Welcome to the Ray's Gigs website!

Here's the latest - updated 4th December 2024

Tuesday 03 December 2024.

Tuesday 03 December 2024.
DEL AMITRI live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Del Amitri is a Scottish alternative rock band formed in Glasgow in 1980. Best known for its 1990 single "Nothing Ever Happens" which reached No. 11 in the UK and its 1995 single "Roll to Me", which was a top 10 hit in Canada and the United States, it They have released seven studio albums, five of which have reached the UK top 10.They have sold over six million albums worldwide.
I have seen them several times before, including four headline shows on different tours at Hammersmith Odeon/Apollo.
They are on a UK & European Tour....
This show sold out in advance.
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The venue is rammed sold out, with a mainly older crowd.
MANDRAKE HANDSHAKE arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 40 mins set.
They are named after a Brian Jonestown Massacre track.
Seven of them on stage , including a female singer.
Multi-dimensional Oxford/London collective Mandrake Handshake showcase a music they call ‘Flowerkraut’: a hedonistic, brain-frying feast of Krautrock, art-pop and psychedelia, spiced with enigmatic grooves and fearless improvisations.
DEL AMITRI arrived on stage at 9pm for their 95 mins set.
Five musicians on stage , including keyboards.
Justin Currie (now aged 59) still fronts the band.
Back in the day , bands like Del Amitri and The Stereophonics ,
were played all the time on Virgin Radio as they have plenty of radio friendly tracks.
Nice vocal and nice harmonies all through the evening.
Highlights included 'Kiss This Thing Goodbye', 'Always The Last
To Know', 'Stone Cold Sober' and 'Nothing Ever Happens'.
A very enjoyable show.
Full DEL AMITRI setlist played tonight...
Nation of Caners
Opposite View
Not Where It's At
Kiss This Thing Goodbye
Always the Last to Know
It's Never Too Late to Be Alone
Missing Person
Driving With the Brakes On
Buttons on My Clothes
Don't Cry, Don't Cry
Just Like a Man
The Ones That You Love Lead You Nowhere
Lonely
All Hail Blind Love
Move Away Jimmy Blue
Here and Now
Stone Cold Sober
Encore:
This City Loves You Back
Nothing Ever Happens
Be My Downfall
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Monday 02 December 2024...6.30pm to 8.45pm...
CHRISTIES - private view - 8 King Street, St James's , London SW1.
Always nice to be at this well known gallery space.
Over 200 upmarket art folks are here.
Their Old Masters auction is held 03 / 04 December .
The top lot of the sale is a rather fine Andalusian Horse by Van Dyck (pictured), estimated at £2m - £3m, a study which was executed for the artist's equestrian portrait of Charles V now in the Uffizi, Florence.
Amongst the other highlights of the sale are a commedia dell'arte scene by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo at £1m - £1.5m, a Semon of St John the Baptist by Pieter Brueghel II at £800k - £1.2m, and a pair of Venetian views by Michele Marieschi at £600k - £800k. The sale also contains several high-value nineteenth century works, including pictures by Francesco Hayez, Gustave Courbet and Michael Peter Ancher.
Complimentary Nyetimber English Sparkling Wines, Spiced Negronis and canapes for all the guests.

Updated 3rd December 2024 Permalink

Sunday 01 December 2024.

Sunday 01 December 2024.
A nice triple bill of punk tributes at The 100 Club.
THE SCOTTISH SEX PISTOLS
LIZZIE AND THE BANSHEES (Farewell Tour Show )
BUZZKOCKS
The Scottish Sex Pistols return with a new line-up.
They were the first proper Sex Pistols tribute act.
I saw them twice back on 1993, which was the year they formed.
I have seen all the original bands many times since the 1970s.
www.flagpromotions.co.uk - Visit their website here to buy tickets for this show and other shows that Flag are promoting around the UK.
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It is a Sunday night , but great to see this iconic venue so full.
All three bands played non stop classic punk gems.
BUZZKOCKS had a singer that did look a bit like Pete Shelley , as their set included the excellent 'Orgasm Addict', 'Boredom' and 'Ever Fallen in Love' .
LIZZIE AND THE BANSHEES on at 8.25pm for their 80 mins.
A long set for them as it is a co-headline show with SSP , and it's also a farewell show and they have more material than The Sex Pistols.
Lizzie is from Scotland and her look is the Siouxsie goth period...with big black hair and a black lacy dress.
She is great at dancing and twirling around the stage.
Highlights included 'Arabian Knights', 'Dear Prudence', 'Christine' ' , ' Night Shift', 'Jigsaw Feeling', 'Happy House', 'Hong Kong Garden' and ' Spellbound'.
Lizzie also rightly mentioned it was 48 years to the day , that The Sex Pistols Bill Grundy interviewed was aired , where Siouxsie was there in the TV studio standing behind the band .
THE SCOTTISH SEX PISTOLS on at 9.55pm for their 55 mins.
The John Lydon lookalike is a bit shorter than the real JL , but he does a great job of entertaining the crowd.
The dancing and moshing goes up a few gears , as it gets very lively front of stage.
One after another we get Sex Pistols anthems ...and a PiL classic during the encore.
Full SSP setlist played tonight...a great show...
Pretty Vacant
Bodies
No Feelings
I'm A Lazy Sod
Liar
Silly Thing
God Save The Queen
Did You No Wrong
Submission
Holidays in The Sun
Satellite
EMI
Anarchy in The UK
Encore :
Public Image
Steppin' Stone
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Saturday 30 November 2024.
MASSIVE WAGONS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
A great UK rock band, with a great singer.
I have seen them a couple of times before.
The first time was at The Ramblin' Man Festival in 2016.
They are touring to promote their hit new album ' Earth to Grace', which entered the UK charts at number 4 on 15 November 2024.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight , and maybe 800 tickets sold.
An older rock crowd here
CAM COLE arrived on stage at 7.30pm for 30 mins.
Tonight's opening act was a lovely surprise.
Cam Cole is a real life street musician, singer, songwriter, busker, and new age traveler from London, UK. Hailed as “the most impressive one-man band you will ever see” .He roams around Camden etc performing on streets and venues as his one man band show influenced by Folk, Delta Blues, Grunge and Rock N' Roll....lots of nice bottleneck blues guitar...
He was joined by his Steven Tyler lookalike friend on percussion.
The vocals were a bit hard to make out , but the pair were really great to watch.
FLORENCE BLACK arrived on stage at 8.30pm for 30 mins.
The band are a male rock trio , with no female at all.
Lots of good solid rock tracks played.
MASSIVE WAGONS arrived on stage at 9.30pm for 85 mins.
Five musicians on stage, including nice twin guitars.
Baz on vocals is non-stop bouncing and prowling around the stage, as the band play good time uptempo rock .
Hints of AC/DC in many of the songs.
Highlights included ' Back to the Stack', ' Fuck the Haters' and ' Bangin In Your Stereo' ...a great live rock band.
Full MASSIVE WAGONS setlist played tonight....
Missing on TV
Back to the Stack
A.S.S.H.O.L.E.
Hate Me
Sleep Forever
Fuck the Haters
Please Stay Calm
Fun While it Lasted
Night Skies
Changes
Generation Prime (Outro - No Woman No Cry)
The Good Die Young ( with Colin Doran)
Bangin in Your Stereo
In It Together ( Baz moshing with the fans in the stalls)
Encore:
Fun While it Lasted
Ratio
House of Noise

Updated 1st December 2024 Permalink

Friday 29 November 2024.

Friday 29 November 2024.
EMBRACE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Embrace have had three number one albums in the UK ,
and six Top 10 hit singles in the UK.
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of their 2004 album 'Out of Nothing' which sold over 600, 000 copies.
I have seen them a few times before , including when they headlined The Royal Albert Hall in 2002.
Tonight's show sold out in advance.
After tonight's show, Embrace singer Danny McNamara goes on a ten date UK tour talking about his 30 years in Embrace.
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Older crowd here, who remember Embrace from their heyday.
ELLUR arrived on stage at 7.45pm for her ok 30 mins.
EMBRACE arrived on stage at 8.45pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
Five musicians on stage, including keyboards
They played their radio friendly indie rock tunes.
Around 20 years ago there were a host of bands all in the same vein..Embrace/Starsailor/Coldplay/Keane/Travis/The Feeling .
Some of the mid paced album tracks were a bit samey, but nice to hear the hits.
A good show.
Full EMBRACE set list played tonight....
All You Good Good People
Someday
Keeping ( restarted due to someone fainting in the crowd)
Wish 'Em All Away
Looking As You Are
Nature's Law
We Are It
No Use Crying
A Glorious Day
Out of Nothing
Refugees
Never ( with EEVAH)
Gravity ( Coldplay cover)
Ashes
Encore:
Protection
Come Back to What You Know
Near Life
The Good Will Out
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Thursday 28 November 2024.
BIG COUNTRY live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
I have seen them several times since the 1980s , when they were regulars at Hammersmith Odeon.
Celebrating 40 years of their ' Steeltown ' album.
Steeltown was the second studio album by Big Country released in 1984. Regarded by many as a classic, the multi-million selling record went straight to the Number 1 slot in the UK album charts.
Original member STUART ADAMSON sadly died in 2001.
Big Country will be performing songs from the album as well as the classic hits and live favourites including “Fields of Fire”, “In A Big Country”, “Chance”, “Wonderland” and many more.
Big Country will be supported by MIKE PETERS.
Mike Peters is known primarily as frontman of the internationally acclaimed Welsh band The Alarm. Achieving over 15 Top 40 UK singles and over 5 million album sales worldwide along the way, Mike Peters’ musical journey has seen him sing with some of history’s greatest performers such as Bob Dylan, Neil Young, & Bono.
I have also seen him several times before.
The Alarm had loads of great anthemic songs.
A great double bill to my liking.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight as unsold , so maybe just 700 or 800 in the venue tonight.
Mainly a crowd of folks in their 50s and 60s here.
The house PA is playing non stop classics from the 1980s.
MIKE PETERS arrived on stage at 8pm for his 45 mins set.
Mike is a true Welsh music legend , who is still touring despite struggling with blood cancer .
Both acts tonight have all their equipment front of stage.
Just him and his guitar and a kick bass drum , as he has backing tapes for the band sounds.
Nine songs played including many great Alarm classics .
He has many of his own fans down the front.
A great show.
Full MIKE PETERS setliat played tonight...
Return (Big Country song)
Beautiful (The Alarm song)
The Stand ( The Alarm song)
Rain in the Summertime ( The Alarm song)
Transition (The Alarm song)
Strength ( The Alarm song)
68 Guns (The Alarm song)
Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke
(The Alarm song)
Spirit of '76 (The Alarm song)
BIG COUNTRY arrived on stage at 9.15pm and played for 95 mins.
Bruce Watson is one of the three guitarists on stage.
The first ten tracks are the 'Steeltown' album in track order,
then it was a batch of their greatest hits that had the crowd dancing and jigging along nicely.
A great evening with two acts I have history with.
Full BIG COUNTRY setliat played tonight...
Flame of the West
East of Eden
Steeltown
Where the Rose Is Sown
Come Back to Me
Tall Ships Go
Winter Sky
Rain Dance
The Great Divide
Just a Shadow
Look Away
Chance
In a Big Country
Encore :
Restless Natives
Wonderland
Fields of Fire / Whiskey in the Jar

Updated 29th November 2024 Permalink

Wednesday 27 November 2024.

Wednesday 27 November 2024....6.30pm to 11.30pm...
STICKS N SUSHI - launch party - Battersea Power Station, London SW11.
I worked up the road in Nine Elms for five great years 1993 to 1998 when Nine Elms and Battersea Power Station were pretty much nothing going on areas. Now they have tube stations and lots of new restaurants and expensive blocks of flats.
In December 1997 I want to a four gigs at Battersea Power Station ...Cast, Morrissey , Prodigy and Placebo.
Also several other events , when they hired it out.
Popular Sushi restaurant open their 15th location in the UK.
Around 200 guests in their massive space here.
The space features an open plan dining room, kitchen counter, lounge and bar, and outdoor terrace.
This popular restaurant serves a range of sushi dishes along with sashimi, tartare, grilled sticks and generous set menus to suit varied budgets and tastes, for both takeaway and dining in.
At 7.30pm we had speeches from the owners .
Lots of complementary food and drinks all night.
Collet champers prosecco, five different cocktails including Espresso Martinis , wines , beers , various sushi dishes along with the likes of black cod and tempura prawns .
An excellent event.
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Tuesday 26 November 2024.
One of the greatest singles of all time was released 48 years ago today in 1976....yes 48 years ago...
THE SEX PISTOLS 'Anarchy in the UK'.
I played it non-stop when it came out.
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Tuesday 26 November 2024.
PETER CAT RECORDING CO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
PCRC is world travelled, and not just from touring. The band is based in Delhi, but has spent considerable time in both London and San Francisco. They blend elements of Gypsy Jazz, Lounge, Pop, Disco, and Folk. This cacophony of influences produces a lush and wonderful Western sound palette to compliment the almost crooning style of the lead vocals.
They are promoting their second album 'Beta'.
They were special guests for Khruangbin on their UK tour which last week included three nights at Hammersmith Apollo.
This show is sold out.
Should be an interesting gig.
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Who are this band with the strange band name ?
Someone knows, as the venue is totally rammed.
Lots of white hipster folks.
Also lots of brown hipster folks.
PETER CAT RECORDING CO arrived on stage at 9pm and played for a full two hours .
The band’s entrance, marked by fog machines and alternating spotlights, quickly revealed the psychedelia underlining their music. What stood out to me most was the band’s synergy– five musicians surrounded by over ten instruments, effortlessly sharing solos and switching instruments. Throughout the night, their sound evolved from indie-rock to soul and jazz, then synth and disco, while consistently embedded with Bollywood elements.
The seamless transitions between trumpet, saxophone, drum, harmonium, and guitar solos– embedded with their released tracks– exemplified the band’s versatility.
Folks are having a little sway and a little dance.
The show ticked along nicely , and the crowd loved it.
For me , I want something a bit more livelier .

Updated 26th November 2024 Permalink

Sunday 24 November 2024.

Sunday 24 November 2024.
THE HIGH KINGS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
I saw them at this venue last year, which was to celebrate their 15th anniversary .
The High Kings is an Irish folk group formed in Dublin in 2008. The band consists of Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Darren Holden, and Paul O'Brien. A few of their albums have gone Top 10, back home in Ireland.
Expect a set featuring their own songs and some well known Irish covers...and a couple of Rebel songs.
They are in their 'Step It Out' 2024/2025 World Tour.
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Level 3 is closed tonight, but all other levels look full.
As expected it's a London Irish crowd.
THE HIGH KINGS arrived on stage at 8.10pm and played for 1 hour 55 mins.
The four members are lined up across the front of the stage.
Guitar, accordion, banjo , hand drum etc.
There is no drum kit or bass . Lots of well known Irish songs in the setlist, that the crowd sing along to. Some songs are laid back , and some songs are lively , with the crowd up and dancing. All four members take it in turn for lead vocals, and lots of nice harmonies.
My parents are Irish, so it was nice to hear those Irish voices.
An enjoyable show.
At the end of their set, the band said they were doing a signing in the rear stalls at the end of the show.
Full HIGH KINGS setliat played tonight....
Leaving of Liverpool
Go Lassie Go
Spanish Lady
The Lonesome Boatman ( The Fureys cover)
Streets of London ( Ralph McTell cover)
The Fields of Athenry (Pete St. John cover)
Galway Girl ([traditional] cover)
Men of Aran
The Town I Loved So Well
Rocky Road to Dublin (D.K. Gavan cover)
Oh Maggie
Connemara Bay
Caledonia
1845
Red Is the Rose ( Tommy Makem cover)
The Rising of the Moon ( John Keegan Casey cover)
Ride On (Jimmy MacCarthy cover)
Step It Out Mary
Chasing Rainbows
Irish Pub Song
Whiskey in the Jar ([traditional] cover)
Encore:
Medley (including Finnegan's Wake)
The Parting Glass ([traditional] cover)
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Saturday 23 November 2024.
THE CLONE ROSES + OASISH + THE SMITHS LTD live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
I saw this great three band package of Mancunian music legends tribute bands at this venue last year and in 2022.
I have seen the real Stone Roses, Oasis and Morrissey several times each but never got round to seeing The Smiths.
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Level 3 is 75% unsold but the other levels are full, so must be an impressive 1500 tickets sold tonight.
Lots of folks under the age of 30 here tonight.
It was a very lively drinking crowd evening , just like when i saw this package before. Some folks hate the idea of going to see tribute bands, but some tributes are top notch. There really are plenty of good tribute bands playing out there. So many great songs played by the three acts tonight, made it a top night.
The three singers do look a bit like the real artist.
THE SMITHS LTD arrived on stage at 7pm and played for 45 mins. The singer looks, acts and sings a bit like Morrissey , and they play all those gems like "Panic", "How Soon Is Now" and "What Difference Does It Make".
OASISH arrived on stage at 8.15pm and played for 55 mins. A greatest hits set , that had all the crowd singing along loudly. Full OASISH setlist played tonight... Rock 'n' Roll Star , Some Might Say , Cigarettes & Alcohol, Little by Little, Half the World Away , Stop Crying Your Heart Out, Morning Glory , Don't Look Back in Anger , Wonderwall , Live Forever, Champagne Supernova .
THE CLONE ROSES arrived on stage at 9.35pm and played for 85 mins. Compared to Oasis, you kinda forget how many great songs that The Stone Roses have. The crowd soon got much livelier than the other bands as the dance rock of The Stone Roses got the crowd dancing and moshing wildly by the last few songs came along. Full CLONE ROSES setlist played tonight... I Wanna Be Adored Elephant Stone Mersey Paradise Sally Cinnamon (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister Ten Storey Love Song Where Angels Play Shoot You Down Bye Bye Bad Man Waterfall Fools gold Love Spreads Made of Stone She Bangs the Drums This Is the One I Am the Resurrection
An enjoyable evening.

Updated 24th November 2024 Permalink

Friday 22 November 2024.

Friday 22 November 2024.
GALLIANO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
British acid jazz band playing a UK tour to promote their fifth studio album 'Halfway Somewhere'.
Their third studio album 'The Plot Thickens' hit number eight in the UK charts in 1994.
I saw them live 30 years ago in 1994, at The Grand Clapham.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed as unsold , but the stalls standing and Level 1 are rammed solid.
A mainly middle aged crowd who remember the acid jazz heyday of the 1990s.
There is a DJ support , but nobody knows his tunes ,so he just ends up being background music.
GALLIANO on stage at 9pm and played for 1 hour 40 mins.
Seven members in the band including Mick Talbot on keyboards, and a percussionist and female backing singer.
All seven members are wearing some kind of cap/hat.
They sound great and really tight too.
Lots of dancing , swaying and nodding along from the crowd.
The old school soul boys n girls were enjoying it.
They played a few tracks from the new album .
Highlights included ' Little Ghetto Boy' and ' Pleasure , Joy and Happiness' and near the end, it was good to hear a short chorus version of the Maze classic ' Joy and Pain'.
An enjoyable show.
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Thursday 21 November 2024.
SEASICK STEVE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Seasick Steve, the much celebrated American blues guitarist and singer who continues to serve up a hot mix of boogie, blues, rock, americana and folk music is hitting the road to play his tracks live!
His career did not take off until he was in his 60s.
He is now aged 73.
Seasick Steve has sold almost 2 million records Worldwide, earning three top ten albums in the official UK album chart.
I have seen him live a couple of times before.
This is the last show on his five week UK and European tour.
' A Trip a Stumble a Fall Down on Your Knees ' is the thirteenth studio album by American blues musician Seasick Steve. It was produced by Steve himself, and was released on June 7, 2024, through SO Recordings. It was preceded by four singles: "Backbone Slip", "Funky Music", "Let the Music Talk", and "Internet Cowboys".
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All the levels open tonight but the venue is not sold out.
JAMES DIXON was on at 7.45pm for his 45 mins set.
James went down well with the crowd , as his style of guitar playing was very like Seasick Steve and his right foot was used for his bass drum. He played a good cover of Greg Lakes
' I Believe in Father Christmas'
SEASICK STEVE arrived on stage at 9pm and played for a lengthy 2 hours 5 mins , as he did lots of chat between songs.
He still has that long grey beard and wearing his trademark cap.
With the release of his latest album, A Trip, A Stumble, A Fall Down On Your Knees, Seasick Steve was spinning his traditional bayou blues and playing them on guitar, banjo, harmonica, diddly bow and stomp box.
It’s been a number of years since he first appeared on Jools Holland’s Hootenanny television show, bashing wildly at a three string guitar and spinning yarns of his life busking, sleeping rough and jumping freight trains through the Mississippi Delta. But ten years later an unauthorised biography exposed his background for what it was, a session musician playing in funk groups and singing backing vocals. But this had no effect on the crowd because whatever his past, he remains a fantastically compelling and charismatic live performer.
Joined on stage by drummer Dan Magnusson, guitarist Luther Dickinson and harmonica player Richie Prynne on several tracks, Steve sat on a chair at the front of the no frills stage surrounded by old battered amplifiers and began the evening with the brilliant My Donny. Continuing an incredible evening of his own brand of blues rock, his rich weathered voice was put to good use on the likes of Diddley Bo, Good Morning Little Schoolgirl and Started out With Nothin’.
There were a number of songs from his new album like Backbone Slip which was pure groove, Move To The Country which certainly had the crowd’s attention whilst Funky Music had them swaying and singing along. But there were plenty of fans favourites too, such as Walkin’ Man and Dog House Boogie all played on a plethora of homemade battered guitars.
A really good show.

Updated 22nd November 2024 Permalink

Wednesday 20 November 2024.

Wednesday 20 November 2024...6.45pm to 10pm..
SUNDAY TIMES - Christmas Party -
Claridges Hotel , Brook Street, Mayfair , London W1.
Always nice to be at this famous five star hotel that has excelled at the finer things in life: glamorous design, inspiring dining, impeccable service, since the 1850s.
There are 400 on the guest list for the event in their ballroom.
At 7.30pm we have a couple of speeches , including one from new Conservative leader KEMI BADENOCH.
Guests included London Mayor SADIQ KHAN.
Complimentary Laurent Perrier champers, wines , canapes and desserts .
ALIX PARTNERS were one of the sponsors and they gave everyone a goodie bag that included a long umbrella and short umbrella .
Alix Partners is a financial advisory and global consulting firm best known for its work in the turnaround space.Jay Alix founded what became Alix Partners LLP in 1981.
They have over 2500 employees in over 20 cities worldwide.
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Tuesday 19 November 2024.
WILD RIVERS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Canadian folk-pop-rock band are on a world tour to promote their fourth studio album 'Better Now'.
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The venue is totally sold out tonight.
Another show with dozens on the guest list .
RILEY PEARCE is on at 8pm for his 30 mins set.
An ok bunch of songs with his acoustic guitar.
WILD RIVERS are on at 9pm for their 85 mins.
Five musicians on stage with the main trio at the front.
Two male and one female share the great vocals.
Also some very nice harmonies.
The female reminded me of Phoebe from Friends.
Sadly they was no version of her 'Smelly Cat'.
It was pretty much mid paced 70s style folk-pop-rock , but the last two songs of the main set ' What Kind of Song' and 'Stubborn Heart' were much more livelier.
An enjoyable show.

Updated 19th November 2024 Permalink

Monday 18 November 2024.

Monday 18 November 2024.
DONS (age 40) , is a Latvian singer and songwriter. He is one of the most popular singers in Latvia, having won the Latvian Music Recording Awards' Top Radio Hit award eight times for most played song.He represented Latvia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 with "Hollow".
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The Latvian community in London is not as big as the Polish one so levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, and maybe only 500 tix max have been sold.
Lots of attractive Latvian women in the crowd.
Two of whom would throw their bras on stage later to Dons.
Nice tracks by the likes of AC/DC , Queen, The Police , Depeche Mode, Blur, The Killers etc over the house PA as the warm up.
DONS and band arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for 1 hour 40 mins....Dons himself has a fully shaved bald head.
Keyboard and guitar soft pop rock that the crowd loved, but nearly all in Latvian , but it ticked along ok.
He played his big track 'Hollow' .
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Sunday 17 November 2024.
BASTILLE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
This show sold out in advance.
I have seen them a couple of times before .
One was a very interesting event in July 2016.
US Ambassador's Independence Day Party - Winfield House, Outer Circle, Regent's Park, London, NW1.
Winfield House is a mansion set in 12 acres of grounds in Regent's Park, the second largest private garden in central London, after that of Buckingham Palace.
They are playing a UK and European Tour.
Their first studio album, Bad Blood, was released in March 2013 and entered the UK Albums Chart at number one and included the hit single "Pompeii" which peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart. Bastille released the album in the US later that year. Their second studio album, Wild Word, was released in September 2016 and was followed by Doom Days, Bastille's third studio album, in June 2019. In February 2022, Bastille released their fourth studio album, Give Me the Future. Their fifth studio album, "&", was released in October 2024
They have sold over 10 million records worldwide.
Their biggest hit Pompeii' , has sold over a million copies .
Three of their five albums have been No 1 in the UK.
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The show is fully sold out , but there must be at least 100 folks on the massive guest list.
Scottish support act KERR MERCER arrived on stage at 7.50pm for his piano based 35 mins set
BASTILLE arrived on stage at 8.45pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
A huge backdrop of the cover of their new album.
Around 100 candles are placed around the front of stage.
There are 10 musicians on stage, including a string section.
The show has a semi-acoustic feel as band members are all seated. The strings sound great when in full flow.
Lots of chat between the songs.
A polite crowd , that sat and listened in their seats
Highlights of their piano based pop included 'Pompeii' and final track of the night 'Blue Sky & The Painter' , which was a full band rock out.
Their is a film crew filming all the show.
An enjoyable enough show.

Updated 18th November 2024 Permalink

Saturday 16 November 2024.

Saturday 16 November 2024.
THERAPY live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
This show sold out in advance.
They are touring the UK and Europe to promote the 30th anniversary release of their fourth studio album ' Troublegum'.
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Therapy's 'Troublegum ' album , this 2LP set contains the original album pressed on 180g silver vinyl plus a further 14 tracks rounding up B-sides and bonus tracks of the era pressed on 180g lavender vinyl .
I have seen them a few times before , including when they supported Metallica in 1995 at Monsters of Rock.
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The venue is rammed solid sold out .Oddly I see a chap wearing The Monsters of Rock 1995 t-shirt as i mentioned above.
The support arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 35 mins.
Deux Furieuses are Scottish vocalist/guitarist Ros Cairney and Greek/London drummer Vas Antoniadou. Two feminist rebel soul mates on a mission to comment on the world around them. All about heartfelt, politically charged songs.
THERAPY arrived on stage at 9pm for their 85 mins set.
They had a huge screen showing the Troublegum' cover.
The trio are all dressed head to toe in black.
Lots of moshing and a dozen crowd surfers.
All fourteen songs from ' Troublegum' were played including their speeded up version of Joy Divisions 'Isolation'.
That album had a bit of a punk sounding edge to it.
Lots of good tracks played including highlights like
'Nowhere' and 'Screamager' . An enjoyable show.
Full THERAPY setliat played tonight....
Tape intro - Lunacy Booth (String Version)
Stop It You're Killing Me
Isolation ( Joy Division cover)
Totally Random Man
Turn
Auto Surgery
Trigger Inside
Brainsaw
Unrequited
Unbeliever
Femtex
Hellbelly
Opal Mantra
Die Laughing
Lunacy Booth
Nowhere ( with Judas Priest’s “Breaking the Law” intro)
Encore:
Nausea
Meat Abstract
Accelerator
Potato Junkie ( with drum solo and Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” intro)
Teethgrinder
Knives
Screamager
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Friday 15 November 2024.
AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS live at The Roundhouse.
A fast rising band who have had a great 2024.
AMYL and the boys play the last of three sold out shows at The Roundhouse on their UK & European Tour.
Amyl and the Sniffers are an Australian pub rock/ punk rock band, featuring vocalist Amy Taylor.
Their self-titled debut album was released in 2019. It was followed by Comfort to Me (2021) and Cartoon Darkness, (2024)...this third album went Top 10 in the UK.
A few years of non stop gigging has started to pay off.
I saw them perform a couple of tracks a month ago at a recording of Later with Jools Holland TV show, but really looking forward to seeing their full show for the first time.
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Nice to see Rough Trade Records main honcho GEOFF TRAVIS here ...the band are signed to Rough Trade.
The band are attracting a nice mix of cool youngsters and the older crowd as well...t-shirts spotted included , The Sex Pistols, Black Sabbath, The Cramps , The Libertines ..
AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS arrived on stage at 9.10pm and played for 75 mins.
Amazing that they have a big screen curtain showing live footage of the gig.
Straight from the start there is full on lively moshing and crowd surfing.
Amy Taylor on vocals is a total blonde gobby firecracker.
Taylor was a force to be reckoned with. With her bleach blonde Farrah waves and spandex leggings , she looked like a queen ready to burn down the establishment, and the crowd couldn’t get enough of her.
She has magnetic star quality that you can't take your eyes off , as she danced and twirled around the stage
Within a few songs she was running along the photo pit , standing on top of the amps , exposing her multi-coloured bra and slagging off Donald Trump.
The songs are mainly uptempo short quickfire gems.
The hypnotically uninhibited Amy Taylor, and her Australian punk band delivered a show with a terrific, buzzy energy.....
A great show.
The band have announced a massive show at Alexandra Palace for November 2025 , and hopefully they will be on some 2025 summer festival bills too.
Full AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS setlist played tonight....
Tape intro - Yes Sir, I Can Boogie (Baccara song)
Doing in Me Head
Pigs
Do It Do It
Tiny Bikini
Freaks to the Front
Motorbike Song
Chewing Gum
Security
Some Mutts (Can't Be Muzzled)
Guided by Angels
Knifey
Jerkin’
Me and The Girls
Balaclava Lover Boogie
Big Dreams
It’s Mine
Got You
U Should Not Be Doing That
Facts
Hertz
Encore:
Maggot
GFY

Updated 16th November 2024 Permalink

Thursday 14 November 2024.

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Thursday 14 November 2024.
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Scouting For Girls still consists of its founder members Roy Stride, Greg Churchouse and Peter Ellard, who together have so far achieved four Top 10 singles, four Top 10 albums, 2 million sales, more than a billion streams, four BRIT Awards and an Ivor Novello. The band’s rich catalogue of hits includes “She’s So Lovely”, the Number 1 smash, “This Ain’t A Love Song”, “Heartbeat” and “Elvis Ain’t Dead”. They tour in celebration of their 2023 album, The Place We Used To Meet.
I have seen them a few times before , and the last time I saw them was in the summer as a support act to Sugababes at Windsor Racecourse.
They are playing a full UK tour
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The venue is full with a 75% female crowd.
VINCE FREEMAN on at 7.25pm for 30 mins.
He did an ok set of acoustic tracks.
JAMIE LAWSON on at 8pm for 30 mins.
Jamie Lawson had some success several years ago, but seems to have lost some of his momentum .
He certainly does not look anything like his 48 years old.
He was the first artist to be signed by Ed Sheeran's new record label, Gingerbread Man Records. Lawson is best known for his hit single, "Wasn't Expecting That", (which he played tonight), and his self-titled album which peaked at number one on the UK Albums Chart in 2015.
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS on at 9pm for 90 mins.
A nice stage with lots of lights and vertical lighting poles.
The females here love their girl friendly catchy pop songs, and sing loudly all to all the tracks.
The singer knows how to work the crowd well , and for one song he goes up to the Level 1 seats to sing it.
They played all their greatest hits.
An enjoyable show
Full SCOUTING FOR GIRLS setliat played tonight...
The Missing Part
Heartbeat
Dancing in the Daylight
Love How It Hurts
Michaela Strachan
I Wish I Was James Bond
Bad Superman
Butterflies
Posh Girls
Year 3000 ( Busted cover)
This Ain't a Love Song
Raise a Glass
Elvis Ain't Dead (Can't Help Falling In Love snippet)
Encore:
Glow
Christmas in the Air (Tonight)
She's So Lovely
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Wednesday 13 November 2024.
BOB DYLAN live at The Royal Albert Hall.
This is the second of his three sold out RAH shows.
Bob Dylan s playing another UK & European Tour.
The music legend is now aged 83.
I have seen him over 20 times since two of his shows at Earls Court Arena in 1978.
Not as good as he was then , but still worth seeing this icon , whose fans hold him in such high reverence.
Bob Dylan will bring his Rough and Rowdy Ways World tour to the Hall.
The impact of Bob Dylan cannot be overstated. Nobody else so revolutionised the way we think about singing, song-writing, music as protest and the very definition of folk music, all in their first decade as a performer. That Dylan did all this while remaining elusive, chameleonic and defiant sets him apart from almost anyone else to ever sing into a microphone.
Thinking of the two times I saw in him in 2009.
Bob played The 02 Arena then the Roundhouse.
Bob at The 02 Arena with no big screens, imagine being at the back for that show.
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You will not see much footage of these shows on YouTube as you have to put your phones in a pouch for the duration of the show .Extra security on hand with body scanners to stop anyone trying to sneak one in.
The venue is rammed solid with loyal Dylan fans.
Minimal promotion no interviews , but all sold out.
As usual there is no support act for him.
As usual he comes on at 8pmish and finishes well before 10pm.
His band are musicians for whom the term seasoned professional was invented – longstanding crack sessioneers, men whose collective CV encompasses everyone from Paul Simon to Steely Dan to sundry former Beatles – and yet you somehow get the impression that even they aren’t quite certain exactly what’s going to happen next. An artist who pronounced himself freewheelin’ in 1963 seems no more inclined to keep to any script 61 years on. Best to stick close to the guy in charge and keep your eyes peeled for clues as to where he’s headed. As they hawkishly follow his unpredictable vocal phrasing and a piano style that’s simultaneously florid and ragged – Art Tatum by way of Les Dawson – he’s still capable of wrongfooting them: there are moments when you could swear the band start building to a climax or slowing to a conclusion, only to discover their leader has other ideas.
This is, of course, the way Dylan has done things on stage for decades now: in a world of backing tapes and tightly drilled setlists, you’re very aware that this is music happening in the moment, before your very eyes and ears.
At Dylan gigs you really feel you are in the present of greatness ....even more than Macca or Jagger.
I don't really know much of his latter material, so he can be hard work at times , but his loyal fans are lapping up whatever he plays.
There was only a few tracks I knew.
Always an interesting event to see this legend, but I enjoyed Squeeze much more a couple of days before at this same venue.
Full set list played by BOB DYLAN tonight...
All Along the Watchtower
It Ain't Me, Babe
I Contain Multitude
False Prophet
When I Paint My Masterpiece
Black Rider
My Own Version of You
To Be Alone With You
Crossing the Rubicon
Desolation Row
Key West (Philosopher Pirate)
Watching the River Flow
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue
I've Made Up My Mind to Give Myself to You
Mother of Muses
Goodbye Jimmy Reed
Every Grain of Sand

Updated 14th November 2024 Permalink

Tuesday 12 November 2024.

Tuesday 12 November 2024.
ENGLISH TEACHER live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
One of the newer bands that have had a great 2024.
Should be interesting to see what all the fuss is about.
In September 2024 artsy-indie band English Teacher won the Mercury Prize for their debut album 'This Could Be Texas'.
The quartet, who formed while studying at the Leeds Conservatoire in 2020, are the first act from outside London to win the prize since Young Fathers in 2014.
Judges said their album stood out "for its originality and character" and displayed a "fresh approach to the traditional guitar band format".
The album reached the Top 10 in the UK chart.
The band are playing a UK & European Tour.
This show sold out in advance.
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TTSSFU arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins.
A cool new act fronted by Tasmin Nicole Stephens from Manchester.
Her band feature three guys in white shirts /black ties
Some nice vocals and guitar playing , but the band name is not really memorable .
ENGLISH TEACHER arrived on stage at 9.10pm for their 75 mins.
The band are in an exuberant mood, clearly lapping up the love from the London crowd after a summer of playing all the cool festivals.
Tonight is very much a showcase of the album.' Broken Biscuits' , ' Not Everybody Gets To Go To Space' and ' I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying ' are all striking. There is a lot of instrument swapping in their set. Lily and Lewis both switch between guitar and keyboard, the Cellist also plays keyboard and, midway through, Douglas abandons the drum kit to play keys on a number of tracks and they prove they can still fill the room with their sound minus drums and excellent musicianship.
Lily's lyrics and vocals are good throughout.
Lots of polite swaying and head nodding from the crowd.
They save the best for last though , with storming rendition of ' Albert Road' and encore of 'Good Grief'.
They avoided playing any covers to pad out the set.
A good show.
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Monday 11 November 2024.
SQUEEZE live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Squeeze play their massive annual UK tour .
I have seen Squeeze over 20 times since 1978, when they were a support act to Eddie & The Hot Rods at The Lyceum.
I have seen them twice already this year in March when they were special guests at The Who's Royal Albert Hall shows.
To celebrate their momentous 50th anniversary, British music legends Squeeze are embarking on a UK wide tour.
With a half-century distinguished by some of the smartest and sweetest guitar-pop made during the rock & roll era, Squeeze will be performing an impressive list of hits and rare gems from their extensive back catalogue.
Squeeze have had 12 x Top 40 singles in the UK, and 12 x Top 40 albums in the UK.
They will be joined by special guest Badly Drawn Boy.
I have seen him live a couple of times.
Extra London date added ..22 November @ Roundhouse .
As with other recent UK tours, Squeeze are again supporting Trussell (formerly “The Trussell Trust”) at all their shows, asking for donations of non-perishable food items on the night. Volunteers from local Trussell food banks will be present at our shows each night to collect money donations and let you know about their work in your area.
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BADLY DRAWN BOY on stage at 7.30pm for 40 mins.
Damon Gough is still wearing his trademark woolly hat.
A nice blend of onstage openness and humour, balancing the depth of his songs with light conversation and crowd interactions. Tracks played from his 25 year career , including his Top 10 hit from 2002 ' You Were Right'.
He went down well with the crowd.
The venue is rammed full when Squeeze arrived on stage.
SQUEEZE on stage at 8.35pm for 1 hour 45 mins .
Chris and Glenn are joined on stage by six other musicians, including a female backing singer , who are all top notch, and join in with all the excellent harmonies.
The lyrics to Squeeze songs are incredible.
When Squeeze released their landmark fourth album East Side Story in 1981, Rolling Stone declared, "In songwriters Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford, the British New Wave has finally found its own John Lennon and Paul McCartney.", but Chris and Glenn felt they were more like the songwriting partnership of Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
Lots of classic hits played, and newer songs sound good.
The crowd are up and dancing from 'Pulling Mussels ( From The Shell') onwards.
The home run of several hits on the trot , sent the crowd into raptures, and finished an excellent show.
Full SQUEEZE setlist played tonight....
Black Coffee in Bed
Footprints
Is That Love
Up the Junction
One Beautiful Summer
Someone Else's Heart
In Quintessence
Departure Lounge
Some Fantastic Place
If I Didn't Love You
Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)
Another Nail in My Heart
Annie Get Your Gun
You Get the Feeling
Hell on Earth
Goodbye Girl
Cradle to the Grave
Slap & Tickle
Tempted
Cool for Cats
Labelled With Love
Hourglass
Take Me I'm Yours
After Hours ( The Velvet Underground cover) (Snippet performed by Danica Dora)
Take Me I'm Yours (Reprise) ( With band introductions and solos)

Updated 11th November 2024 Permalink

Sunday 10 November 2024.

Sunday 10 November 2024.
DZEM live at Shepherds Bush Empire
Polish blues-rock band Dżem are back with their new vocalist Sebastian Riedel, son of original vocalist Ryszard Riedel. They began releasing music in the mid-1980s and are known for their blend of blues, southern rock and hard rock.
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Tonight was not sold out , but all levels are pretty full.
The mainly Polish crowd are creating a lively atmosphere by drinking the bars at the venue dry.
40 PROCENT arrived on stage at 6pm for their 60 mins set....6 musicians in the band.
The crowd seemed to know some of their songs.
DZEM arrived on at stage at 7.30pm for their two hour set.....6 musicians in the band.
They had a nice laid back blues rock bunch of songs.
Some sounded a bit Joe Cocker in parts.
It all ticked along nicely.
The crowd loved it and sang along loudly.
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Saturday 09 November 2024.
HUE & CRY live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Scottish brothers are playing a 40th anniversary tour.
They are best known for their classic 1987 hit ' Labour of Love' .
I have seen them several times before, including supporting Madonna at Wembley Stadium in 1987, and headlining Hammersmith Odeon in 1989 and 1990.
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It is stalls seated for this middle aged crowd.
Maybe 700 or 800 here tonight
Lots of Scottish voices heard in the crowd.
RACHAEL PAGE arrived on stage at 8pm for her 30 mins set. Singer-songwriter who played guitar and keyboards , did a good set.
HUE & CRY arrived on stage at 9pm and played for 1 hour 40 mins.
Six musicians on stage tonight.
It’s not enough for 1980s acts to just play live now – the audience wants stories, and these boys have plenty of good ones. But first Pat – in excellent voice throughout – laid down the gig’s house rules: 1. Things will only progress at a stately pace. 2. If you DON’T film our best songs and post them on twitter, you’re out.
Great to hear the hits 'Ordinary Angels' , ' Looking for Linda' and the still.mega 'Labour of Love' , along with a few nice cover versions....a good show....
Full HUE & CRY setlist played tonight...
It Was a Very Good Year ( Frank Sinatra cover)
I Refuse
My Salt Heart
Ordinary Angel
Fireball
Violently / snippet of Give Peace A Chance
She Makes a Sound
Rolling Home
Shipbuilding (Elvis Costello & The Attractions cover)
Mother Glasgow ( Michael Marra cover)
The Man With the Child in His Eyes ( Kate Bush cover)
Little Man
Looking for Linda
Sweet Invisibility
Let Her Go ( with Eleanor Kane)
Tinsel Show ( with Eleanor Kane)
Labour of Love
Encore:
Goodbye To Me

Updated 9th November 2024 Permalink

Friday 08 November 2024.

Friday 08 November 2024.
Happy Birthday to ROY WOOD who is 78 today.
Roy and his band WIZZARD was my first ever live gig .
Sept 1973 at Hammersmith Palais .....I was aged 14.
I have seen over 7700 gigs since then.
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I bought this great album 50 years ago today in 1974.
'Sheer Heart Attack' by Queen .
I played it to death on my red mono record player.
I had seen Queen supporting Mott The Hoople in Dec 1973 and would see Queen then headline a few times in Dec 1974....all at Hammersmith Odeon.
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Thursday 07 November 2024.
RED RICHARDSON live at The Shepherds Bush Empire.
UK comedian on his debut UK tour.
Richardson is the son of director and screenwriter Peter Richardson. In his teenage years when he lived in Devon, Richardson's family's neighbours included comedian Rik Mayall, who was a family friend.
In 2021, Richardson married Rosie Mayall, Rik's daughter. They live in London, where she works as a manager at a Soho restaurant after choosing not to follow her father into comedy.
Red Richardson's videos on Instagram have had over 100 million views.
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Stalls seated tonight, and pretty full on all levels so must be at least 800 or 900 here.
The three male support acts played around 10 mins each.
All went down pretty well.
One had a great routine about Michael Jackson and white privilege.
RED RICHARDSON arrived on stage 9.30pm and performed for around 60 mins.
Just a microphone and stool on the bare stage.
He took the mickey out of those at the front, with some crowd participation.
He joked about how people keep stopping him and saying he looks like Jack Black ( he does).
There was bits of swearing and crudeness.
He is pretty deadpan , a bit like Jack Dee.
Plenty of funny routines , including a good one about ordering a Vodka and Coke....but offered Pepsi instead.
Another good routine about the rules in Dubai.
An enjoyable evening.

Updated 8th November 2024 Permalink

Thursday 07 November 2024.

Wednesday 06 November 2024......6.45pm to 9.15pm..
Victoria and Albert Museum - private view - South Kensington , London SW7.
Exhibition is The Great Mughals.
Around 500 guests at this well known museum.
JACKIE ST CLAIR and BASIA BRIGGS are here.
This major exhibition will celebrate the extraordinary creative output and internationalist culture of the Golden Age of the Mughal Court (about 1560 – 1660) during the reigns of its most famous emperors: Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan.
At 7.15pm we have a welcome speech.
A female DJ plays tunes in the background.
At 8pm I had a 20 mins look at all the artefacts .
It opens 09 November...it is a paid ticket...
Complimentary Justerini & Brooks champers, Negronis and canapes for all the guests..
We went to the excellent Justerini & Brooks 275th anniversary party just a fortnight ago.

Updated 6th November 2024 Permalink

Tuesday 05 November 2024.

Tuesday 05 November 2024.
LAURA PAUSINI live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Back again to see this show for the second time.
Tonight is the extra show added after yesterday's show sold out pronto. Not sold out tonight, as 200 or 300 stalls standing are unsold , but seat levels are all full up.
LAURA and band again play a full THREE HOUR show .
Another visual treat , that is exactly the same setlist.
Again , fans have brought flags from their countries .
The crowd sing loudly along to the songs.
The soft rock songs and ballads tick along nicely.
Costume changes from Laura and dancers again.
Again , there are a couple of times in the show , when you think it's all over, then Laura comes back on stage.
It may have been mainly a non English speaking show , but was still very enjoyable to watch.
The dazzling big screen again , was top notch.
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Monday 04 November 2024.
LAURA PAUSINI live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Laura plays the first of two shows at this venue.
Grammy-Award winning Laura Pausini’s career spans over three decades and to celebrate Pausini is heading out on her tenth world tour. Her extraordinary show will feature a setlist of iconic songs, including hits from her latest album Anime Parllele/Almas Paralelas.
Laura sings mainly in Italian and Spanish , and has sold over a staggering 70 million records .
In some countries she can sell out big arenas.
Laura has headlined the massive San Siro Stadium.
Laura has also headlined at Radio City Music Hall and The Theatre at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Level 1 seats for this Shepherds Bush Empire show cost over £100.
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Tonight is fully sold out, and includes stalls standing.
My friends on security said 100 fans were in the queue at lunchtime, and many more turned up in the afternoon, as this was certainly an intimate show for Laura.
As expected it is mainly an Italian audience .
It's not only the likes of Bruce Springsteen and The Cure who can play three hour shows, as LAURA and her band arrived on stage at 8pm , and played a mammoth THREE HOURS. A full arena production squeezed in here, with a stunning use of the big screen , and for several songs there were 14 on stage , Laura , six piece band , three backing signings and four dancers.
Costume changes for Laura and the band.
Most of the show and chat is non English , but the show is a colourful visual treat .
Laura is looking great for age 50, as she celebrated her 30 year career.
The big screen mixed live footage , with her music videos, dazzling graphics and personal images, including a video of the day she proposed to her longtime boyfriend, and guitarist, Paolo Carta. The couple got married in 2023 after dating for 18 years and having their daughter.
The music was pretty much middle of the road , with a mix of uptempo numbers and romantic power ballads .
Lots of chat between songs , that the fans all loved .
At the end of the show there was a video of folks she had sung with , including Phil Collins and Kylie Minogue .
Also a full list of credits of the small army that are working on the tour, as the ticker-tape fell over the crowd .
Overall, a very enjoyable show.
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Sunday 03 November 2024.
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
They Might Be Giants perform their super popular “evening with” performance of their breakthrough album 'Flood' in its entirety. The show evolves every night, but needless to say, this is a once-in-a-lifetime performance.
TMBG will play two full sets that span the band's entire career from early favourites to brand new ones from their current Grammy-nominated album ' Book' , as well as the spontaneous and improvised moments that have made their shows legendary.
This alt-rock band with humour , have released over 20 albums over the last 40 years.
They had a Top 10 UK hit in 1990 with 'Birdhouse in Your Soul'.
I saw them play The Garage back in 1999.
This show is part of a UK tour.
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It says sold out outside the venue, and inside it is full.
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS are on stage for two hours over two sets of 55 mins and 65 mins.
The five main members are joined by a three man brass section for half the songs tonight.
A big screen mixes live footage with recorded images.
They do have a unique quirky sound.
Plenty of humour between the songs.
The songs didn't really excite me that much.
Final song of the main set was the big hit ' Birdhouse in Your Soul' which was good, but the rest of the show wasn't as good as I had hoped for...It just felt average.

Updated 4th November 2024 Permalink

Saturday 02 November 2024.

Saturday 02 November 2024.
I will be playing drums this coming Saturday.
65th birthday party and gig for the band members , who all celebrate 65 , within a 9 month period.
YOU ARE ALL INVITED TO A PUNKY REGGAE PARTY.
GUN CONTROL will be playing The Rocket Pub, 11-13 Churchfield Road, Acton, London W3 6BD.
By public transport....
it is 10 mins walk from Acton Town tube station.
Two mins walk from Acton Central Overground.
207 bus from Shepherds Bush to Acton Town Hall and 2 mins walk.
My band from the early 1980s, with me on drums will be playing a special one off show...on stage 9pm for around 40 mins....FREE ENTRY.
DJ V.SQUEEZEBOX playing some cool reggae and dub tunes.
Gun Control played around 40 gigs 1980 to 1982.
Mainly on the West London area.
We will try to squeeze in a rehearsal ,but it's more about us band members celebrating our milestone birthday, and long friendships .
Our original singer Pete, will be coming up from Basildon for our first get-together in a few years.
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Nice to see the pub get pretty full up, with old faces and some new faces.
Due to circumstances , our current younger singer couldn't do the show , so Mario out lead guitarist took over vocals for the first time.
Normally we would play a dozen songs , but a bit shorter tonight , so Mario could focus on the chosen songs.
We came on at 9.15pm and played for around 45 mins
Great to hear the crowd clapping and cheering after every song.
I couldn't hear the vocals properly due to the loudness of the two guitars, but it sounded good out front, we were told.
Full GUN CONTROL setlist in played tonight...
Teenage Kicks (cover )
Cheap Publicity
Wasted Youth
No Mercy
On Parole
You Mean Nothing To Me
Do I Need You
Steppin' Stone ( cover )
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Encore :
Steppin' Stone ( cover reprise) ( with Pete our original singer from the early 1980s on vocals, singing with us again for the first time in many years.
We were over at 10pm , so could mingle with folks.
A great night.
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Friday 01 November 2024.
UB40 live at Wembley Arena.
I have seen UB40 around 20 times since 1980, when I first saw them supporting The Pretenders at The Brunel University , Uxbridge.
There are two versions of UB40 playing gigs these days , as the two brothers have fallen out .
The original UB40 ( tonight's version )
The original band members are Robin Campbell, Earl Falconer, Jimmy Brown, and Norman Hassan. Matt Doyle is the current lead singer, taking over from Duncan Campbell, who retired in 2021.
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell ( are playing Hammersmith Apollo on 03 December )
This splinter group is led by Ali Campbell, who left the original band in 2008 to pursue a solo career. Mickey Virtue left the band in 2018, and Astro died in 2021. Ali Campbell continues to tour and release new music under this name.
The band has had more than 50 singles in the UK Singles Chart, and has also achieved considerable international success. They have been nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album four times, and in 1984 were nominated for the Brit Award for Best British Group.UB40 have sold more than 70 million records worldwide.The ethnic make-up of the band's original eight man line-up was diverse, with musicians of English, Welsh, Irish, Jamaican, Scottish, and Yemeni parentage.
Special guests will be SOUL II SOUL.
I have seen them a few times before.
They have sold over 10 million albums.
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The corner blocks at the rear are unsold tonight, and there is space in rear stalls standing , so maybe 9000 tickets sold out of 12,500 capacity .
YOUNG CULTURE BAND on at 7pm for their 30 mins.
Reggae band from Birmingham warmed the crowd up.
A nice touch was that all three bands got to use the big screens, that mixed live footage / pre-recorded images .
SOUL II SOUL on at 7.50pm for their 40 mins.
They were due to play 50 mins, but only played 40.
The full band , with around a dozen on stage including three vocalists (two females and Jazzie B).
Their big tunes like ' Keep on Movin ' and 'Back to Life' sounded fantastic.
Full SOUL II SOUL setliat played tonight....
Fairplay
Ghetto Heaven ( The Family Stand cover)
Nothing Compares 2 U ( Prince cover)
Keep On Movin'
Universal Love
Get a Life
Back to Life (However Do You Want Me
UB40 on at 9.05pm for their 1 hour 50 mins set.
UB40 are very popular with male and female white folks, but not many black folks in the crowd tonight.
The band were experts at reggae tinged cover versions, and we got plenty of their best hits tonight , as the crowd sang , and danced, and swayed and nodded along
Also tracks from their 45th anniversary album 'UB45'.
Their early tracks 'One in Ten' and 'Food For Thought ' still sound incredible .
A great show.
Full UB40 setlist played tonight ..
Here I Am (Come and Take Me) ( Al Green cover)
Keep on Moving ( The Wailers cover)
Homely Girl ( The Chi‐Lites cover)
Sing Our Own Song
One in Ten
Home
Please Don't Make Me Cry (Winston Tucker cover)
You Don't Call Anymore / Me Nah Leave Yet
The Keeper
Many Rivers to Cross ( Jimmy Cliff cover)
Cherry Oh Baby ( Eric Donaldson cover)
Gimme Little Sign ( Brenton Wood cover)
Wear You to the Ball ( John Holt cover)
Food For Thought
Red Red Wine ( Neil Diamond cover)
Encore:
Kingston Town ( Lord Creator cover)
Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley cover)

Updated 2nd November 2024 Permalink

Thursday 31 October 2024.

Thursday 31 October 2024.
SUM 41 live at Wembley Arena.
I have seen these Canadian pop punks a couple of times before , with the first time in 2002 at The Reading Festival when they supported The Foo Fighters and Muse.
They have sold over 15 million albums.
They are in a UK and European Tour.
Sum 41 are promising a full two hour show with lasers , confetti cannons and balloons.
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Not sold out tonight, but they still draw a massive crowd.
Maybe 10,000 tickets sold out of a 12,500 capacity .
It is stalls standing tonight, so very lively with dozens crowd surfing throughout the evening.
KAREN DIO are on at 6.45pm for 30 mins.
Young Brazilian punk rocker did a good set of catchy pop punk , including the track ' Sick Ride'.
THE BRONX are on at 7.30pm for 40 mins.
Los Angeles band have released half a dozen albums ,over the past 20 years. A bit too punk hardcore for me, as I prefer the catchy pop punk sound.
SUM 41 on at 8.45pm for 2 hours 10 mins, but 5 mins of that was for a serious medical issue in the stalls standing area that stopped the show .
As promised , it is a full.montybstage production.
Loads of lights and lasers, pyros, flames, dry ice, confetti ,
streamers, balloons ...but there is one thing missing. There are no big screens , which would not go down well with those sitting at the end of the venue.
The singer got the crowd to do circle pits.
The frontman’s energy was infectious, he raced around the stage throughout the evening and cut a genuine figure on stage as he expressed his love and gratitude for the fans, who he affectionately referred to as his “family”.
Highlights included ' Fat Lip' , ' Still Waiting' and ' In Too Deep'....an enjoyable show.
Full SUM 41 setliat played tonight...
Tape into - T.N.T. (AC/DC song)
Motivation
The Hell Song (Show stopped to check on emergency in crowd)
Over My Head (Better Off Dead)
Screaming Bloody Murder
Underclass Hero
War
Welcome to Hell
Landmines
Dopamine
We're All to Blame
Some Say
No Reason
Walking Disaster
With Me
Makes No Difference
My Direction / No Brains / All Messed Up
Drum Solo
Best of Me
Preparasi a salire
Rise Up
Raining Blood (Slayer cover) (Solo) (snippet)
Master of Puppets ( Metallica cover) (Solo) (snippet)
Pieces
What We're All About (snippet)
Fat Lip
Still Waiting
Encore:
Summer
Waiting on a Twist of Fate
In Too Deep
Encore 2:
Noots (Live Debut)
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Wednesday 30 October 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
5pm to 8.30pm
MOTORING BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS at The RAC, 89 Pall Mall, St James's, London SW1.
Around 150 guests at this plush members venue.
Must be 90% older guys in their compulsory jacket, shirt and tie that must be worn here by all male guests.
For 90 mins we had complimentary Piper-Heidsieck champers and canapes , as we browsed the motoring photos , books and classic cars in the foyer.
From 6.40pm for an hour we are all sat for the awards .
After the awards , we have wines and more food including cheese burgers and chicken burgers .
The Royal Automobile Club awarded four category winners in addition to the overall winner, and best debut author. All category winners are listed below.
The Motoring Book of the Year
The Austin Pedal Car Story, by David Whyley, Porter Press International, £85.00
Books about motor cars and motoring, costing no more than £50.00
Morgan: An English Enigma, by Martyn Webb, The Crowood Press, £45.00
Books about motor cars and motoring, with no price limit
BMW: Behind the Scenes, by Steve Saxty, Seven Spoke Publishing, £239.95
Books on a motor sporting subject, costing no more than £50.00
Goldie, by John Mayhead, National Motor Museum Publishing, £20.00
Books on a motor sporting subject with no price limit
The Last Eyewitness, by Doug Nye, Porter Press International, price £195.00
Graham Robson Award for Best Debut Author
Bob Evans, Happy Lucky Days: My Life in Racing, BHP Publishing, £32.00
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Clare Hay
then
8.45pm to 11.45pm
Post-show reception for BARCELONA press night that was held earlier at The Duke of Yorks Theatre.
The two person play is only on for a short 90 mins.
The party was held in The Crypt at Trafalgar Square.
This basement area holds around 300 guests.
For the first two hours we are in the VIP area as that's where the cast members and creatives were doing interviews and photos, and Moet champers was flowing, along with wines, bowl food and canapes.
I was on photographer duties as my Argentinian chum said both the two stars of the play are well known in Argentina , so i took photos of him with ALVARO MORTE and LILY COLLINS .
For the last hour we were in the main area, where there was prosecco, vodka cocktails , gin cocktails, wines, beers , bowl food, canapes and mini cup-cakes....and a female dj is playing tunes loudly.

Updated 31st October 2024 Permalink

Tuesday 29 October 2024.

Tuesday 29 October 2024.
DR STRANGELOVE - press/VIP opening night - at The Noel Coward Theatre , St Martins Lane, London WC2.
Stanley Kubrick's DR STRANGELOVE featuring Peter Sellers was first screened in 1964.
This theatre production has been adapted by Armando Iannucci and Sean Foley.
STEVE COOGAN shines as an array of brilliantly absurd comic characters in this faithful stage transposition of Kubrick’s anti-war masterpiece .
STEVE COOGAN plays the titular German scientist, a Royal Air Force captain trying to stop Ripper from destroying the world, and the US president. He betters Peter Sellers, in number at least, by also taking on a fourth part for which Sellers initially aimed – the gung-ho pilot who rides the iconic warhead.
then....
9.30pm to 12pm was the post-show celebrations.
The Londoner Hotel , Leicester Square , London WC2.
A big crowd as must be around 500 guests in the basement ballroom of this luxury five star hotel.
Those here included...
STEVE COOGAN
FRANK SKINNER
DAVID BADDIEL
MICHAEL PALIN
GRAYSON PERRY
RICHARD AYOADE
GRIFF RHYS JONES
ARMANDO IANNUCCI
other cast members
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wines , Red and White Wines and Peroni Beers, along with different bowl foods , canapes and Tiramisu dessert.
We left at midnight, and it was due to finish at 1am.
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Monday 28 October 2024.
6.45pm to 10.15pm.
10th TRAVEL MEDIA AWARDS at The Four Seasons Hotel, Hamilton Place , off Park Lane ,
Mayfair , London W1.
Around 300 guests in the first floor ballroom of this luxury five star hotel.
The Travel Media Awards, launched in 2015, is widely recognised as the premier awards event in travel media, and the only UK national awards exclusively recognising editorial excellence and achievement across all forms of media.
From 7.15pm for an hour was the 23 awards .
Great to see actor , comedian and travel presenter SIR MICHAEL PALIN pick up The Special Contribution Award.
See my Facebook page , for a photo of me with him .
Complimentary Moet Champers , wines, beers,different bowl foods, canapes and desserts.

Updated 29th October 2024 Permalink

Sunday 27 October 2024.

Sunday 27 October 2024.
JOHNNIE WALKER last show is today on BBC Radio 2.
Legendary BBC Radio presenter , now aged 79, retires due to his ill health, after an incredible 58 years.
His Sunday afternoon show was the only radio show I listened too these days.
Walker’s final episode of his show, Sounds of the 70s, will air today 3pm to 5pm. He will be replaced on the programme by former The Old Grey Whistle Test presenter Bob Harris from 3 November.
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Sunday 27 October 2024.
GUN CONTROL are rehearsing this evening.
We will be in Brentford , as our usual rehearsal space in North Acton has closed down
My band from the 1980s (with me on drums) bash out a dozen tracks in readiness for our gig at The Rocket Pub in Acton on Saturday 02 November .
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Saturday 26 October 2024.
ABSOLUTE BOWIE + DONT STOP QUEEN NOW live at
Shepherds Bush Empire.
Two top tribute bands perform.
I have seen them both before.
I have been lucky enough to have seen the real David Bowie and Queen with Freddie Mercury many times since the 1970s.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, so maybe 700 here.
Both hands played full length sets.
Not the real thing of course, but great to hear all the many classics that both these bands have.
DONT STOP QUEEN NOW on at 7pm for 1 hour 40 mins....The Freddie Mercury was on good OTT form.
Near the end of their set the David Bowie tribute came on to sing their duet ' Under Pressure' which was a nice touch.
They finished with ' We Will Rock You' and 'We Are The Champions'.
ABSOLUTE BOWIE on at 9.15pm for 1 hour 45 mins .
For the first half he was dressed as Ziggy Stardust and second half was the smart suit 1980s period.
Highlights included 'Starman' , 'Changes', 'Jean Genie', ' All The Young Dudes', 'Lets Dance' and the last two songs played 'Heroes' and 'Rebel Rebel'.
An enjoyable pair of tribute acts.
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Friday 25 October 2024.
RICHARD ASHCROFT with Four Piece String Orchestra live at The Royal Albert Hall.
He first came to attention with The Verve, with who he released one of the biggest albums of the era in the shape of Urban Hymns (the UK’s 18th biggest selling album of all-time) as well as a succession of anthems which remain staples of his live set today, including ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’, ‘Lucky Man’ and ‘Sonnet’. His most recent album, Acoustic Hymns, was released in 2022 and reached No.2 in the UK Album Chart.
He has been confirmed as the main support act on most of the Oasis UK stadium shows in the summer of 2025.
I have seen him a few times with The Verve and solo.
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The venue is fully rammed sold out .
As expected it is a proper drinking crowd.
Legendary live music booking agent ROD MacSWEEN ( Richard Ashcroft , The Who , KISS, Aerosmith , Pearl Jam , Guns N Roses and many more ) was here with The Who's legendary manager BILL CURBISHLEY .
The DJ support was Wayne Griggs , but his obscure tracks didn't warm up the audience at all.
RICHARD ASHCROFT arrived on stage at 8.55pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
It is floor standing tonight , and this crowd are singing
loudly along to the many hits played.
Lots of gems by The Verve in the set.
The four person string section sounded lush.
The light show got bigger and better.
RA is super cool as ever , as he works the crowd.
Lots of songs extended with great guitar workouts.
Final track of the night was a stunning 8 mins version of the clasdic ' Bitter Sweet Symphony'.
A great show.
RA is the main support act for many shows on the Oasis 2025 UK Stadium tour , an ideal pairing.
Full RICHARD ASHCROFT setlist played tonight...
Sonnet (The Verve song)
Space and Time ( The Verve song)
Music Is Power
They Don't Own Me
Weeping Willow ( The Verve song)
Velvet Morning (The Verve song)
A Song for the Lovers
Break the Night With Colour
Hold On
The Drugs Don't Work (The Verve song)
Lucky Man ( The Verve song)
Encore:
C'mon People (We're Making It Now) ( Dedicated to Liam and Noel)
History (The Verve song)
Bitter Sweet Symphony ( The Verve song) (Dedicated to friend in audience)

Updated 26th October 2024 Permalink

Thursday 24 October 2024.

Thursday 24 October 2024.
I went to three events tonight.
6.15pm to 7.30pm
Private view at Loop Generation , 171-175 Draycott Avenue, London SW3.
Polish artist Paweł Kałużyński is showcasing his art.
Loop Generation is a two floor store that buys and sells designer items , including clothes , shoes and bags....the art is on display until 21 November.
Complimentary Penfolds champers and canapes here
for the upmarket local attendees.
then
7.45pm to 9pm
HACKETT - 14 Savile Row , Mayfair, London W1.
Well known menswear tailors are hosting a party to coincide with the nearby LAPADA at Berkeley Square.
They have a lovely cosy room out the back.
Complimentary prosecco, Negronis, Savile Row Gin Cocktails and canapes for the guests.
All guests got a notebook , with their name engraved on the front cover.
then
9.05pm to 11pm
JUSTERINI & BROOKS - 275th Anniversary Celebration - Burlington Arcade, Mayfair, London W1.
Top notch fine wines and spirits store celebrate being in London since 1749.
Over 200 guests here.
There is a jazz trio playing in the middle section.
Complimentary Philipponnat champers , Johnnie Walker Whisky Cocktails and many different red and white wines , along with canapes , a cheese buffet table, and a slice of birthday cake.
All guests got a very nice goodie bag on departure .
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Wednesday 23 October 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6.15pm to 7pm.
ALISON JACQUES GALLERY - 22 Cork Street, Mayfair, London W1.
A private view for around 100 guests.
A showcase featuring works by Alison Wilding .
Complimentary gin n tonics, and prosecco.
then
7.10pm to 10.30pm.
RATHBONES - private view and dinner - at LAPADA , Berkeley Square, Mayfair , London W1.
Rathbones are based at 30 Gresham Street, London, United Kingdom, EC2V 7QN
Their London team is proud to be part of one of the UK’s largest wealth management firms. Rathbones is part of Rathbones Group Plc, which has a heritage dating back to 1742 and a listing on the London Stock Exchange.
They provide various financial planning services.
Around 200 guests here , viewing the stunning art , watches , antiques , jewellery etc that is on view and for sale.
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wines , red and white wines and canapes.
From 8.30pm to 10.30pm was a sit down dinner.
Mains - Beef and Horseradish and sides.
Dessert - Ferrero Rocher Mousse...with drinks.
Our table host was Scottish born, and was very impressed by my knowledge of Scottish music .
He was a bit too young to know about The Skids and The Rezillos , and couldn't believe that i saw Scottish folk band Skipinnish recently in Shepherds Bush.
All the catering was from Jimmy Garcia.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure, which was a 75cl bottle of Chapel Down English Sparkling Wine.

Updated 23rd October 2024 Permalink

Tuesday 22 October 2024.

Tuesday 22 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Biffy play the last of their three shows at this venue.
I am back to see them for the third time.
I recognised several that have also been at all three.
BIFFY CLYRO were on stage for two hours over two sets of 60 mins each.
They played their third album in the first set.
Again , the venue is packed to full capacity .
The front two become shirtless within 30 mins.
Just a few mins gap between the two sets.
Like Muse, Biffy are not your traditional sounding rock band. They mix lush balladry, giving way to rumbling grunge, prog-rock leanings, sweet harmonies and singalong choruses leading to crazed feral screams over a vicious heavy rock noise.Lots of moshing and crowd surfing down the front.
Highlights included ' Black Chandelier ' and "Many of Horror "(famously covered by 2010 X Factor-winner Matt Cardle, under the more family-friendly title "When We Collide" which was a Christmas number one.) The crowd surfing down the front went into overdrive for 'Many of Horror' and the pit security did a great job of handling the onslaught . Another top notch show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setlist played tonight...
FIRST SET Infinity Land album
Glitter and Trauma
Strung to Your Ribcage ( First time live since 2014)
My Recovery Injection
Got Wrong ( First time live since 2008)
The Atrocity ( First time live since 2007)
Some Kind of Wizard ( First time live since 2014)
Wave Upon Wave Upon Wave ( First time live since 2017)
Only One Word Comes to Mind ( First time live since 2014)
There's No Such Man as Crasp ( First time live since 2009)
There's No Such Thing as a Jaggy Snake
The Kids From Kibble and the Fist of Light (First time live since 2014)
The Weapons Are Concealed ( First time live since 2005)
Pause It and Turn It Up (First time live since 2005)
Tradition Feed (First time live since 2005)
SECOND SET - Best Of
Different People
Semi-Mental (First time live since 2016)
Woo Woo (First time live since 2014)
Accident Without Emergency ( First time live since 2014)
Sunrise (First time live since 2019)
Adored
Bonanzoid Deathgrip (First time live since 2014)
Black Chandelier
Whorses ( First time live since 2017)
The Thaw ( First time live since 2014)
Slurpy Slurpy Sleep Sleep
Encore:
Machines
Many of Horror
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Monday 21 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Biffy play the second of their three shows at this venue...I am back again to see them.
Again,the venue is fully rammed sold out .
BIFFY CLYRO on stage for 2 hours 5 mins over two sets , which was 10 mins more than the previous night....again just 10 mins gap between sets.
Their overall sound again is loud , powerful , intense rock. They were joined by a couple of female violinists in the first set, for a couple of tracks.
Great , how they can play so many different songs, over the three nights they are playing here.
Lots of moshing again at the front of stalls .
The cameras were here again filming all the show.
The front two are shirtless pretty early on.
The bass player crowd surfed into the crowd.
They played their second album in the first set and their best of in the second set.
Highlights were great versions of ' The Captain' and
'Mountains'.
Another great rock show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setliat played tonight...
FIRST SET - The Vertigo of Bliss
Bodies in Flight (First time live since 2014)
The Ideal Height ( First time live since 2014)
With Aplomb ( First time live since 2014)
A Day of... (First time live since 2013)
Liberate the Illiterate/A Mong Among Mingers (First time live since 2014)
Diary of Always ( First time live since 2017)
Questions and Answers
Eradicate the Doubt (First time live since 2014)
When the Faction's Fractioned (First time live since 2008)
Toys, Toys, Toys, Choke, Toys, Toys, Toys ( First time live since 2017)
All the Way Down: Prologue Chapter 1 (First time live since 2017)
A Man of His Appalling Posture ( First time live since 2005)
Now the Action Is on Fire! ( First time live since 2014)
SECOND SET - Best Of
The Captain
Sounds Like Balloons ( First time live since 2017)
The Champ
A Tragic World Record ( First time live since 2014)
Get Fucked Stud ( First time live since
...And With the Scissorkick Is Victorious (First time live since 2014)
Instant History
In the Name of the Wee Man ( First time live since 2018)
Now I'm Everyone ( First time live since 2009)
Biblical
Encore:
The Rain ( Simon solo acoustic; first time live since 2018)
Mountains
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Sad news that PAUL Di 'ANNO has passed away.
Paul Di'Anno left Iron Maiden in 1981 after a meeting with the band and their manager Rod Smallwood. Di'Anno was the band's lead singer from 1978 to 1981, and sang on their debut album and Killers. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson.
I saw him with Iron Maiden at Hammersmith Odeon in 1980 ,when they supported Judas Priest.
I saw him in October 2023 ,when he supported KK Priest at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Her performed his set from his wheelchair.
A trouper to the end...R.I.P.

Updated 22nd October 2024 Permalink

Sunday 20 October 2024.

Sunday 20 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The Scottish rockers will play a different album each night, along with their best known songs.
Under the title of 'A Celebration of Beginnings'.
Sun 20 Oct (Blackened Sky) (First album)
Mon 21 Oct (The Vertigo Of Bliss) (Second album )
Tues 22 Oct (Infinity Land) (Third album )
All three shows sold out very quickly.
They have released nine studio albums .
Five of their albums have got to number one in the UK.
Their biggest hits are on their 4th and 5th albums.
These are intimate shows , as they have headlined many big festivals over the past 20 years including Reading Festival/ Leeds Festivals , Download Festival , Glastonbury Festival, The Isle of Wight Festival and others .
I have seen them several times , including from 2008 , when they were a support band to Linkin Park, Bon Jovi and Iron Maiden, and support to Muse in 2010, then headline shows at The Royal Albert Hall, The 02 Arena and an intimate show at The Forum in 2021.
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The venue is fully rammed sold out tonight.
The trio are joined by two other musicians.
The drums , keyboards and amps are all white.
A ton of arena level lights and strobes.
They spent their career seemingly on a mission to play every venue in the land from London to Llandudno. As a result, the band has built a dedicated following the old fashioned way – what some would even refer to refer to as ‘the right way’: through writing fantastic songs and performing them relentlessly in front of anyone willing to listen.
BIFFY CLYRO arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for 1 hour 55 mins over two sets.
The first set was 55 mins of their debut album.
The second set of 60 mins was their best of tracks.
Their loyal fans know all the words to all their songs.
Lots of moshing , and a dozen crowd surfers.
A stunning ' Bubbles' was a big highlight tonight.
A great show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setliat played tonight...
FIRST SET - Blackened Sky album
Joy.Discovery.Invention ( First time live since 2014)
27 ( First time live since 2014)
Justboy ( First time live since 2018)
Kill the Old, Torture Their Young ( First time live since 2014)
The Go-Slow ( First time live since 2014)
Christopher's River
Convex, Concave ( First time live since 2014)
57
Hero Management (First time live since 2014)
Solution Devices (First time live since 2005)
Stress on the Sky ( First time live since 2014)
Scary Mary ( First time live since 2014)
SECOND SET
A Hunger in Your Haunt
Howl (First time live since 2019)
Fever Dream ( First time live since 2019)
A Whole Child Ago ( First time live since 2017)
Modern Magic Formula ( First time live since 2017)
Space
Hope for an Angel (First time live since 2014)
Living Is a Problem Because Everything Dies
The Pink Limit
Witch's Cup
Bubbles
Encore:
Break a Butterfly on a Wheel ( Simon solo acoustic; first time live since 2014)
Stingin' Belle ( First time live since 2019)
Note: Intermission of 10 minutes between end of Blackened Sky and rest of set
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Saturday 19 October 2024
I went to two events today
12.30pm to 6pm
QPR 1 PORTSMOUTH 2
Massive relegation clash, as both near the bottom.
We are in the SUMMIX CAPITAL HOSPITALITY LOUNGE for a three course lunch and drinks.
Ex QPR player Andy Sinton is hosting a nearby table.
Smoked salmon and marinated prawns.
Corn fed chicken breast with sides.
A plate of desserts including Irish cream cheesecake.
My drinks were a few JD n cokes.
Half time was a steak n ale pie with another JD n coke.
After the game was a cheeseboard selection ,along with another JD n coke and coffee.
We had a fantastic afternoon ,despite the score.
then
LEIF VOLLEBEKK live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Canadian folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leif Vollebekk tours his latest album, ‘Revelation’, which is his fifth studio album.
He is playing a full UK & European Tour
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Level 3 is closed tonight, but other levels are full.
The crowd looks very polite and well mannered.
CONNOR YOUNGBLOOD on at 8pm for 30 mins.
Just him with his guitar and some backing tracks
His voice was too low and muffled to enjoy.
LEIF VOLLEBEKK on at 9.05 pm for 95 mins.
Leif and his musicians are casually dressed .
Leif has a sleeveless vest , that looks very shabby.
He easily mixes playing piano , electric guitar and acoustic guitar. When he plays the piano he waves his arms in a strange gestered way.
The music is pretty much laid back listening.
Leif played a few solo tracks on his own.
JAMES BAY joined him for three songs , including the evenings highlight,which was a cover of Prince ' Purple Rain' as the last song of the night.

Updated 20th October 2024 Permalink

Friday 18 October 2024.

Friday 18 October 2024.
ASTON MERRYGOLD live at Shepherds Bush Empire
Aston Merrygold is known for his time with band JLS, who had five Number 1 hits, winning numerous awards. He has made strides in his career appearing on the West End, Strictly Come Dancing and released his platinum debut single “Get Stupid” as well as singles “Overboard”, “How Many Times” and “Sweat”.
This is show three on a five date UK tour.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed , and plenty of space elsewhere in the stalls and Level 1.
His band JLS can play arenas around the UK, but like many musicians when they go solo, smaller crowds.
As expected , it's around 90 % female fans here.
The bar staff are not very busy tonight.
JAMIE GREY on stage at 8pm for 25 mins.
A singer-songwriter from Redcar who played ok.
The DJ did a good job of playing the right tunes,that got all the girls singing loudly along.
ASTON MERRYGOLD on stage at 9.50pm for 80 mins.
Plenty of screaming during his set.
A highlight is his fantastic dance moves, and his band got involved with the dancing too.
The only JLS tracks performed were after an hour , when he performed a medley of their hits, including ' Beat Again' and ' Everybody in Love'.
His solo material ticked along ok , with most of his hits in the second half.
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Thursday 17 October 2024.
DUA LIPA live at The Royal Albert Hall.
DUA LIPA plays a special one-off London show, on her world tour of arenas and stadiums.
Following her headlining performance at Glastonbury, three-time Grammy and seven-time BRIT Award-winning global pop powerhouse Dua Lipa announced she will perform two massive shows at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium in June 2025.
Dua Lips is promoting her third studio album.
'Radical Optimism' is the latest studio album by English and Albanian singer Dua Lipa. It was released on 3 May 2024 through Warner Records. Her first full-length studio album in four years since ' Future Nostalgia' (2020). The album was preceded by three singles, "Houdini", "Training Season", and "Illusion", all of which peaked within the top ten of the UK Singles Chart.
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The venue is rammed solid sold out.
The crowd are told no filming, and the RAH staff do their best to try and stop folks taking sneaky videos.
The stage production is just jaw dropping
The end where the stage usually is , is now seats.
The production takes over the entire floor area , and looks like a giant scalextric , which has been transformed into a lavish in-the-round arena for the night. A looping, custom-built walkway cuts through the center of the venue, weaving around Lipa’s collaborators for the evening – the 53-piece Heritage Orchestra, a 14-person choir, and seven-person band. As a sight, it’s nothing short of breathtaking.
All of the musicians and road crew are dressed in black , as there are cameras everywhere , recording it for future broadcast.
DUA LIPA was on stage for 90 mins ,over two sets of 70 mins and 20 mins.
Just a five minute break between sets , to change into another stylish gown.
Dua Lipa spends much of the night standing at its centre, performing some modest dance moves.
Every now and then , she would have a walkabout.
I don't really know her material , but recognise some.
At the start of the second set / encore , the venue erupts as ELTON JOHN joins Lipa onstage – for a rendition of the boppy mash-up collab “Cold Heart/ Rocket Man".
As if there weren't enough people with her, she is joined by a dozen dancers after Elton's stint.
No doubt that when the show is broadcast, it will shift a few more tickets for her Wembley Stadium shows .
It was quite a show.

Updated 18th October 2024 Permalink

Wednesday 16 October 2024.

Wednesday 16 October 2024.
NIK KERSHAW live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The 1984 Tour - Celebrating 40 Years.
1984 - Yes, a dystopian novel by George Orwell but also the year that Nik Kershaw was the UK’s biggest selling artist, languishing for some 62 weeks in the Top 40 singles chart and releasing two platinum albums, Human Racing and The Riddle.
On the 40th anniversary, Nik and his band take to the road to perform both albums in their entirety. This will never happen again so you will not want to miss it. Nik will perform two sets with no opening support act.
Nik had five Top 10 hit singles in the UK .
I saw him a few times in the 1980s, when he headlined at Hammersmith Odeon in his heyday , when i worked front stage security .
I also saw him play at Live Aid in 1985.
I also saw him last year at Shepherds Bush Empire.
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Level 3 is closed tonight , but other levels are full.
Like many acts from the 1980s, he has loyal fans.
NIK KERSHAW was on for 1 hour 55 mins over two sets of 50 mins and 65 mins.
Nik is still looking good for his 66 years.
Five musicians on stage, including keyboards.
The two featured albums were performed.
Sone of the album tracks plodded a bit , but the hit singles were great, especially when they had the addition of the neat lasers being used.
A great final song of ' The One and Only'.
A very enjoyable show.
Full NIK KERSHAW setlist played tonight...
First Set - THE RIDDLE ALBUM
Roses
Know How
Wide Boy
City of Angels
Easy
Don Quixote
Wild Horses
You Might
Save the Whale
The Riddle
Second Set - HUMAN RACING ALBUM
Cloak and Dagger
Human Racing
Bogart
Dancing Girls
Shame on You
Gone to Pieces
Wouldn't It Be Good
Faces
Drum Talk
I Won't Let the Sun Go Down on Me
Encore:
When a Heart Beats
The Sky's the Limit
The One and Only ( Nik wrote this Chesney Hawkes Number One hit single in 1991 cover)
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On the way out I spotted DAVID GILMORE longtime personal security guy ...I joked with him " it's not just David Gilmore that uses lasers"....he was with two guys that had worked on previous David Gilmore shows and had been to see DS the night before at RAH".
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Wednesday 16 October 2024.
Shock news that LIAM PAYNE has been found dead.
Liam Payne, who shot to fame in the band One Direction, has died at a hotel in Argentina after falling from a third-floor balcony, according to officials. Payne, 31, was posting on social media only hours before his death.
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Tuesday 15 October 2024.
I went to two showcases today.
4.15pm to 5.30pm.
KINDRED - Bradmore House , Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London W6.
Lovely venue over three floors.
The ground floor is The Cellar restaurant and bar.
Upstairs at Kindred are two floors used for cultural and private events, as well as weekday coworking. Cellar at Kindred, is a neighbourhood dining spot with a seasonal menu sourced from quality producers.
The venue has great heritage decor , and is ideal to pop in to before a gig at Hammersmith Apollo, which is just across the road.
There is a DJ playing tracks in the background, and a they have a nice stage for their live acts.
Complimentary prosecco, wines and canapes for all.
We all got a small goodie bag on departure.
www.wearekindred.com - Visit their website here for more info.
then
6.15pm to 9pm.
F1 ARCADE , One New Change , St Paul's , London EC4.
My first visit to this venue that opened a couple of years ago. A massive space where Next used to be.
The F1 Arcade is upstairs and as you go up the staircase you can hear the noise of the engines and the lights build the atmosphere to the venue. When you get to the top you can clearly see a big open facility with a nice bar and table facilities as well as a lot of different screens and sounds and Formula 1 themed writing on the wall. You can see all the 60 different simulators around the space. There are a load of simulators in the main room and then in some subdivided rooms for private parties and small office groups etc and a balcony area as well.
Our private area has five simulators , I had a couple of efforts. Good fun once you get used to the controls.
Complimentary prosecco, wines , beers and food inc
Wild Mushroom & Spring Onions Croquettes
Fried Chicken Strips
BBQ Corn Ribs
Korean Cauliflower Wings
Various Pizza Slices
www.f1arcade.com - Visit their website here for more info.

Updated 15th October 2024 Permalink

Saturday 12 October 2024.

Saturday 12 October 2024.
JET live at The Forum.
The quartet released three studio albums Get Born (2003), Shine On (2006) and Shaka Rock (2009) before disbanding in 2012. Get Born is their highest charting work, which peaked at number one in Australia, top 20 in the United Kingdom and top 30 in the United States. Its lead single "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" (2003) reached the top 20 in Australia and UK and top 30 in the US.
They are on another UK reunion tour.
I have seen them a couple of times before.
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Not sold out tonight, but the venue is very full.
VILLANELLE on at 8pm for their 30 mins.
VILLANELLE feature Gene Gallagher on vocals.
The youngest son of the former Oasis frontman - who he shares with ex-wife Nicole Appleton - has been supporting Liam on his recent Definitely Maybe 30th anniversary dates last month. They have their first UK tour in November , despite having no music out.
A good set of tunes.
His mum NICOLE APPLETON is here to watch him with some of her celebrity friends, including
FRANK LAMPARD, CHRISTINE LAMPARD and HOLLY WILLOUGHBY....they watch the band from the circle but don't come back to their seats for Jet.
JET on stage at 9.05pm for their 85 mins.
Five musicians in stage, who all look proper cool.
The band play four songs , then it's their big album ' Get Born' , so we get 'Last Chance' then the unmistakable chords of "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" blasted through the speakers, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This wasn't just another rock show—it was JET's highly anticipated anniversary tour, celebrating the career of one of the 2000s' most iconic rock bands. From the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear that this night was a celebration of their legacy, and they were ready to deliver.
The crowd erupted, singing every word back at the band as frontman Nic Cester strutted across the stage, his signature swagger still intact after all these years. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the timelessness of their music and the excitement of hearing these songs live once again.
As the night progressed, JET took the audience on a journey through their discography, mixing smash hits with deeper cuts. "Cold Hard Bitch" brought the raw power of early 2000s rock back to life, while the more mellow "Look What You've Done" had the crowd swaying in unison.
A great show uptempo rock n roll show , as the band were fully Jet propelled.
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Friday 11 October 2024.
CARDINAL BLACK live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
This was gig number 7700 for me.
Cardinal Black: The Second Album Tour 24/25.
Over two years after their launch, you could say that Welsh born alt-rock band Cardinal Black are testament to the power of patience, thought and persistence after stints in other bands.
I have seen them at this venue a couple of times as the support act. They headlined Dingwalls recently and this is their biggest London headline gig.
Support:
The Cinelli Brothers, Rosie Frater-Taylor.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, and Level 1 must have 60 or 70 folks on the guest list.
ROSIE FRATER-TAYLOR on at 7.15pm for 30 mins.
Rosie was backed by two musicians , as she played some nice twangy guitar , and covered Kate Bush ' Running Up That Hill'.
THE CINELLI BROTHERS on at 8.15pm for 30 mins.
The four musicians on stage did a good set of mixing blues and soul. They have a huge European Tour coming up before Christmas.
CARDINAL BLACK on at 9.15pm for their 95 mins.
I was really looking forward to seeing this show.
After many years of friendship and working together, the cogs of the machine finally aligned to a great reception, as guitarist Chris Buck (Best New Guitarist in the World, 2019 - Guitarist Magazine), and the stunning vocals of Tom Hollister unleash a blues/ rock show crammed of superb musicianship.
Six on stage , including female backing vocals
Three rugs at the stage, for the three at the front.
Tom has that amazing voice in the vein of Teddy Swims/ Rag n Bone Man . Gems like ' Tell Me How It Feels' and 'Morning Light' are magical.
The guitar solos from Chris.are mesmerising.
A full standing ovation from the Level 1 crowd.
The only way is up for Cardinal Black.

Updated 11th October 2024 Permalink

Thursday 10 October 2024.

Thursday 10 October 2024...6.15pm to 9.15pm...
L'OSCAR LONDON - showcase - 2/6 Southampton Row, Bloomsbury , London WC1.
Really nice to be at this very plush five star hotel , that's near to Holborn tube station.
They are showcasing their various rooms and spaces.
The hotel has kept many of the features from when it was a church.
Over 100 guests are in their very impressive octagonal chapel with glass topped dome that dates back to 1903.
There is a female trio of violinists playing covers.
They played two sets of 20 mins each.
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wine, other wines , beers , mulled wine and top notch tasty food , including mini lobster rolls and desserts .
At 8.30pm there was a business card draw.
First prize - an overnight stay for two in the hotel.
Second prize - dinner for two at the hotel.
Third prize - lunch for two at the hotel.
Sadly, I did not win anything.
There was a goodie bag for all guests on departure.
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Tuesday 08 October 2024.
I went to three events tonight.
5pm to 6.45pm.
BOOM BATTLE BAR - showcase - 88 Oxford Street , London W1.
The venue is nearby to the iconic 100 Club.
A small entrance, leads down to a massive space.
It is lively as there is a DJ playing and a female sax playing, as the showcase guests mix with the normal paying guests...must be over 200 folks here.
Battle it out with a selection of games including Augmented Reality Axe Throwing, Crazier Golf, Augmented Reality Darts, Beer Pong, Shuffleboard ,
Pool, Karaoke , Basketball Hoops and more .
Ideal for that Christmas office party and small groups.
Complimentary Terry's Orange Chocolate Espresso Martins , wines, beers ,Guinness and hot food.
then
7pm to 8pm.
PHILLIPS GALLERY - Freeze Art Week Party - 30 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1.
Around 200 guests at this big gallery space.
A couple of Andy Warhol portraits on sale of Charles and Diana on sale for a million quid each.
Complimentary Espresso Martins and wines for all.
then
8.05pm to 9.15pm.
ASPERY - Freeze Art Party - 1st Floor, 34-36 Bruton Street , Mayfair, London W1.
Around 100 guests in their upstairs art space .
We have a special guest being interviewed.
Susan Kare (now aged 70) is an American artist and graphic designer, who contributed interface elements and typefaces for the first Apple Macintosh personal computer from 1983 to 1986. She was employee #10 and creative director at NeXT, the company formed by Steve Jobs after he left Apple in 1985. She has worked as a design consultant to Microsoft, IBM, Sony Pictures, Facebook, and Pinterest. As of 2023 Kare has been an employee of Niantic Labs. As a pioneer of pixel art and of the graphical computer interface, she has been celebrated as one of the most significant designers of modern technology.
Taittinger champers and canapes for all the guests.

Updated 8th October 2024 Permalink

Monday 07 October 2024.

Monday 07 October 2024...7pm to 9pm...
LATER WITH JOOLS HOLLAND live recording at
Alexandra Palace Theatre, North London.
DAVID GILMOUR
THE THE
AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS
DHRUV
MOONCHILD SANELLY
I went to several Later with Jools Holland episodes , when it was filmed at BBC White City but this is my first time since it moved back to London.
A lovely venue , which has stunning views of London.
The audience of around 200 are seated in seats upstairs, and it looks exactly the same as Level 1 at Shepherds Bush Empire, and you look down on the floor where all the acts perform.
We have nice reserved seats in the front row, and music critic Neil McCormick is nearby , who i last saw at Sex Pistols opening night at Bush Hall , where he gave it a very nice four star review for The Telegraph .
At 7.20pm Jools and the artists take to the floor .
At 7.30pm the recording starts
All the acts perform tracks from their new albums.
The sound for all the acts was perfect and clear.
This is how the show order went, track by track.
David Gilmour
Amyl and The Sniffers
Jool interview with Matt Johnson from The The
Dhruv
The The
Moonchild Sanelly
Jools interview with David Gilmour
Amyl and The Sniffers
David Gilmour
Pretty amazing to see a rock legend Ike David Gilmour in such an intimate setting.
On Wednesday 09 October, David Gilmour plays the first of six sold out Royal Albert Hall shows .
Finally get to see Amyl and The Sniffers.
Her nearly there outfit will go down well on TV as she channelled early Debbie Harry attitude with a Farah Fawcett 1970s blonde flicked hairstyle. Really good .
Great to see The The again , after seeing them last week at Brixton Academy
The two other acts also performed well.
The new series starts on Saturday 19 October on BBC Two and this episode is shown on Saturday 02 Nov.
I have put a video and photo up Facebook ,of the pre-recording , but obviously nothing was allowed during the actual recording.
Well worth applying for tickets via the BBC website for future shows in the series...and they are free.
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Sunday 06 October 2024.
ARCH ENEMY + IN FLAMES + SOILWORK live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Metal titans Arch Enemy and In Flames are teaming up for a UK & European co-headline tour with Special Guests Soilwork....all three bands are Swedish.
Arch Enemy will close the show in London.
Looking forward to seeing Arch Enemy for the first time . I have seen In Flames a couple of times before when they were a support act.
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It does not say sold out , but the venue is very full.
Looks like a mini Download Festival .
Oddly it is six months since my last visit to this venue, which was The Hives.They don't seem to get as much good stuff on like the legendary Hammersmith Odeon shows in the 1970s and 1980s.
SOILWORK on at 6.15pm for 45 mins.
They are given a postage size space at the front.
Six members spread across the stage .
A decent enough heavy metal sound.
IN FLAMES on at 7.25pm for 75 mins .
Both the headliners have full stage productions.
Visually looks fantastic with lots of lights and strobes
In Flames have a raised platform for drums and keys.
Again it was a decent heavy metal set .
ARCH ENEMY on at 9.10pm for 75 mins.
Arch Enemy had a huge curtain and also looked visually great with all the lights and strobes.
A female singer , who sounded a bit manly with her screaming , growling vocals.
Lots of moshing , crowd-surfing and headbanging throughout the evening...a good event.

Updated 7th October 2024 Permalink

Saturday 05 October 2024.

Saturday 05 October.
DANDY WARHOLS + BLACK ANGELS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Part of a 13 date UK & European co-headline tour.
The second of their two London shows.
This was the extra show added after strong ticket sales for their Forum gig this past Thursday .
I have seen The Dandy Warhol's a few times.
The first time was at Shepherds Bush Empire in 1996, and the second time was supporting David Bowie and Muse at Glastonbury Festival in 2000.
The Dandy Warhols got a major record with Capitol , and a 400,000 dollar budget for the mega video for their great track 'Not If You Were the Last Junkie on Earth', which is one of my fave videos of the 1990s.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, but the stalls and Level 1 are rammed solid . Maybe one show was enough in London, but good for us here.
Grant the singer from Feeder was spotted here .
MIRANDA LEE RICHARDS on at 7.15pm for her 25 mins. She played tracks from her albums and a track she co-wrote with Anton Newcombe , when she had a stint with him in Brian Johnstown Massacre.
BLACK ANGELS on at 8pm for 70 mins.
The Black Angels are an American psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas.Formed in May 2004, they took their name from the Velvet Underground's "The Black Angel's Death Song."They have released six studio albums and one compilation album.
All five members looking cool, dressed all in black.
A nice psychedelic rock sound, with psychedelic images on the big curtain behind them.
DANDY WARHOLS on at 9.40pm for their 75 mins.
The band are more psychedelic pop rock than rock.
They also have the psychedelic images on the big curtain behind them.
Zia on keyboards, does her cute dancing behind her keyboards .Like the Roundhouse show a couple of years ago i saw , they only play a couple of the half dozen big songs I know them for (Bohemian Like You and Get Off ) which were really good.
Very enjoyable evening overall.
Full DANDY WARHOLS setliat played tonight...
Good Morning
Ride
Plan A
Be Alright
Summer of Hate
I Love You (extended live version)
I'd Like To Help You With Your Problem
Holding Me Up (extended live version + trumpet)
STYGGO
Bohemian Like You
Get Off
Godless
Zia Outro / There's a Daisy on My Toe (by Zia only)
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Friday 04 October 2024.
WEDDING PRESENT live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Indie rock legends are playing another UK tour .
Celebrating the 35th anniversary of their second studio album BIZARRO (1989).
I have seen them a few times over the years.
The first time was at The Mean Fiddler in 1996, and including supporting PiL in 2012 at Rochester Castle Kent.
They were one of John Peels fave bands.
I saw them at this venue last year , and it is the same support act.
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Level 3 is closed and Level 2 is half empty , but the stalls floor standing and Level 1 are rammed solid
Lots of middle aged men here.
MIKI BERENYI TRIO arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 45 mins. Miki used to be in the indie-rock band Lush. They are a trio as the drummer is a drum machine tape...some nice dreamy vocals.
THE WEDDING PRESENT arrived on stage at 9pm for their 95 mins set.
Lots of nifty guitar riffs though the evening. The last half a dozen tracks upped the tempo , and got the crowd dancing madly down the front. A really good show. At the end , singer Dave Gedge signed stuff by the merch stand in the foyer.
Full WEDDING PRESENT setlist played tonight...
Scream, If You Want to Go Faster ( Working Title)
This is the Girl ( Working Title)
A Million Miles
Don't Talk, Just Kiss
I Could Write a Book (Working Title)
Dalliance
Drive
Come Play With Me
BIZARRO ALBUM
Brassneck
Crushed
No
Thanks
Kennedy
What Have I Said Now?
Granadaland
Bewitched ( Extended Intro)
Take Me!
Be Honest
Crawl
My Favourite Dress

Updated 5th October 2024 Permalink

Thursday 03 October 2024.

Thursday 03 October 2024.
HAEVN live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Having captured the hearts of countless music fans with their 2018 debut Eyes Closed, HAEVN are back with their latest release, Wide Awake.
Renowned for their distinctive ambient sound, seamlessly blending indie-pop and cinematic elements with ethereal vocals, HAEVN promises an unforgettable experience filled with captivating arrangements, touching moments and instances of true musical vulnerability.
HAEVN are from Amsterdam, Holland.
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Not sold out tonight, but all levels are pretty full.
A middle aged crowd, with lots of Dutch folks.
HAEVN on stage at 8.05pm for their 1 hour 45 mins .
Six musicians on stage, all dressed in black.
The band are led by film composer Jorrit Kleijnen and singer/ songwriter Marijn van der Meer, the two have gained a large fan base with their music in recent years. Not only very popular in the Netherlands, but also other countries .
Their sound was mainly gentle and mellow .
In the middle of the set , a male African singer in full robes , helped with the vocals on a couple of tracks ,
which was really good ...a good show.
At the end of the show, the band announced they were doing a meet n greet at the back of the stalls ,after the show....a big queue soon formed.
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Wednesday 02 October 2024.
JXDN live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
LA- based singer and songwriter jxdn returns to the stage in support of his latest LP WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS. It marks jxdn’s long-awaited follow up to his celebrated debut album Tell Me About Tomorrow.
His current world tour of over 30 shows has seen him in North America, Mainland Europe and now the UK .
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Level 3 is closed , and Level 2 is half empty.
Maybe 1000/1200 here, and most are females.
The younger females are tightly packed at the front of the stage , ready to swoon and scream.
SACE 6 arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
A nice set from this American trio , as they had hints of Linkin Park in their alt-rock sound.
JXDN arrived in stage at 9pm for their 80 mins set.
They played a good set of catchy pop punk.
Jxdn has the slim lean body like a Dave Gahan.
He took his shirt off halfway through for a
neat cover of ' Miss You' by The Rolling Stones .
The drummer was pretty amazing to watch.
Overall, two good bands tonight.

Updated 3rd October 2024 Permalink

Tuesday 01 October 2024

Tuesday 01 October 2024.
THE THE live at Brixton Academy .
THE THE, one of the most acclaimed and cherished bands of the last few decades, head out on their ‘Ensouled’ world tour, their first since the hugely successful ‘The Comeback Special’ world tour in 2018...i went to The Royal Albert Hall show on that tour, which has since come out on DVD
I also saw The The twice in 2000.
'Ensouled' is their first studio album for 24 years.
The band’s music inhabits a genre of its own: it is music of long shadows, high hopes, channelled anger, feverish passions and sweetly disturbing poignancy. It is pop and rock, blues and folk, soul and polemic. It spans alienated electronics to twisted cinematic soundtracks, guitar tumbling swing to crimson ballads, rants and prayers to diaries.
Looks like on stage for over two hours over two sets
The first set will be the new album in its entirety , and the second set with be their best of songs.
There will be a strict no phone recording in place .
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Tonight is not sold out, but looks pretty full.
THE THE are on stage for 2 hours 10 mins ,over two sets of 50 mins and 80 mins.
Singer Matt Johnson (now aged 63) , said the first set was for " Listening" and the second set was for "
Dancing".
The sound quality is perfect , and Matt's vocals are nice and clear .
Pretty amazing how popular The The still are.
They always had a niche, arty, creative , hipster kind of following, similar to Nick Cave.
Just proves if you make interesting music, people will always come back to support you.
There was a massive big screen curtain where they played pre-recorded images.
As expected the second set had their best tracks.
A really good show
Full THE THE setlist played tonight....
Ensoulment FIRST SET
Cognitive Dissident
Some Days I Drink My Coffee by the Grave of William Blake
Zen & the Art of Dating
Kissing the Ring of POTUS
Life After Life
I Want to Wake Up With You
Down by the Frozen River
Risin’ Above the Need
Linoleum Smooth to the Stockinged Foot
Where Do We Go When We Die?
I Hope You Remember (The Things I Can’t Forget)
A Rainy Day in May
Retrospect SECOND SET
Infected
Armageddon Days Are Here (Again)
The Sinking Feeling
Heartland
The Whisperers
Love Is Stronger Than Death
August & September
Slow Emotion Replay
This Is the Day
Icing Up
Dogs of Lust
Sweet Bird of Truth
Lonely Planet
Encore
Uncertain Smile
GIANT
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Sunday 29 September 2024.
COMEDY WAREHOUSE presents JAMAICA v THE WORLD live at Shepherds Bush Empire .
Several black comedians (and one white guy ) perform....
Line up - Richard Blackwood, Slim, Axel Blake, Kane Brown, Kevin J, Kyrah Gray, Toju, Jay Handley and Kayleigh Lewis
I have been to this good event a couple of times.
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As it is a comedy show, it is stalls seated tonight.
Levels 2 and 3 upstairs, are only half full.
It is at least a 75% per cent black audience
The show was on for 2 hours 45 mins , over two sets of 80 mins and 85 mins.
All the comedians had 15 to 20 mins each.
All had plenty of of funny bits ...Maybe my fave as usual was host Kane Brown , due to his audience participation about their relationships etc .
Kevin J was the token white comedian. He grew up in Tottenham on the Broadwater Farm Estate.
Always an enjoyable evening.

Updated 30th September 2024 Permalink