Kerrison Collective

Kerrison Collective on the North East blues circuit Kerrison Collective are a North East blues and soul band led by vocalist Rachel Kerrison. The group’s own description centres on the history of the...

September 11, 2026

Kerrison Collective on the North East blues circuit

Kerrison Collective are a North East blues and soul band led by vocalist Rachel Kerrison. The group’s own description centres on the history of the blues, but they are just as interested in giving familiar sounds a sharper modern edge. That comes through in the mix of voices and influences across the current five-piece line-up.

Rachel Kerrison draws heavily on classic blues and soul singers including Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin and Etta James. Guitarist Jack Davison brings a more contemporary blues approach shaped by players such as John Mayer and Marcus King, while Ronnie Semple adds blues harp with a style rooted in players such as Little Walter.

Who is in Kerrison Collective?

The rhythm section is just as important to the band’s sound. Katy Scott’s drumming pulls from jazz, funk and soul, while bassist Mike Riley brings a broad session-player influence into the group. Together, the five-piece aim for a sound that keeps the feel and storytelling of traditional blues without making the set feel like a museum piece.

The current line-up is Rachel Kerrison on vocals, Jack Davison on guitar, Ronnie Semple on blues harp, Katy Scott on drums and Mike Riley on bass.

Kerrison Collective live in the North East

The band have built a busy regional live schedule, with 2026 dates at The Forum in Darlington, Blues at the Bay in Stockton, Billy Bootleggers in Newcastle and Live Lounge in Sunderland. Their earlier North East dates have also included Quakerhouse in Darlington, The Tyne Bar in Newcastle and Stormin’ the Castle in County Durham.

That spread of venues gives Kerrison Collective a strong local footprint. Their Darlington Rock & Blues Club appearance at The Forum also puts them in the middle of one of the area’s longest-running blues scenes, while the wider schedule shows a band comfortable moving between dedicated blues nights, pubs and grassroots music venues.

More information, videos and current dates are available from the official Kerrison Collective website. Details were correct at the time of writing, so check the band’s own channels for the latest line-up and live information.