The lineup

Meet the band

Karl Bilby, lead vocals of The Salamanders
Lead Vocals

Karl Bilby

Frontman and lead vocalist, bringing the powerful, melodic delivery at the heart of The Salamanders' sound.

Mark Johnson, lead guitar of The Salamanders
Lead Guitar

Mark Johnson

Lead guitarist responsible for the band's intricate, riff-driven guitar work.

Jason Powell, bass of The Salamanders
Bass

Jason Powell

Bassist anchoring the thumping rhythm section that drives the band's live sound.

Adam Powell, rhythm guitar of The Salamanders
Rhythm Guitar

Adam Powell

Rhythm guitarist adding texture and drive alongside the band's lead lines.

Paul Lester, drums of The Salamanders
Drums

Paul Lester

Drummer keeping the beat — the engine room of The Salamanders' live shows.

The sound

Rock, blues and post-punk energy

A sound defined

The Salamanders deliver a high-octane blend of rock and alternative music, marked by intricate guitar riffs, a thumping rhythm section and powerful, melodic vocals. Radio DJs often draw comparisons to The Stooges, The Strokes and Joy Division — noting that The Salamanders bring an even catchier edge to the genre.

This signature sound has caught the attention of Liverpool music icons like Mike Badger and Dave Monks, and has become part of the local sporting fabric, with tracks frequently featured by Liverpool Football Club on match days and LFCTV.

Electrifying live performances

Known for their dynamic stage presence, The Salamanders are veterans of the North West music scene. From intimate club shows to large-scale festivals, the band remains dedicated to their craft, constantly experimenting with new sounds and techniques to keep their live shows fresh and infectious.

On stage

Performance highlights

  • Supporting The Doors Alive

    Bringing their riff-driven energy to a packed support slot.

  • Headline festival sets in Cumbria

    Windswept festival stages, headlined and owned.

  • Liverpool's Mathew Street Festival

    Taking the stage at one of Liverpool's most iconic music events.

  • Exclusive fashion label launch events

    Live music for the North West's style scene.

New music, new gigs — 2026

The band are back in the rehearsal room writing new material, with studio time booked for September 2026.