The Hamsters: Jimi Hendrix/ZZ Top Tribute

If you like your blues live and rocking, then The Hamsters are the band for you. Originating in Southend-on-Sea, the trio played their first gig in April 1987 and have never stopped touring since. Regularly described as Britain's hardest working band, The Hamsters have played in excess of 4000 gigs throughout Britain and across Europe. The band's guitarist, Snail's Pace Slim, is widely regarded as one of the country's leading blues players and has often been featured in guitar-based publications and on teaching CDs. The trio are also known for their consummate interpretation of the music of Jimi Hendrix and ZZTop. Their shows usually include songs by both artists along with other, usually original, blues and rock numbers but they also perform gigs which specialise in either artist. On the 40th anniversary of the death of Hendrix, the band undertook a tour which celebrated the legend's music. Although serious musicians, the trio don't take themselves seriously as their stage names show. Apart from Slim, the bassist calls himself Ms Zsa Zsa Poltergeist and the drummer is The Reverend Otis Elevator. Whilst releasing regular albums, the band's real home is on stage where they can electrify an audience within minutes of setting foot on it. Whether covering the Top or Hendrix, or playing their own material, The Hamsters will no doubt continue to rock around the country for some time yet.

• Website: www.thehamsters.co.uk