The ever-rocking Robin

Jazz, blues, ska and prog in Bilston this week.

On Tuesday the Robin plays host to legendary jazz/prog rock band Soft Machine. Founded by Kevin Ayers, Daevid Allen and Robert Wyatt in 1966, the band went on to massive critical success around the world and although they first split in 1977, the band have had an on/off touring career for many years. Now featuring John Etheridge, Roy Babbington and John Marshall from the band’s earlier classic line-ups, after several slight name changes they are once more touring under their original name.

Tickets £15

Wednesday sees the return of Robin favourite Chantel McGregor. Since energing onto the UK blues scene she’s won a score of awards, shared a stage with Eric Clapton and Keith Richards amongst others and continued to enhance her reputation as one of the most talented blues guitarists in the world, both live and on record.

Tickets £13

Totally different to everything else on stage this week will be Saturday’s visit by Bad Manners. Still fronted by the quasi-legendary Buster Bloodvessel, the band have moved on from the days when they were Top of the Pops regulars but still provide an evening of barely authentic but hugely enjoyable ska classics.

Tickets £20

Sunday sees a new arrival at the venue in the shape of Canadian blues singer Layla Zoe with her band. Seven studio albums including 2014’s The Lily and touring around the world has made Layla one of the most highly respected blues singers on either side of the Atlantic and won favourable comparisons with her great influence Janis Joplin.

Tickets £13

Tickets for these and all other Robin gigs are available from www.therobin.co.uk or tel: 01902-401211.