ABOUT | Mother Black Cap

OUR STORY

Formed in 2004 by long time friends, Guitarist Martin Nico and Keyboardist Bob Connell, Mother Black Cap set out to create their brand of the much maligned genre of Progressive Rock. Focusing on good tunes & meaningful lyrics, plus the inevitable 'twiddly bits' that define Prog music.

They have performed hundreds of shows over the years including some the most prestigious Prog & Rock events - HRH PROG, Cambridge Rock Festival and many more and have played alongside such greats as Focus, Uriah Heep.......and Chas & Dave!

Maybe not the most productive in terms of quantity in the recorded format but still they have managed 4 studio albums to much critical worldwide acclaim.

Band Members

Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals

Martin Nico

Plays electric and acoustic guitars, doubles up on keyboards for several sections of the songs, writes most of the lyrics, writes a lot of the music, and shapes the whole conceptual angle of the band. His singing however is lousy and he can be a arse to work with...

Lead Vocals, Bass Guitar

Andy 'Fizz' Bye

Despite being on the same musical scene as Martin & Bob since the mid 80's, its taken until 2018 for them to actually work together. Andy brings a lifetime of experience in numerous bands and now admirably takes on the Bass and lead Vocals duties for the band

Organ, Keyboards, Vocals

Bob Connell

Bob is the notoriously grumpy one, but he can play a lovely piano, and some great synth playing to - and is a master of the Organ. If only Bob could remember the songs from week to week he really would get somewhere.....

Drums

Martyn 'Mac' McCarthy

Took over the drum stool in 2023 and doing a fine job. A veteran of many bands and styles over the years and long term friend of the band, Excellent expressive drummer but always late for rehersals...can't have everything!!

Previous Alumni of Mother Black Cap:

Dave Neilsen - Drums - 2018-2022

David Newson - Bass, Vocals - 2004 - 2015

Neil Holmes - Drums - 2011 - 2015

Iain Jackson - Vocals - 2008- 2015

Callum Connell - Drums - 2010 - 2011

John Hughes - Drums - 2004 - 2009

Jamie Amis - Vocals - 2006-2008