy Whittington is not on there anymore - and no information other than that. So, will have to follow up what Buddy is doing these days. Would anyone know more? I really liked him as a Bluesbreaker - but then, I did like Peter Green, Clapton, Mick Taylor, Coco Montoya and Walter Trout too - just to name the most known ones.

But I was equally and positively surprised to read that Rocky Athas is now replacing Buddy. And looking at Rocky's own solo career and recordings that is another great pick.

Greg Rzab on bass and Jay Davenport on drums complete the band - good additions and sure no beginners...

That said, I am looking forward to seeing and hearing the new line up later this year.

Hope everyone is doing well and also hope to see some of the EB regulars back and posting.

Take care
Karl