A special bank holiday weekend treat, we don’t really do tribute acts but… formed to mark the 60th anniversary of John Mayall’s Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton, Sonny Flint’s Beano Bluesbreakers, is a tribute to one of the most influential recordings in British blues history. The project is dedicated to recreating faithfully the sound, feel and musical intent of the original album, which helped define the UK’s electric blues movement.
The band’s approach is rooted in authenticity, and its performances closely follow the original arrangements, with careful attention paid to tone, dynamics, and period detail. Neil Roberts recreates Eric Clapton’s landmark guitar work using Gibson guitars and Marshall amplifiers, while Sonny Flint plays a vintage Premier 54 Outfit drum kit consistent with the era. Vintage keyboard sounds, bass tones and harmonica complete a sound palette designed to reflect the character of the original sessions.
The project is further distinguished by its direct musical heritage. Sonny Flint is the son of Hughie Flint, the original drummer on the album, bringing a rare generational connection to the music itself. Vocalist Laine Hines is the son of Denny Laine, whose work with The Moody Blues and Wings places him firmly within the lineage of British blues and rock. These connections add depth and perspective to a project built on respect, understanding and lived experience.
As the album reaches its 60th anniversary, Sonny Flint’s Beano Bluesbreakers offers audiences the opportunity to hear this landmark recording performed in full, plus additional songs from the original live set, with precision, restraint and deep reverence for its place in music history.
Sonny Flint (drums), Laine Hines (vocals/ harmonica), Neil Roberts (guitar), Pete Billing (bass), Rick Pentecost (keyboards), Greg Heath (saxophone).