The boys are back, bringing their own unique style - “Blues sunny side up, over easy, spicy or funky, it’s all on the menu with these guys.”

Formed in 2009 in Auckland, the Flaming Mudcats are fronted by Craig Bracken on vocals, harmonica and tenor saxophone, along with guitar slinger, Doug Bygrave and the renowned Liam Ryan on Hammond and keys. Drummer Ian Thomson and bass man Pete Parnham, form the seasoned rhythm section.

Well into their second decade, the Flaming Mudcats have established themselves as one of this country’s premier, contemporary, Blues combos who share a strong, driving passion to “play and write the blues in their own way.“

They have toured throughout NZ and performed at festivals and clubs in Australia, Samoa, Fiji and the USA. Their memorable Chicago and Austin appearances were especially well received and remain a band highlight.

The band has recorded five self-produced albums of predominantly original material drawn from their lifetime experiences and eclectic influences. Their evolving song writing talents provide ongoing fresh set and album material.

CRAIG BRACKEN - Lead vocals, harmonica, chromatic harmonica, tenor saxophone, songwriter

IAN THOMSON - Drums. Songwriter

DOUG BYGRAVE - Guitar

PETE PARNHAM - Bass, upright bass, songwriter

LIAM RYAN - Keyboards, songwriter

"If this band doesn’t get your toes tapping, then you must be dead" – David James. Host of Saturday Night Blues 89.5 WNIJ Illinois USA

“The Flaming Mudcats hail from Auckland, New Zealand, but easily could be mistaken to be from Chicago’s south side.” Steve Jones. Crossroads Blues Society, Rockford Illinois USA.

“Being a blues band is a real calling because it demands a big commitment. So, it’s hats off to the ‘Mudcats’ for doing it so well.”     Graham Reid - 2018

“This is authentic, well-considered, contemporary, antipodean Blues and signals a step up from one of New Zealand’s best live bands.” Midge Marsden – Mar. 2024