Black Country Communion: The Supergroup That Shook the Rock World

Black Country Communion. Formation and Origins

The Birth of Black Country Communion

Black Country Communion (BCC) was formed in 2009 when Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze) and Joe Bonamassa (blues-rock guitarist) joined forces with Jason Bonham (son of legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham) and Derek Sherinian (ex-Dream Theater, Billy Idol). The band’s name comes from the Black Country region of the West Midlands in England, which is known for its rich industrial history and musical heritage.

The concept behind BCC was to blend the classic rock sounds of the 1970s with a modern twist, and to create a band with each member bringing their unique musical strengths to the table. The band’s formation marked a return to the hard rock and blues roots of its members while adding an exciting new dynamic.

Black Country Communion. Band Members and Roles

• Glenn Hughes – Vocals, Bass
  As the lead vocalist and bassist, Glenn Hughes brought his powerful, soulful voice and exceptional bass-playing skills to the band. Hughes, with a rich history in rock music, especially his time in Deep Purple, infused the band with a blend of rock and funk influences.
• Joe Bonamassa – Guitar, Vocals
  Bonamassa, the virtuoso blues-rock guitarist, brought his signature guitar tone and fiery solos to the band. His deep blues influence combined with his hard rock edge gave the band a unique sound. Though primarily known for his solo career, Bonamassa’s participation in BCC was a chance for him to expand his musical repertoire.
• Jason Bonham – Drums
  As the drummer, Jason Bonham was crucial to the band’s energetic, rhythmic foundation. The son of John Bonham of Led Zeppelin fame, Jason carried on his father’s drumming legacy with precision, power, and flair. His role in BCC was pivotal in defining the band’s dynamic rhythm section.
• Derek Sherinian – Keyboards
  Derek Sherinian, known for his work with Dream Theater and Billy Idol, added the atmospheric layers to the band’s sound with his virtuosic keyboard work. His progressive and classical influences blended seamlessly into the hard rock genre, creating a distinctive sound within the band.

Black Country Communion. Musical Style and Sound

Classic Rock Meets Modern Blues

BCC’s sound is a powerful blend of classic rock, blues, and hard rock, with each member bringing their musical influences and history into the fold. The band draws inspiration from the 1970s rock scene, recalling elements of Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and Trapeze, but with a modern, fresh twist that makes it stand out in the contemporary rock scene.

• Glenn Hughes’ Vocal Power: Glenn’s soulful, powerhouse vocals are a hallmark of BCC’s sound, giving the band a signature feel that blends hard rock with a touch of funk and blues.
• Joe Bonamassa’s Blues-Rock Guitar: Bonamassa’s guitar work provides the perfect foil for Hughes’ vocals, offering blistering solos, catchy riffs, and a raw, emotional intensity.
• Jason Bonham’s Drums: With the influence of his legendary father, Jason’s drumming is powerful and precise, giving the band an energetic, thunderous backbone.
• Derek Sherinian’s Keyboards: Sherinian’s keyboard work ranges from subtle, atmospheric textures to full-blown, progressive rock-style solos, which adds complexity and depth to the band’s sound.

The resulting combination is a sound that harks back to the glory days of 70s rock while still feeling current, fresh, and vital.

Black Country Communion. Discography and Notable Albums

Black Country Communion (2010)

The self-titled debut album was released in 2010 and quickly garnered attention for its blend of hard rock and blues influences. Tracks like “Black Country” and “One Last Soul” showcase the band’s powerful songwriting, with Glenn Hughes’ dynamic vocals, Joe Bonamassa’s fiery guitar, and the thunderous rhythm section driving the album.

The debut album was widely praised for its old-school rock feel but with a modern energy, establishing BCC as a band to watch. The album hit high spots on international charts and was praised for its solid, well-crafted songs that embodied the classic rock spirit while pushing the boundaries of the genre.

2. Black Country Communion 2 (2011)

In 2011, the band released Black Country Communion 2, which continued their sonic journey. The album is heavier and more dynamic than the first, with tracks like “Cold” and “The Battle for Hadrian’s Wall” displaying even more intricate songwriting and musicianship. Bonamassa’s guitar work is sharper, and Hughes’ vocals take center stage with even more intensity.

The album also solidified the band’s reputation for live performances, as they honed their abilities to create massive, wall-of-sound rock anthems with intricate musicianship.

3. Afterglow (2012)

The third album, Afterglow, came in 2012, and marked a shift towards a more introspective, mature sound. Songs like “This Is Your Time” and “Afterglow” were less riff-heavy and featured more melodic elements. The album’s production was a bit more polished, and it showcased the band’s ability to evolve while retaining their core musical identity.

Hiatus and Reformation

Breakup and Hiatus

Following Afterglow, Black Country Communion disbanded in 2013 due to internal tensions, particularly between Glenn Hughes and Joe Bonamassa. Bonamassa’s solo career took precedence, while Hughes, Bonham, and Sherinian pursued other projects. The split left many fans hoping for a reunion, as the chemistry between the band members was undeniable.

The Reunion (2016)

In 2016, after years of speculation and demand from fans, Black Country Communion reunited. The reunion was marked by the release of BCCIV (2017), their first album in five years. The album was well-received, showcasing the same chemistry and energy that made the band so beloved by rock fans. It reaffirmed their place in the hard rock and blues scenes.

Legacy and Impact

Influence on Rock and Blues

Black Country Communion’s blend of hard rock and blues has influenced not only fans of classic rock but also a new generation of musicians. The band’s timeless sound continues to resonate in today’s rock landscape, with fans and critics alike praising the group for its focus on musical craftsmanship and dedication to the genre’s roots.

Despite being a relatively short-lived supergroup, BCC’s legacy is undeniable. Their albums continue to be celebrated for their exceptional musicianship, especially the remarkable blend of Hughes’ soulful voice, Bonamassa’s blistering guitar, and the power of Bonham and Sherinian’s rhythm section.