Thursday 22 August 2024.
Thursday 22 August 2024.
THOMAS DOLBY live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
A very rare UK tour from Thomas Dolby.
This show sold out in advance , so extra show added on Saturday 24 August at Islington Academy.
GRAMMY Award nominated Thomas Dolby's impressive career has spanned over 35 years.
He has had a few Top 40 singles and albums.
As an early MTV icon he blazed a trail for electronic music with his imaginative videos. His synth playing and production have graced the recordings of Foreigner, Def Leppard and Joni Mitchell.
Thomas Dolby was in David Bowie's band at Live Aid.
That is the only time I have seen him on stage.
Support comes from MARTIN McALOON singing the songs of his 1980s band PREFAB SPROUT.
Nine of their albums reached the Top 40 in the UK Albums Chart and one of their singles, "The King of Rock 'n' Roll", peaked at number seven in the UK Singles Chart. The band's other popular songs include "When Love Breaks Down" and "Cars and Girls". The band has not played live since 2000.Looks like Martin's brother Paddy McAloon is suffering from
ill-health.
I saw Prefab Sprout four times , with the first time in 1983, supporting Elvis Costello.
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It is stalls seated tonight as a middle aged crowd.
MARTIN McALOON was on at 8pm for 45 mins.
He is solo , with just his electric guitar.
Good to hear those Prefab Sprout hits again including ' When Love Breaks Down' , ' The King of Rock and Roll' and 'Cars and Girls'. Martin had a nice relaxed stage banter that helped him go down well tonight.
He headlines Bush Hall in November 2024.
THOMAS DOLBY was on at 9.15pm for 90 mins.
He is on his own , with a bank of keyboards.
There is a big screen showing pre-recorded images.
A nice loud sound of electro beats
An excellent keyboard based ' Heroes' , which included great footage of Thomas with David Bowie at Live Aid in 1985.
His hits were near the end of the enjoyable show.
Full THOMAS DOLBY setlist played tonight...
Blue Monday ( New Order cover)
Evil Twin Brother
Europa and the Pirate Twins
One of Our Submarines (With snippets of Gary Numan’s “Cars” and Duran Duran’s “Save a Prayer')
The Flat Earth
I Love You Goodbye
Spice Train
My Brain Is Like a Sieve (Duet with Jason Mraz on pre-recorded vocals)
Budapest by Blimp
"Heroes" ( David Bowie cover)
Hyperactive!
She Blinded Me With Science
Encore:
Hot Sauce
Encore 2:
Airwaves
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Thursday 22 August 2024.
Remember where you saw it first.
THE SEX PISTOLS play a second show at The Forum.
Sunday 29 September 2024.
Ticket info will be announced in the media soon.
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Wednesday 21 August 2024.
RISE AGAINST live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Punk rock band from Chicago have released several albums....a couple of them have gone Top 10 in the USA and Top 40 in the UK.
A couple of their tracks have had over 100 million views on YouTube.
Rise Against are on a UK & European tour.
This show sold out in advance.
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The support act TRASH BOAT are from St Alban's .
They arrived on stage at 8pm for a decent enough uptempo 30 mins punky set.
Never heard of them before, but they have had four albums out.
RISE AGAINST arrived on stage at 9pm for 90 mins.
They are the type of band you would see middle of the bill at Download Festival or Reading/Leeds.
They are all dressed in black.
RISE in huge white letters on their black curtain.
Like the support band , they are new style punk rather than classic punk of old .
Lots of moshing and crowd-surfing .
Lots of lights and strobes.
Highlights were near the end with ' Prayer of The Refugee', ' Audience Of One' and ' Saviour'.
A good show that the crowd loved.
Updated 22nd August 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 20 August 2024.
Tuesday 20 August 2024.
FUERZA BRUTA - AVEN
★★★★ 'PART-RAVE, PART-CIRCUS, ALL JOY’ - EVENING STANDARD
This summer, the world’s hottest aerial and dance spectacular comes to the Roundhouse for a strictly limited season. Argentina's FUERZA BRUTA return to their London home with the European premiere of their brand-new show, AVEN.
This unforgettable production is a visually stunning, tour-de-force where the boundary between performers and audience blurs, and set and spectacle combine to sweep the audience up on a remarkable journey. Prepare to be immersed in mesmerising moments that erupt all around you in a euphoric mix of aerial acrobatics, stunning dance sequences, playful water effects and electrifying immersive elements.
Come join the party at this sensational multi-sensory phenomenon that will electrify your senses and fill your heart with joy. Discover more on the AVEN Trailer
Book your tickets now! From £35.
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I have seen this show at The Roundhouse twice before in 2013 and 2014.
No gigs on at The Roundhouse during August , as this theatre show has booked out the entire month.
Restricted capacity of 500 standing folks per night, due to this production being in the round.
The show had a DJ playing tunes for 30 mins before and after the main event.
The show was on for only 65 mins, which seemed a bit short.
On first entering the Roundhouse space, it feels like you’re entering a club, with a warm-up DJ spinning Noughties hits such as “I Got a Feeling” and “Destination Unknown”. When the performers step out and begin smashing drums, and a sea of iPhones rise above the crowd, you could be at a gig. Next, a giant, luminous globe appears from behind large curtains, suspended from a pulley, with acrobats quite literally globetrotting as they run around the circumference of the floating orb.
Lots of action above our heads , as the several artists perform their various routines .
There is a female in a floating swimming pool splashing about , as the crowd touch its floor, as it floats just above their heads.
There is a treadmill workout as they run on wires.
There is certainly plenty of energy used tonight.
There are confetti cannons , strobes , lasers and non-stop dance beats...we even get a great dance version of ' I Don't Care' .
Lots of flying around the venue on wires.
Lots of water sprayed on the crowd , or falling from the ceiling.
Near the end we get to see a giant inflatable whale , where the two guys inside it, make the tail gently
swoop down onto the audiences head.
The show was a good visual treat , with some bits better than others.
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Monday 19 August 2024.
5.15pm to 8.15pm.
INJECTING HOPE - launch party - Embassy of Brazil,
14 /16 Cockspur Street , London SW1.
This exhibition explored the worldwide and Brazils effort to develop vaccines at pandemic speed, showing how scientists and researchers adapted to the various challenges of this massive programme.
Through an incredible variety of artworks, interactives, and personal objects, this exhibition made the invisible visible: from examining the virus itself to recognising the work done quietly behind the scenes by volunteers, researchers and other individuals that made the huge innovations possible.
The main event is at The Science Museum ,through August , free admission.
Around 100 guests here
Speeches at 6.30pm.
Complimentary prosecco, wines, hot and cold Brazilian canapes and desserts.
then
We watched an hour of the Leicester Spurs footie game at The Hippodrome Casino.
then
9.30pm to 11.30pm.
Gala / press night after-party for 39 STEPS at Walkers of Whitehall, Trafalgar Square , London SW1.
Around 150 guests at this gastro pub near the theatre.
About The 39 Steps...Classic Alfred Hitchcock .
The comedy thriller follows the adventures of the protagonist, Richard Hannay, as he gets caught up in some riotous trouble. Along his adventures, he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women - all with a stiff upper lip and a moustache, one might add.
This innovative and gripping comedy thriller showcases four fearless actors portraying 139 roles in a fast-paced 100-minute performance
It is on at The Trafalgar Theatre until 28 Sept.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food including three different cocktails , prosecco , wines , beers , Guinness, a buffet of hot and cold food.
It was still lively when we left , as due to finish at 1am.
Updated 20th August 2024 Permalink
Sunday 18 August 2024.
Sunday 18 August 2024.
SKY ARTS 7pm to 10pm.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND live in Barcelona 2002.
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Thursday 15 August 2024.
THE SEX PISTOLS with FRANK CARTER live at Bush Hall, Shepherds Bush , London W12.
Back again to see these legends for the third time and their final show here.
Random sighting of the night was CHRIS ROBINSON from THE BLACK CROWES.
Also here were PATTI PALLADIN, CHRIS MUSTO , NEAL X and SEGS from RUTS DC.
DJ support duties tonight came from DON LETTS.
THE SEX PISTOLS arrived on stage a few minutes after 9pm , and it was the same 15 song sll killer no filler setlist.
How does Steve Jones get that incredible guitar sound?
The power and the quality of his riffs are amazing.
Glen looking as cool as ever.
Cookie's great drumming for his age , in this sweltering heat....respect is due Sir Paul Thomas.
I saw first Frank Carter over 15 years ago.
He has been bringing his 100% energy and punk attitude to all his live shows well before joining The Sex Pistols.
He is certainly no wannabe auditioner for The Great Rock n Roll Swindle , but a commited live performer , who sweats his nuts off every night , and convinced everybody over the three nights that he is a perfect fit for the band.
Frank jumped into the crowd again a few times , and at one stage was just a couple of yards away from the mixing desk at the back of the venue
In 1976 The Sex Pistols were headline news , and with this new line-up , they are still headline news all over again.
Another totally excellent show.
Aftershow at the venue VIP balcony bar 10.15pm to 11.25pm...a pay bar again...none of the band members turned up ...
Aftershow at The Princess Victoria pub a few mins walk from the venue ..11.30pm to 12.15pm.
It was much better here tonight , than last night.
Maybe 40 or 50 people here....a pay bar...
PAUL COOK and wife JENI were here.
Also here was CHRIS THOMAS who produced their classic album ' Never Mind The Bollocks
The combination of seeing so many friends on each night , and watching this still incredible iconic band in this intimate venue certainly made it three nights I will always treasure.
Special shout out to MAL-ONE , Eddie Lock and Fritz who like me , were there for all three shows.
Updated 16th August 2024 Permalink
Thursday 15 August 2024.
Wednesday 14th August 2024.
THE SEX PISTOLS feat FRANK CARTER live at Bush Hall, Shepherds Bush ,London W12.
The reviews have came in from the opening show.
Mainly four stars , and The Standard gave it five stars
This was the second of their three shows here.
I am back for a second time, as these shows are special gigs for sure, in a small venue .
Again , there were lots of folks here I knew .
Also here was JOHN TAYLOR from Duran Duran.
He made a great album with Sex Pistol Steve Jones , under the band name of The Neurotic Outsiders.
GUY PRATT is here , who is bass player with Nick Masons band , and will be bass player when David Gilmour tours later in the year.
RHODA DAKAR was the DJ tonight.
THE SEX PISTOLS arrived on stage at 9pm and played the same 70 mins set as the night before .
Last night I watched from the on the floor, but tonight we are second row of VIP balcony.
In front of us is a guy from Marshall Amps , who have
given customised pink and yellow Marshall Amps to Steve Jones ,that he is using tonight.
It is another proper hot n sweaty punk gig .
Tonight seems a bit tighter than yesterday's show.
Maybe the first night had some nerves , as it was the first time since 2008 , thar Glen , Steve and Paul
were playing on stage together.
Frank Carter does another great job, full of punk energy and jumping into the crowd often , and tonight during ' Satellite ' he gets the crowd around him on the floor for a full size mosh circle .
He certainly knows he is the cat that got the cream.
I love it when Steve, Glen and Paul sneakily look at each other to end the song at the same time.
All the songs are fantastic from start to finish, and they finish with again with a superb 'Anarchy In The UK'.
Another excellent show.
Aftershow party update ...
VIP bar upstairs at the venue 10.15pm to 11.25pm .
Glen Matlock is the only band member that pops his head in, as the others stay backstage....pay bar...
We had a nice chat to the husband and wife who took over the venue in 2001,and told us how the venue had suffered with the covid times and and it's aftermath.
then 11.30pm to 12.15pm.
The official after-party at a pub up the road .
Last night was tame at another pub by Shepherds Bush Green , and tonight it is even more tame.
Around just 20 folks here , and no band members.
We were about to walk straight back out, when I recognised a face from the past come in just behind .
It was live music legend JOHN CURD , who promoted punk gigs at The Roundhouse in the 1970s and then moved on to The Lyceum and other venues.
We went to loads of the gigs he promoted.
He also managed Steve Jones and Paul Cook when they were in The Professionals.
He told us loads of great stories from back then.
He is three quarters through writing his autobiography which will be coming out next year.
That will be a must read.
Complimentary bags of crisps and a pay bar.
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Tuesday 13th August 2024....first of three shows here.
THE SEX PISTOLS are playing live shows.
Punk legends the Sex Pistols are reuniting - without John Lydon - for three very special concerts this summer to raise vital funds for historic West London venue, Bush Hall.
Sex Pistols' Paul Cook, Glen Matlock and Steve Jones will join forces with livewire punk vocalist Frank Carter for the three London Bush Hall concerts.
DJ support from CHRIS SULLIVAN , RHODA DAKAR and DON LETTS....one dj each night...
All shows sold out pronto as expected
400-capacity shows will see Frank Carter and Sex Pistols perform the band’s only studio album ‘Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols’ in its glorious, spitting entirety.
The concerts will mark the first time Sex Pistols have performed together since the reunion Combine Harvester Tour concluded in Spain in September 2008.
I was at the last three Sex Pistols shows with John Lydon on that tour
Electric Picnic Festival - Ireland
Hammersmith Apollo - London
Azkena Rock Festival - Spain
UPDATE....
Oddly no other shows between London and Italy ?
Sunday 25 August in Italy.
The Editors + Frank Carter and The Sex Pistols.
I have seen The Sex Pistols 29 times in all the years they have played live - 1976, 1977, 1996, 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008.
This included their last visit to W12 , which was that legendary Shepherds Bush Empire show in 1996.
I have seen some interesting gigs at Bush Hall...
R.E.M.(2003)
Saw Doctors (2005)
Courtney Love (2007)
Adele (2008)
Booker T (2009)
This building was 200 yards from where I lived until a decade ago and I used to do ' penny for the old guy' outside , which was in old money circa 1969/1970.
I have seen Frank Turner singing with his old band The Gallows a couple of times...including at this venue , which is now The Dorsett Hotel , which is next to Shepherds Bush Empire....
06 Dec 2007. Queens Of The Stone Age + The Gallows live at The Shepherds Bush Pavillion,London.This was an invite only secret gig for 500 comp winners and media to celebrate MTVs Gonzo 5th Birthday Party.Nice party with free booze and canapes for all.The Stereophonics are all here as watching are the singers from Franz Ferdinand and The Cribs.We have two of the coolest bands around playing live.
Up first punk rockers The Gallows whose singer was voted number one in NMEs recent cool list.The band play a manic 30 mins with fast guitars and the singer is great.
How did Frank Carter get this prestigious gig?
Looks like Glens son , who is in the band Wargasm , recommended him to Glen , and Glen did the same to Steve and Paul.
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Tuesday 13 August 2024.
THE SEX PISTOLS live at Bush Hall , Shepherds Bush London W12.
Needless to say I was really looking forward to seeing this show by these punk legends again.
Lots of folks here that I know.
Saw Julien Temple park up his posh motor.
Alan McGee from Creation Records was here.
He famously paid NME to print his full page review of Sex Pistols Shepherd's Bush Empire gig 1996, saying it was the greatest show he had ever seen
I was talking to my chum Pat Gilbert from Mojo Magazine , and I suggested that they should get all the reviews in from the opening Tuesday gig and Wednesday and Thursday will be nice reviews in the main papers, and that they should announce some more dates for later ....anyway...
Keep your eyes peeled....I heard a whisper .
More dates to be announced Wednesday 14th August for September shows.....hopefully I heard it right.
This has now been confirmed for The Forum 26 Sept.
Hopefully more shows will be announced ??
It was a proper hot n sweaty punk gig .
The Sex Pistols arrived on stage at 9pm and played for 70 mins.
A nice stage curtain behind them saying those classic words....Nowhere / Boredom.
Steve Jones his wearing his 'Shepherds Bush ' t-shirt.
The opening of 'Holidays in The Sun' sounds as massive as ever , as Steve , Glen and Paul sound fab.
Frank Carter does a great job.
It certainly takes a lot of ' bollocks' ' from him to replace someonr as iconic as John Lydon.
Frank is all tattoos and punk attitude.
He jumps into the crowd a few times.
Pretty much NMTB classic album and b-sides.
Singer Yungblud jumped up on stage for 20 seconds during 'God Save The Queen' .He is a very lively singer who I have seen a couple of times at The Forum.
He was dancing manically by me during the show.
He was watched closely by his own personal security ( he can afford it after headlining Milton Keynes Bowl on Saturday just gone).
A fantastic show
See my Facebook page for some photos...
Full SEX PISTOLS setlist played tonight...
Holidays in the Sun
Seventeen
New York
Pretty Vacant
Bodies
Did You No Wrong
Liar
God Save the Queen ( King )
Submission
Satellite
No Feelings
E.M.I.
Problems
Encore:
No Fun (The Stooges cover)
Anarchy in the U.K.
Note: Yungblud jumped on stage for 10 seconds of
God Save The Queen
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After-party news....
I had an AAA sticky pass but most of my friends had a wristband for the official aftershow at a nearby pub, so headed there....the band didnt turn up , as it looked like they stayed in the dressing room area in the venue...the pub was kinda tame to be honest.
Maybe just 30 or 40 folks here.
They laid on a nice buffet with some yummy homemade scotch eggs , but it was a pay bar.
A random sighting of SHAUN RYDER here.
We had a chat and photo with him .
His bands are The Happy Mondays and Black Grape.
He arrived late so actually missed the gig.
He was in town for an interview on ITV Lorraine show on the following morning.
We were there 10.30pm to the 12pm finish.
Updated 12th August 2024 Permalink
Sunday 11 August 2024.
Saturday 10 August 2024.
ASCOT RACECOURSE presents a great day of horseracing, followed by live music.
DUBAI DUTY FREE SHERGAR CUP
Join us for a day of racing & dancing, with a trademark CC lineup of feel-good, party-starting music to round things off. We can’t wait to see you at Ascot for this one! 🙌
With 12 jockeys, 6 races and 4 teams, you can expect a day jam-packed with exhilarating racing at the Shergar Cup – followed by a signature CC lineup featuring Sugababes, Ministry of Sound Ibiza Anthems featuring Ellie Sax, Scouting For Girls and Denise van Outen (DJ set).
Tickets are £70 and £55 and £40.
www.ascot.com - Visit their website here for more info and to buy tickets for this event and others at Ascot.
A lovely sunny day is forecast, mixed in with some quality racing and well known music acts, so well worth popping over there for a great day out.
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A massive crowd of around 20,000 are here.
The ladies are wearing their best summer outfits , and the men are dressed in their smart attire.
We are in the nice King Edward Enclosure so watched three races from their Level 4 balcony seats , then three races down by the finish line. Many of the races finished in very close run-ins.
The TV cameras are here .
Lots of the staff here in bowler hats .
then it was party time...
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS arrived on stage at 5.25pm for their 45 mins set.
All the acts have use of the big screens.
Lots of catchy tracks in their set including, 'This Ain't A Love Song' , 'Posh Girls', a cover of Busted hit 'Year 3000' and their biggest hit 'She's So Lovely' got everyone singing along .
DENISE VAN OUTEN was the DJ between the acts .
MINISTRY OF SOUND IBIZA ANTHEMS arrived on stage at 6.45pm for their 45 mins set.
The female singer sung some well known tracks.
SUGABABES on stage at 8pm for their 60 mins set.
As headliners they have the full light production.
Fireworks and confetti cannons used during their set .
They have a full band , with lots of hits in their set,
Including' Freak Like Me', ' Red Dress', 'Hole In The Head', ' Overload', ' 'Push The Button' , 'Round Round' and ending with an extended version of 'About You Now'....a really good set that goes down well .
The live music finished at 9pm so everyone could get home in good time, if they had travelled a distance .
It was a great day out in the sunshine.
Updated 9th August 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 07 August 2024.
Wednesday 07 August 2024.
Gigs and events are quiet in August due to school holidays, but the all day every day BBC TV coverage of the Paris Olympics has been fantastic to watch.
Also superb this week on BBC1 is repeats of that great Irish family crime drama 'Kin'.
Repeated at midnight and 1am each evening.
Mon 05 August - Episodes 1 and 2
Tues 06 August - Episodes 3 and 4
Wed 07 August - Episodes 5 and 6
Thurs 08 August - Episodes 7 and 8
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Monday 05 August 2024...6pm to 8.30pm...
DAMIEN HIRST - private view - Phillips Gallery ,
30 Berkeley Street , Mayfair, London W1..
Over 200 folks here for this well known artist.
A photographer told me that Damien Hirst was here at 5pm , but left before the crowd arrived
HENI is delighted to present The Civilisation Paintings by Damien Hirst, his latest series of 32 paintings which explore the necessity of hope despite the complexities and challenges of contemporary civilisation.
The paintings are oil on canvas and each artwork is signed and titled by Damien Hirst in oil paint on the verso. The paintings come in two sizes, 16 of the paintings measure 274.3 x 213.4 cm, and 16 measure 198.1 x 152.4 cm.
To coincide with the drop, the paintings will go on show for the first time at Phillips, London. The exhibition, curated by Connor Hirst, is presented by HENI from 5 August to 2 September 2024.
Complimentary wines and beers for all the guests.
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Saturday 03 August 2024.
AEROSMITH - Very sad news that one of my fave bands are to completely retire from playing concerts.
The band announced on social media that it has cancelled the remainder of its Peace Out farewell tour, citing frontman Steven Tyler's ongoing recovery efforts following a vocal cord injury.
"We’ve always wanted to blow your mind when performing," the band said in a written statement shared to social media. "As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other. He has spent months tirelessly working on getting his voice to where it was before his injury. We’ve seen him struggling despite having the best medical team by his side. Sadly, it is clear, that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible. We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision — as a band of brothers — to retire from the touring stage.
The tour, which featured The Black Crowes, was postponed last fall after announcing the now-76-year-old Tyler was being treated for a vocal cord injury and fractured larynx.
I was lucky to have seen them many times since their debut London show in the late 1970s.
Got a nice photo with Steven Tyler when I saw them in Paris.
Also saw Steven Tyler solo show a few years ago at The Forum.
Only a couple of months ago I saw him join The Black Crowes for the encore at Hammersmith Apollo.
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Wednesday 31 August 2024...4.15pm to 8.45pm...
Re-launch Party.
Trinity Riverside , Trinity Buoy Wharf, 64 Orchard Place, Canning Town, London E14.
This venue is around 15 mins from the tube station.
A bit hidden away , but a gem when you get there.
The building dates back to 1864 , and has London's only lighthouse.
The sun is out so the outside terrace is lovely , as we are by the River with great views of The 02 Arena and The Cable Cars.
The inside and outside spaces have arcade games and mini-golf.
Around 150 folks here during the peak period .
A DJ is playing tunes in the background.
At 6.30pm a band plays brass led covers.
At 7pm we had speeches for a few mins.
It was really enjoyable here.
Complimentary gin cocktails, prosecco , wines, beers , freshly grilled in front of you Tiger Prawns, Scallops etc ,bowl food , canapes and desserts.
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I am not very familiar with the Canning Town area that much, but back in the day we went to a famous pub rock venue in Canning Town called The Bridgehouse.
God knows how we got there from Shepherds Bush , as there was no Jubilee Line or DLR back then.
I went there five times , over 40 years ago.
Secret Affair Bridgehouse Pub, London 30.07.1979
Jimmy Norton Explosion Bridgehouse , London E 25.02.1980 feat glen matlock,danny kustov
Lene Lovich Bridgehouse , London E 15.08.1980
Wasted Youth Bridgehouse , London E 25.08.1980
Darts Bridgehouse, London E 24.01.1981
Updated 31st July 2024 Permalink
Monday 29 July 2024.
Monday 29 July 2024.
A face looked familiar at The Bruce Springsteen soundcheck on Saturday at Wembley Stadium.
Just found out who it was.
It was JEREMY ALLEN WHITE.
Jeremy Allen White has revealed he has been texting and emailing Bruce Springsteen.
The Bear star, 33, will play the “Born in the USA” singer in the forthcoming biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere, which will follow the billion musician’s life and career as he recorded his sixth studio album Nebraska in 1982, based on Warren Zanes’ 2023 nonfiction biography, Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska.
White, who will sing tracks from the Nebraska album in the forthcoming film.
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Sunday 28 July 2024.
MADNESS live at Blackheath Common, London SE3.
with THE ZUTONS , THE LIGHTNING SEEDS .
The venue is just a few mins from Blackheath and Lewisham stations.
I have seen Madness over 20 times since the ska heyday of the late 1970s, when T-Tone took off .
Such a great live band, with so many hits to dance to.
I have also seen The Zutons and The Lightning Seeds a couple of times each...so it's a must see bill.
Lots of other acts too , as there are three stages.
Also a full size funfair.
Madness have had 31 x Top 40 hits , including 17 x Top 10 hits, including a number one.
Lightning Seeds have had 3 x Top 10 hits including two number ones.
Zutons have had 2 x Top 10 hits.
www.uptownfestival.co.uk - Visit their website here for more info and to buy tickets.
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A massive crowd here , on this nice sunny day.
Madness are on a summer tour of huge UK outdoor venues.
All the bands have use of the big screens showing live footage of the days events.
THE LIGHTING SEEDS on at 5pm for 55 mins.
Ian Broudie has written some great pop songs, and tonight's set was full of them , plus a cover of Wreckless Eric's 'Whole Wide World'....a great set.
The band are playing a Greatest Hits UK tour later this year in Nov/Dec....well worth seeing.
Full LIGHTNING SEEDS setlist played tonight...
Marvellous
Change
Sense
Sunshine
Ready or Not
Whole Wide World (Wreckless Eric cover)
Perfect
Sugar Coated Iceberg
You Showed Me ( The Byrds cover)
Lucky You
Pure
The Life of Riley
THE ZUTONS on at 6.30pm for 60 mins .
Fellow Scouser' s The Zutons played a good set, but they didn't really have as many well known hits as The Lightning Seeds . Their female sax player , performed some lively dancing , and good to see them play 'Valerie' and 'You Will You Wont'.
The merch stand are selling Fez hats to many here.
MADNESS on at 8.30pm for 90 mins.
Eighties bands with many hits like Blondie, Human League and Madness are still bringing the crowds .
Madness have those fantastic lyrics that everyone loves, and can sing along loudly to.
A few tracks played from their recent number one album played , and loads of their classic hits played.
Their brass section sounded fab.
A bit odd to hear a jokey Bon Jovi cover .
The last half a dozen tracks home run was pure
quality , as they sent all the crowd home satisfied.
A great show.
Madness play Sundown Racecourse on Wed 31 July.
Full MADNESS setlist played tonight...
Tape intro - Thunderbirds: Main Title
One Step Beyond (Prince Buster cover)
Embarrassment
The Prince
C'est la vie
NW5
My Girl
The Sun and the Rain
Hour of Need
Wings of a Dove
Lovestruck
Run for Your Life
Bed and Breakfast Man
Shut Up
Round We Go
Mr. Apples
Livin' on a Prayer (Chris Foreman on vocals, with instrumental backing track) (Bon Jovi cover)
House of Fun
Baggy Trousers
Our House
It Must Be Love ( Labi Siffre cover)
Encore:
Madness ( Prince Buster cover)
Night Boat to Cairo
Updated 29th July 2024 Permalink
Saturday 27 July 2024.
Saturday 27 July 2024.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and The E Street Band live at
Wembley Stadium.
Back to see Bruce second of two shows here.
Hopefully there will be a slight setlist change.
The opening show here got five star reviews galore.
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Sunny during the day, but a nice cool evening.
The Thursday show was a 10, but I think tonight's amazing show was verging on a Spinal Tap 11.
Like yesterday , I get to see the three song soundcheck....very near me is a super cool looking guy , with grey hair and a grey beard...PIERCE BROSNAN, who after the soundcheck was taken up on stage to say hello to Bruce and the band.
Soundcheck was 4.10pm to 4.30pm...Tougher Than the Rest, Death to My Hometown, Mary's Place.
I am in the same position as Thursday, near the rest of the front standing / gold circle. Many others from Thursday have also gone back to the same places.
The main show started at 7.15pm for three hours.
One song shorter than Thursday , and several songs dropped and added , and a better setlist tonight as we had ' Candy's Room' and 'Born In The USA' and a stunning ' Tougher Than The Rest ' with his wife Patti ( she was not there Thursday ). Bruce is dressed the same, and the full band have this big glorious wall of sound that was top notch from start to finish.
Again, Bruce goes down the front every few songs to be near the loyal fans .
It was an incredible show.
Full BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN setlist played tonight....
Lonesome Day
Candy's Room
Adam Raised a Cain
Death to My Hometown
The Promised Land
Hungry Heart
Darlington County
Tougher Than the Rest ( with Patti Scialfa)
Darkness on the Edge of Town
Youngstown
Long Walk Home (introduced as a “prayer for my country”)
The E Street Shuffle
Nightshift (Commodores cover)
Mary's Place
The River
Last Man Standing ( acoustic; with Barry Danielian on trumpet)
Backstreets
Because the Night (Patti Smith Group cover) ( written by Bruce)
She's the One
The Rising
Wrecking Ball
Badlands
Thunder Road
Encore:
Born in the U.S.A.
Born to Run
Bobby Jean
Dancing in the Dark ( followed by band introductions)
Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out ( pictures of Clarence Clemons and Danny Federici on screen)
Twist and Shout (The Top Notes cover)
Encore 2:
I'll See You in My Dreams ( solo acoustic)
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Friday 26 July 2024.
I.M from MONSTA X live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Korean singer, rapper and member of Monsta X, I.M is heading out on his ‘Off The Beat World Tour’, named after his third mini-album which shows another side to him through his songwriting.
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Level 3 is pretty much empty , but otherwise the venue looks full, so maybe 1500 are here.
Pretty much 90% females under the age of 30.
The popularity of K-Pop is pretty amazing , as we have
Asian , White , Black , Indian girls all mixing happily.
The bigger K-Pop acts can play stadiums and arenas , and even lesser known can play decent sized venues.
I.M and his suited band arrived on stage at 8pm and play for 1 hour 45 mins. As usual for K-Pop the production is top notch as we have big screens mixing live footage and pre-recorded images .
The females are screaming all through the show, as the main man is a pretty boy.
The lyrics are sung in Korean and English , and he speaks in broken English between songs
His vocals were very low in the mix and even when he was talking , it was all a blur to me.
We have a few costume changes and ticker-tape.
The music was all very tame, but the crowd lived it.
Updated 27th July 2024 Permalink
Thursday 25 July 2024.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND.
Thursday 24 July 2024 - Wembley Stadium, London.
Bruce plays the first of his two shows at this venue.
Bruce plays the last shows on his three month European Tour of stadiums.
I have seen Bruce over 20 times since 1975, when as a 16 year old, i saw both his debut UK shows at Hammersmith Odeon.
It is also the 40th anniversary of his 'Born In The USA'
album ,which catapulted Bruce to stadium level, and I saw him play Wembley Stadium in 1985.
I didn't see either of his Hyde Park shows in 2023, which was the only time I have not seen at least one show when he has played London.
I also saw him play The San Siro Stadium Milan 2008.
I also saw Bruce in Cardiff in 2013.
One of the greatest live performer's the rock era has ever witnessed, Springsteen will turn 75 this year, and is coming back from a health scare that forced him to postpone this second leg of his world tour.
Expect a nice long set as usual.
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It was a cool evening . with a bit of drizzly rain.
Our view is at the back of the massive gold circle.
Even that area is very full....the stadium is rammed .
BRUCE and the band arrived on stage at 7.15pm and played a mammoth set of 3 hours 15 mins.
Three big screens showing live footage.
Bruce is smartly dressed like Gareth Southgate.
Waistcoat , tie , white shirt....and Dr Martens .
It looked like a massive 18 musicians on stage ,
including a brass section and backing vocalists.
Pretty amazing to see The Boss deliver a three-hour plus rock’n’roll odyssey with the kind of hunger and raw passion that belies his near 75 years.
There is no extended stage extension , but Bruce walks down the steps many times to a podium to get close to the lots fans down front with song titles held aloft with their handmade signs.
Even a typically British summer can’t derail proceedings from the off, with the singer successfully facing off against moody rain clouds to whip the crowd up into the near-religious fervour for which the famously committed fans of the E Street Band are known. For over three hours, it seemed, Wembley became the Church of Springsteen. A ferocious run-through of ‘Born To Run’ with the house lights up delivers a sense of intimacy that you wouldn’t expect at this cavernous venue, while ‘Spirit In the Night’ – complete with a customary cry of can you feel the spirit? – sees Bruce take his role as Wembley’s very own lay preacher.
Little Steven and Nils are looking and sounding great.
It’s to Springsteen’s eternal skill, too, that a run of rarities in the first half are met with sheer joy by long-term fans and delivered with the kind of inhibiting passion that allows the rest of us to treat them like old favourites within minutes. This is shown on ‘Reason To Believe’ and ‘Atlantic City’ – a rare double blast of 1982’s Nebraska.
And I'm the second half , when dusk fell and the lights kicked in for when the hits did arrive, they were as fresh as ever. Thunder Road, Born to Run, Dancing in the Dark, and the live favourite Tenth Avenue Freeze Out sent thousands of the faithful into a delirium – so much so that it didn’t matter that they didn’t do Born in the USA.
It was a stunning 10/10 show .
Full BRUCE setlist played tonight...
Lonesome Day
Seeds
My Love Will Not Let You Down
No Surrender
Ghosts
Letter to You
The Promised Land (a couple proposed in the front row, and Bruce gave hom his harmonica)
Hungry Heart
Spirit in the Night
Reason to Believe
Atlantic City
Youngstown
Long Walk Home
The E Street Shuffle
Nightshift ( Commodores cover)
Racing in the Street
Last Man Standing ( acoustic; with Barry Danielian on trumpet)
Backstreets
Because the Night (Patti Smith Group cover) ( Bruce wrote it )
She's the One
Wrecking Ball
The Rising
Badlands
Thunder Road
Encore:
Land of Hope and Dreams (with The Impressions “People Get Ready” outro)
Born to Run
Bobby Jean
Dancing in the Dark ( followed by band introductions)
Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out ( pictures of Clarence Clemons and Danny Federici on screen)
Twist and Shout ( The Top Notes cover)
Encore 2: I'll See You in My Dreams ( Solo acoustic)
Note: Patti Scialfa is not present.
I was inside for the soundcheck 4.20pm to 4.35pm.
Soundcheck included: "Lonesome Day", "Long Walk Home" and "Seeds". "The River" was on the printed setlist but not played.
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Wednesday 24 July 2024.
Sad news that JOHN MAYALL has passed away.
British blues musician John Mayall OBE - whose influential band the Bluesbreakers was a springboard for stars including Eric Clapton - has died aged 90.
The songwriter died at his home in California on Monday surrounded by his family, a statement on his Instagram page said.
"Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors,” it said.
Mayall, who was born in Macclesfield and grew up in Manchester, founded the Bluesbreakers in the 1960s.
He was credited with helping to develop a blues revival among white musicians in England - and has been described as the "godfather of British blues".
Mayall told the Guardian in 2014 that "at the time, the scene in America was racially segregated" - but in Europe and England "the black blues began to be heard by an audience that was not listening to them in America".
After their 1966 album featuring guitarist Clapton, the Bluesbreakers were acclaimed by music critics as one of the world's most influential blues bands.
The group also became a training ground for other famous rock musicians including Fleetwood Mac's Peter Green, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood, as well as Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones - cementing Mayall's reputation as a "serious talent magnet".
I saw John Mayall perform a few times on stage,with the most recent being at The Cadogan Hall, Chelsea in 2017.
Updated 24th July 2024 Permalink
Monday 22 July 2024.
Monday 22 July 2024...7pm to 9pm...
MARIE CURIE - private view of the summer exhibition 2024 at The Royal Academy of Arts , Piccadilly, W1.
What Marie Curie do - Everyone deserves the right support at the end of life. We’re here for anyone with an illness they’re likely to die from, and their family and friends.
The event is a fundraiser for them.
Over 500 mainly older guests here, including LOUIS THEROUX , TOBY JONES and JOHN ALTMAN.
At 8pm MICHAEL PALIN welcomes the crowd and is auctioneer for six items including a drawing by Billy Connolly....there was also a silent auction.
Michael Palin's wife had support from Marie Curie in the last week's of her life.
Complimentary Leyton's champers , canapes and desserts for all the guests .
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Saturday 20 July 2024.
LOVE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The legendary LOVE with Johnny Echols makes a welcome return to the UK, led by Johnny Echols (now aged 77) - one of the original and longest serving members of the late Arthur Lee’s band. They'll be performing the iconic album from 1967 ' Forever Changes' in full with the Stockholm Strings 'n' Horns ensemble, often cited as one of the greatest records of all time.
' Forever Changes ' had only moderate success on the album charts upon release, peaking at No. 154 in the US and No. 24 in the UK. In subsequent years, it has become recognized as an influential document of 1960s psychedelia and named among the greatest albums of all time by a variety of publications.
I saw them with their leader Arthur Lee in 2003 at The Royal Festival Hall when they reformed , after Arthur Lee had spent five years in jail for firearms offences.
Arthur Lee passed away in 2006.
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It is mainly an older crowd tonight, so the stalls is seating, and Level 3 is closed .
Maybe 700 or 800 here at most.
Many are wearing San Francisco 1960s clothing.
Support act LARGE PLANTS arrived on stage at 8.15pm for their 30 mins set, which ticked along nicely with nice harmonies from the main two.
They had a technical delay in the middle of the set.
LOVE arrived on stage at 9.15pm and played for 95 mins over two sets of 50 mins and 45 mins.
Eleven musicians on stage featuring a four person string section and trumpet, for many of the songs.
The first set was their classic album 'Forever Changes' and the second set was other tracks .
The opening track ,the psychedelic masterpiece 'Alone Again Or' was fantastic and later on protopunk anthem 'Seven and Seven Is' was another highlight.
When used the strings and trumpet really did add a lovely big lush sound .
Some songs without them,felt a bit average
A full standing ovation from the stalls seated fans.
Overall , an enjoyable show
Updated 21st July 2024 Permalink
Friday 19 July 2024.
Friday 19 July 2024....6.45pm to 10pm....
Revival Festival at Prospect Park, Reading.
Celebrate the 90s and 00s with some of our favourite Pop and Dance acts and DJs
Featuring 30 mins sets from: EAST 17 and A1.
Both these boy hands had plenty of hits around 25 years ago during their heyday period.
Huge Big Top Tent....Massive 5000 Capacity!
Tired of getting ripped off for expensive tickets?
Register in advance for FREE TICKETS for this event.
Free tickets must arrive before 7pm. £10 charge applies thereafter.The organisers and council should get a pat on the back for putting on a free event.
A1 released their debut single, "Be the First to Believe", entered the UK singles chart at number six in mid-1999. They achieved chart success in the UK and other parts of the world in the late 1990s and early 2000s, particularly Southeast Asia. In the UK, they scored two number ones ( Same Old Brand New You and a cover of A-Ha Take On Me) and six other top 10 hits, seven of which were written by the band. Adding to this, they also won a Brit Award for "British Breakthrough Act" in 2001. They were managed by band manager Tim Byrne, who also formed Steps.
Looks like they still have all four original members.
EAST 17 released 18 top 20 singles and four top-10 albums and was one of the UK's most popular boy bands during the early- to mid-1990s, aided by strong tabloid interest in their 'bad boy' image, compared to the clean-cut style of rivals Take That. Their style blended pop and hip hop in songs such as "House of Love" and "Let It Rain".
East 17 has sold over 18 million albums worldwide and according to the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), the group has been certified with sales of 1.8 million albums and 2.6 million singles in the UK.Their biggest hit, "Stay Another Day", was the UK Christmas number one in 1994.
They continue today under the lineup of only original member Terry Coldwell.
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Not sure why I am going to this event ,but it's a lovely sunny day and a new venue for me to check out.
In July and August , many local councils have similar events , which are free , or cheap tickets.
Lots of space , so maybe half the 5000 capacity.
No surprise that's it's over 75% females here tonight.
It's in a big top tent so it works well for a dark nightclub vibe , as there is a nicer stage production than expected , that has lots of lights and columns of flames and lasers for all the bands and djs.
The DJs are playing classic drum n bass and dance anthems.
A dad is wearing a Guns N Roses t-shirt as if to say he is only here due to his wife and daughter.
A1 on stage at 7.55pm for 40 mins.
As expected both the bands are singing live to backing tapes.
A1 are all in their mid 40s now and still doing all their boy band routines. The big screen is showing some of their old videos as they play that particular song.
They played their hits and a medley of boy band covers which included their number one hit cover of
A-Ha Take On Me.
EAST 17 on stage at 9.25pm for 35 mins.
Not as much dancing from East 17 as A1.
They played a greatest hits set , which included ''House of Love ' , 'Its Alright' and their superb number one hit 'Stay Another Day' which was the main reason I am here today. Such a great slice of perfect pop.
An enjoyable enough evening.
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Thursday 18 July 2024...7pm to 9.30pm...
ZANDRA RHODES - book launch party - Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane , London W1.
Always nice to be at this famous five star hotel.
Around 150 guests here in one of their luxury spaces.
Dame Zandra Rhodes launches her memoir
' Iconic : My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects'.
The ever colourful Dame Zandra Rhodes, (now aged 83 ), is an English fashion and textile designer. Her early education in fashion set the foundation for a career in the industry creating textile prints. Rhodes has designed garments for Diana, Princess of Wales and numerous celebrities such as rock stars Freddie Mercury and Marc Bolan.
Nice to see a mainly older crowd here.
Several well known faces here including RICHARD E GRANT, MARIE HELVIN, SUZY MENKEZ, PAM HOGG, KAREN MILLEN, SIAN PHILLIPS, CELIA IMRIE, JOSHUA KANE, DAVID DOWNTON and PANDEMONIA
( 6'6" head to toe in latex ).
Zandra's long time friend ANDREW LOGAN was here.
The 78 year old was a friend of Malcolm McLaren
He founded the Alternative Miss World in 1972, which he continued to run as of 2018. He influenced film-maker Derek Jarman, whose early film-making work documented the social scene around Logan and his studios at Butler's Wharf, London. Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood staged the "Valentine's Ball", at which the Sex Pistols first came to media attention, at his studios in 1976
At 8pm ZANDRA gave a welcome speech , and read a passage from her book.
Complimentary Perrier Jouet champers Gin n Tonics, canapes and desserts for all the guests.
See Getty Images for some nice photos of the event.
Updated 19th July 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 17 July 2024.
Wednesday 17 July 2024....6.15pm to 9.45pm...
SUMMER GARDEN PARTY
Westminster, London SW1.
The Houses Of Parliament host several summer garden parties every year in June and July in their gardens or at garden spaces nearby.
Over 300 guests here , with a nice atmosphere.
A few politicians here including SIR DAVID DAVIS and JEREMY HUNT.
A sunny evening, as the weather is getting better.
At 7pm we have some welcome speeches.
We have a band playing from The Gurkhas.
They play three sets of 20 mins throughout the evening. The first set was more traditional , and the latter two sets were covers including plenty of Abba , Beatles and film theme soundtracks.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food including Bolney English Sparkling Wines, vodka cocktails,beers ciders, a pie n mash n onion rings food station, a beef and pork skewers food station , canapes and a desserts station, including strawberries and cream.
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Wednesday 17 July 2024.
17 July 1996....it was 28 years ago today....
I have been to over 7500 gigs , but this was one of my greatest gigs of all time.
THE SEX PISTOLS at Shepherds Bush Empire.
We were stalls standing second row...mega.
See my Facebook page for a full review of the five Sex Pistols shows in Europe I saw on their 1996 Filthy Lucre reunion tour.
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Tuesday 16 July 2024.
PLACEBO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Placebo headline a special evening to celebrate 35 years of Riverman Band Management.
I have seen Placebo around a dozen times before, with the first time headlining this same venue back in 1998.
I still love playing their 1996 debut album.
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The loyal Placebo fans have been queueing for hours.
They attract middle aged fans and younger fans.
PETCH arrived on stage at 7.30pm for her 20 mins.
PETCH is from Bangkok and dressed like a go-go bar dancer from there....just her with electric guitar and backing tapes....four tracks played including neat covers of 'Enter Sandman' and 'Sad But True'.
ELIZABETH ELEKTRA and her two musicians arrived on stage at 8pm for 30 mins.She is dressed in black goth attire and her set ticks aling nicely.
Doubt you will see many YouTube Videos of this show as at 8.50pm singer Brian Molko comes on the big screen to tell the crowd .." please no photos or videos tonight , and just enjoy the moment as we form a connection with you" ....most of the fans respect their decision and the security do a good job of making sure nobody sneakily tries their luck..
PLACEBO arrived on stage at 9.05pm for their 95 mins set. The venue is hot and humid by the time they come on stage as singer Brian Molko does not want the venue air-con on , as it messes up his voice.
A nice big stage production , that's more suited to bigger venues and festivals , with big screens showing live footage and their usual blanket of lights and strobes...five musicians on stage.
Placebo have always been a cool alt-rock band.
They mix the set around each night , but sadly my fave track of theirs 'Nancy Boy' is not played tonight.
Plenty of other gems played in a great set.
Full PLACEBO setlist played tonight....
Taste In Men
Beautiful James
Scene of the Crime
Happy Birthday in the Sky
Bionic
Surrounded by Spies
Soulmates
Every You Every Me
Sad White Reggae
Try Better Next Time
Too Many Friends
Went Missing
For What It's Worth
Slave to the Wage
Song to Say Goodbye
The Bitter End
Infra-red
Encore:
Fix Yourself
Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)
(Kate Bush cover)
Updated 17th July 2024 Permalink
Sunday 14 July 2024.
Sunday 14 July 2024....Euros 2024 Football Final .
8pm Spain v England....live on BBC1 and ITV1.
Can England win their first major tournament since the 1966 World Cup?
Spain are the favourites , as they have won all their six matches so far in the Euros, before this game.
I still have not seen GRETA VON FLEET , who play The Royal Albert Hall tonight, so i will miss them again.
The country will pretty much come to a standstill for this major event.Even Tesco are closing their stores early at 7.30pm so staff can watch the game.
Sadly it was not to be...Spain were the better team on the night....still great that England got to the final.
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Saturday 13 July 2024.
ARNO , ARD, ROSS Home Away From Home..
live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
South Africa's musical titans, Arno Carstens (Springbok Nude Girls), Ard Matthews (Just Jinjer), and Ross Learmonth (Prime Circle) are getting together for an unforgettable evening, ‘Home Away from Home Live’.
Fans can anticipate an intimate evening filled with music and memories as each artist performs their best tracks marking the first time in history they'll share the spotlight together in this way.
Fans can expect to hear iconic tunes such as “Another Universe”, “Blue Eyes”. “Rose Tinted”, "Shallow Waters" and "Impossible Machines".
ARNO CARSTENS was signed to leading booking agents SOLO around fifteen years ago, and got some great support bills, but he never got major success.
Arno has headlined every major South African music festival, performed at the Isle of Wight Festival, Glastonbury, V Festival, T in the Park and Hard Rock Calling. He has also toured with The Rolling Stones, U2, Bryan Ferry, Simple Minds, Ultravox, Paulo Nutini and The Police.
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Level 3 is closed , but other levels look full.
The three artists arrive on stage together at 8.15pm and play for 95 mins. There is no band, and just three acoustics guitars , in front of the ex pat crowd.
They take in turns, to sing their best tracks.
The crowd are very lively as there is plenty of drinking ,singing along, clapping, cheering etc.
All the songs played ticked along nicely.
They finished with the Just Jinger track 'Sugarman' .
A good show.
The show finished before 10pm, as the artists on stage said there would be a free meet and greet after the show,which proved to be very popular.
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Saturday 13 July 2024.
13 July 1985 - 39 years ago today.
I have been to over 7500 gigs since Sept 1973.
Folks always asking me , what was my number one best gig ever....always Live Aid.
Updated 13th July 2024 Permalink
Thursday 11 July 2024.
Thursday 11 July 2024...7pm to 10pm...
LANGHAM HOTEL - summer party - Portland Place, London W1.
Always nice to be at this luxury five star hotel directly opposite the BBC HQ. Langham Hotel claims a history that dates back to 1865, when The Langham hotel in London opened as the then-largest building in London and Europe's first 'Grand Hotel'. Ten stories and 156 feet high, The Langham featured 15,000 yards of Persian tapestry, hot and cold running water in every guestroom, the world's first hydraulic lifts, known as 'rising rooms', and even an early form of air-conditioning. Upon opening The Langham, the then Prince of Wales hailed the hotel as having "everything a man, woman or child could desire under one roof". The Langham has since hosted royal, political and cultural dignitaries and celebrities, including French emperor Napoleon III. Around 300 guests here in the ballroom. A trio of female strings were performing some cover versions before a couple of speeches. At 8pm after the speeches, they opened up their nice garden area. Complimentary prosecco, Pimm's, wines, beers, bowl food, canapes, desserts, ice-cream cart and a pic n mix cart...and a fun photo booth....
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Wednesday 10 July 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6.45pm to 9.15pm.
11th ART FUND MUSEUM OF THE YEAR AWARD at
The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square , London WC2.
Around 300 guests here in this stunning gallery.
The gallery is celebrating being here 200 years.
From 7pm to 7.40pm was the presentation by politician CHRIS SMITH.
Also here was sculptor SIR ANTONY GORMLEY.
2024 winner was Young V&A , Bethnal Green, London .
They received a nice cheque for £120,000.
Young V&A is a museum sparking creativity now and for the future. Created with children from early years to early teens, it is a place for young people to imagine, play and design, and get inspired by almost 2,000 toys, characters, objects and artworks on display from around the world and across history.
Complimentary prosecco, vodka cocktails, wines, beers , bowl food, canapes and desserts.
then
9.20pm....we watched the last 30 mins of the England Holland game at a pub in St Martins Lane.
then
10.15pm to 12pm...theatre after-party.
Soho House , 180 Strand , London WC2.
SLAVE PLAY press night was earlier at The Noel Coward Theatre in St Martins Lane.
Slave Play is a three-act play by Jeremy O. Harris[1] about race, sex, power relations, trauma, and interracial relationships.It follows three interracial couples undergoing "Antebellum Sexual Performance Therapy" because the black partners no longer feel sexual attraction to their white partners. The title refers both to the history of slavery in the United States and to sexual slavery role-play.
For the party we are on the 9th floor of this members club , with the DJ at one end and their pool at the other end, with lovely views of the nearby areas .
Maybe 150 to 200 guests here.
All the cast are here but didn't see any other celebs.
Complimentary vodka cocktails, gin cocktails, prosecco, wines ,beers , fish n chips , roast chicken n chips, slices of pizza, cheeseburgers, canapes etc.
We left at midnight , but it was still in full swing as on until 1am .
Updated 11th July 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 09 July 2024.
Tuesday 09 July 2024....7pm to 9pm...
FASHION SHOW at Frameless Gallery, 6 Marble Arch, London W1.
My first time at this new gallery space , down the escalators at this building that was opened last year.
Fashion school ISTITUTO MARANGONI are showcasing ten of their students work.
They have fashion schools in the following cities ....
MILANO • FIRENZE • PARIS • LONDON • DUBAI • MUMBAI • SHANGHAI • SHENZHEN • MIAMI
It was a proper fashion show as 200 guests are all seated....Alistair Guy was here.
The fashion catwalk show was at 7.40pm for 30 mins.
Each designer showcased four outfits.
There are digital images on the walls and ceilings , as the hypnotic percussive beats are played over the pa.
My fave designer here was Theo Campus , who focused on black goth cowboy attire.
After the fashion show was complimentary prosecco and canapes for all the guests .
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Monday 08 July 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6.45pm to 8.15pm.
BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL SUMMER DRINKS at
The Serpentine Gallery Pavillion, Kensington Gardens, London W2.
Over 200 guests here, mainly from the fashion world.
The drizzly rain is coming down, so we are all cosy underneath the structure and not allowed on the grass areas....folks here included MATT GOSS, STEPHEN WEBSTER, MARK HIX, LADY AMELIA WINDSOR, ELLE EYRE, JEFF BANKS, PHILIP TREACY.
CAROLINE RUSH (head of BFC)
Got a photo with Matt Goss , and I chatted to him about working front of stage security at Hammersmith Odeon in the summer of 1988 for three nights when Bros took off.
Also several female and male models.
We had speeches at 7pm .
We had a three song acoustic performance at 7.15pm by rising star RACHEL CHINOURIRI , who performed at Glastonbury Festival 2024.
Complimentary prosecco , wines , beers and canapes for all the guests.
then
JOSS STONE live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Joss plays her first headlining show at this venue .
Joss is on a world tour...she has just come back from playing North America and after this show heads into mainland Europe.
Joss recently masqueraded as a sausage for several weeks on ITV’s The Masked Singer. (Yes, seriously; she won the competition though!)
I have seen her a couple of times before , and a few times where she has sung one or two as a guest.
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Nice to see that JOSS has a full house tonight.
JOSS STONE on stage at 8.45pm for 1 hour 40 mins.
Joss Stone is barefoot as usual.
Her slender figure is covered by a shimmery gown.
With a storming band , including three man brass , and a trio of backing singers behind her, the evening effectively turned into a rock concert with floor-trembling, wall-of-sound arrangements. Yet, Stone’s voice – gritty, soulful, utterly marvellous – cut through it all.
Joss is clearly very happy to be playing this venue.
Her lovely smile and stage chat goes down well.
She certainly releases her inner Janis Joplin often.
As usual for her , there were many cover songs in the set.
We had confetti cannons on a couple of songs.
The encores included a stunning ' Change' where she was joined by over fifty singers from Change and Check Cancer and a choir .
For the finale Joss handed out a dozen sunflowers .
A great show.
Full JOSS STONE setlist played tonight.
Star / You Had Me / Fell in Love With a Boy
Super Duper Love (Are You Diggin' on Me?) ( Billy “Sugar Billy” Garner cover)
Girl They Won't Believe It
Stoned Out of My Mind ( The Chi‐Lites cover)
Teardrops ( Womack & Womack cover)
Spoiled
Walk With Me
Even the Sky ( with Stephen Wilson Jr)
Everybody Dance / Disco Medley
Bring on the Rain ( The Shapeshifters cover)
Mr. Wankerman
You Had Me
Fell in Love With a Boy ( The White Stripes cover)
Tell Me 'Bout It / Young Hearts Run Free / Get Down Tonight / We Are Family ( Covers performed by backing singers)
Encore:
Golden ( featuring the Change & Check Choir & the London International Gospel Choir)
(For God's Sake) Give More Power to the People
(The Chi‐Lites cover)
Right to Be Wrong
Updated 9th July 2024 Permalink
Sunday 07 July 2024.
Sunday 07 July 2024....1pm to 8pm...
JACKIE ST CLAIR's summer garden party, Holland Park, London W14.
Former model who dated Prince and her husband Carl , host their annual party at their stunning home.
We had a couple of rain showers , but the crowd were fully covered.
Around 300 glamorous guests are here on the guest list, including some well known faces....
ED BICKNELL ( was Dire Straits long time manager)
PAUL McGUINNESS ( was U2 long time manager)
ROB DICKINS ( 15 years as Warner Music Chairman)
SARA DALLIN (Bananarama)
DON BLACK ( legendary songwriter)
FRANCOIS PINEAAR ( Rugby Legend)
LEKIDDO - LORD OF THE LOBSTERS ( recently performed at Glastonbury Festival 2024).
AMIE TRUE ( Harpist from Windsor who has played some nice venues, including recently at Windsor Castle in front of Royal Family members)
TOUKER SULEYMAN (Dragons Den) , RAYMOND BLANC , BETTY BOO, MICHAEL FLATLEY, ROBIN BIRLEY , JULIEN McDONALD , LORRAINE CHASE, PHILIP SALLON, LIZZIE CUNDY , BRUNO TONIOLI, ARLENE PHILLIPS, KELLY HOPPEN, ELAINE PAIGE , MICA PARIS, STUART WATTS, SONIQUE, ELIZABETH EMANUEL, BASIA BRIGGS, TANIA BRYER, RUTHIE ROGERS (River Cafe owner ) and celebrity photographer RICHARD YOUNG taking the official photos.
At 7pm we had three short acoustic performances .
SUSAN BLACK sang two Edith Piaf tracks.
TONY MOORE performed his Cutting Crew hit ' I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight' and then a medley of over 20 British number ones from the 1960s.
PAUL ENDACOTT ( London Music Heritage Tours)
performed three tracks including ' Sweet Caroline' that
had everyone singing and swaying along to.
Complimentary champagne , Pimm's, wines, beers , a full barbeque with different meats and sides , a caviar station and a ice-cream cart.
A small army of chefs , bar staff , cleaners and security helping things tick along ...portaloos too...
Needless to say , an excellent event.
See my Facebook page for photos and videos.
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Saturday 06 July 2024.
ROBBIE WILLIAMS live at Hyde Park , London.
Tonight's show is a 65,000 sold out in advance.
I have seen Robbie a couple of times with Take That , and several times as a solo artist ,including two of his three shows at Knebworth in 2003, and one of five shows at Milton Keynes Bowl in 2006.
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We missed the support act SEAL, as the football went to extra time and penalties.
The rain stayed away, but chilly after 9pm.
ROBBIE was on stage from 8.25pm for 1 hour 50 mins.
The huge wraparound screens here are fantastic.
Robbie has a big band including a brass section , three backing vocals and several female dancers.
Robbie knows exactly how to work the crowd.
Robbie tells us the ups and downs of his career, and how content he is as a 50 year old with his wife and four kids.
Lots of his big hits played - solo and Take That.
We had fireworks and streamers during a couple of songs.
Great to see a couple of surprise guests.
GAZ COOMBES joined him for a Supergrass classic , and DANNY DYER did a great job of the Phil Daniels part in Blurs 'Parklife'.
A final song crowd singalong of 'Angels' had snippets of 'Its Coming Home , It's Coming, Footballs Coming Home'
A great show.
Full ROBBIE WILLIAMS setlist played tonight....
Hyde Park Intro
Let Me Entertain You
Land of 1000 Dances ( Chris Kenner cover)
Strong
Come Undone
Do What U Like (Take That song)
Could It Be Magic ( Barry Manilow cover)
Don't Look Back in Anger (Oasis cover)
Alright (Supergrass cover) (with Gaz Coombes)
Parklife ( Blur cover) (With Danny Dyer & The Coldstream Guards)
Back for Good ( Take That song)
Love My Life
Candy
Supreme
Millennium
Advertising Space
Feel
Kids
Rock DJ
Encore:
No Regrets
She's the One ( World Party cover)
Angels
Updated 7th July 2024 Permalink
Friday 05 July 2024.
Friday 05 July 2024.
ARCADE FIRE live at Brixton Academy.
Arcade Fire play the second of two Brixton shows.
These are their only shows in England on their short
European Tour....both shows sold out very quickly .
I have seen them a few times before.
I saw them play Paris in 2018.
Arcade Fire celebrate the 20th anniversary of their seminal album, Funeral, performing the groundbreaking album live in its entirety, as well as a selection of tracks from Arcade Fire's illustrious catalogue.
Arcade Fire have been a bit quiet the past few years due to the behaviour of singer WIN BUTLER.
A few female accusers have spoken out against the musician, accusing him of “inappropriate” actions between 2015 and 2020...Win days it was all totally consensual.
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Support act WARMDUSCHER arrived on stage at 7.30pm and played for 30 mins.
I have seen a couple of their live reviews , and i was keen to see this six piece from the UK.
It’s really hard to pinpoint where Warmduscher stands in terms of genre, to be honest. Is it Funk? Yes. Jazz? Yep. Rap? Also yes. Punk? More yes. Their sound morphs from one genre to another
An interesting band sound but the shouty vocals got on my nerves a bit.
ARCADE FIRE arrived on stage at 8.55pm for their 1 hour 50 mins set.
They have a nice big screen mixing live footage , with pre-recorded images .A nice big sound as there are twelve musicians on stage, including a five piece string section.
Confetti cannons were used a couple of times.
Their anthem ' Wake Up' was mega as usual , as all the crowd sang along loudly.
' Rebellion (Lies) ' was another goodie.
In a nice move for the hardcore fans, the second half of the show is pretty different to the first night.
Not good for us as we don't get 'Keep The Car Running' and 'No Cars Go' , which were both played on the first night .
Win Butler came into the pit a couple of times
An enjoyable show overall , but a shame we had to miss out on those two songs .
Full ARCADE FIRE setlist played tonight....
Tape intro - Sound and Vision (David Bowie song)
Vampire/Forest Fire (instrumental version played by string quartet)
FUNERAL album
Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)
Neighborhood #2 (Laika)
Une année sans lumière
Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)
Neighborhood #4 (7 Kettles)
Crown of Love
Wake Up
Haïti
Rebellion (Lies)
In the Backseat
Tape - Enjoy the Silence ( Depeche Mode song)
Set 2:
Cars and Telephones (first performance since 2018)
Intervention
Age of Anxiety II (Rabbit Hole)
Headlights Look Like Diamonds
Reflektor
Afterlife
Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
The Suburbs
The Suburbs (Continued)
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Thursday 04 July 2024...3pm to 10.45pm...
SOHO HOUSE FESTIVAL
Gunnersbury Park, London W3.
Around 5000 folks here at their annual summer party .
The sun is out, and thankfully there is no rain.
Two stages...the main stage for the more well known.
Alternating, with just five mins between acts.
There was also a third stage for comedy.
Eleven acts , we hear all, but just watch three, as there is complimentary food and drink everywhere , as there are a dozen bars including Moet champers ,different cocktails , wines, Peroni beers, Woodford Reserve had a bar, and maybe 20 different food outlets,including lobster, fish n chips, Dirty Burger, grilled chicken, Cecconi's Pizza , Mr Whippy ice-cream van, churros , cheesecake and many more
The girls can get their hair and nails done, which was very popular , as the whole days slots got booked up.
There are complimentary funfair rides too.
The main stage has big screens at the sides.
SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR was on at 4.25pm for 45 mins.
She still has her amazing figure , even after having five children. She played her hits and a couple of crowd-pleasing covers, and finished with a rousing ' Murder On The Dancefloor'.
CHAKA KHAN was on for 7.35pm for 50 mins.
CHAKA was the headliner , but came on second last , as older folks could leave after her set.
CHAKA is backed by a big band and three female backing singers.....a great set including ' Tell Me Something Good', ' I Feel For You', 'I'm Every Women' and ' Ain't Nobody'.
JESSIE WARE was on at 9.30pm for 55 mins
A decent enough set , but don't really know her tracks.
Jessie did a cover of Chers ' Believe'
Overall an excellent day out .
Updated 5th July 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 03 July 2024.
Wednesday 03 July 2024...7pm to 12pm...
ALBERT'S SCHLOSS - launch party -
20/24 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1.
This massive space used to be The Rainforest Cafe.
Must be at least 300 or 400 guests here , very lively.
Channel 4 Sunday Brunch host SIMON RIMMER here.
He was still here at midnight, when we left.
Also here was The Guardian food critic JAY RAYNER .
There is a stage , that featured a Bavarian Wunder Marching Band that encourages folks to dance on the benches, along with a female fronted trio playing covers and some burlesque and a DJ.
Open until 2am every day , apart from Sunday.
A full complimentary bar , except champers.
Any cocktail, any spirit n mixer, prosecco , schnapps, wines, beers .
Lots of complimentary Bavarian food .
What they say....
Albert's Schloss, found right in the heart of London, is a Bavarian bier palace with a wunderbar drinks list and scrumptious, traditional fare transporting you to the Alps. But that’s not all, as this fun-loving spot is also famed for its top-notch entertainment, hosting live performances every night of the week.
Named after Prince Albert (born in Schloss Rosenau and Queen Vicky’s sweetheart), Albert Schloss celebrates the royal's Bavarian heritage, as well as his love for music and art. Like its northern counterparts in Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool, the London location is a cosy, Alpine retreat with a stylish, contemporary twist.
Once das work day ist over, you can clock out, and unwind at our haus with Après Work Musik. Our haus band will be playing live from 4pm til' 7pm every weekday, the perfect accompaniment to a pint of Pilsner Urquell or an Aperol Spritz. Prost!
Open seven days a week from 9am for walk-ins, here you’ll find the only place in London to enjoy all of Munich’s Big Six biers under one roof. From Augustiner to Spaten, Hacker-Pschoor and Paulaner, and Hofbräu and Löwenbräu, experience Germany’s finest examples of lager.
Albert’s Schenke Tavern also offers fresh tank bier from Pilsner Urquell. Unpasteurised, unfiltered, and delivered weekly from Plzen to Albert’s Schloss, our trained Tapsters are ready to pour the perfect chilled pint.
You can also enjoy haus favourite cocktails and wines, as well as an all day menu. Starting early with our breakfast menu and freshly baked pastries from our in-haus bakery, to our haus baked pretzels and grazing Schenke boards, skillet toasted sandwiches and selection of wursts.
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Tuesday 02 July 2024.
GIRLS ALOUD live at The Shepherds Bush Empire.
Girls Aloud have just performed a massive UK arena tour in June including five nights at The 02 Arena, but
on Tuesday July 2, Girls Aloud will be performing an exclusive gig at the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, performing a setlist of their biggest hits to a more personal audience – for free.
The tour was dedicated to band member Sarah Harding.....R.I.P....who passed away in 2021.
A smaller intimate up close venue probably means we won't have them flying over the audience heads on motorbikes like they have been on the arena shows .
700 pairs of tickets to be won via a ballot on the Priority app on 02 and Virgin Media.
I have seen them a few times before , including The 02 Arena and Wembley Arena.
From 2002 onwards , Girls Aloud took from The Spice Girls as the biggest girl act in the UK. They had over over 20 Top 10 hits , including 4 number ones.
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Must be over 150 on the guest list , as all of Level 1
is reserved for them ....RITA ORA is near me.
A DJ is playing pop and dance tunes to 9pm.
The venue is buzzing for their arrival on stage.
GIRLS ALOUD arrive on stage at 9.15pm for 80 mins.
A top notch stage production , as they have two big screens mixing live footage and pre-recorded images , and there are a few glam costume changes , and they have ten male dancers with them for the routines.
Everyone was given those LED Coldplay type wristbands that light up during the show.
There was no live band ,as it was all backing tapes , but their fans not bothered by this at all.
Their arena shows had a 20 song setlist, but tonight was only 15 songs , but all the big hits were played, and it ended up a totally poptastic show
There are tributes to Sarah Harding in three songs.
There were confetti cannons for 'Jump For My Love' and fireworks for final song 'The Promise'.
It was a fantastic show.
Full GIRLS ALOUD setlist played tonight...
The Show
Something New
Love Machine
Can't Speak French
Biology
Whole Lotta History
Wake Me Up
Sound of the Underground
No Good Advice
I'll Stand by You ( Pretenders cover) ( a hit for Girls Aloud)
Sexy! No No No...
Jump (For My Love) (The Pointer Sisters cover) ( a hit for Girls Aloud)
Call the Shots
Something Kinda Ooooh
The Promise
Updated 3rd July 2024 Permalink
Monday 01 July 2024.
Monday 01 July 2024.
THE INTERRUPTERS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Ska-punk band, The Interrupters have enjoyed numerous festival appearances and slots with punk-rock royalty including Rancid, Green Day and more.
Their debut album came out in 2014.
This is a one-off UK show at the end of their European Tour .
Support is from RHODA DHAKA ex Bodysnatchers.
I saw The Bodysnatchers supporting Madness at The Lyceum in 1979. They had a couple of Top 75 hits in 1980, on Two Tone Records.
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Level 3 is closed and Level 2 is half empty , but the stalls standing and Level 1 are rammed.
A DJ is playing classic ska tracks between acts.
RHODA DHAKA is on stage at 8pm for 35 mins.
Rhoda is dressed in smart ska girl attire.
Great to see that her band featured TERRY EDWARDS on sax and hand held keyboards .
Lots of cover versions played with a nice ska sound.
Stop Your Sobbing
Everyday Is Like Sunday
Peace, Love and Understanding
The Man Who Sold the World
Let's Do Rock Steady ( The Bodysnatchers song)
THE INTERRUPTERS are on stage at 9.05pm for 90 mins.
They are very lively , as the female singer and band are all running around the stage, and standing on raised platforms , as the moshing gets crazy and around 30 bodies crowd surf,as their ska sound certainly makes you want to dance .
They slowed it down after an hour , and the singer went into the photo pit a few times to shake hands.
Rhoda Dhaka cane back to sing a track with them.
There was a good cover of 'Hallelujah'.
Confetti cannons went off at the end of the set .
At the end of the show they gave out dozens of guitar plectrums and loads of drumsticks.
A very enjoyable show.
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Saturday 29 June 2024.
NICK MASON live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Rock band, Nick Mason's Saucerful of Secrets are returning to the Hall this summer.
Nick Mason is still playing drums at the age of 80.
Formed in 2018, Nick Mason’s Saucerful Of Secrets are Nick Mason, Gary Kemp, Guy Pratt, Lee Harris and Dom Beken and they play Pink Floyd's celebrated and significant early body of work including tracks from the era of 1967’s 'The Piper At The Gates of Dawn' through to 1972’s ‘Obscured By Clouds’ which has included a much lauded rendition of the 23 minute epic ‘Echoes’.
Very few bands are as culturally important as Pink Floyd. They are one of the best selling music artists of all time and Nick Mason is a co-founder and the only constant member of the band performing on all of their albums as well as all of their live shows.
I saw both their debut London Roundhouse shows, in May 2019 , which were later released on cd and dvd.
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This is the last night of their UK tour.
Over a dozen boxes are unsold, but otherwise it is a pretty full house.....folks spotted here included...
John Giddings (Isle of Wight Festival promoter etc)
Tony Smith (Genesis long term manager and others).
Paul Cook ( Sex Pistols).
Graham Gouldman ( 10cc) .
NICK MASON & BAND were on stage for two hours 10 mins over two sets of 70 mins and 60 mins.
It is all Pink Floyd songs from their early period.
As expected there is the full monty Pink Floyd type visuals, including a double layer of screens behind the stage that reaches up to the ceiling.
I am still surprised at how well Gary Kemp from Spandau Ballet has fitted in playing this type of music, and Nick Mason introduced him as a former New Romantic , who is now a Prog Rock God.
Nick also mentioned that tonight was their 500th gig.
The musicianship and sound quality was first class.
During the show the band wish their long time personal security guy Barry Knight a happy birthday and bring on a cake for him , and give him a long service medal.
A stunning version of ' Echoes' ended the main set.
A great show.
Full NICK MASON & BAND setlist played tonight...
Set 1:
Astronomy Domine
Arnold Layne ( Lights issue during the 1st half of the song, band played in almost complete obscurity)
See Emily Play
Remember Me (With Original Syd Barrett vocal on playback)
Obscured by Clouds
When You're In
Remember a Day
If (first half)
Atom Heart Mother
If (second half)
The Nile Song
Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun
Set 2:
The Scarecrow
Fearless
Childhood's End
Lucifer Sam
Echoes
Encore:
One of These Days (with lasers)
A Saucerful of Secrets
Updated 30th June 2024 Permalink
Friday 28 June 2024.
Friday 28th June 2024.
THE FIZZ live at Indigo at The 02 Arena complex.
Cheryl Baker, Mike Nolan and Jay Aston – three names that are iconic in Eurovision history – once members of the 1981 Eurovision-winning group, Bucks Fizz, now known as The Fizz.
With a string of over 20 hits under their belts, including their No. 1 Hits, “Land of Make Believe”, “My Camera Never Lies” and, of course, “Making Your Mind Up”.
With support from The Ultimate Earth , Wind and Fire.
I saw Bucks Fizz headlining Hammersmith Odeon in 1982, on the back of their Eurovision win.
I saw The Fizz in 2017 , when they played in Windsor.
I have seen the real Earth, Windsor and Fire a couple of times.
Indigo is a start of the art venue that opened in 2007....in that year i saw two Prince secret gigs there , and i saw The Eagles playing a private show there for 500 bankers. Acts after that I have seen here include Ted Nugent ,Blue Oyster Cult, PiL and Bill Wyman's 80th Birthday Gala concert.
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This plush venue looks very full, and the air-con is on and both bands have big side screens showing live footage of tonight's gig ...and the sound is perfect.
THE ULTIMATE EARTH , WIND and FIRE arrived on stage at 7.40pm for their 60 mins set.
They are certainly taking it seriously as there are twelve musicians on stage, including a four man brass section and two vocalists.
Lots of hits played in a really good set , including 'Shining Star,' ' After The Love Has Gone' , 'Fantasy' , 'September ', 'Lets Groove' and 'Boogie Wonderland ' .
THE FIZZ (ex Bucks Fizz), arrived on stage at 9.10pm
for a nice long set lasting 1 hour 55 mins.
They are backed by a full band and three backing singers. A nice touch is they are playing the original videos on the big screen behind them for each song.
A great mix of their many hits, plus album tracks and some cover versions.
The hardcore fans down the front are copying all the dance routines and the hand gestures , as all three members share the lead vocals.
We had some stage props including umbrellas, rain macs and bowler hats...and light-hearted stage banter.
Final song had that iconic moment where the two girls skirts came off during 'Making Your Mind Up'.
Near the end of the show Cheryl Baker gave out some sad news that Mike Nolan's last ever gig with the band will be on 20 Nov 2024 at The Stag, Sevenoaks.
A very enjoyable show , that everyone here loved.
Highlights of THE FIZZ setlist tonight...
Another Piece of the Action
Run for Your Life
My Camera Never Lies
When We Were Young
Dancing in the Rain
I Hear Talk
A medley of tracks from the four Fizz albums.
If You Can't Stand the Heat
Now Those Days Are Gone
The Land of Make Believe
Encore:
80s covers medley.
Making Your Mind Up
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Thursday 27 June 2024.
GLADYS KNIGHT live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Gladys Knight is playing a ' Farewell UK Tour', to celebrate her 80th birthday .
Gladys Knight, known as the "Empress of Soul" , is an American singer. A ten-time Grammy Award-winner,
Knight recorded hits through the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s with her family group Gladys Knight & the Pips.
Knight has recorded two number-one Billboard Hot 100 singles ("Midnight Train to Georgia" and "That's What Friends Are For" which she did with Dionne Warwick, Sir Elton John and Stevie Wonder), and is an inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame .
In 1989 Gladys released the hit single ' License to Kill' for the James Bond film soundtrack.
I have seen her just the once before , in 2009 when she headlined Wembley Arena.
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Tonight is fully sold out, but the extra show for Friday still has lots of tickets for sale.
A 99% middle aged white folks crowd.
LEEE JOHN from Imagination and SINITTA were in one of the ground level boxes.
MICA MILLAR on stage at 7.30pm for her 25 mins.
Northern lass with a great white soul voice.
Mica Millar, the rising star of British soul music, is set to deliver a breathtaking performance! Her debut album, 'Heaven Knows', released to critical acclaim in 2023, showcases her intense emotional sincerity and exceptional skill in balladry.
GLADYS KNIGHT on at 8.20pm for just 70 mins.
Another one of those shows where the stage timings were pretty much fake news...venue website put her down for a 100 mins set, but it actually ended up being only 70 mins....30 mins shorter is quite a lot.
Gladys looks great for her 80 years of age.
Wearing a sparkly black gown, and that lovely smile, she looks like Michelle Obama's older sister.
Backed by a band and three female backing vocalists
This London audience clearly adore her.
Lots of her classic hits played,in a really good show.
GLADYS KNIGHT highlights tonight....
Baby Don't Change Your Mind (Gladys Knight & the Pips song)
Shake Your Body ( Down to the Ground ) ( Jackson 5 cover )
Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
(Jim Weatherly cover)
Come Back and Finish What You Started
(Gladys Knight & the Pips song)
I've Got to Use My Imagination
(Gladys Knight & the Pips song)
Licence To Kill
I Heard It Through the Grapevine (Gladys Knight & the Pips song)
The Way We Were (Barbra Streisand cover)
Take Me to the King (Tamela Mann cover)
Midnight Train to Georgia (Jim Weatherly cover)
Updated 28th June 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 26 June 2024.
Wednesday 26 June 2024.
CYNDI LAUPER live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Cyndi Lauper will be 71 when she plays this show
Cyndi Lauper has announced her first UK solo headline show in eight years.
Lauper will play London’s legendary Royal Albert Hall on June 26, 2024, her first concert there since 1995.
Fans will get to hear timeless classics including ‘Time After Time’, ‘True Colors’, and ‘Girls Just Want To Have Fun’.
Cyndi will play the Pyramid Stage at the world-famous Glastonbury festival, on the Saturday following this.
I have seen Cyndi just the once in 1987 at Hammersmith Odeon when both her and Madonna took off at the same time.
This show sold out in advance , so Cyndi is back in London in Feb 2025 at the much bigger 02 Arena.
Cyndi will play four UK arena shows.
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The show is fully sold out.
Lots of gay men here , who can afford the £100 tickets for seats in the stalls and arena.
Fashionista PAM HOGG is the DJ support tonight.
On at 7.30pm for 30 mins , playing the likes of Lady GaGa, Suzi Quatro, Eurythmics and Blondie.
CYNDI LAUPER arrived on stage at 8.25pm for her 85 mins set. Cyndi gets a full standing ovation for her arrival as there is certainly a lot of love and goodwill towards her...her cute New York accent is still there.
Despite a faltering start and an issue with too-quiet vocals that wasn’t fixed until halfway through, Lauper and her seven-piece band (including Sterling Campbell on drums and m/f backing vocals) electrified the Hall right from the off.
Lauper prepares for her live shows like an athlete, and remains a highly physical performer, whirling and leaping from one side of the stage to the other. Sporting spiky hair and exaggerated shoulder pads, she appeared almost cartoonishly 80s – until you remembered that she helped invent that look, a more-is-more approach that began with her 1983 debut album 'She’s So Unusual ' and involved corsets, fingerless gloves and flamboyant amounts of jewellery.
Cyndi said to the crowd "Happy Pride Everyone" , and that went down very well .
Cyndi was up the aisles of the side seats a couple of times...all her top notch big hits were played.
For an encore reprise of ' Girls Just Want to Have Fun',
Cyndi was joined by six well known drag artists.
The show at 85 mins felt a bit short , but it was great.
Full CYNDI LAUPER setlist played tonight...
The Goonies 'R' Good Enough
She Bop
Into the Nightlife
Rocking Chair
I Drove All Night
Change of Heart
Time After Time
When You Were Mine ( Prince cover)
Fearless ( Acapella)
Money Changes Everything (The Brains cover)
Girls Just Want to Have Fun
Encore
Savage Daughter ( Sarah Hester Ross cover)(Acapella Snippet)
Not My Father's Son ( Snippet)
True Colors
Hey Now, Girls Just Want to Have Fun
(With drag artists - Michael Marouli, Jonbers Blonde, Tete Bang, Tomara Thomas, Chiyo and Joan Oh)
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Tuesday 25 June 2024.
I went to two events tonight...
7.30pm to 11pm.
SERPENTINE GALLERY SUMMER PARTY - Kensington Gardens, London.
A big crowd of some 700 or 800 here.
One of the major London summer parties as lots of big names here , including Sadiq Khan , Mary McCartney, Nick Rhodes, Jackie St Clair and husband Carl , Bianca Jagger , Jourdan Dunn, Pixie Geldof ,Alexa Chung, Jessie Ware , Ghetts, Oswald Boateng, Edward Enninful, Munroe Bergdorf,Emma Weymouth, Skepta, Charlotte Tilbury, David Linley , Ron Arad,
Mary Charteris , Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Bloomberg, Tamara Beckwith and many others.
I chatted to the lovely DAPHNE GUINNESS who was telling me about her fourth album 'Sleep' which is out this week. ( See photo)
LAURENCE FISHBOURNE ( see photo).
MAYA JAMA ( see photo) .
MAGNE FURUHOLMEN from A-Ha ( see photo).
See my Facebook page for the photos and videos.
Naomi Campbell and Venus Williams had a reserved table , with two personal security guards giving the eye to all " do not dare disturb them with anything ".
There was a fun photo booth.
We had three dj stints , including GILLES PETERSON.
Check out Getty Images for some great photos .
Complimentary Ruinart champers, three different cocktails , wines, bowl food, cheeseburgers canapes, desserts , giant brownies etc....superb event...
then
11.30pm to 1.30am.
Saatchi Yates Gallery , 14 Duke Street , St James's, London SW1
There were a couple of after parties for the Serpentine.This one was for the younger crowd.
Around 200 guests here and it is very lively.
Half of those here , were not at the main event.
A DJ is playing tunes and there are complimentary drinks ...Whiskey Sours, Whiskey Cocktails and wines.
The party was sponsored by the Evening Standard .
In their paper the following day, they did an article on both events ...Maja Jama got the biggest photo.
It mentioned pies at the after-party which I did not see. Then I remember on arrival I was thinking why was there such a big crowd outside the venue on the other side of the street......i just thought loads of smokers ....but it was actually a van giving out pies.
Updated 26th June 2024 Permalink
Sunday 23 June 2024.
Sunday 23 June 2024.
A glorious sunny day out in the British countryside .
We stopped off at Buntingford , near Cambridge.
We had a lovely meal and drinks at The Pepper Mill Bar & Bistro in the High Street.
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Saturday 22 June 2024.
FOO FIGHTERS live at London Stadium, East London..
This is the second of two shows at this venue.
The first one not sold out, but tonight was sold out.
The Foos are playing a seven date UK stadium tour.
I have seen them several times.
I saw them in 2022 at Wembley Stadium for the Taylor Hawkins tribute show, but this is their first UK tour without him....that was when Taylor Hawkins son came on the drums and played a stunning ' My Hero' .
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The older I get, the more don't really fancy big festivals and big stadium shows for various reasons, but you have to forgot all that when the likes of The Foo Fighters are playing stadiums only.
We have a lovely sunny day for it.
There are hundreds of security and stewards outside and inside the venue, no wonder stadium tickets always are so expensive.
THE FOO FIGHTERS promised a three hour set in advance , and they really did play a very long set of 2 hours 55 mins.
They have the full light show , big screens and a stage extension walkway.
Dave Grohl has to be one of the best front men in rock. He knows exactly how to hype the crowd up.
Lots of chat between songs (sometimes a bit too much) , and many songs were extended versions.
The first half of the show, they are playing in daylight.
For the first half of the show, Foo Fighters leaned heavily on stadium-ready anthems with the likes of 'All My Life', ' The Pretender', ' Times Like These', 'Breakout ' and 'Learning To Fly ' clearly written for nights like this. “You gotta sing along, even if you don’t know the words,” encouraged Grohl.
Taylor Hawkins got a tribute on the big screens , and his son played drums on a great version of 'My Hero'.
Dave's daughter Violet also joined them for a couple.
Dave was great , when he run up the walkway.
Some songs were a bit flat and average , but that's to be expected when you are playing such a long set , but classics like 'Monkey Wrench' and 'Best of You' soon put the band back on track.
The show finished with a fab ' Everlong' and then it was the fireworks display.
You can't get much better than the Foos live...superb.
Full FOO FIGHTERS setlist played tonight....
All My Life
No Son of Mine
(with snippets of Black Sabbath’s "Paranoid" and Metallica’s "Enter Sandman")
Rescued
The Pretender
Walk
Times Like These (Dave and Rami into full band)
White Limo
La Dee Da
Breakout
Guitar Solo / Sabotage / Keyboard Solo / Blitzkrieg Bop / Whip It / March of the Pigs
My Hero ( with Oliver Shane Hawkins)
The Sky Is a Neighborhood
Learn to Fly
Arlandria
These Days
Statues (Dave and Chris only; Dave on acoustic guitar)
Skin and Bones (acoustic; Dave and Rami only, Rami on accordion)
Under You ( Dave solo acoustic)
Nothing at All
Monkey Wrench (with drum solo outro, including drum intro to Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher")
Shame Shame (with Violet Grohl)
Show Me How ( with Violet Grohl)
Aurora (dedicated to Taylor Hawkins)
Best of You
Encore:
The Teacher
Everlong
Updated 23rd June 2024 Permalink
Friday 21 June 2024.
Friday 21 June 2024.
Fri and Sat and Sun this weekend.
SKY ARTS are showing lots of highlights from The Isle Of Wight Festival.
Reminds me of the only time i went to IOW Fest.
Two festivals were on at the same weekend.
My fave British band (The Sex Pistols) were playing Isle of Wight Festival , my fave American band (KISS ) were playing Download Festival , Derbyshire.
We watched KISS on The Friday then a mad car drive and ferry down to The Isle of Wight for Sat and Sun.
Friday 13 June 2008. KISS + Judas Priest + Motorhead + Disturbed at Download Festival.
Saturday 14 June 2008. Sex Pistols + Ian Brown + Iggy & The Stooges at IOW Festival .
Sunday 15 June 2008. The Police + James + Kooks + Starsailor at IOW.
Special thanks to Rod MacSween for KISS at Download and John Giddings for IOW Festival.
Also thanks to me ole mucker Bill Gaynor for putting me up for a nice few days in Gosport.
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Thursday 20 June 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6pm to 6.50pm.
Private view at Waddington Custot Gallery , 11 Cork Street, Mayfair, London W1.
Brooklyn , New York based artist Landon Metz is showcasing his new series of paintings.
Is on on until 09 August 2024....Free Entry.
Complimentary wines for all the guests .
7pm to 9.30pm.
GUCCI ART WALLS - launch party - 144 /146 New Bond Street , Mayfair, London W1.
Gucci launch their new art that is hanging in their flagship store.
A female DJ is playing tunes.
At 7.45pm we had a speech from the artists and the Gucci spokesperson.
Around 20 male models are serving the drinks/food.
Complimentary Mezcal Negronis , Sparkling Wines , Bowl Food, Canapes and Desserts.
Updated 21st June 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 19 June 2024.
Wednesday 19 June 2024.
7.30pm to 10.15pm.
NAOMI CAMPBELL private view x V & A Summer Party, South Kensington, London SW7.
A big crowd of around 800 guests here.
Held in their outside garden space , by the water.
A high fashion event , with some stunning outfits.
Lots of well known names here including Grace Jones, Kate Moss , Edward Enninful, Katherine Jenkins, Anthony Joshua, Judi Love, Daphne Guinness, Floella Benjamin , Lady Victoria Hervey ,
Elizabeth Hurley and Damian Hurley , Suzy Menkez ,
Trinny Woodall, Jackie St Clair, Daniel Lismore , David Harewood , Nicola Roberts , Mary Charteris, Nadya Swarovski , Alan Carr, Stephen Webster, Jonathan Shalit, John Madejski, Nick Rhodes, David Downton,
Alan Edwards , Charlotte Tilbury and many more.
The DJ tonight was HONEY DIJON.
At 8.30pm NAOMI made an emotional speech.
At 9.05pm CULTURE CLUB played a four song set.
Church of the Poison Mind
I'm Your Man ( Wham cover)
I'll Tumble 4 Ya
Karma Chameleon
Complimentary champers , three different cocktails , bowl food , canapes , desserts ....sponsored by BOSS.
See my Facebook page for photos of me with Nick Rhodes, Alan Carr and others
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Open to the public from 22 June to April 2025.
Massive event featuring NAOMI CAMPBELL..
NAOMI: In Fashion will take visitors on a journey from the supermodel's south London beginnings through her 40-year career in fashion.
More than 100 outfits will be displayed including a Thierry Mugler car-inspired corset, a pink Valentino Met Gala outfit and some Vivienne Westwood platforms.
Campbell said she was "honoured" to share "my life in clothes".
The museum said the "first-of-its-kind exhibition" had been developed with the model's creative input and oversight....it is a paid ticket for admission.
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Tuesday 18 June 2024.
6.15pm to 3am.
PENINSULA LONDON - Grand Opening Party - 1 Grosvenor Place , Hyde Park Corner, London SW1.
Some launch events are really good and can be scored as a 9 or even a 10 , but this was one went into the Spinal Tap 11 category , for it's pure lavishness.
This luxury five star opened in September 2023, but waited until tonight for it's big launch.
A massive crowd of over 2000 guests are greeted by Chinese Lion Dancing at the entrance.
Lots of older guests here ,maybe some from their Embassy neighbours, and many from The Far East.
Not really a celebrity event ,but there were a dozen or so here including Prince Michael of Kent, The King of Greece , Nadya Swarovski , Billie Piper , Pixie Geldof , Amber Le Bon, Anthea Turner , Kelley Hoppen, Oswald Boateng, Christopher Biggins , Stuart Rose and others.
At 7.30pm in the ballroom we have the full size London Philharmonic Orchestra performing.
At 8pm The Duke (Prince Edward) and Duchess of Edinburgh unveiled the plaque and said a few words.
Then the owner of Peninsula Hotels said a few words.
This is their twelfth hotel opening worldwide.
The first was in Hong Kong.
The hotel has 190 rooms along with spas etc.
Eight floors above ground , and four floors below.
Marble is everywhere. The decor is stunning.
Heated toilet seats too , were very nice.
Half a dozen vintage cars are on display.
Hundreds of staff ,who were eager to please.
There were several live acts and several djs playing.
In the courtyard early on was The Dover Street Big Band and later on the same stage was Brooklyn Soul.
There was a Gospel Choir in one area, a piano player in another, and a lively Cuban band in another.
Stunning views from the rooftop Brooklands Bar.
Car , motorbike and plane memorabilia everywhere .
This area was very lively from midnight onwards,
as many folks downstairs left by midnight.
There was full complimentary drinks and food all night, Dom Perignon 2013 champers , any cocktail or spirit , wines, beers at the many bars , and food from around the world ,including lobster rolls , wagyu , fish n chips, cheeseburgers , caviar etc and various dessert stations , and an ice-cream trolley.
All guests got a goodie bag , which was a coffee table book on the history of Peninsula Hotels.
We stayed to the very end , and it was so good here.
See my Facebook page for videos and photos.
Updated 19th June 2024 Permalink
Monday 17 June 2024.
Monday 17 June 2024....3.30pm to 8pm...
GOFFS LONDON SALE , Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8
Goffs London Sale, a boutique thoroughbred auction held on the eve of Royal Ascot, offers a unique platform to buy and sell Royal Ascot entries and international racing prospects as well as elite breeding stock.
Held in the beautiful setting of Kensington Palace Gardens, this is the curtain raiser to the most prestigious week in flat racing.
Over 500 smartly dressed folks are here, on this lovely sunny afternoon.Lots of stunning woman in their summer dresses.
Guests included ex Page 3 girl JACKIE ST CLAIR and CHRIS WRIGHT CBE ( now aged 79 ).
Music legend Chris Wright co-founded Chrysalis Records in the late 1960s.
Between 1996 and 2001, Wright was the owner of Queens Park Rangers F.C.
Also here were ex jockey and trainer JAMIE OSBORNE and his daughter SAFFIE who is also a jockey, and
trainer CHARLIE BROOKS and no doubt many more.
From 5pm to 6.30pm was the live auction , and around 25 horses were paraded and sold.
Lot 11 was called Sparkling Plenty (from Kingsman) was sold for an incredible £8.1 million.
This sale has a mad outcome in the end...
Auctioneer and Goffs CEO Henry Beeby described the evening’s events as unprecedented in his long career in the business. He told The Irish Field: “I had a live bid of £8 million, but the owner bought it back for £8.1 million, which they are perfectly entitled to do. Now they have decided to sell her for £5 million, or value.
From 6.30pm a quartet played an hour of cover songs.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food throughout the event ,including Pimm's, Gin & Tonics , wines, beers ,canapes, finger sandwiches, desserts and tubs of ice cream from Fluffy Puffin.
An excellent event.
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Sunday 16 June 2024.
See my Facebook page for a fun posting involving me and THE SEX PISTOLS.
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Saturday 15 June 2024.
FLEETWOOD BAC (Fleetwood Mac) + DESPERADO (Eagles) live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
A nice double bill of tribute bands.
I have seen both the original Fleetwood Mac and Eagles a few times each.
Both bands have sold mega-millions over the years.
This week Fleetwood Mac still have two albums in the UK Top 40 chart.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed and plenty of space on the other two levels , so maybe only 500 tickets sold.
DESPERADOS on at 7.15pm for their 1 hour 15 mins.
Seven members on stage , just in checked shirts.
The singer said he has been a big fan of The Eagles since 1971 , when he saw them supporting Neil Young at The Rainbow Theatre , London.
Lots of their best tracks played, including Joe Walsh .
' Take It Easy', 'Lyin' Eyes', 'Tequila Sunrise', ' One Of These Nights', 'Lifes Been Good' , 'Life In The Fast Lane' and a mega finale of 'Hotel California'.
FLEETWOOD BAC on at 9pm for their 1 Hour 45 mins.
All five members of the band are dressed in Fleetwood Mac type stage wear , and a couple of dodgy wigs. They even throw in a a couple of tetchy moments between Stevie and Lyndsey .
Lots of their hits played.
Like Abba , Fleetwood Mac attract a lot of female fans ,and many are singing loudly and dancing.
Highlights included ' The Chain', 'Oh Well', ' Little Lies',
'Songbird', ' Big Love', 'Tusk', 'Rhiannon', 'Everywhere', and top notch encores of 'Dont Stop' and 'Go Your Own Way'.
It was only tribute bands , but a really good night.
Updated 16th June 2024 Permalink
Thursday 13 June 2024.
Interesting news.
My security chums at Shepherds Bush Empire said that Wednesday 12 June The Foo Fighters were there having behind closed doors rehearsal's the day before their opening stadium show in Manchester Thursday night.
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Thursday 13 June 2024.
CROWDED HOUSE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
This show sold out very quickly, which is no real surprise as their UK tour a couple of years ago featured four sold out shows at The Roundhouse.
They are playing several big outdoor shows around the UK in June, including Blenheim Palace.
I have seen them live a couple of times before.
Crowded House have sold over 15 million albums worldwide.They will be promoting their 8th studio album 'Gravity Stairs' .
Their leader Neil Finn is also a member of the current Fleetwood Mac line-up.
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The venue is rammed solid with middle aged folks.
LIAM FINN arrived on stage at 7.55pm for 30 mins.
He is the son of Neil Finn.
He was solo and played an enjoyable set.
He mixed playing guitar with drum loops and playing some manic drums with guitar loops.
CROWDED HOUSE arrived on stage at 8.55pm for their 1 hour 50 mins set.
A very nice surprise to see MICK FLEETWOOD introduce the band, and support his Fleetwood Mac band mate. He played bongo for the first song and during the encore, he got on the drums.
Six musicians on stage and a nice stage backdrop.
Some songs plodded a bit , but plenty of hits played.
Some songs rocked out really good, and the pop harmonies were top notch.
They reminded me of Squeeze during several songs.
Some nice humour from Neil Finn between songs.
An enjoyable show.
Full CROWDED HOUSE setlist played tonight ..
World Where You Live ( with Mick Fleetwood)
Teenage Summer
I Can't Keep Up With You
Fall at Your Feet
Pineapple Head
The Howl
All That I Can Ever Own
The Age of Aquarius (The 5th Dimension cover) (Impromptu snippet)
Where Is Love? ( Lionel Bart cover) (Impromptu snippet)
When You Come
Private Universe
Some Greater Plan (For Claire) (with Elias Dendias on bouzouki & Tryfon Baitsis on guitar)
To the Island
Oh Hi
Something So Strong (dedicated to Jamie via paper airplane)
Distant Sun
Don't Dream It's Over
Encore:
It's Only Natural
I Got You ( Split Enz cover) (with Mick Fleetwood)
Not Like Other Men (Mick Fleetwood cover) (Acapella snippet)
Weather With You (with Mick Fleetwood) (& Elias Dendias on bouzouki & Tryfon Baitsis on guitar)
Four Seasons in One Day (with Elias Dendias on bouzouki)
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Wednesday 12 June 2024.
7pm to 10pm.
THE 256th ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS SUMMER EXHIBITION PREVIEW PARTY , Piccadilly, London W1.
This is one of the ' Big Three' summer social soirees in Central London, that happen every June.
Later this month , will be the V & A summer party and The Serpentine Gallery summer party.
A massive crowd as around 1000 guests are here.
Several well known faces are here , including.....
Luke Morley from Thunder is the only rocker here.
I saw him here a few years ago.
Sir Grayson Perry, Sir Oswald Boateng, Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, Jennifer Saunders, Daniel Lismore, Tom Odell, Nenah Cherry , Claudia Winkleman , Mabel, Clara Amfo, Joy Crookes , Cora Corre, Jackie St Clair, Miquita Oliver , Ben Cobb , Nick Grimshaw, Basia Briggs , Annie Mac , Fat Tony, Pixie Geldof,Amanda Wakeley, David Renfry, David Downton, Ron Arad.
Lots of glamorous women wearing stunning outfits .
See Getty Images for 200 nice photos of the guests .
Female and male djs spinning tracks.
SEKOU and his band performed in the courtyard later in the evening.In 2023, he performed on the BBC Two television show Later… with Jools Holland and Sekou was nominated for the Brit Award for Rising Star at the 2024 BRIT Awards. His five song 20 mins set included his singles ' Forgiving Myself' , 'Crying' and 'Better Man'.
Lots of lovely complimentary drinks and food as the main sponsors are Fortnum & Mason , so Fortnum & Mason champers , three different cocktails, different bowl food, canapes , oysters, desserts etc.
It is open to the public until 18 August 2024.
See my Facebook page for some videos and photos.
Updated 13th June 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 11 June 2024.
Tuesday 11 June 2024.
NOFX live at Brixton Academy.
This was their first of two shows at this venue ,which
are the last shows on their European Tour.
It is also their only UK shows on the tour.
A farewell tour to celebrate their 40 year career.
The dates will see the band play three different albums each night. On Tuesday (June 11), they’ll perform ‘Punk In Drublic’, ‘Wolves in Wolves’ Clothing’ and ‘Pump Up’, and on Wednesday (June 12), they’ll play ‘So Long & Thanks’, ‘White Trash’ and ‘The Decline'.
They will have different supports bands for both days.
Pretty much a mini punk festival , as five bands playing each night , along with a DJ..Doors open 5pm.
I have seen NOFX twice before
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Tonight is pretty full , but not sold out upstairs
Maybe 4000 out of 5000 tickets sold.
Maybe the £75 ticket , was too steep for a punk gig.
LAST HOUNDS on at 5.30pm for 30 mins.
Singer is shirtless from the start of their good set.
BARSTOOL PREACHERS on at 6.15pm for 30 mins.
They had keyboards ,so a bit of a punk ska sound.
CODEFENDANTS on at 7pm for 30 mins
All the band in suits with white shirts , with some ska and reggae in their lively set.
DESCENDANTS on at 7.50pm for 40 mins.
They have a lot of their own fans here
I saw them play Shepherds Bush Empire Aug 2019.
The crowd started full on moshing for them.
NOFX oddly had a 10 minute ' piss break' so they actually played two sets of 65 mins and 30 mins.
Looking down from the circle balcony was fun as the full scale moshing for the first 20 or 30 rows in the stalls standing was mental to watch and the security in the pit were kept busy with non-stop crowd surfing.
A nice touch was they had around 100 guests behind them on stage watching the show behind barriers.
Lots of catchy pop punk , with a bit of ska thrown in.
All the band are wearing shorts.
Too much juvenile banter between songs for my liking. Many songs were cut short. In fact at one stage the singer said "we are going to play 10 songs in 7 minutes".
A good show and event overall.
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Monday 10 June 2024.
6.30pm to 11.30pm.
NATIONAL RESTAURANT AWARDS 2024 at Magazine, North Greenwich London SE.
The Ledbury in Notting Hill has been named the UK’s best restaurant at the prestigious National Restaurant Awards, marking the fourth time it has won the award.
Much talked-about new venue Mountain received second place in what was a standout night for the capital – 53 out of the top 100 are London-based. Interestingly Kol, which was named as the UK’s best restaurant in the World Restaurant Awards, only placed 49th.
Last year’s winner Ynyshir dropped to fifth while Moor Hall, placing in third, was the top entry outside London. Other highlights include a lifetime achievement award for Michel Roux, chef of the year award for Chishuru’s Adejoké Bakare and the ‘chef to watch’ honour going to Akoko‘s Ayo Adeyemi.
Visit their website for the Top 100 restaurants list.
Around 500 guests here in the their new venue.
I went several times when it was held at The Hurlingham Club, Fulham.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food for all.
Piper Heidsieck Champagne, different cocktails, wines, beers , ciders and four different food trucks.
The venue has outdoor space and views by the water .
Plenty of seating indoors and outdoors
We were seated indoors for the awards at 8.45pm for an hour.
Updated 11th June 2024 Permalink
Sunday 09 June 2024.
Sunday 09 June 2024.
GARY NUMAN live at The Roundhouse.
This is the last of his three shows at this venue, and the last date on his current UK tour.
I have seen Gary Numan around 25 times since Hammersmith Odeon in 1980. He would play multi-nights there on his 1980s tours.
I last saw him in August 2022 when he performed at The Rebellion Festival , Blackpool.
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Gary's loyal fans have turned out for another tour.
Black clothing is the colour of choice for his fans.
Chants of ' Numan , Numan ,Numan' ring out .
GARY NUMAN arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
The band arrive on stage wearing black and it's all very dark and moody.
Tall , bald headed guitarist and bassist are straight out of The Adams Family ,but compliment Gary well.
Very nice stage production with lots of lights.
Gary still does his arty little dance movements.
The overall sound of the band was great.
The first three songs were excellent , then it ticked along nicely, and great to hear a few of his old hits.
The encore of older hit classics ' Cars' and 'Are Friends Electric?' was fantastic.... great show.
Amazing to see DAVE GROHL dancing enthusiastically side of stage for the encore.
The Foo Fighters UK stadium tour starts on Thursday 13 June in Manchester.
Full GARY NUMAN setlist played tonight...
Replicas
M.E.
Me! I Disconnect From You
Films
We Have a Technical
Do You Need the Service?
Engineers
Observer
Praying to the Aliens
Track
Conversation
It Must Have Been Years
You Are in My Vision
Airlane
Complex
Down in the Park
The Machman
Metal
Only a Downstat
We Are So Fragile
Encore:
Cars
Are 'Friends' Electric?
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Saturday 08 June 2024.
SCORPIONS + EXTREME live at Wembley Arena.
A great pairing of Classic Rock bands.
This is a must see gig for any rock fan as Scorpions have not played London for several years.
German rock legends Scorpions have announced their first UK concert in five years, which was not in London.
Rudolf Schenker, Klaus Meine, Matthias Jabs, Pawel Maciwoda and Mikkey Dee will perform their only UK concert of 2024.
The show is part of the Love at First Sting World Tour, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Scorpions’ ninth studio album ‘Love at First Sting’, which featured the huge singles ‘Rock You Like a Hurricane’ and ‘Big City Nights.’
Alongside songs from ‘Love at First Sting’, Scorpions will be performing hits from their distinguished six-decade back catalogue.
Scorpions’ very special guests at London OVO Arena Wembley will be their fellow rock icons Extreme, who in Dec 2023 , wrapped up their rapturously received headline UK tour...i saw both Forum London shows.
I have seen Scorpions around 15 times since when they headlined Hammersmith Odeon in 1979.
I have seen Extreme around a dozen times since 1991 when I saw all five of their Hammersmith Odeon shows when their classic album 'Pornograffiti' and all it's hits kicked off worldwide.
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Needless to say I was really looking forward to this.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder for Scorpions fans , as tonight is sold out despite £100 tickets down the front.
The merch queues were enormous.
First of all a mention of legendary live music booking agent ROD MacSWEEN who is agent to both bands tonight and it is his 75th birthday today....he looks much younger....in Dec 2023 when i met Extreme at their Forum aftershow party, i mentioned to the band it was Rods birthday on the day of this gig, and they get the crowd to sing Happy Birthday to him tonight.
EXTREME are on at 7.45pm for their 65 mins set.
I have a great close view seat in guest list block S6.
Extreme play a great set including their mega hits 'More Than Words' and ' Get The Funk Out'.
Singer Gary Cherone bends and twists his body all around the stage, as Nuno plays brilliant guitar riffs.
Full EXTREME setlist played tonight...
It ('s a Monster)
Decadence Dance
#REBEL
Am I Ever Gonna Change
We Will Rock You (Queen cover) (Snippet)
Play With Me
Hole Hearted
Midnight Express
More Than Words
Cupid (Sam Cooke cover) (Snippet)
Cupid's Dead
What's the Buzz (From Jesus Christ Superstar - Snippet)
Happy Birthday to You ( Mildred J. Hill & Patty Hill cover) (for Rod MacSween (ITB))
Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee
Get the Funk Out
RISE
SCORPIONS are on at 9.20pm for their 95 mins set.
Scorpions have a stunning stage production.
A massive screen at the back showing stunning digital images , and two side screens showing live footage......along with a stage extension.
Loads of lights too....it really looked stunning.
The band are fully rehearsed to perfection.
The band give out drum sticks and guitar picks
throughout the show.
They played their most well known tracks in the second half of the set , which brought the house down.
Mikkey Dee performed a fantastic drum solo with the strobe lights blasting away.
As full standing ovation for them at the end , as they took their bows...a fantastic show.
Full SCORPIONS setlist played tonight....
Coming Home
Gas in the Tank
Make It Real
The Zoo
Coast to Coast
I'm Leaving You
Crossfire
Bad Boys Running Wild
Delicate Dance (Electric)
Send Me an Angel
Wind of Change
Tease Me Please Me
The Same Thrill
New Vision (Drum solo)
Blackout
Big City Nights
Encore:
Still Loving You
Rock You Like a Hurricane
Updated 9th June 2024 Permalink
Friday 07 June 2024.
Friday 07 June 2024.
THE ZOMBIES live at The Barbican.
The Zombies have a very special gig happening on June 7th at London's Barbican to celebrate 60 years since they made their first tape recordings. Fans of the band such as Paul Weller, Irwin Sparkes (Hoosiers) and Sarah Brown (Simple Minds) will be joining Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent (both now aged 78) on stage to perform their favourite Zombies songs.
Paul Weller has said “The Zombies made one of the all-time greatest records in ' Odyssey and Oracle' .
1968 album Odessey and Oracle' was ranked number 100 on Rolling Stone's 2012 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time,and number 243 on Rolling Stone's 2020 list.The Zombies were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.
The Zombies are currently touring the UK with tour support from The Wandering Hearts and will be on the main stage at Latitude Festival this Summer (Sunday 28th July) .
I have seen The Zombies a couple of times before.
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A mainly older crowd here, but all ages are present.
Their merch stand is selling their latest vinyl album which is signed by all the band for a bargain £25.
Their t-shirts were also a reasonable £20 each.
The venue looks pretty much sold out.
THE ZOMBIES were on stage for 1 hour 50 mins over two sets of 45 mins and 65 mins.
They were introduced by a dapper Paul Weller.
Five main musicians , and a percussionist on some.
Colin and Rod are looking great for their 78 years.
Colin's vocals are nice and clear , and the overall sound is perfect.
They started the set by playing songs from their first ever studio sessions for Decca back in 1964.
They played a few tracks from their 2023 album ' Different Game' , which made the UK Top 10 and the USA Top 50 charts.
Lots of very nifty keyboards and guitar playing.
Not surprisingly , Paul Weller got the biggest cheers of the special guests, and maybe a few have come just for him.
The second set had tracks from their classic album ' Odyssey and Oracle' which got big applause.
'Time Of The Season', 'Hold Your Head Up' and 'She's Not There' all got standing ovations . Rod Argent told an Interesting story that I didn't know. I thought the chorus was ' Hold Your Head Up Woah' but it's actually 'Hold Your Head Up Woman'....a great show.
Full setlist played by THE ZOMBIES tonight...
Set 1: Introduced by Paul Weller
It's Alright With Me
I Want You Back Again
Sticks and Stones (Titus Turner cover)
I Love You
Different Game
You Could Be My Love
Tell Her No
You've Really Got a Hold on Me / Bring It On Home to Me
Summertime (George Gershwin cover) (with Sarah Brown)
Dropped Reeling & Stupid
Set 2:
Care of Cell 44 (with Irwin Sparkes)
This Will Be Our Year
Beechwood Park (with Paul Weller)
Butcher's Tale (Western Front 1914) ( with Chris White)
A Rose for Emily
Time of the Season
Merry-Go-Round
Hold Your Head Up (Argent cover)
She's Not There
The Way I Feel Inside ( just Colin and Rod)
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Thursday 06 June 2024.
I went to two events today.
6.30pm to 815pm.
SWAINE - summer party - 126/127 New Bond Street, London W1.
Swaine, one of the UK’s oldest luxury goods brands, founded in 1750 and formerly known as Swaine Adeney Brigg, last year opened a new 7,000 sq ft flagship store at 126-127 New Bond Street “as the centrepiece of its most radical rebrand in 273 years”.
The new retail space, which complements the brand’s existing Burlington Arcade boutique, is the largest store in the brand’s history and will showcase its growing product offering in an environment that mirrors its new creative direction.
Housed in a handsome 19th Century building, the flagship consists of a ground floor and mezzanine level displaying Swaine’s full complement of men’s and women’s leather goods and luggage alongside Herbert Johnson hats and Brigg umbrellas – both brands of the Swaine family.
Tonight their amazing basement work room is open to view , where they craft their top quality products.
There are demonstrations here.
Over 100 guests are here over the three levels.
Man about town ALISTAIR GUY is here.
A female duo are performing cover songs.
Complimentary Bollinger champers and carton trays
of Hams ,Cheeses and fruits from the same company that supplied the theatre party last night .
then
8.30pm to 9.15pm...private view -
W1 Curates present Fabian Aerts 'Odyssey'.
at Flannels , 161-167 Oxford Street , London W1.
Their monthly party here is the same as usual.
More a nightclub vibe than your normal gallery.
Loud DJ sounds as the fantastic digital art is spread around three walls of the venue, with dimmed lights
Complimentary spirits n mixers , wines and beers.
Updated 6th June 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 05 June 2024.
Got told about this Wednesday event a bit too late.
It was on the radar,but you can't be everywhere.
Legendary music pr Alan Edwards had his book launch in London and guests included three members of The Sex Pistols STEVE JONES, PAUL COOK, GLEN MATLOCK along with TONY JAMES and BILLY DUFFY.
Wednesday 05 June 2024.
I went to two events tonight
6.45pm to 9pm
SERPENTINE PAVILLION - launch party - Serpentine Gallery , Kensington Gardens, London.
The five-pointed star structure is designed by South Korean architect MINSUK CHO.
Comprised of five ‘islands’, each structure of the Pavilion is unique in size, form, name and purpose, providing a multifaceted platform for Serpentine’s live programme from June to October.
A big crowd of around 300 guests from the art world .
SIR NORMAN FOSTER is here.
n 1990, Norman Foster was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his service to British architecture.
Also here was original 1970s punk rocker and 1980s blitz kid PHILIP SALLON.
There were speeches at 7.45pm.
Complimentary Ruinart champers, wines , three different cocktails and beers for all the guests.
then
9.30pm to 11.30pm
KATHY & STELLA SOLVE A MURDER !
Press night opening party next to the Ambassadors Theatre, London .
This comedy musical had a odd opening night.
The show halted its performance after act one due to a “major water leak”, with patrons left wondering who committed the titular murder – and forced to find out another day.
The murder-mystery musical comedy is penned by Matthew Floyd Jones and Jon Brittain and co-directed by Brittain and Fabian Aloise (who also serves as choreographer for the production). It follows two true crime podcasters who find themselves in the midst of an actual whodunnit, when their favourite author is killed.
They still had the party for over 200 guests.
The actors were here , but no big name guests.
There was a fun photo booth.
A DJ is playing tunes in the overflow room.
Complimentary prosecco , gin cocktails, wines , pints of Guinness , pints of lager and a grazing buffet table with different hams , cheeses , fruits etc.
It is on here until 14 Sept 2024.
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Tuesday 04 June 2024.
A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE -
press/VIP opening night -
Theatre Royal Haymarket , London SW1.
DOMINIC WEST leads an all-star cast in this hotly anticipated production, as he is joined by Olivier and Tony Award nominee Kate Fleetwood (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Macbeth, London Road) and BAFTA Cymru award winner Callum Scott Howells, star of Channel 4’s It’s A Sin and West End phenomenon Cabaret.
The after-party was at the swimming pool
In The Haymarket Hotel near the theatre.
Over 200 guests here , including cast and some well known faces , including.....
DOMINIC WEST
KATE FLEETWOOD
CALLUM SCOTT HOWELLS
DAMIAN LEWIS
ALISON MOSSHART
DAVINA McCALL
MICHAEL SHEEN
FELICITY KENDALL
ANAIS GALLAGHER
It is on here until 03 August 2024.
Complimentary prosecco , wines , beers , cheeseburgers , cartons of fish n chips and canapes.
See my Facebook page for some good photos.