"Deacon Blue's guitar virtuoso, Gregor Philps, discusses his unique six-string technique, focusing on the intentions of songs, and unveils his preferred Strat – a choice that strays from the typical Fender brand."
In the heart of Glasgow, a band that has been active for over four decades continues to make waves in the music industry. Deacon Blue, known for their unique blend of rock, pop, and soul with a distinctly Scottish emotional tone, recently released their tenth album, The Great Western Road, in 2025.
The band's guitarist, Gregor Philp, started his musical journey at the tender age of 10, inspired by the likes of the Beatles, Genesis, and AC/DC. By his twenties, Philp had expanded his repertoire beyond just the guitar, mastering the drums, bass, and keyboards.
The Great Western Road is a testament to Deacon Blue’s commitment to keeping their sound fresh yet true to their roots. Guitarist Gregor Philp's work on the album showcases a kaleidoscopic tonal command, ranging from Philly soul-style grandeur in the single Late ’88, to bluesy licks (Underneath the Stars), acoustic energy (Ashore), and wah-wah funk (Mid-Century Modern).
The single Late '88 marked a significant return to the U.K. charts, indicating a successful melding of their classic style with modern influences. Philp's precise rhythmic attack is a key element in this hit song.
Throughout their career, Deacon Blue’s style has evolved to incorporate new influences. In the 1990s, they experimented with a more dance-oriented edge through producers like Paul Oakenfold and Steve Osborne, while continuing to maintain a conventional pop-rock core. After a hiatus and regrouping in 1999, they released albums sporadically, maintaining their blend of soulful pop-rock infused with mature songwriting but retaining their melodic roots.
Philp's setup for Deacon Blue's U.K. tour will include his preferred instruments, such as his Fender Princeton '68 Reissue amplifier and his custom-made Stratocaster by Atkin Guitars. The guitarist enjoys improvising more on stage compared to the studio, adding a dynamic element to their live performances.
As a composer, Philp has worked in film, TV, and commercials, showcasing his versatility beyond the realm of music. His musical philosophy is to see himself as a facilitator, allowing the music to flow through him.
Deacon Blue emerged in the late 1980s with their debut album, Raintown, achieving mainstream success with hits like Real Gone Kid and Dignity. Their musical style is marked by a slight "doom and gloom" or plaintive, yearning quality that gives their music emotional depth.
For fans of Deacon Blue, subscribing to our website could result in savings. Stay tuned for more updates on their upcoming U.K. tour and future releases.
Deacon Blue's guitarist, Gregor Philp, will use his Fender Princeton '68 Reissue amplifier and his custom-made Stratocaster by Atkin Guitars during the U.K. tour.
Philp's work on Deacon Blue's latest album, The Great Western Road, showcases a wide range of styles, from Philly soul-style grandeur to bluesy licks, acoustic energy, and wah-wah funk.
With an early inspiration from bands like the Beatles, Genesis, and AC/DC, Philp has mastered various gadgets of technology, including the drums, bass, and keyboards, apart from the guitar.
Deacon Blue's style over the years has incorporated diverse influences, from maintaining a conventional pop-rock core in the 90s to experimenting with a more dance-oriented edge and retaining their melodic roots.
Gregor Philp, as a composer, ventured into film, TV, and commercials, demonstrating his versatility beyond music, following a philosophy of allowing the music to flow through him.
