LEICESTER: The Musician

Saturday 2nd January, 2016

8:00pm

Event information

Ali Clinton is a lead guitarist, singer and songwriter. Picking up the guitar at age 7, Ali quickly drew influence from his early heroes: Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix and Rory Gallagher. By the age of 12, Ali had played with the Irish legend Pat McManus of The Mamas Boys and Celtus, Bernie Marsden of Whitesnake and Andy Powell of Wishbone Ash. At the age of 13, Ali made his first album appearance on Pat McManus' "2PM", playing rhythm and lead guitar on a cover of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind".

At the age of 16, Ali auditioned for the role of rhythm/duel guitar for the legendary Uli Jon Roth. With only days to learn a full set, Ali got the gig, pulling off solos from early Scorpions classics such as "We'll Burn The Sky", "In Trance" and many other virtuoso pieces. Within months of touring with UJR in the UK, Ali got offered to tour with Uli across Northern America and Canada for 6 weeks for the recording of UJR's 40th anniversary Scorpions live album, where he played with guests such as Michael Angelo-Batio, Wayne Findley, and Cofi Baker (son of Ginger Baker). Ali has recently released his debut EP under the veteran production skills of Mudd Wallace, and is currently writing and recording his debut album. Ali's style is quoted as containing "fire, passion and real expertise" and has been sighted by many as "one to watch".

Ali's band consists of a three piece line up, including Owen Thomas on drums and Will Ganner on bass. Owen Thomas has both a fiery playing style and stage presence, pushing the band's songs with a high-powered energy and powerful rhythms. Owen's style is influenced by various different genres from progressive rock to jazz, making him a very versatile musician. Will Ganner's strong bass sounds are essential to the energy of the band. Drawing influence from funk, jazz and rock, Will can easily adapt to the various moods and styles in Ali's set. Coupled with Ali's raw talent, the band makes every performance seem effortless, making them a must-see upcoming band for the years to come.