Originating in San Francisco in 1965, and reunited for a tour of Australia back in in 2013, the FLAMIN’ GROOVIES have been touring and performing consistently since their reunion – up until the pandemic put a hold on touring for everyone. Exceeding all expectations, this legendary band has been presenting their own unique and infectious style of rock ‘n’ roll with such cult classics as “Slow Death,” “Teenage Head” and, of course, “Shake Some Action.” The current lineup features founding member Cyril Jordan with Chris von Sneidern on guitar, Tony Sales on drums, and Atom Ellis on bass.
This particular show will feature a repertoire that spans the band’s lengthy career, emphasizing both 1971’s Teenage Head album (associated with more old time rock ‘n’ roll, rockabilly, Stones and Yardbirds influences), as well as the power-pop period (Beatles and Byrds influenced) more associated with the band’s three albums on Sire Records in the late ‘70s (Shake Some Action, Flamin’ Groovies Now, and Jumpin’ in the Night). They’ll also touch on newer material from their most recent studio album, Fantastic Plastic, from 2017. Their place in history is well established as one of the all-time greatest bands from San Francisco (and the world) and as progenitors of real rock ‘n’ roll.
Chris von Sneidern has recorded a dozen albums as a solo artist, and is a highly-regarded name in the power pop genre. He and Tony Sales have been members of the Groovies for the last five years and things could not have worked out better. Tony Sales (whose father and uncle formed the rhythm section in David Bowie’s band, Tin Machine, and on some of Iggy Pop’s finest work) is an in-demand session drummer, and released the first album by his band, Ardent Sons, a couple of years ago. Atom Ellis has toured with many notable artists including Link Wray, Todd Rundgren, The New Cars, The Tubes, and as a member of Pyschefunkapus and Dieselhed.
The band is currently on a three-week tour of Europe and is in top form and great spirits. They’re looking forward to getting back to their hometown of San Fran in May for this very special show with MC5.