Formed in 2021, Vicious Bishop is a punk, ska punk, and punky reggae power trio hailing from the Lancaster/Morecambe area, featuring the incredible talents of drummer Dave Nuttall (ex-Toy Dolls), bassist Adz Woods, and vocalist/guitarist Rich Davenport (ex-Radio Stars). Taking core influences from legends like The Clash, The Ruts, Stiff Little Fingers, and Rancid, alongside deep cuts of vintage reggae, rocksteady, and ska, Vicious Bishop focuses entirely on delivering memorable, uplifting songs with absolute maximum energy. Their 2024 debut EP, ‘Miracle Formula 168’, perfectly showcased their raw, melodic sound and even featured guest spots from Andy Ellison, Sham 69’s Dave Parsons, and Micky Geggus from the Cockney Rejects, setting a high bar for their full-length follow-up.
Picking up exactly where the EP left off, the band is back with their first full-length album, ‘Raining Guillotines’, featuring ten high-octane shots of punk, punky reggae, and ska punk, all infused with hints of rocksteady and hardcore, maintaining the band’s dedication to crafting memorable melodies and ear-grabbing arrangements. The new single, “Take It As A Win,” features a fantastic duet with frequent collaborator Andy Ellison, the iconic musician whose journey started in the mythical 1960s pop art band John’s Children. Rich Davenport explained the inspiration, saying the song is about the pleasure, pain, and adventures provided by being in a band, noting that “Any band that wants to survive in the 21st century needs a sense of humour, a passion for the music, realistic expectations, and a keen appreciation for their audience.”
Vicious Bishop Live Dates
- Friday 28th November (with Bard Company) The Snug, Atherton
- Saturday 29th November (with the Deceased & Mardi Gras Bombers) the Alma Bolton 5.30-8pm show
- Saturday 6th December (with Bard Company & George Borowski) Foxtails, Chorley
- Saturday 13th December (with Bard Company) West End Playhouse, Morecambe (acoustic set)
- 2026
- Friday 20th February (with No Agenda and Bard Company) the Bobbin, Lancaster
- Saturday 7th March punk fest 10, the Blvd, Wigan. 3pm start.
- Saturday 14th March the Black Bull, Gateshead (afternoon gig)
- Sat March 28th, the Druids, Penrith
- Sat May 30th, Ivory Blacks, Glasgow – Afternoon gig 2-5pm
- May 22/23/24 2026 (day TBC) Sleazy Live, Johnny’s Bar & Warehouse, Morecambe