Bishop Black

BISHOP BLACK is an indomitable force on the music scene, and they have continued to be to this day. Their new self titled release borrows from the diverse influences of the band and channels it into one uniquely southern sound. More significantly, though, Bishop Black has set a standard for live performance during this time. When they began to be introduced on their 2007 tour as "The Ayotollah's of Rock and Rollah,' they were staking that claim on the basis of their live performances.



But, for all that, Bishop Black is best understood as musicians, and their own acceptance of that fact is what has enabled them to carry on so well for so long. Jeremy Braswell is an extraordinary lead singer and one of the most riveting performers - in any genre - ever to set foot on a stage. Preston Grammer is the propulsive engine that drives Bishop Black and makes their music instantly recognizable. Pat Sowell is a guitarist who has formed a rhythmic brotherhood with Grammer, but who also colors and textures the band's songs with deft, melodic touches. And Steve White and Cory Sowell, needless to say, make up the group's "hard hitttin" rythym section. They are both the rock that anchors the band, and the force that swings it. At once elegant in their simplicity and soaring in their impact, none of their gestures are wasted, all are necessary. Cory and Steve enliven the often-monolithic notion of the rock & roll rhythm section with an irresistible, unpretentious, jazz-derived sophistication.



Musicians live and create in the moment, and that's why fans still go see Bishop Black. But seeing Bishop Black live is to see a working band playing as hard as they can, and that's what Rock and Roll is all about.