The Moondogz (formelly known as Irwell) are an Indie Rock Band. The band was formed in Middlewich, Cheshire in 2011 by musical stalwart, Ant Machin and has changed dramatically since its earlier incarnation.

 

In 2019, the then line up decided it was time to take the band in a new direction. Although the band has changed in many ways over the years, you can still expect the same exciting Rock n Roll you've come to love and enjoy from the band.

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From the more laid back, blues based vibe as can be heard on their debut album 'Connection', to the current, more Rock and indie sound of today. The band has never lost its blues edge ....which Ant considers the 'soul of the band'.

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The new name came from our mutual love and respect of classic Rock n Roll. ....and is of course borrowed from the amazing Johnny and the Moon Dogs. Deciding to change the S to a Z at the end, ensuring that nobody can find us when searching social media and having us explain at most gigs how to find us......hey...it seemed like a good idea at the time!

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The original Moondogz lineup comprised of Anthony Machin (Vocals/Rhythm Guitar) - Neil Oakes (Bass/Backing Vocals) - Gaz Morgan (Lead Guitar/Backing Vocals) & Tony Kingdon (Drums).

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In November 2019, Tony left the band amicably and was replaced by Nige Coppenhall.

In April 2020, Neil left the band and was replaced by Andy Shallcross

Nige's short lived stint on the pots & pans came to an end during recording of our debut album and he was replaced by Alex Miller on drums. Then in 2023 we had 2 Uni music students helping us out for a while. Peter and James were invaluable. In January 2024 Daz joined us on bass and Tony rejoined us on drums in April 2024.

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The current line up is considered the definitive Moondogz line-up, with all four members contributing their ideas to writing and developing the songs, with plans to play more gigs in venues who value original music in and around Manchester, Liverpool and Stoke....the future is looking bright for the Middlewich lads