The Train Wreckers

The Train Wreckers will support punk legends, Stiff Little Fingers at the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock on Friday 28th October. Doors are at 8pm with tickets (£17.50) currently on sale at the venue booking office (01563-554900) and on the night subject to availability.

Stiff Little Fingers are an Irish punk rock band from Belfast , formed in 1977 by Jake Burns after seeing the Clash play in his hometown. They started out as a schoolboy band called Highway Star (named after the Deep Purple song), doing rock covers, until they discovered punk. They split up after six years and four albums, although they reformed five years later, in 1987. Despite major personnel changes, they are still touring and recording as of 2011. Jake Burns, their lead singer, is the only member to have been with the band during all its incarnations, although in March 2006, original bass guitarist Ali McMordie rejoined them following the departure of The Jam bass player Bruce Foxton after fifteen years.

Stiff Little Fingers, along with the likes of the Clash, Sex Pistols, The Jam, Skids, Buzzcocks, Undertones, Sham 69, Stranglers et al - were at the forefront of the punk movement and are still playing sell out gigs all over the world.

The Train Wreckers are an Ayrshire based 4-piece which originates from Louisville , Kentucky and comprises: Gattlin' Axe Forman (guitar), Footstompin' Leroy Scott (vocals, bass and harmonica), Towerin' Memphis Stax (tenor sax, BV & story tellin') and drummer, Cool Hand Luke Younger. The band plays a very diverse genre of music called " USSR " (Unlimited Surfin' Swingin' Rock'n-country-roll) and features songs primarily from the 50's to the 70's - from Pulp Fiction to Johnny Cash via some smoky cellar jazz and swing. The band's critically acclaimed performances and diverse musical styles have enabled them to perform at equally diverse gigs/venues. The Train Wreckers have consistently won new fans at every outing- whether supporting 70's star Alvin Stardust at a fully seated concert or opening for Springsteen'esque Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes at a sell-out 600 capacity all standing gig on The Ferry, Glasgow . The band's next challenge is to open for punk legends SLF - a daunting task some may say? Bring it on! - Cumnock Chronicle - October 2011

The Train Wreckers played Rio on Friday night - From Pulp Fiction to Johnny Cash via some smoky cellar jazz & swing!

Duncan A Speirs - "tight sound, great guitar playing , blow away tunes, great night". - The Rio Cafe (Facebook reviews) - December 2010

Was at the Irvine Arts Centre last night to hear this new band.
WOW!

Johnny Cash medley with Pinball Wizard in the Middle.
A countryfied version of Ace of Spades.
Every track they played they made their own.

Worth going to if you see them advertised near you. - KillieFC.Com (Off The Ball Banter) - February 2010

Britain’s Got Talent finalist Surfin’ Dude Younger (The Train Wreckers’ former drummer), tragically died during dress-rehearsals for Saturday’s live final. The Dude’s spellbinding act - accompanying himself on drums while singing the Edith Piaf classic ‘No Regrets’ and simultaneously surfing over one of Subo’s eyebrows - was changed last minute as the Dude attempted to swallow and regurgitate the annoying little cxxt that sings ‘Danny Boy’ in addition to his scheduled act. This was one feat too much even for the Dude and, despite Amanda Holden administering mouth-to mouth, this proved to be the kiss of death as she was interrupted for a hair and make-up call just as the Dude was getting to the tickly bit. Piers Morgan tried to take over but his massive ego blocked the Dude’s windpipe and he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. Simon Cowell said: “You know what? This is even more tragic than the BBC’s decision to shelve the remaining two episodes of ‘The Scheme’. Having said that, I don’t think the Dude would have won the final anyway due to some minor pitching issues with the song”.

To be fair on Cowell, after hearing that The Train Wreckers scheduled gig for the re-opening of Onthank Community Centre had been cancelled due to the Dude’s demise, he personally called President Obama (a lifelong fan of The Wreckers) who said: “this is fxxk’n more devastating than Iran’s nuclear threat!” and promptly arranged for the release on “compassionate grounds” of the Dude’s uncle and drumming mentor – Old Man Younger (aka ‘The Silver Coyote’). The Silver Coyote had been on death row at San Quentin state penitentiary but we understand has today been flown - on Obama’s private jet - to a secret hideaway in Muirkirk where the Wreckers are now in rehearsal for their forthcoming dates:

· FRIDAY 11th JUNE – DARVEL FESTIVAL (www.darvelmusicfestival.org)

· FRIDAY 18th JUNE – CUMNOCK FESTIVAL (07842-232233)

· FRIDAY 25th JUNE – THE HAC, IRVINE (01294-274059)

The following link is taken from a video of a live studio session in Glasgow - February 2010. The Wreckers’ unique interpretation of The Stones’ classic, 'It's All Over Now’, was ironically Surfin' Dude Younger's last recording with the band:



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_8KmQOnZwE


RIP Dude!






- The National Enquirer - June 2010

Following the sad loss of former drummer, Surfin’ Dude Younger - killed last month in Bondi Beach, Sydney (while simultaneously playing drums and surfing on top of a great white shark) – the band auditioned a number of drummers. However, they were all lamer than England’s world cup performance against Algeria. There was only one thing for it – the band wanted The Silver Coyote – but there was a big problem; the Coyote was serving time in San Quentin state penitentiary, California, so they went all the way to the top - President Obama himself (a lifelong fan of The Wreckers). Obama was quoted by the National Enquirer as saying: “We’ve got to act now – this takes total priority over all other federal issues. I don’t give a flying fxxk about the British Petroleum crisis – I want The Silver Coyote back with The Train Wreckers in time for the HAC gig on 25th June - and I don’t care what the costs are – B fxxk’n P will pay for these anyway!” During a tough grilling at the Congressional hearing, the BP CEO, Tony Hayward, was asked if he could deliver? He responded: “we can do lamb, beef or chicken but not liver – but with either boiled or fried rice”. We understand that The Silver Coyote was flown into Onthank last night where the Wreckers are in rehearsal for the HAC show at the ‘closed’ Community centre. The National Enquirer also reported that the shelving for ‘legal reasons’ of the final two episodes of the controversial BBC documentary ‘The Scheme’ (funded by the UK TV licence payer) was in fact a CIA led plot, authorised by Obama himself, to ensure that The Train Wreckers were able to rehearse reasonably close to Irvine but in a place where they had ready access to certain ’supplies’. On that subject, Marvin claimed to have seen an alien last night – we don’t know if Dayna had forgotten to put her make-up on or whether he’d just visited the local chemist (in a taxi funded by the UK tax payer) for a controlled dose (also funded by the UK tax payer)? A BBC spokesman said he had nothing to say about the incident but did confirm that the (autographed) ‘vitamin’ tablets supplied by Marvin had made him Happy as Larry.






- The National Enquirer - June 2010

August 20th saw the debut appearance at Prestwick Cricket club by hot new band, The Train Wreckers. Their unique brand of Unlimited Surfin' Swingin' Rock'n-country-roll ('USSR') went down a storm and, after rave reviews, are coming back by popular demand on Saturday 27th November. The eagerly waited return - featuring music from cult movies such as 'Pulp Fiction' and 'From Dusk To Dawn' and from Johnny Cash to Louis Jordan and all points in between - is a guaranteed sell out (tickets £5 - 8pm). - Prestwick's Going Out (Ayrshire Media Services) - September 2010

Prestwick Airport will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s famous stop-over visit this week. It will host a fabulous 16-hour charity show featuring singers and bands performing Elvis songs. There will even be re-enactment of Elvis landing at Prestwick – only this time on a Ryanair flight ! A special plaque will be unveiled to commemorate his visit and the airport is inviting people to come along dressed as Elvis and the best-dressed lookalike will win a pair of tickets to one of its destinations. Key timings for the celebrations include: 09:40 – arrival of ‘Elvis’, in US Army sergeant's uniform, aboard Ryanair flight FR407 from Stansted. 11:00 – Acoustic sessions, with great covers of Elvis songs. 14:30 – Live set with Lee Jackson, top UK ‘Young Elvis’ tribute, backed by his band The Train Wreckers. 15:10 – Best Dressed Elvis contest and plaque unveiling will take place

- News @ UK Airports - March 2010

Cambuslang and Rutherglen musicians are to follow in the footsteps of their heroes by playing at the Renfrew Ferry. Following the success of their album launch last May, The Tracks have had many highlights, including wowing a crowd of 2,000 people at the closing party for Motherwell Beer Festival, selling-out King Tut's and playing a set in support of Oxfam.

The band have also recorded two new songs one of which will be released as a single in June. But they are now rehearsing for their gig at the Ferry on March 30.

The band members are: Cambuslang's Billy Agnew on vocals and rhythm guitar; Mick McArthur from Burnside on lead guitar and backing vocals; Stephen O'Hare, originally from Kinross, now living in Cambuslang, on piano; Rutherglen man Chris Hendry on bass guitar; the West end quartet David Watt on drums and percussion, Matt Heatherington on trumpet, Michael Walters on trombone and Matt Lamb on saxophone.

Mick said: "It's an exciting time for the band with the single recorded and due to be released in June and this month's gig at the Renfrew Ferry to look forward to. The band have never sounded so good and we are continuously writing new material. Recent successes like our sold-out album launch, the recording of our new single and the rapturous reception we received at Motherwell Civic Centre have left us hungry for more of the same. We love peforming live and can't wait for the Ferry gig. We are fond of the Ferry and are proud to think that we will grace the same stage as some of our favourite acts, such as Frankie Miller. It's a great venue and the gig on March 30 will be a cracker!. The last gig we played was at Universal in Sauchiehall Lane in February, which was a great wee gig. The crowd absolutely loved it and that kind of reaction always creates an amazing atmosphere".



- The Reformer, Glasgow (2007)

A dynamic local band will be making industry inroads with the lavish launch of their debut album.

The Tracks, an 8-piece outfit featuring Billy Agnew (31) from Cambuslang and Michael McArthur (24) from Burnside, recorded their first release with ex-Simple Minds keyboardist - Mick MacNeil's Mix Records.

The launch party for the new, yet to be titled, album will take place at Glasgow's Oran Mor on Byres Road on Friday May 5 and, according to the band, tickets are selling extremely well. Billy said: "The night will feature a playback of the album, a live performance and aftershow party with a DJ".

Mick MacNeil got involved with the band after hearing some of their demo material. Michael said: "We'd previously recorded 3 tracks for a compilation called 'The Gallery'. Mick heard this plus another demo track we'd recorded ourselves and came on-board initially to record a couple of songs. This went very well and we decided to record a whole album!" Billy agreed: "He's great to work with - not a prima donna, just a regular guy but a really exceptional musician. You can see why Simple Minds were so successful".

The band boosted their number to create a fuller sound. Michael said: "It was the style of music we were playing which certainly lends itself to keyboards and brass. This gives the band another dimension". Billy added: "We've always liked the Stax/Motown sound and you can't really have that without this line-up". The additional six members are: Chris Hendry on bass, Stephen O'Hare on piano, David Watt on drums, Matt Heatherington on trumpet, Michael Walters on trombone and Matt Lamb on saxophone. Michael said: "The guys are all really good musicians and create such a big sound - it's so powerful when everthing is firing".

Care and attention has been ploughed into more than the music and the band have pulled other talented individuals on-board. Michael said: "The guy who designed the album's artwork, Dean Wright, works in advertising. He designed us a retro style cover - like a 50's punk image - meant to attract attention". With this first release they are hoping to wow fans and media alike. Billy said: "We hope to get radio play and there's already been a bit of interest."

In addition to the launch party, The Tracks are also appearing in May at an exclusive black tie affair, the Scottish Design Awards, at the Crowne Plaza. Further plans include a support tour with the likes of Mick McNeil's new band, A Few Good Men, who are currently organising a European tour.

Find out more about The Tracks by e-mailing: thetracks@hotmail.co.uk or go to www.mixrecords.com to hear samples from the new album.






- The Reformer, Glasgow (2006)

Ayrshire based music management and production company Divamusic.biz are involved in a local gig, a national event and an international festival – all in the space of 6 weeks!

..............Glasgow based new music band The Tracks have been under Divamusic.biz management since Autumn 2006 and the band’s single launch is at The Ferry, Glasgow on Friday 15th June. The single – Roll Another Dice – is being released on the company’s own independent label on 18th June. The main support at the launch will be provided by Miss Fitzs (a.k.a. Katrina from Counselled Out) with her new country/soul band, The Misfits (contact The Ferry for ticket information on 01698-360085).

The Tracks have only recently been invited to appear at the opening of The Dalian Festival in China in early July. David Yeudall from Divamusic.biz flew out to China on Tuesday to finalise negotiations and VISA arrangements for the band. This is a massive opportunity for the band and invitations to Ayrshire and Scottish based businesses for sponsorship and other support are welcome (contact: info@divamusic.biz or 07971-831052 for further information).
- The Extra, Ayrshire (2007)

Eight-piece outfit The Tracks release their debut EP with a gig at The Ferry tomorrow night. The four-tracker features songs Roll Another Dice, Choking, The Shark and Pol. The band - which started as a duo in 2002 and expanded to an octet 4 years later with trombone, trumpet and sax added to a more basic band set-up - is influenced by vintage soul and r'n'b, and they were on the bill for the West End Festival Mardi Gras last weekend. Tickets for The Ferry launch gig are £5, with support from Miss Fitzs & The Misfits and Alex Wayt - doors 7pm. Find out more aout them at: www.myspace.com/tracksweb - Glasgow Evening Times (2007)

The tracks were formed in Glasgow in 2002 by singer Billy Agnew and guitarist Mick McArthur. Their shared love of music that transcends genres is reflected in their eclectic writing style. They quickly began playing around the Glasgow live scene, and built a solid live reputation, based upon heartfelt songs combining artful melodies and meaningful lyrics. They frequently collaborate with other musicians, both live and in the studio. The songs featured on the website were recorded and engineered by Mick MacNeil at his Mix Records studio.

- Mix Records (Website), 2006-current

We arrived in Glasgow mid-afternoon. After checking in our hotel, we went for a short walk in the city, arriving at the Ferry just as the soundchecks were starting. We then went on the search for food, and returned to the Ferry after being fed and watered. The Ferry has in recent times undergone a total refurbishment and is much changed from the venue which hosted the Simple Minds fan convention in 2003.

In total there were four bands on, and The Tracks headlined. It was a joy to see the enthusiasm shared by both the band and their audience. The setlist was a mix of soul/blues/rock, and though predominantly their own material, such classics as I Heard It Through The Grapevine, All Along The Watchtower, Stay With Me and Private Number were covered with great justice to the originals.

Several songs from their debut album were also included in the set including Tight Little Place, Pendulum, Tell Me Something, Roll Another Dice and the wonderful Cold Outside. One of the highlights was the beautiful new song, I'm Real. It was the first time we'd heard this song, and it blew us away.

The diversity of the music and lyrics show the quality of the band. The musicianship and songwriting go hand in hand. Hopefully it's just a question of time before the band get the recognition and success that they fully deserve. The Tracks return to the Ferry for their single launch on Friday 15 June.. Don't miss out if you can be there - it promises to be a great night.

- www.sosimpleminded.com (Simple Minds fans website)

A wealthy rock-loving businesswoman was so impressed with a new up-and-coming band she signed them for her own special gig. Property developer Marie Macklin not only snapped up hot prospect The Tracks' album and single, she commissioned the group to write a song for the launch of her latest venture, part of a £80 million revamp of Kilmarnock. Big local music fan Marie, chief executive with the Klin Group, spotted the five-piece while attending a show at the Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine. Marie and The Tracks showcased their collaboration by playing in front of First Minister Alex Salmond, to mark the official opening of a heritage and cultural centre in the former Andrew Barclay B-Listed locomotive factory at West Langland's Street.
"I wanted to do something different because this development is not just about buildings, it's about the regeneration of Kilmarnock", Marie told the Extra.
"The song, called 'Lead The Way', is absolutely fantastic. It really lifts the spirit and is just what I was looking for. I love pop and rock music and that's why I commissioned The Tracks. The band is managed by Diva Music, which is also based in Kilmarnock, so there is a strong connection with the local music scene. It is turning out to be a big event and hopefully there will be TV crews following the First Minister, which should help raise the town's profile". The Tracks admitted penning the tune was different from its usual output but were delighted to give it a bash. And they confessed to being a bit nervous playing support to the First Minister yesterday (Weds). Singer Bily Agnew, who co-wrote the song with guitarist Michael McArthur, told the Extra: "Marie told us what was needed and we couldn't wait to get started. 'Lead The Way' was the hardest song we've ever written though, because of the melodies and having to set the words to a particular theme". And he added: "I never thought I'd see the day when I'd be the warm-up act for Alex Salmond".
Band manger, Ken McCracken of Diva Music, said: "it wasn't an easy remit but it was a fantastic opportunity for the lads. Hundreds of bands would love this type of exposure. It's certainly a novel way to build a profile and I believe the song is good enough to stand on its own merits".
- The Extra, Ayrshire (2008)

RESULTS:

Question
Response

Did you enjoy the Official Launch of The Tracks?
Yes: 100.00% | No: 0.00%

Had you heard of The Tracks before this event?
Yes: 50.00% | No: 50.00%

After having attended this event, would you purchase tickets to see the band?
Yes: 100.00% | No: 0.00%

Please rate this performance (1=lowest, 5=highest)
4.50 / 5

Please make any comments, positive or negative, on this event or The Tracks in general:

Remarkable band, great vocals, music & lyrics. Bought both CDs and looking forward to hearing more. The ferry is a venue with a difference - enjoyable night out with great entertainment.

Anne
52


I loved the band’s sound, really good event!

Sharon 33


Bought the CD, can’t wait to hear more from them.

John 25


It was nice to be invited to a single launch, something different from the usual.

Sean 27


Felt like we were hearing the band right before they’re hitting the big time!

Jo 38


Talented Musicians

John, 60


Hoping to hear more from them!

Sabrina 25


Thought the night was really exciting, the ferry was a great location

Kat 23


They’re a really good band, bought the CDs after the gig.

Calum, 40


Great night!

Rosann, 37

- DADA Events

Last month I had the joy of seeing The Tracks at their single launch on the Renfrew Ferry. The band never lose the desire to give 100% and more, and I was looking forward to another successful gig. My expectations were met by them as they played a solid set. They opened with '400', a great new song, which reminded me of a classic you would associate with the vintage soul era. The set contained a mix of old (various numbers from their debut album of last year), new (two superb songs played acoustically - 'I'm Real' and 'It Shows'), borrowed (all time classics such as 'Heard It Through The Grapevine', 'Proud Mary', 'Private Number', 'All Along The Watchtower' and 'Stay With Me') and blues - provided by the fabulous horn section on such tracks like 'I Just Can't Help (The Way I Feel)'. I love the way the band interacts with each other and the crowd. Stand out numbers of the night - well for me - 'Cold Outside' (quite appropriate on the Ferry) and 'Pol', which I trust will be a crowdpleaser for many gigs to come.
- www.sosimpleminded.com (Simple Minds fans website)

The Tracks certainly proved they’re heading in the right direction last week, as they rocked The Ferry. The Glasgow 8-piece’s soul/rock blend soon got members of the crowd dancing away to a mix of the band’s own material and a few classic covers. Opener '400' started the gig at a high tempo and there was a satisfying crunch behind the likes of 'Tell Me Something' and 'Cold Outside'. The band’s brass section often got a chance to shine, ensuring The Tracks soulful side was evident. Held to celebrate the release of The Tracks new single 'Roll Another Dice', the octet showed off their flexibility. A stomping take on Marvin Gaye’s classic 'I Heard It Thru' The Grapevine' was one highlight, adding some guitar based muscle to the song - lead guitarist Mick McArthur letting fly with a superb solo. Another cover, Creedence’s 'Proud Mary', showcased Billy Agnew’s rasping vocal. Although the eight members of the band looked to have difficulty squeezing onto The Ferry’s tight stage, they still managed to whip up a decent atmosphere, with the dancefloor packed by the end of the night. The gig did falter with the inclusion of a dull acoustic interlude, whch harked backed to the band’s origins as a duo. Both low key songs were plodding in comparison to what had gone before and halted the energetic feel to the set. However, that wasn’t enough to overshadow an impressive performance or dampen the spirits of those there.


- The Reformer, Glasgow (June 2007)