Blues
Every episode of The Rugged Revival featuring Blues — conversations with independent country, Americana, and roots artists.
Marcus Trummer
Marcus Trummer - Modern Soul with 60s/70s Influences, Blues Guitar & Timeless Songwriting | Rugged Revival
A young blood with an old soul, Marcus Trummer marries modern sensibilities with tradition in his distinctive style of soulful music. Dubbed “a precocious guitarist whose vocals possess a wise-beyond-his-years weariness” by the Calgary Herald, the Calgary-born artist is already earning recognition. In 2023, Trummer won the Telluride Blues Challenge, and would go on to make his US performance debut at Telluride Blues & Brews Festival the following year. Trummer recently received a nomination for the 2025 Western Canadian Music Awards “Blues Artist of the Year”, as well as a Canadian Blues Music Awards nomination for “Male Vocalist of the Year”. Marcus Trummer’s debut album, “From The Start”, draws inspiration from the timeless sounds of the 60s and 70s. With his warm and emotive vocals, Trummer pays respect to classic soul singers like Bill Withers and Marvin Gaye. His expressive guitar work channels the impassioned approach of players like B.B. King and Jimi Hendrix. Packed with raw emotion and honesty, Trummer’s songwriting is not to be overlooked. His thoughtful lyrics examine universal subjects of love and coming of age, unpacking experiences that resonate with all listeners.
Eddy Smith
Eddy Smith & The 507 – The Rising Stars of UK Americana, Country Soul & Blues | Rugged Revival
Captivating audiences with his unique, husky voice and tasteful piano accompaniment, Eddy Smith has been making his mark on the UK’s growing Americana scene. Widely recognised as one of the major male vocalists on the Country Soul and Blues circuit, his infectious melodies and soulful song-writing has drawn comparisons to the likes of Joe Cocker, JJ Grey and Marcus King to name a few. Backed by his long-time friends, they form the multinational five-piece, Eddy Smith & The 507. Their music, engulfed by rich vocal harmonies and gospel-like organ is reminiscent of a sound from way before their time. With an irresistible blend of various Americana styles, such as Blues, Soul, Country and Rock, the quintet take a leaf from the books of Nathaniel Rateliff, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles and countless other pioneers of their Genres. Deemed festival favourites since appearing on some of the UK's most prestigious stages, including The Isle of Wight Festival, Black Deer, The Long Road, Americana UK Festival, Cambridge Folk, The British Country Music Festival and more, along with prestigious support slots such as opening for George Thorogood & The Destroyers at Birmingham Symphony Hall, the band have gained recognition as 'ones to watch' on the UK Roots scene. Having sold out their debut album launch, along with a packed-out headline show at London's iconic The Jazz Cafe, international live performances including The USA and Europe, radio play and TV features, the band are well and truly on their way towards a bright future.
Randy Hoyet
Randy Hoyet – Bluesy Texas Songwriter on “Shameless”
Randy Hoyet is an independent singer/songwriter who has cut his teeth in the Texas scene while finding his path to a ruckus bluesy sound. Hoyet released his debut EP “Acoustic” in October of 2021, solidifying himself as a voice to be heard in Texas music. With tracks like “Lonely and Scared” to “Shameless”, Hoyet’s songwriting is raw power in real time. He has continued to create motion in the Texas music scene with his latest two full band singles, “Notices”, and “Drawn”. After almost two years of shows and studio time, Randy Hoyet released his highly anticipated debut Album "Shameless" in March 2025.