Hot Set That Broke The Heat Wave: Nat Col & The Kings

by Helen Henry on February 10, 2011

Nat Col & The Kings performed at The Brewery, Newcastle

Image courtesy of Musicfeeds

Nat Col & The Kings at The Queens Wharf Brewery on Sunday, 6 February

I couldn’t really have expected anything less given the names that lead this band, but it needs to be said that Nat Col & The Kings blew me away on Sunday at The Brewery. For the people who braved the heat, not only were we rewarded with the sweet relief of a southerly change and down pour, but a set that was a true testament to the musicianship of all involved.

The Kings are led by Nathan Cavaleri, child prodigy guitarist-turned bricklayer-turned slick as frontman. Cavaleri’s experience with many guitar legends over his career, including iconic bluesman BB King, is reflected in an agile, accurate and knowing playing style that is showy yet tasteful. While you expect him to deliver on guitar, Cavaleri also impresses with bluesy lead vocals.

Drummer Col Hatchman is a personality all of his own, with a set up and playing style that just screams rock. Hatchman drummed in Little Hornet and then The Screaming Jets from 2001 – 2004, and it was during this time that he began jamming and performing with Cavaleri as The Dirty Skanks. In 2006, at the Northern Star Hotel in Hamilton, he took the Guinness World Record for loudest drummer in the world off The Who’s Keith Moon!

Under their new moniker, Cavaleri & Hatchman deliver a heavy brand of blues rock, littered with catchy hooks and warm harmonies. While paying respect to the history of the genre, the material feels fresh and the live show is exciting to watch. The solos are captivating, the grooves are tight and they look like they’re having a ball.

Nathan & Col are also joined by local Kenny Jewel (of The Studio) on bass and sweet harmonies, as well as Amy and Anita on backing vocals.

You can listen to and buy their debut EP on iTunes and catch their set at The Cambridge on 19 March with The Lazys. If you’re down Sydney way, see them at The Vanguard in Newtown on 26 February or up North at the East Coast Blues & Roots Festival in April.