THE WEATHERMONGERS is the new project from Ian Roberts; former front man and founder member of The Nightporters - a band that, from 1997 to 2002, made an enormous impact on the European Blues scene. Two Nightporters CDs were released worldwide on the Indigo Recording Label, and when the band folded in 2002 they were generally considered to have been one of the most unique and dynamic British blues acts to have emerged in recent years. A fine singer, guitarist, and harmonica player, Ian was also the band's principal songwriter.

Following the demise of The Nightporters, Ian took stock, and set about writing a collection of songs, without thought to any particular style or direction. Ian's song writing had always been a major strength of The Nightporters. An American magazine "Blues Revue" described one of his songs "I Want You" (from the Indigo album "Rollercoaster") as being "… a perfect pop song". While a German publication "Blues News" acclaimed Ian's song writing for The Nightporters, as being akin to, and as good as, some of the great songwriters of the Blues such as Willie Dixon.

For his new project, Ian has teamed up with bass player Ian Jennings (who also plays with legendary R&B outfit The Big Town Playboys), and South Devon based drummer Steve Hamzij. For live shows, Ian has also procured the services of keyboard ace Ross Jones. In 2004, Ian Jennings appeared in the Martin Scorsese film “Red White and Blues” playing double bass in an all-star band which featured Jeff Beck, Van Morrison and Tom Jones.

A twelve track, all original album, showcasing Ian Roberts’ song writing, was released on CD in the summer of 2004. Entitled "Introducing The Weathermongers", the album was recorded at Trident South West, Torquay, England – the studio of legendary “60's” sound engineer Malcolm Toft. Malcolm was the sound engineer on “Hey Jude” by The Beatles. He also engineered the album “Space Oddity” by David Bowie and was the designer of the groundbreaking “Trident Recording Console”.

On the album, Ian Roberts sings lead vocal and plays all the electric and acoustic guitars. He also plays harmonica and contributes to the backing vocals. Ian Jennings handles both electric and acoustic bass. Steve Hamzij plays the drums and provides backing vocals. All tracks were entirely written, arranged, and produced by Ian Roberts. The album includes “Double Shot”, “Blue Is My World Without You” and “I Did No Wrong” – three songs previously performed live by The Nightporters, but never recorded.

The CD will be on sale at gigs for £10 but is also available mail order by sending a cheque for £11, made out to… Ian Roberts, 28 Deep Dene Close, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 0DZ, ENGLAND

The Weathermongers are currently booking gigs in the UK and Europe.