The Mid Wales Rhythm & Blues Club (MWR&BC) will open its 2026 programme with a special joint presentation alongside Brecon Folk Club, bringing acclaimed blues and gospel musician Raphael Callaghan to Kensington Church, Brecon, on Saturday 24 January 2026.
This marks Raphael’s first appearance in Brecon, offering audiences the chance to experience one of the most distinctive voices and instrumental stylists in British blues. His long career began in 1960s Liverpool, inspired by hearing Muddy Waters on the radio and seeing Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated live. Since then, he has performed with artists including Jo Ann Kelly, Jessie Mae Hemphill, Eric Bibb and Bonnie Raitt, and has developed a highly recognisable sound built on alternate tunings, melodic slide guitar and expressive harmonica.
Raphael’s songwriting has also earned national recognition, including winning the inaugural Contemporary Blues Song of the Year Award at the Great British R&B Festival in Colne. His most recent solo album, Always in Arrears, has been described by Blues in Britain magazine as his best work to date.
This opening event for the 2026 season will feature Callaghan as the headline artist, with a special guest act to be announced shortly. A licensed bar will be available on the night, and with only around thirty tickets on sale, early booking is strongly advised.
Event details
Date: Saturday 24 January 2026
Venue: Kensington Church, Brecon
Tickets: £20
Further information:
www.raphaelcallaghan.com
Contact:
Angus Kings
0786 6000 596
angus@midwalesrandb.club
