British Walkers

Around the time the Troggs, the Animals, Manfred Mann and, of course, the Beatles were leading the British invasion of mop-top rock-and-roll bands in the mid-'60s, the British Walkers were holding court in D.C. Don't let the name fool you; the band was all-American, but it played the same sort of mod-rock that made superstars of the other bands. The band was around from only 1964 to 1968, but that was enough time to establish itself as a favorite in the area. There was rarely a consistent lineup during those years, so the fact that Bobbie Howard, the only original member, has recently reformed the band is of minor consequence. Local guitar great Billy Hancock joins him in this new version of the band, and they're working on a new studio album. Expect to hear songs from the album as well as the old hits at JV's. Tickets are available only in advance.

--David Malitz (Jan. 2010)