So just who are we?

The Joe D Rose Band was formed in 2001, playing a mix of country, 60's and rock 'n' roll. At the end of 2008 we decided to concentrate purely on the country music we love. The mix of characters and individual musical influences has given the band a unique style and sound, whether playing traditional or original material. The only change in the line up, was in late 2011, when Glenn came in on Bass in place of Keith ( who is now with a group playing 60's music in bluegrass style).

 All four of us play mainly for pleasure, and love performing. We  share a sense of humour, and enjoy 'messing around', which is evident on stage. We do, however, take our performance seriously, always presenting ourselves and the music to the best of our ability. This professional attitude is appreciated wherever we play, a fact confirmed in the many write-ups and reports from clubs. The band has played in most parts of the country , and is equally at home in the small clubs or larger festivals. The repertoire covers a range of material from well-known standards to self-penned songs. Our thanks to all the club organisers and fans who have supported us, and given us so many wonderful times. We look forward to meeting old friends, and making new ones, over the coming years.

Glenn Martin  (Bass Guitar and Vocals) started playing acoustic guitar at the age of seven and entered his first talent competition at a Pontin's holiday camp the same year, which he won (it's amazing how far three chords will get you!!).  In the mid 80's he did the hotel circuit as a solo act singing country and M.O.R. songs before joining a 50's/60's band as a bass player, learning on the job. His first soiree into a country music band was in the early 90's when he joined Ramblin' Whiskey River, as lead vocalist and bass player, where he first met Reg (an experience never forgotten). After a short break in the mid 90's, playing with a country trio called County Line, he rejoined R.W.R. where he also met Joe, who had joined them in his absence. He left (again!) in the late 90's and later joined a folk/blues/country band, Triskele, playing bass, dulcimer, guitar, banjar, and a little harmonica. This was how it stayed until the end of 2011 when he joined up with Joe and Reg again (oh deep joy). The rest is history.

Mark Scammell (Lead and Pedal Steel Guitars and Vocals) has always played country music, mainly with local bands such as Country Flavour and Snowbird. His fluent country lead guitar style adapts equally to traditional and original material - and the occasional 60's rock 'n' roll instrumental! His added ability on pedal steel guitar widens the range of styles and sounds available. Mark also writes some of our original material.

 Reg Lawes is the band's only non-musician - the drummer! He bought his first drum kit after failing to master the guitar! Stayed with his first band, playing rock, for twenty years. Has since played 60's, pop and blues as well. Finally saw the light and joined me (so that he could play with a top musician, he says). Reg sings almost as well as he plays guitar, and most enjoys trying to make the real singers laugh with his unending stream on one-line quips. The biggest laugh we get is when someone says 'It's nice to see a band with a live drummer' - well, one out two ain't bad

Last, (but by no means least) there's me - Joe (Rhythm Guitar, Keyboard and Vocals). My musical career started with piano lessons at the age of 7. I learnt guitar playing with rock 'n' roll bands as a teenager, but became hooked on country music after hearing Johnny Cash sing 'San Quentin'. Growing up on music from Cash, Haggard, Nelson & co has given me a natural feel for some of the more traditional styles of country music. A well as playing rhythm guitar, I enjoy using the keyboard to add depth and flexibility to the band's sound. I write most of the original material (the best bits!) and some of my early work was featured on local radio. My feeling for the music is best described by the words of one of my own songs - "You don't need a voice for a country song, you sing it with your heart".