The Rebelles

What a fitting tribute to the late great David Bowie, who of course wrote the very song which became a hit for Mott The Hoople when the band recorded it as a single in 1972. Now, 44 years later, it’s Ian Hunter’s daughter Tracie who – together with her trio The Rebelles – pays homage to ‘All The Young Dudes’, with a little help from her father.

The Rebelles are Tracie Hunter, Elizabeth Westwood and Phoebe White, all of whom have notable solo careers to show off with and Tracie three solo albums under her belt. Often described as a rock ‘n’ roll harmony trio, the feisty three love nothing more than delight us with their unique takes on the classics from the golden age of rock n roll… and punk, and blues rock. No wonder they are in big demand as supporting artists too, and have shared the stage with the likes of Aerosmith, New York Dolls, The Quireboys, Jim Jones, Glen Matlock, Clem Burke and of course, with Mott the Hoople (there’s a surprise!).

As for The Rebelles’ take on the Bowie/Mott classic, it’s not only dad who provides the backing vocals, of course not. Former Sex Pistol Glen Matlock lends his bass skills while James Stevenson (The Cult / Generation X) lends his guitar skills.
So what does the result sound like? It’s a laid back version that’s stripped off all unnecessary bangs n twangs but it’s also pretty safe. Meaning it’s the powerful and harmonious vocals that shine through… with an added melody over the famous chorus and a smooth ending. As for the ooh… instrumental take, simply beautiful and very well executed.
All these young dudettes carry the news, and I want to hear ya and I want to see ya. Can’t wait for the forthcoming album – ooh!