Who is in Memory Lane?

In the band, you’ll find Kevin Micallef on vocals (along with acoustic guitar every now and then), Paul Vella on bass guitar, El Ruben on drums, and myself, George Mole, on lead guitar and backing vocals.

When did Memory Lane begin?

The band came to life in March 2023 in its current line-up. Kevin was missing a few band members for a few weeks before the summer, and he’s always been good friends with Paul. Ruben and I had worked with Paul in a couple of outfits, a blues band with Chicago’s very own Bryan Ogden called Blues Kings. So the three of us had some slots in our diaries and said let’s do it, and we began playing in some local venues.

Can you share the inspiration behind the name “Memory Lane” and how it reflects the band’s musical journey and style?

Paul and Kevin had worked together before playing these classic rock songs, so it came from there. A trip down Memory Lane, so to speak, for Kevin and Paul. I’m chilled by nature, so the name wasn’t a big deal then. Although I must say it works well for the classic up-tempo rock music we play.

What memorable experiences or milestones have defined Memory Lane’s career as a band, and how have they influenced your music and overall artistic direction?

The line-up includes vocals, guitar, drums, and bass. Perfect for classic rock. Kevin and Paul are rockers through and through. Ruben is not a rock drummer by nature but is very much on time and captivating to watch- he will tell he’s learning and loving the ride.

I have always been a high-energy guitar player inspired by Chuck Berry, Elvis, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis. I also loved the ’60s – ’70s Blues Rock players. I then moved on to the Punk era, which really was energetic and fun onstage live performance.

As far as stories go, as a band, we have been stopped playing by the local police playing outside in the summer (I know, how rock’n’roll!). We even made social media and the papers.

Paul also had contacts with a Beatles tribute band from the UK and I play guitar for Lyndsay Pace most weekends and through the summer most days. So, creating a three band show for TexMex South came about. So we did; we pulled it off on 25 November last year. The feedback for the band was so positive the owner booked us again!

In your creative process, how do you navigate the balance between drawing inspiration from nostalgic elements while still delivering a fresh and innovative sound to your audience?

As I said earlier, I’m a very high-energy performer and interested in all types of music. Ruben is very much a Latin drummer, so coupled with the old-time rock’n’roll attitude of Kevin and Paul, it’s an excellent combination in a live setting.