Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers is fast becoming a decent name in Cardiff’s covers and tribute band circuit. Specialising in 50s and 60s Rock n Roll, The Old Time Bangers tailor these classic songs for a live environment whilst still staying true to the original feel and period of the music that defined a generation. The band has certainly been doing the rounds in South Wales over the last twelve months, and this Christmas they will be releasing their debut single, in aid of homelessness charity, Shelter Cymru.

When the band formed back in 2012, the aim was to compile a setlist that encompassed many of the musicians’ influences, from Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis to Elvis Presley. Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers have been getting crowds jumping and jiving in venues and events right across South Wales. This December, the band got together to record their very first single in time for Christmas, to raise money for homelessness charity, Shelter Cymru. Guitarist and vocalist, Adam Williams explained:

‘Particularly at this time of year, it’s so important to think of those less fortunate than yourself. Between the cold weather and the festivities of Christmas time, many people are at risk of illness and even death by living on the streets here in South Wales. Shelter Cymru is an incredible organisation that does a lot of good work for the people who need it. If we can help raise some funds for such a worthwhile charity, who knows what difference it could make to homeless people in our community this Christmas.’

Last year, Shelter Cymru helped nearly 17,000 people from all over Wales, helping prevent homelessness in 90% of the instances where it was threatened. The proportion of households that approached Shelter Cymru facing mortgage repossessions has trebled in the last four years.

Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers will be releasing their version of “Jingle Bells” on Monday 15th December, and are making it available to ‘pay what you want’, in the hope that their fans and supporters will put their hands in their pockets, and get some good old fashioned rock & roll for a great cause this Christmas.

“Jingle Bells” is available to download athttp://rocketjoejoe.bandcamp.com

For further information on the band visit rocketjoejoe.co.uk while details on Shelter Cymru can be found online at sheltercymru.org.uk