The Barry James Trio

[dutchman]

I came across a very interesting find this week, it was a vinyl LP from the very popular Barry James Trio from 1971 (on the Midland Sound Recording label based in Balsall Common).



The band, who were based in Thimber Road, Canley, consisted of Jim Tallentire on bass, and his sons Derek on lead guitar and Barry on drums, plus guest vocalist and bass player Pamela, who was Barry and Derek’s sister-in-law.

The Barry James Trio were quite rightly hailed as one of the most popular professional units in the Midlands.

What started out as playing for their own amusement later became full-time jobs. Jim’s father was a well known organist and choirmaster, so it was little surprise that Jim would soon follow in his footsteps, playing guitar, ukulele and harmonica.

In 1966 They entered a talent competition and came first out of 92 entrants.

The band played all over the area, frequently at The Royal Court Hotel. They were always in demand, not least for the fact that all three members could sing lead vocals and harmonies as required.

The album Volume One: Making Tracks, is the band committing to vinyl. Some of their live favourites like 12th Street Rag, La Bamba, Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da, Stranger On The Shore and even the song made famous by local legend Don Fardon, Indian Reservation.

This was a top club band, seen by so many people, I would love to know if anyone remembers them.