There’s exciting news for fans of raw British R&B: John “Sparko” Sparkes, original bass player and founding member of Dr. Feelgood, is back in action and bringing the fire with his new band Going Back Home.
As part of the 50th anniversary of Down by the Jetty and Malpractice – two seminal records that helped shape the pub rock and punk movements – Sparko is taking to the stage once again. And with demand sky-high, an extra afternoon matinee show has now been added!
This is no nostalgia act. It’s a living, breathing revival of that no-frills, high-octane R&B spirit that made Dr. Feelgood such a force in the mid-70s. Sparko’s playing is as gritty, grooving, and locked-in as ever – and he’s joined by a formidable lineup.
Meet the Band: Going Back Home
- Bass Guitar – John B. Sparkes (Sparko)
The beating heart of Dr. Feelgood’s rhythm section, Sparko was there from day one. He played on every one of the classic albums from the Wilko Johnson and Gypie Mayo years – from Down by the Jetty (1975) through to Fast Women & Slow Horses (1982). His basslines are embedded in the DNA of British R&B. - Drums & Backing Vocals – Mat Hector
One of the most respected drummers on the scene today, Hector’s credits read like a who’s who of rock: Iggy Pop, Thom Yorke, Grace Jones, Marc Almond, KT Tunstall, and more. He was Iggy Pop’s touring drummer for five years and brings an unstoppable energy to this band. - Guitar & Vocals – John Simpson
A life-long Dr. Feelgood devotee and a guitarist who channels the essence of Wilko Johnson with remarkable authenticity. Simpson’s 2023 single I Don’t Get It – a tribute to Wilko – charted at #17 on Mike Read’s Heritage Chart. Expect attitude, slashing rhythm, and a deep love for the music.
“As a fan of the original Dr. Feelgood lineup, I can’t wait to get going with this project. If I wasn’t in the band, I’d definitely be in the audience.” – John Simpson
The Setlist: Classic Feelgood, Played with Fire
Fans can expect a no-holds-barred set of Wilko-era classics from the first four Feelgood albums – Down by the Jetty, Malpractice, Stupidity, and Sneakin’ Suspicion – along with handpicked cuts from the Gypie Mayo period and a few rock ’n’ roll staples for good measure.
A Brief History: Dr. Feelgood’s Legacy
Born out of Canvey Island in 1971, Dr. Feelgood exploded from the London pub rock scene with a stripped-down sound that influenced punk and energized British R&B.
Sparko, along with Wilko Johnson and Lee Brilleaux, created a band that thrived on attitude, grit, and economy – delivering their music straight from the gut. Their 1976 live LP Stupidity famously went straight to No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart – a testament to their electrifying stage presence.
Sparko departed in 1982 after a historic 11-year run – but his signature tone and playing style remain unmatched.
Don’t Miss This – A Rare Opportunity
This isn’t just a concert. It’s a chance to witness a true originator of the classic Dr. Feelgood lineup, performing the songs he helped make legendary – live, loud, and authentic.
With the added matinee show, there’s even more opportunity to be part of this special 50th anniversary celebration.
Tickets are moving fast – grab yours now and be part of something very special.
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