Name: The JAMES OLIVER Band
Start: 2026-08-11T19:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-08-11T21:00:00-04:00
Location: The River Room

The JAMES OLIVER Band

The River Room, Willimantic

Award-winning UK guitar sensation James Oliver brings his high-energy blues and roots rock to The River Room, with opener Brandt Taylor.

The River Room

The James Oliver Band Live at The River Room Tuesday, August 11 Doors: 6:00 PM | Show: 7:00 PMSpecial Opening Performance by Brandt Taylor (2026 Connecticut Blues Society CT Blues Challenge Winner)The River Room proudly welcomes one of Europe's most exciting touring guitarists for an unforgettable evening of blues, roots rock, rockabilly, country, and fiery guitar virtuosity.Hailing from the United Kingdom, James Oliver is one of the busiest performing musicians in Europe, playing more than 300 shows every year throughout the UK, Europe, and the United States. With over 3,000 live performances to his name, Oliver has built an international reputation as one of the premier guitarists of his generation, sharing the stage with legends including Albert Lee, Bill Kirchen, Walter Trout, Greg Koch, Steve Gibbons, Billy Bremner, Deke Leonard, and many others.In 2020, James was named UK Blues Awards Emerging Artist of the Year and has since earned three additional UK Blues Award nominations. His acclaimed album Twang reached #1 on Amazon's Blues Chart for three consecutive weeks, and he is currently recording a new album with legendary producer John Leckie, whose iconic résumé includes work with Radiohead, The Stone Roses, Muse, and countless other legendary artists.James' electrifying performances have also made him an online sensation, with more than 20,000 YouTube subscribers and over nine million video views, introducing audiences around the world to his explosive blend of blues, Americana, country, roots rock, and rockabilly.The praise from fellow musicians speaks volumes:<blockquote>"Plain and simple... he's a genius." — Holger Engels, Rockin' Music Reviews</blockquote><blockquote>"James is a passionate roots rocker loaded with guitar firepower." — Bill Kirchen</blockquote><blockquote>"Best guitarist in the UK." — John Leckie</blockquote><blockquote>"If you want to see energy times 10 with the greasiest of rockabilly fire and flair, this is the guy to see!" — Redd Volkaert</blockquote>Opening the evening is one of Connecticut's own blues standouts, Brandt Taylor, fresh off winning the 2026 Connecticut Blues Society CT Blues Challenge. A longtime favorite throughout New England, Brandt's soulful vocals, exceptional musicianship, and authentic blues style make him the perfect artist to kick off an incredible night of live music.With seating limited to just 65 guests, The River Room offers a rare opportunity to experience an internationally acclaimed guitarist in one of New England's most intimate listening rooms.Whether you're a blues fan, guitar enthusiast, or simply love incredible live music, this is a show you won't want to miss.Tuesday, August 11 Doors Open: 6:00 PM Music Begins: 7:00 PMAdvance tickets are strongly recommended.

The JAMES OLIVER Band

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The JAMES OLIVER Band

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