The deep London blues

In fact, the band claim to be the first alt-bluegrass act, taking old themes and melodies and bringing them into the 21st century...via a roundabout route.

The Coal Porters were put together in the 90s by ex-Long Ryder Sid Griffin, and relocated from Los Angeles to London — presumably aiming to carve out their own Americana niche on this side of the pond.

In making the move, the group also left behind electric instruments in favour of the acoustic act fans know and love today.

Those instruments include the fiddle, mandolin, banjo, acoustic guitar and doghouse bass, all matched with signature three-part harmonies and melodies evoking the music of the deep south — but with an international twist, as Kentuckian frontman Sid Griffin leads the way for one Scot, one Canadian and two 
English musicians.

Regardless, something must be working, as the band have recorded four albums — their most recent,

The album features guest performances from guitarist Richard Thompson and legendary BBC DJ Brian Matthew (these days famed for his

Having played to venues across the country, The Coal Porters are in Glasgow tomorrow (Sunday), playing an intimate slot at the Woodend Bowling and Tennis Club.

Tickets are £12 from woodendbltc.co.uk, and the band take to the stage at 8.30pm.