Bonneville Barons

The Bonneville Barons are a rockabilly and hillbilly duo formed by French bassist Yann Mahdjoub and British guitarist Chris Wilkinson. They are known for their unique sound, which is characterized by a sparse yet energetic style, often featuring just slap bass and guitar. This format was not initially planned but evolved as they began playing together, forcing them to become more skilled to fill the gaps typically covered by additional instruments. Their music is deeply rooted in rockabilly and roots music, drawing inspiration from artists like Charlie Feathers, Hank Williams, and Django Reinhardt. They have released several albums, including "The Guitar & Bull Fiddle Of…," "Platter Pinata," and "Cures What Ails You," which showcase their ability to blend different styles into a distinctive sound. The duo has worked with Alan Wilson at Western Star Studios, where they have recorded much of their material, aiming to keep their recordings as live and authentic as possible.

Their music career has been marked by a strong connection to the rockabilly scene, with Yann previously involved in other bands like the Tawny Owls and the Mighty Atoms. Chris, on the other hand, was introduced to the rockabilly world after meeting Yann, which opened him up to a broader range of musical influences. The Bonneville Barons have gained recognition for their live performances, which capture the raw energy and simplicity of their recordings.