The Punching Preachers

"Naming a band after one of the most devastating heavyweight fighters of all time is a bold statement.   To hit the audience as hard as Foreman hit Joe Frazier in '73 is a tall order, and a challenge that the charismatic front man, Craig Giovanelli, and his merry band of Preachers is happy to embrace.

Cover bands can be good, but a punchy rock line up that can slake the audio thirst of demanding Aussies is a challenge to even the tightest of bands.  Having approached me shortly before Christmas about doing a gig at Jetlag Craig and Matt won me over with their  infectious enthusiasm and professionalism.  They got the Australia Day slot without my hearing a note.  Maybe it was because it was my birthday and I was on rising tide of Ron Zacapa Manhattans?  In reality it was that this band, inspired by the George Foreman moniker, carried the weight of expectation so comfortably.
Stripped down the Punching Preachers are a tight unit that care about their craft.  Their playlist does not pander to the charts and they charm the crowd with a dedication to the show.  "Maybe Tomorrow" was smooth and perfectly timed to their set.  As relaxed on a stadium stage or tucked into the corner in a bar, these are guys who love to play great songs and get a crowd moving.  

In short Craig, Matt, Fabio, Mark and Dave practice what they preach.  And now I've heard them live, it's a sure fire bet they'll be back.  Much like their eponymous namesake." 



- Scott, Owner/Proprietor Jetlag Sports Club, West London