The Accelerators Biography

Steve Smith - Lead Singer, Rhythm Guitar
Dave Burnette - Lead Guitar
Gavin Brightwell - Bass
John McKenzie - Drums

“The Accelerators are without doubt one of the best authentic rock ‘n’ roll bands around …..”
Dave Arcari (Artist & Musicians Union Rep)

Drawing on influences as diverse as Country, R & B, Soul, Doowop and American Roots Rock, this accomplished band, who hail from the east coast of Scotland; have raised Rock ‘n’ Roll/Rockabilly to greater heights. Playing a mixture of their own material and 1950s Rock ‘n’ Roll standards, which sit seamlessly together, the Accelerators manage to capture that authentic sound but with an infectious modern rockin’ twist that makes them one of the best live acts you’ll find. The band has successfully released four albums to date, three on Raucous Records and their fourth independently.

Two of the original members Steve Smith and Dave Burnette have now added the talents of drummer John McKenzie and bassist Gavin Brightwell to their ranks, thus taking the band back to its original four piece line-up. The Accelerators have been performing for 16 years, consistently turning out a high standard of self-written material and stunning live performances. They have featured at festivals such as Americana International and the Rhythm Riot, shared stages with Buddy Holly’s Crickets, Jimmy Cavallo and Hardrock Gunter and have supported artists such as Otis Grand and Matchbox. This has ultimately resulted in invitations to play more gigs on the UK music scene and airtime on Radio Scotland, Radio 2 and independent stations up and down the country while earning many plaudits along the way.

These guys mean business; they have their own sound and are much more than mere imitators. The Accelerators play Rock n Roll with a passion second to none and enthusiasm that is contagious.

“If there is a sharper roots/rockabilly act working the UK circuit, I’d like to hear about them. It’s tough to imagine that any act could turn the heat up enough to scorch the rafters more than these guys”
Loudon Temple (Maverick Magazine)

"... with superior songs, great sound, inspired playing and on the money singing .... this band should be massive"
Ken Smith (Red Lick)