REVIEW FROM www.livingtradition.co.uk

RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS - Bagrock To The Masses
REL Records RECD561

I have to admit that I was drawn to this CD by the name - Red Hot Chilli Pipers - in the same way I discovered Deaf Shepherd, Hayseed Dixies and Peatbog Faeries.  All great names for bands.  I must also admit to being slightly put off by all the hype and quotes included in the packaging.  ‘Bagpipes with attitude’- ‘Drums with a Scottish accent’ – ‘A passion for pipes that will leave you breathless’ – the list goes on and on…
 
So it was with slight trepidation I slipped Bagrock to the Masses into my player.  I wish I had read the tracklist so it would not have been such a surprise to hear We will rock you closely followed by Eye Of the tiger come belting out and I mean belting out.  Three top quality bagpipe players plus three drummers, guitar and keyboard provide a real feeling of attack and adventure.
 
In amongst the covers of artists such as Status Quo, Deep Purple, Hendrix and a stunning Coldplay’s Clocks (surprising for its lightness of touch), there are traditional tunes as well as band written numbers.  Not everything works for me but it is a fun CD and worth listening to.
 
Bagrock to the Masses will make an excellent souvenir of their live performances and it is live that the band shines, attacking audiences with the pipers well to the fore.  I don’t think it will be long before Red Hot Chilli Pipers are at a festival near you.  Already famous for winning Graham Norton’s ‘When will I be Famous ’- something I was unaware of as I really don’t like those talent? shows.
 
And they have been on Blue Peter.
 
Dave Beeby