Saturday 05 November 2022.
Friday 04 November 2022.
LIGHTNING SEEDS + BADLY DRAWN BOY play Shepherds Bush Empire.
Lightning Seeds had 14 x Top 40 hits in the UK , including a number one with "Three Lions".
Lightning Seeds release their first album in 13 years, ‘See You In The Stars’...new single ‘Sunshine’
Due for release on October 14, the album coincides with a new 14-date tour for the Autumn.
Although Lightning Seeds’ 1996 football anthem ‘Three Lions’ with comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner has revisited the Top 40 singles chart four times in the last 13 years – reaching Number One in 2018 – ‘Sunshine’ is the first new Lightning Seeds song since their sixth album ‘Four Winds’ was released in 2009.
I have seen Lightning Seeds a few times since 1997, when they headlined The Astoria.
I have seen Badly Drawn Boy a few times since 2001 , when he headlined The Royal Albert Hall,
after winning The Mercury Album Prize and NME voting him Best Solo Artist.
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Level 3 is closed tonight, but all other levels look full.
Another show here with at least 100 folks on the guest list.
The only face I saw was legendary music pr BARBARA CHARONE from MBC PR.
MBC was born on November 1, 2000. Within six months it became one of the country’s top music PR firms. The company was founded by joint directors Moira Bellas and Barbara Charone.
Before that Barbara Charone was with WEA for 25 years.
The current client roster includes: Madonna, Mark Ronson, Foo Fighters,
Jake Bugg, Keith Richards, Rod Stewart, Dido, Tom Walker, Jack Savoretti, Olly Murs, Paloma Faith, Metallica, Imagine Dragons, Kasabian, Depeche Mode, Rag’n’Bone Man, Pearl Jam, Tom Chaplin, Ray Davies, Simply Red, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, Rufus Wainwright, The Divine Comedy, OMD and Cage the Elephant.
BADLY DRAWN BOY arrived on stage at 7.45pm for his 45 mins set.
Badly Drawn Boy (aka Damon Gough) is still wearing his trademark beanie woolly hat.
He sung his good songs , alternating him playing guitar and playing keyboards.
He has gone off the radar recently , compared to how popular he was 20 years ago.
Full BADLY DRAWN BOY setlist played tonight...
A Journey From A to B
This Is That New Song
The Shining
Something to Talk About
All Possibilities (with snippet of Thinking of You by Sister Sledge)
A Minor Incident
Born in the U.K.
You Were Right
Once Around the Block
Silent Sigh
LIGHTNING SEEDS arrived on stage at 9pm for their 95 mins set.
The band have eight rectangular screens showing digital images behind them.
Liverpudlian Ian Broudie certainly knows how to write really good catchy pop tunes.
Gems like "Lucky You" and "Perfect" were played in the first half of the set , and the
last six songs of the evening starting with a cover of "Whole Wide World" and finishing with
the mass singalong to football anthem "Three Lions" were excellent.
A great show.
Full LIGHTNING SEEDS setlist played tonight...
Sunshine
Ready or Not
Change
All I Want
Lucky You
Perfect
Great To Be Alive
Feeling Lazy
Sense
What If...
Waiting for Today to Happen
You Showed Me (The Byrds cover)
Telling Tales
Losing You
Emily Smiles
Whole Wide World (Wreckless Eric cover)
Sugar Coated Iceberg
Pure
The Life of Riley
Encore:
Marvellous
Three Lions
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COMPETITION TIME...
Legendary metal band GWAR are releasing a 120 mins film on 24 Oct 2022.
Contains a mixture of live footage and interviews....DVD (£15.99) and Blu-Ray (£19.99).
They have been described as "there is no band like GWAR" , "shock rock legends" and
" one of the sickest bands in the world".
Gwar has been nominated for two Grammy Awards, but lost to Annie Lennox and Nine Inch Nails.
I have two DVD or Blu-Ray's to give away.
Question - in what year did GWAR release their debut album?
Send your answer to ray@raysgigs.com before 26 Oct 2022.
With your name and address and preferred choice of DVD or Blu-Ray.
COMPETITION NOW CLOSED.
Blu-Ray's on the way to...Ian in Wallington and John in Sunbury-on-Thames.
Updated 5th November 2022 Permalink
Thursday 03 November 2022.
Thursday 03 November 2022.
THE RASMUS live at The Forum.
Finnish rock band who have released 10 studio albums.
I saw them play the once before back in 2004.
They had their two biggest hits in 2004, in the UK.
"In The Shadows" reached number 3, and "Guilty" reached number 15.
Their album from 2004, "Dead Letters" reached number 10 in the UK.
They have gone off the radar a bit since then.
This show is the last one on their UK & European Tour.
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Not sold out, but pretty full here tonight.
Lots of Finnish accents in the crowd.
THE RASMUS arrived on stage at 9pm for their 95 mins set.
They were never as cool as other Finnish acts, like Hanoi Rocks or Michael Monroe.
Lots of lights , including lots of strobe lighting.
The fans seems to know all the songs played tonight.
Highlights included the two hit singles, but other tracks felt a bit average and a cover of
"Ghostbusters" theme seemed pointless.
A pretty average show overall.
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Thursday 03 November 2022.
My GLEN MATLOCK BAND review from Tuesday is now up on www.sex-pistols.net
It has also a couple of the photos i took on the night.
www.sex-pistols.net has now passed 14 million views.
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Wednesday 02 November 2022.
SUGABABES live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Mutya, Keisha and Siobhan reunite for their first headline tour in over 10 years.
SUGABABES had 18 x Top 10 hits in the UK, including 6 number ones.
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Their UK tour comes three years after the pop trio finally reclaimed their original name and almost ten years after releasing new music under MKS, back in 2013. Over the last 21 years, there have been four iterations of the Sugababes, but this latest reunion just feels right.
You kinda sometimes forgot how popular some acts were.
Tonight is totally rammed sold out, and there is a fantastic atmosphere from a crowd
made up of mainly from the LGBT+ community and groups of females.
SUGABABES arrived on stage at 9.10pm for their 80 mins set.
Straight into a mega "Push The Button" and it's full on pop party , as the hits rolled in.
A dazzling light show and a disco ball were here, even though the dance routines were a bit basic.
So many catchy hits had the crowd in raptures , throughout the show.
Tracks "Ugly" and "Stronger" were top notch, even though they never topped the charts.
The Gary Numan sample throughout "Freak Like Me" was superb.
We had some ticker-tape confetti near the end of the show.
Last three songs of the evening were all number ones, and sent the crowd home very happy.
A great show, that was much better than expected.
Full SUGABABES setlist played tonight....
Push the Button (number one in 2002)
Red Dress
Hole in the Head (number one in 2003)
Too Lost in You
Flatline (Mutya Keisha Siobhan cover)
2 Hearts
Today (Mutya Keisha Siobhan cover)
Ugly
Love Me Hard ( Keisha Siobhan cover)
Stronger
Overload
Flowers (Sweet Female Attitude cover)
Round Round (number one in 2002)
Freak Like Me (Adina Howard cover) (number one in 2002)
Encore:
About You Now (number one in 2007)
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Wed 02 Nov -- Prog legend KIETH EMERSON book release...via www.keithemersonbook.com
The lavish, fully illustrated book in which family, friends, colleagues, and fans talk about the life, work and legacy of Keith Emerson will be widely available on what would have been Keith’s 78th birthday.
There are two deluxe editions – the Classic, and the Signature which is signed by author Chris Welch and Aaron Emerson and comes with an exclusive art print portrait of Keith, a CD of an unheard interview, and sheet music of the very first piece of music composed by the then twelve-year-old Keith, titled “Quatermass Boogie Woogie.
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Tuesday 01 November 2022...I went to two events tonight...
6pm to 7pm
IF ONLY THESE WALLS CAN TALK - private view - 27 Cork Street Gallery , Mayfair, London W1.
A very upmarket art crowd here , with many of the women in very glamourous outfits.
The Standard showbiz photographer DAVE BENETT is here taking photos.
Performance artist PANDEMONIA was here - 6' 6" tall head to toe , in bright latex.
As usual many of the crowd wanted a photo with her.
One room is full of erotic images on the walls, with ladies in lingerie.
Complimentary Nicolas Courtin champers,wines and macaroons for the guests.
then
7.15pm to 11pm
THE LOWER THIRD - launch party - 26 Denmark Street, London WC2.
London’s 12 Bar Club opens under a new name, The Lower Third, in The Outernet complex.
The landmark venue on Denmark Street, which closed for redevelopment in 2015, was renowned for hosting early shows for acts who went on to reach stardom including Adele, Regina Spektor and Jeff Buckley.
Its location in the nicknamed “Tin Pan Alley” of London was at the heart of much British musical history. David Bowie famously hung out on Denmark Street in the ’60s, and The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, the Sex Pistols and Elton John all recorded or rehearsed their early works at recording studios on the street. NME‘s offices were formerly located there.
The venue has a capacity of 250 , and maybe 150 are here tonight including RUSTY EGAN and
MICK TALBOT.
It is quite fitting that a Sex Pistol is performing at the launch event.
At 7.40pm GLEN MATLOCK BAND played a great 60 mins set.
First show for years that i have seen a keyboard player in Glens band, which sounded really good.
Easy to get a nice close-up position near the stage, to take a few photos.
An excellent set as the band were all on top form.
Full GLEN MATLOCK setlist played tonight...
Rattle Your Cage
Who's Side Are You On ?
Magic Carpet Ride
Hook In You
Ghosts of Princes in Towers (Rich Kids song)
Blank Generation (Richard Hell & the Voidoids cover)
Consequences Coming
Couldn't Give A Damn
Head On A Stick
Can't Be Myself
Born Running (Glen Matlock & the Philistines song)
Pretty Vacant (Sex Pistols song)
Encore:
All or Nothing (Small Faces cover)
Complimentary bar all night (except champers) so a good time to get stuck into some JD & cokes.
A great band , in a great new Central London club venue, supporting emerging talent.
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THE CURLING CLUB @ The Southbank.
I couldn't get along for the launch of this venue, as it clashed with the above events.
Try a weird, wonderful winter sport in an awesome alpine setting.
Gather your friends and loved ones to find out whose curling skills are on point, and power your night with wintery cocktails and delicious food.
This alpine-themed curling pop-up is a seriously slick way to glide into the spirit of winter.
Combining casual curling with seasonal cocktails, indulgent food and festive music, The Curling Club delivers fun après ski vibes with a light dusting of competition. See you on the ice!
Book now
Opening times
Tuesday 1 November 2022 – Tuesday 3 January 2023
Monday – Sunday, 11am – 11pm
Location
The Builder’s Yard, under Hungerford Bridge
Updated 2nd November 2022 Permalink
Monday 31 October 2022.
Monday 31 October 2022....I went to two events tonight.
6pm to 7.30pm.
THE ART OF MOTORING - private view - Sotheby's , 34 New Bond Street, Mayfair, London W1.
First held in 2015 the annual Art of Motoring Exhibition is organised and curated by Andrew Marriott of Pitlane Productions and Rupert Whyte of Historic Car Art in association with the Royal Automobile Club and Sotheby’s. The show will be held from 31st October to 5th November 2022 at the Conduit Gallery, Sotheby’s, Bond St., London....free admission daily 9.30am to 4.30pm
All artworks are available to buy in person at the exhibition or online through the gallery section on this website during and after the live exhibition.
We had a speech at 6.45pm to introduce the various artists attending here tonight.
Complimentary Forget-Brimont champers , wines and canapes for all the guests here.
then
7.40pm to 9.30pm.
MACABRE - private view - Christie's , 8 King Street, St James's, London SW1.
All the art on display is related to the Macabre.
A cool younger crowd here, with many in ghoulish Halloween outfits.
Fashionista DANIEL LISMORE was here.
The gallery is nice and darkened to give it a scary Halloween vibe.
A DJ is playing tunes to keep it lively.
Complimentary Perrier Jouet champers , two different gin cocktails from Seventy One Gin
and a Halloween Sweets stand in one of the rooms.
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Sunday 30 October 2022.
KIEFER SUTHERLAND live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Famous American actor releases his third album of country music titled "Bloor Street".
He is playing a European and UK tour to promote it.
Kiefer Sutherland (now aged 55) is a British-Canadian actor. He was born in Paddington, London.
He is best known for his starring role as Jack Bauer in the Fox drama series "24" , (2001 to 2010, 2014), for which he won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award.
He has starred in many films over the past 30 odd years.
His father is the legendary actor Donald Sutherland.
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Level 3 is closed , and Level 2 is half empty so maybe 1000 folks here max.
Nearly all the crowd are in early , as if it's a West End theatre show.
Support band FINE LINES arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
They played a decent set of country tinged Americana tracks from their three albums.
Mostly male lead vocals, but the female backing singer also had her own lead vocal for one song.
KIEFER SUTHERLAND arrived on stage at 9pm and played for 85 mins.
Sutherland took the stage , which was cosily set up like a living room with rug, table lamp, hat stand, chair and glass of whisky. His band were nicely spread out around the stage.
Sutherland’s third album "Bloor Street" came out earlier this year, and is another slice of Americana with but with some additional influences in the mix such as country and R&B. It also reinforces his prowess as a down to earth and engaging storyteller, something apparent throughout the evening as he often introduced songs with a little back story about them.
He told us about his teenage years in Toronto, Canada, along with his stint as a rodeo rider touring
North America in the 1990s, and tales of drinking even though he has spent 48 days in jail for
drink driving.
He performed two lesser known Tom Petty tracks, and Kiefer really enjoyed himself tonight.
For the two song encore, he ditched his guitar , and did some energetic dancing on stage.
A vey enjoyable show.
Full KIEFER SUTHERLAND setlist played tonight...
Ole' lonely life
Can't Stay Away
Chasing the Rain
Going Down
Going Home
Something You Love
Reckless & Me
Two Stepping in Time
Blame It on Your Heart (Patty Loveless cover)
Bloor Street
County Jail Gate
Ways to Be Wicked (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers cover)
So Full of Love
Set Me Free
This Is How It's Done
Honey Bee (Tom Petty cover)
Down in a Hole
Encore:
Friday Night
Agave
Updated 31st October 2022 Permalink
Saturday 29 October 2022.
Saturday 29 October 2022.
THE DAMNED live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Saturday: Special guests - Rezillos + TV Smith & The Bored Teenagers + Smalltown Tigers.
The atmosphere didn't seem as good as the opening first night of the tour last night.
Last night was full, but a couple of rear corner blocks in the balcony were unsold tonight.
Again, nice to see so many punk rock chums here that i know.
Hardcore Damned fan Kevin Shepherd (has seen The Damned over 600 times) is collecting
signatures for a petition for the band to appear on The Graham Norton Show.
GLEN MATLOCK was here...also GAYE BLACK ex The Adverts.
Also Jenny the lead singer in cool girl band THE PRISCILLAS.
Again , the march stands selling t-shirts are doing a roaring trade.
SMALLTOWN TIGERS arrived on stage at 6.30pm for a short 20 mins set.
Italian female trio playing some catchy pop punk tunes.
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TV SMITH & THE BORED TEENAGERS on at 7.10pm for his 30 mins set.
He played the same set as last night, so always good to hear those gems from The Adverts
including "No Time to Be 21" , "Gary Gilmores Eyes" , "Bored Teenagers" and "One Chord Wonders".
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THE REZILLOS arrived on stage at 8pm for their 45 mins set.
Really good to see The Rezillos play a nice best of set.
Having said that, I did prefer The Skids yesterday to The Rezillos.
Full REZILLOS setlist played tonight...
Destination Venus
Flying Saucer Attack
Do the Mutilation (The Revillos cover)
Sorry About Tomorrow
Top of the Pops
(My Baby Does) Good Sculptures
Somebody's Gonna Get Their Head Kicked in Tonight
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THE DAMNED again arrived on stage at 9.20pm for their 70 mins set.
The same setlist and pretty much everything the same.
The Guardian gave the first show a tame three star review and Captain Sensible read some
of the review on stage " gloriously amateurish "....and he totally was happy with that.
Guitarist Brian James is reminding me of the current situation with Mick Mars from Motley
Crue who due to ill-health will not be touring with them anymore.
Brian plays the guitar well, but is stationary and wooden throughout the set.
Captain Sensible has that great bass sound as he plays the bass like a lead guitar.
A fan jumped on stage near the end, the security wrestled him to the ground, but
Dave Vanian told security to let him go, and the fan did some wild dancing with the band.
Classics like "Neat , Neat, Neat" and "New Rose" are the obvious highlights, but
it was again great to see them playing all the old songs like in 1976 /1977 when I first saw them.
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Friday 28 October 2022.
THE DAMNED live at Hammersmith Apollo.
This will be the punk event of the decade...since The Sex Pistols last reunion tour in 2007/2008.
By coincidence Sex Pistols NMTB album was released 45 years ago , on The Damned first night.
THE DAMNED original line-up has reunited for a short UK tour featuring all four founding members
Dave Vanian, Rat Scabies, Captain Sensible and Brian James.
They will be joined on tour by the following guests:
Friday : Special guests - Skids + TV Smith & The Bored Teenagers + Small Town Tigers
The greatest surviving British punk band THE DAMNED formed in 1976, releasing the first ever UK punk single ‘New Rose’ over forty years ago. Considered one of the greatest songs from this period, THE DAMNED’s ‘New Rose’ brought focus on the burgeoning punk scene but efore any other group.
On their up-coming tour they will celebrate the iconic single’s 45th anniversary, as well as perform tracks from the first two albums, B-sides and covers that the original line-up played.
I have seen The Damned around 50 times since 1976 when they played The 100 Club Punk Rock Festival.
I also saw them 10 times in 1977 alone, during the heyday year of punk rock.
I have seen them three times at this venue when it was called Hammersmith Odeon (1980,1982,1986).
SPECIAL REDUCED PRICE TICKET OFFER FROM VIVE LE ROCK MAGAZINE.
From 10 Oct buy tix for only £19.76 via www.vivelerock.net and use the code newrose
You can buy a live cd of the show from merch straight after the band finish their set, on both nights.
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The venue looks pretty full tonight, so around 5000 folks here, which includes stalls standing.
Great to see and chat to so many of my punk rock chums here.
PAUL COOK from SEX PISTOLS /THE PROFESSIONALS was here but left after 30 mins of The Damned.
QUIREBOYS singer SPIKE was here.
It was an excellent evening with all three bands playing great sets.
TV SMITH & THE BORED TEENAGERS arrived on stage at 7.10pm for their 30 mins set.
The lead singer of original punk band The Adverts whizzed through a great set their greatest hits.
Full TV SMITH setlist played tonight...
No Time to Be 21 (The Adverts cover)
Safety in Numbers (The Adverts cover)
We Who Wait (The Adverts cover)
Newboys (The Adverts cover)
On the Roof (The Adverts cover)
On Wheels (The Adverts cover)
My Place (The Adverts cover)
Bombsite Boy (The Adverts cover)
Great British Mistake (The Adverts cover)
Gary Gilmore's Eyes (The Adverts cover)
Bored Teenagers (The Adverts cover)
One Chord Wonders (The Adverts cover)
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THE SKIDS arrived on stage at 8pm and played for 45 mins.
Singer Richard Jobson is still doing his great energetic dancing style as he sings.
Scottish punk legends played all greatest hits tonight as well as a Clash classic from
their covers album that they released last year.
Full SKIDS setlist played tonight...
Of One Skin
The Saints Are Coming
Charade
Working for the Yankee Dollar
Out of Town
Masquerade
Circus Games
Into the Valley
TV Stars
Complete Control (The Clash cover)
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THE DAMNED arrived on stage at 9.20pm and played for 70 mins.
There are over 15 photographers in the pit as it is the first night of their reunion tour.
Lots of lights but no big screen or any type of backdrop.
Singer Dave Vanian looks gothly ghoulish as usual, and Rat Scabies has a nice big drum kit.
The overall sound is nice and loud and there is lots of moshing & pogoing at front of stage.
Guitarist Brian James still looks to be suffering from his health problem, as he is much
more static on stage , compared to Captain Sensible on bass.
Their first two singles "New Rose" and "Neat Neat Neat" still sound as mega as usual.
"Smash It Up" and "Love Song" among tracks not played as not part of the original line-up.
A couple of the album tracks were a bit average, but overall a great show.
Full DAMNED setlist playing tonight...
I Feel Alright (The Stooges cover)
You Take My Money
Help! (The Beatles cover)
Born to Kill
Stretcher Case Baby
Feel the Pain
I Fall
Fan Club
Alone
Fish
1 of the 2
Problem Child
Neat Neat Neat
Stab Yor Back
Sick of Being Sick
See Her Tonite
You Know
So Messed Up
Encore:
New Rose
Pills (Bo Diddley cover)
The Last Time (The Rolling Stones cover)
Updated 29th October 2022 Permalink
Thursday 27 October 2022.
Thursday 27 October 2022....I went to two events tonight...
6pm to 7.45pm
ICELANDAIR "AROUND THE CORNER" - private view - Phonica Records, 51 Poland Street , London W1.
We are in the large basement area of this cool vinyl dance record store in Soho.
Iceland (the country) is coming to London!
Icelandair has partnered with Inspired by Iceland, Blue Lagoon, and 66°North to create an unforgettable one-off experience in the middle of Soho.
A series of free events will bring the best of Iceland to you.
From 28 to 30 October, Iceland (the country) will literally be around the corner – and everyone’s invited!
When: Friday 28 to Sunday 30 October 2022. Check out our program for all the details
How to get around the corner: The nearest tube is Oxford Circus
Price: Free tickets, timed entry. Register for tickets via Eventbrite
Duration: We recommend that visits take around 1 hour
Age requirements: All ages are welcome, with Sunday a dedicated family day
Accessibility: The event is wheelchair accessible
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They have done a stunning job of transforming the basement area , as if you were in Iceland.
Spread over three areas Ice---Land---Air
All the staff , including the bar staff have been flown over by Icelandair.
There are headphones for each of the areas.
We have videos of Iceland showing The Blue Lagoon and The Northern Lights and an introduction from DAMON ALBARN on the big screen.
Damon Albarn has been coming to Iceland for nearly 30 years. What started as a quest to find the country he once saw in a dream has morphed into an extended affair.
We have a DJ playing cool tunes.
We have a display from the only Lava Show In The World
A female singer-songwriter from Iceland performed.
Complimentary vodka cocktails, gin cocktails , lagers and eight types of canapes from Iceland.
There were five spin the wheel prizes, including a pair of return flights to Iceland.
Well worth a visit to give you a taste of Iceland , as your next holiday location.
I have never been to Iceland, but it is certainly on my list to visit.
then
8.15pm to 10pm
THE NEW BLACK VANGUARD - private view - Saatchi Gallery , Kings Road, Chelsea , London SW3.
You know this event will be good , as the sponsors are BURBERRY.
Around 300 guests here with half the crowd from Caribbean /African communities as all the
photos on the walls are black folks from modelling, music, fashion, film and street normal.
The photos have been taken by 15 international black photographers.
Complimentary Pommery champers, Negronis and lots of different canapes and desserts.
A female DJ is playing tunes in the background.
It is on here until 22 Jan 2023.
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Wednesday 26 October 2022...I went to two events tonight...
6.45pm to 8.55pm.
THE HORROR SHOW! - private view - Somerset House, Strand, London WC2.
This exhibition celebrates 50 years of creative rebellion through three sections - Monster, Ghost and Witch.
An intriguing trawl through the nightmares of youth culture from over the decades.
Featuring art from Spitting Image to Siouxsie Sioux, this new Somerset House exhibition is as fun, anarchic and disturbing as punk itself.
The punk section items and photographers showing here included Jamie Reid, Jordan, Dennis Morris,
Ray Stevenson, Poly Styrene etc.
A lively big crowd of maybe 300 guests including a nice surprise to see NICK CAVE.
Many of the guests are dressed in goth and ghoulish attire.
Also PHILIP SALLON , SPIZZ ENERGI , PAM HOGG and 6' 6" head to toe latex artist PANDEMONIA.
Complimentary wines, beers and nibbles for all guests.
It is on from 27 Oct to 19 Feb - book via their website - £16.50 or £12 for concessions.
then a few minutes across the road to...
9pm to 11.30pm.
RAINDANCE FILM FESTIVAL - opening gala party - Waldorf Hotel, Aldwych, London WC2.
They are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year - 26 Oct to 05 Nov.
This party was held after the showing of the opening film nearby "Corner Office".
They are showing classic films along with some exclusive premieres at their venues.
Also interviews and QnAs with the directors and actors etc.
Curzon Mayfair
Curzon Soho
Genesis Mile End
The Garden Cinema, London WC2
Rio Cinema, London E8
Over 300 smartly dressed folks here, and always nice to see the girls in their posh frocks.
Folks love their selfies on the pretend red carpet with the Raindance Billboard behind.
Always nice to be in the ballroom at this historic five star hotel.
We have a nice 1920s swing band playing live and there is a DJ after the band.
A few actors here including VANESSA REDGRAVE and JONATHAN PRYCE.
Complimentary prosecco , wines and canapes for all the guests.
Not as good as last year , when we had champers, vodka cocktails and bowl food at The Dorchester.
A nice buzzy party , and a nice friendly crowd.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure.
Updated 27th October 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 25 October 2022.
Tuesday 25 October 2022.
PAVEMENT live at The Roundhouse.
PAVEMENT play the last of their four sold out shows at The Roundhouse.
This was my second time seeing them here.
No surprise that NME.COM gave the Pavement opening night at this venue a glowing five star review.
The Guardian gave the show a nice four review , and said the band have rehearsed 50 songs for this
European Tour and pick 25 to 30 tracks for each show.
We are lucky that London has got multi-nights on the tour just like major American cities got, so
they can change many songs each night, and i see plenty of folks that were also here Sunday.
I saw BRIX SMITH and THURSTON MOORE here tonight.
Also ITB booking agent STEVE ( Biffy Clyro etc ) ZAPP who told me he had come from a book launch party
by Simon Williams "Pandimonium - How Not To Run A Record Company " ( about Fierce Panda Records).
The merch stand was doing a roaring trade again.
PAVEMENT arrived on stage at 9.05pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
This was 5 mins less on stage than their Sunday show.
I enjoyed the show more tonight, as was much nearer the stage, as Sunday i watched from the rear bar.
Lots of different songs played tonight compared to Sunday..."Stereo" was an early highlight, and later on
"Here" and "Gold Soundz" were great.
You rarely heard them on tv or radio but Pavement are just one of those bands, just doing their own thing.
An enjoyable show.
Full PAVEMENT setlist played tonight...
Major Leagues
Stereo
Spizzle Trunk
Starlings of the Slipstream
Fight This Generation
Shoot the Singer (1 Sick Verse)
Embassy Row
Heckler Spray
Trigger Cut
Two States
Grave Architecture
Father to a Sister of Thought
Serpentine Pad
Grounded
Type Slowly
Here
Gold Soundz
Silence Kid
Kennel District
Heaven Is a Truck
Shady Lane
Encore:
Range Life
Spit on a Stranger
Conduit for Sale!
Stop Breathin'
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Sunday 23 October 2022.
PAVEMENT live at The Roundhouse.
Pavement play the second of four sold out nights at this venue.
American indie rock band, Pavement will let the lo-fi beats commence, for their first tour in 12 years.
The entire edition of the early October 2022 copy of Uncut magazine features them.
Emerging out of the American underground in the early ‘90s with their off-kilter arrangements and winding melodies, Pavement quickly became known as one of the most influential and distinctive bands to lead the lo-fi movement that dominated US indie rock during this era. Boasting five full-length albums and several international tours, the band will be gracing the Roundhouse stage for four nights. Expect punk-derived sonic textures and free-flowing poetic lyrics from these legendary lo-fi rockers.
Joining Pavement for these performances will be Richard Dawson (Sat 22nd), The Bug Club (Sun 23rd), Los Bitchos (Mon 24th) and Beak (Tue 25th).
I have seen Pavement just the once before, in 1999 supporting Blur at The Reading Festival.
Looks like they rotate and change songs on the setlist, so each night is a bit different.
NME and DJ John Peel loved them back in the day.
---–-----------
I must admit i only really know a couple of Pavement songs, but four nights sold out at The Roundhouse
at £45 a pop is pretty amazing, so here i am to see what all the fuss is about.
The merch stand in the foyer is doing a roaring trade.
THE BUG CLUB arrived on stage at 8pm and played for 40 mins.
The trio did a good set of indie garage pop.
Pavement have let them use their big screen, showing some images that Pavement would use later.
The Bug Club play The Scala on 26 October.
PAVEMENT arrived on stage at 9.05pm and played for 1 hour 50 mins.
They have a nice big screen that is showing arty and scribbly pre-recorded images.
Six musicians on stage.
Highlights for me included "Frontwards" , "Here" and "Cut Your Hair"....but the rest???
Oddly tonight they didn't play the main sing I know them for titled "Gold Soundz" ,
although they did play it on the first night here.
Their style is a bit ramshackle , abrasive and loose, but it didn't really grab me.
Just one of those shows, where all the crowd enjoyed it more than me.
It was interesting enough, but just not as good as i had hoped for.
Maybe I just need to listen to them a bit more.
Full setlist played by PAVEMENT tonight...
Our Singer
Stereo
Frontwards
Cream of Gold
Silence Kid
Pueblo
Heckler Spray
In the Mouth a Desert
Shoot the Singer (1 Sick Verse)
Debris Slide
Fight This Generation
Kennel District
Here
Perfume-V
Type Slowly
Gangsters & Pranksters
Range Life
Serpentine Pad
Harness Your Hopes
Give It a Day
Stop Breathin
Encore:
Father to a Sister of Thought
Spit on a Stranger
Two States
Grave Architecture
Cut Your Hair
Fillmore Jive
Updated 24th October 2022 Permalink
Sunday 23 October 2022.
Saturday 22 October 2022.
CHRISTONE "KINGFISH" INGRAM live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Christone is a 23 year old rising blues guitarist from America.
On July 23, 2021 Ingram released his second record, an album called "662". Ingram is from Clarksdale, Mississippi and, says Ingram, "662 is the area code. It represents the whole north Mississippi Delta."On April 3, 2022, Kingfish won the Grammy award for "Best Contemporary Blues Album" for 662 at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.
On September 18, 2022 Fender released a new Telecaster Deluxe specially dedicated to Kingfish. This guitar is called Kingfish Telecaster Deluxe.
--------------------
Level 3 is closed tonight, but all other levels are full.
Singer-songwriter MAX POPE arrived on stage at 8pm for his 30 mins set.
Mainly him and his electric guitar, and a couple of songs with an acoustic guitar.
His set included a really good cover version of "I'd Rather Go Blind".
CHRISTONE "KINGFISH" INGRAM arrived on stage at 9pm and played for 1 hour 50 mins.
Christone is short and chubby , but plays a mean blues guitar.
His is backed by a three piece piece, including some nice keyboards that compliment his guitar.
Maybe only a dozen tracks played in the set ,as pretty every song was several mins plus long,
as each had a stunning guitar solo in it.
Tracks played included "Another Life Goes By" and "Not Gonna Lie".
After 45 mins he performed a great stunt as he played a solo in the stalls standing crowd,
and then an even longer solo up in the Level 1 seats, and finished it by playing the guitar with his teeth........the crowd loved it.
Encore included an extended cover of "Hey Joe".
This really was blues guitar at its best...a really enjoyable show.
During the encore he said he would be signing and meeting folks at the merch stand after his set.
On our way out, there was already a long queue to meet him.
-------------------------------
-------------------------------
Friday 21 October 2022.
COUNTING CROWS live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Counting Crows play the second of two shows at this venue, as part of their UK & European tour.
I have seen them play three times before including in 2002 when i saw the them supporting
The Who at The Greek Theatre,Los Angeles, USA.
My fave track of theirs is "The Long December", which was released back in 1996.
Lawrence Carroll directed the music video for "A Long December", which features American actress Courteney Cox, whom singer Adam Duritz was dating at the time....over 23 million YouTube views...
They were signed to Geffen Records by the same guy that signed Nirvana.
Counting Crows gained popularity following the release of its first album, "August and Everything After "(1993). With the breakthrough hit single "Mr. Jones" (1993), the album sold more than 7 million copies in the United States. The band received two Grammy Awards nominations in 1994, one for "Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal" (for "Round Here") and one for "Best New Artist". The follow-up album, "Recovering the Satellites", reached number one on the US Billboard 200 album chart and reached number one in several other countries. All but one of their subsequent albums was top 10 on the Billboard 200 list.
They have sold over 20 million albums worldwide.
--------
Not sold out tonight , but very full...maybe 4500 sold out of 5000 capacity...stalls standing...
DAVID KEENAN arrived on stage at 8pm for his 30 mins set.
Irish singer-songwriter with his acoustic guitar performed a few decent tracks.
COUNTING CROWS arrived on stage at 9pm and played for two hours.
Seven musicians on stage , including a very nice keyboard sound.
Some nice soulful alt-rock tracks with the highlights for me including "Mr Jones",
"Round Here" and "A Long December".
A very enjoyable show.
Full COUNTING CROWS setlist played tonight...
Lullaby
St. Robinson in His Cadillac Dream (with Crimson and Clover tag)
Mr. Jones
Colorblind
Butterfly in Reverse
If I Could Give All My Love
Mercy
Miami
God of Ocean Tides
Start Again (Teenage Fanclub cover)
Washington Square
Catapult
Round Here
The Tall Grass
Elevator Boots
Angel of 14th Street
Bobby and the Rat‐Kings
Rain King
A Long December
Encore:
Omaha
Hanginaround
Holiday In Spain
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
Thursday 20 October 2022.
MARK OWEN live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Take That member is touring the UK to promote his solo album "Land of Dreams".
Take That reunion tour with Robbie Williams holds the record for most shows played at
Wembley Stadium on the same tour - eight.
------------
Level 3 is closed tonight , but all the other levels are full.
No surprise that it is a 90% female crowd here tonight.
Lots of overseas fans here, judging by the flags and accents overheard tonight.
His loyal fans gather tightly at the front half of the stalls standing.
No support act tonight, and Mark Owen is on stage at 8pm for an impressive , lengthy
set that started at 8pm and finished at 10.10pm after 2 hours 10 mins.
Wilko Johnson stage show here two days before was dreadfully minimal but Mark Owen
has a lovely big production, where the bands are on all raised platforms and we have a big screen
showing live footage and pre-recorded images, along with a couple of neon signs.
A few costumes changes for Mark Owen tonight.
The band are all dressed in the same brown and white clothing.
There were a few Take That classics performed including "Shine", "The Flood" and
"Rule The World" that had all the fans swaying and singling loudly.
Mark is nice and friendly and smiley when he chats to the fans between songs.
A very enjoyable show.
Full MARK OWEN played tonight....
Superpower (performed from the backstage area)
You Only Want Me
Shine (Take That song)
Rio
Are You Looking for Billy?
Boy
Clementine
Four Minute Warning
The Flood (Take That song)
Ask Him To
Makin' Out
Us and Ours
Green Man
Come Back
Starwoman
Last of the Heroes
Gone, Gone, Gone
My Love
Rule the World (Take That song)
Hold Up a Light (Take That song)
Encore:
Stars
Child
Magic (ticker-tape fell over the stalls standing)
These Days (Take That song)
World
Being Human
Updated 21st October 2022 Permalink
Thursday 20 October 2022.
A great triple bill of BILLY IDOL + KILLING JOKE + TOYAH are touring the UK in October.
All three acts that have all been around for over 40 years.
I have seen all three of them many times.
Television have pulled out as main support due to illness , and have been replaced by KILLING JOKE.
Manchester Arena – Thu 13th
Cardiff Motorpoint Arena – Mon 17th
London OVO Arena, Wembley – Wed 19th
Note ---- Toyah will be on stage at 7pm
Glasgow OVO Hydro – Fri 21st
Birmingham Resorts World Arena – Sun 23rd
Leeds First Direct Arena – Tue 25th
-------------------
Wednesday 19 August 2022.
TOYAH WILLCOX arrived on stage at 7pm for her 30 mins set.
Toyah plays a great short set featuring all her hits.
Still looking very youthful at age 64 , as she bounces around the stage.
No big screens showing live footage for any of the acts tonight.
Full setlist played by TOYAH & her band tonight...
Thunder in the Mountains
Echo Beach (Martha and the Muffins cover)
Good Morning Universe
It's a Mystery
Neon Womb
Space Dance
I Want to Be Free
--------
KILLING JOKE arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 45 mins set.
I was thinking Killing Joke would be a bit too hardcore for a Billy Idol crowd , but they
went down well by playing a best of set, and the sound was much better than their far too loud
recent show i saw at Hammersmith Apollo.
Full setlist played by KILLING JOKE tonight...
Unspeakable
Wardance
The Fall of Because
Requiem
Butcher
Eighties
Change
Loose Cannon
The Wait
Pssyche
Pandemonium
---------
For Billy Idol I went down the front to get a nice front row right close-up view.
BILLY IDOL arrived on stage at 9.10pm for his 95 mins set.
Billy arrives on stage with his trademark spiked-up blonde hair and all black clothing.
Looking in amazing shape for age 66 , and the females scream when he changes his shirts.
The big screen has nice pre-recorded images throughout the evening.
The show is filmed tonight , but not for the big screen here.
Billy and his guitarist Steve Stevens are on top form.
Not an obvious hits set as "Hot In The City" and "Sweet Sixteen" and others not played.
The opening of "Dancing With Myself" was fantastic, and the first of many gems.
Billy talked about his drug period in the 1980s and how he wrote "White Wedding" for his sister.
An excellent show.
Full setlist played by BILLY IDOL tonight...
Dancing With Myself (Gen X song)
Cradle of Love
Flesh for Fantasy
Cage
Speed
Bitter Taste
Eyes Without a Face
Guitar solo from Steve Stevens
Mony Mony (Tommy James & the Shondells cover)
Runnin' From the Ghost
One Hundred Punks (Generation X song)
Blue Highway
Rebel Yell
Encore:
Rebel Like You
Born to Lose (The Heartbreakers cover)
White Wedding
---------
I got a Billy Idol setlist of the show, which i have put on my Facebook page.
Nice to see lots of folks here i know.
Those attending included...
PAUL COOK
RUSTY EGAN
IAN BROUDIE
RICHARD ENGLAND ( who runs the wonderful Cadiz Records...Killing Joke etc)
GLEN MATLOCK was due to go but ended up watching QPR win and go to the top of the table.
Updated 20th October 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 17 October 2022.
Tuesday 17 October 2022.
WILKO JOHNSON BAND live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Blues rock guitar legend Wilko , has survived his cancer scare , and is still playing at age 75.
I was lucky to see Dr Feelgood with and without Wilko Johnson in their late 1970s heyday.
I have seen Wilko Johnson several times before with his own band.
Legendary long-time bass player Norman Watt-Roy is still here...insaw himwith Ian Dury & The Blockheads
in their heyday period...and he has done session work for The Clash and many others.
On drums is Dylan Howe ( son of Steve Howe from Yes).
The evening is promoted by Planet Rock Radio.
------------
Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight and plenty of space in stalls and level 1...maybe only 500 max tix sold.
Mainly older folks are here, and no doubt some collecting government pensions.
WHEN RIVERS MEET arrived on stage at 7pm for their 45 mins set.
When Rivers Meet is an English blues / rock band formed in 2016 in Essex, England by husband and wife duo, Grace (very nice vocals) and Aaron Bond.
In May 2021, they won four UK Blues Awards, for: Emerging Blues Artist of the Year; Blues Band of the Year; Blues Album of the Year; and Most Inspirational Online Performance of the Year.
Their current album "Saving Grace" made no 84 in the UK charts....they played a good set.
KING KING arrived on stage at 8.05pm for their 60 mins set.
I saw King King supporting Europe at The Royal Albert Hall in 2018.
They played some nice blues tracks from their five albums, that featured some
very nifty blues guitar solos.
WILKO JOHNSON BAND arrived on stage at 9.40pm for their 65 mins.
They must have the least equipment of any headline band i have seen at this venue.
It was more like a set-up for playing on a small pub stage.
All three members are dressed all in black.
Wilko and his choppin' guitar as he darts around the stage is still great to see.
Norman Watt-Roy funky bass is still very prominent.
Some of his solo tracks seemed a bit ramshackle in places with overlong solos.
The setlist was pretty much exactly the same as I saw in Ealing in the summer.
Again four Dr Feelgood classics were the highlights "Going Back Home", "Roxette",
"Back In The Night" and "She Does It Right"...an enjoyable evening of blues rock acts.
For whatever reason , the older folks here started to leave in droves from halfway through the set.
Level 1 had 100 folks at the start of the Wilko set, but by the last two songs , only 20 were here.
----------------------------------
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Tuesday 17 October 2022.
Fancy seeing THE DAMNED re-union tour at punk rockin 1976 prices of £19.76?
Vive Le Rock magazine have these less than half price tickets offer.
The five UK dates include two at Hammersmith Apollo on 28 Oct and 29 Oct.
Plus great support bands too.
Visit www.vivelerock.net and enter the code newrose
Vive Le Rock current magazine features 12 pages on The Damned, along with
The Buzzcocks, The Godfathers, Rusty Egan and many more.
Updated 18th October 2022 Permalink
Sunday 16 October 2022.
Sunday 16 October 2022.
DINOSAUR JR live at The Forum.
They have released a dozen albums since 1985.
They influenced many grunge rock bands back in the late 1980s.
They are led by J Mascis, who is the singer-songwriter and a pretty nifty guitar player.
I have seen them a few times before including in Northern Spain when they were on the
same bill as The Sex Pistols at The Azkena Festival, 2008.
-------------------
A sold out show tonight.
GARCIA PEOPLES arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 40 mins set.
Support band were New Jersey psychedelic rock band Garcia Peoples who belted out their cosmic rock.
DINOSAUR JR arrived on stage at 9pm for their 1 hour 45 mins set.
The three band members and equipment are to the front of the the stage, to be close to the crowd.
This means the drummer is centre stage, where a singer would normally stand in other bands.
J Mascis has six Marshall Amps and has plenty of great guitar sounds, with hefty amounts of wah-wah.
The bass player has an aggressive stance and playing style that was great.
Overall the vocals should have been a bit clearer.
A fair amount of moshing in the stalls, but nothing compared to The Enemy the previous night here.
A nice story about why they play a neat cover of The Cure's "Just Like Heaven" as an encore.
A good show.
Full setlist played by DINOSAUR JR tonight...
The Lung
I Ain't
Garden
Little Fury Things
Out There
Crumble
Pieces
I Expect It Always
I Met the Stones
The Wagon
Been There All the Time
Start Choppin
Feel the Pain
Mountain Man
Freak Scene
Gargoyle
Encore:
Get Me
In a Jar
Just Like Heaven (The Cure cover)
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Saturday 15 October 2022.
THE ENEMY live at The Forum.
The Enemy play their second of two shows at this venue on their UK reunion tour.
The Enemy are an English indie rock band formed in Coventry in 2006. The band's debut album We'll Live and Die in These Towns (2007) went straight to Number 1 in the UK Albums Chart on release. Their second album Music for the People (2008) went to Number 2 on the UK Albums Chart. Streets in the Sky, their third studio album, was released on 21 May 2012 and was also their third UK top 10 album. Their fourth studio album, It's Automatic, was released on 9 October 2015. After disbanding in 2016, the band are due to reunite in 2022 for a reunion show in their hometown of Coventry, and a UK tour to follow.
In their heyday I saw them play a show at the sadly missed Astoria , Tottenham Court Road.
That was one of FIVE ahows at The Astoria they played on that tour.
The Enemy had five Top 40 hit singles in the UK.
-------------------
The first night was sold out, but the second night tonight is full, but not sold out.
LITTLE MAN TATE arrived on stage at 8.15pm for their 45 mins set.
Indie-rockers from Sheffield played a really good set.
They had albums out in 2007 and 2008 then went on hiatus for 12 years.
The crowd knew several of their songs.
During the interval the pa played perfect singalong indie classics that got the crowd singing.
The crowd atmosphere was fantastic tonight, as this drinking crowd swamped the bars.
The Enemy's intro song was "Baba O'Riley" , which was a perfect choice.
THE ENEMY arrived on stage at 9.30pm for their 65 mins set.
Blimey, i had forgot what a great live band The Enemy were.
Hi-energy indie gems with a blaze of lighting and perfect sound had the entire boozed up "lads crowd "
throwing pints in the air and moshing madly in the stalls.
After a blistering opening quartet of songs, the horns which introduce the title-track from "We’ll Live And Die In These Towns" are greeted rapturously, with the stomping percussion and yearning melancholia reminding us that there was more to The Enemy than solid guitar rock, a surprising maturity of observation from ones so young. The singer had comparisons to Paul Weller when their debut album was released.
Another big highlight later on was "This Song" with all the crowd singing loudly.
You may have thought that The Enemy were part of the indie-landfill dumping grounds ,
but on this showing the band still have plenty of fire in their bellies.
A fantastic show.
Full setlist played by THE ENEMY tonight...
Intro song Baba O'Riley (The Who song)
Aggro
Away From Here
Pressure
Had Enough
We'll Live and Die in These Towns
You're Not Alone
It's Not OK
Technodanceaphobic
40 Days & 40 Nights (Snippet of The Specials "Ghost Town")
This Song
Happy Birthday Jane
Encore:
Be Somebody
Gimme the Sign / Saturday
No Time for Tears
This Song [Reprise]
Updated 16th October 2022 Permalink
Saturday 15 October 2022.
Friday 14 October 2022...3.30pm to 5pm...
BATTERSEA POWER STATION - official opening day - London SW8.
I spent five great years (1993 to 1998) working in Nine Elms and used to drive past Battersea
Power Staion all the time when the site was unloved , and there was nothing in the area,
so quite keen to see how things have finally come together.
The space was hired out for several special events over the years.
I saw Morrisssey and The Prodigy play gigs here in 1997, and i saw Jungle and Alice Cooper play
at special invite only launch events.
After a £9bn investment by Malaysia-backed developers and more than a decade of restoration, the doors to the almost century-old decommissioned power station opened on Friday for the first time in 40 years.
The space has been transformed into a glitzy shopping centre of 250 stores, alongside mostly luxury flats, office spaces and an upcoming cinema and ice rink. After the grand opening, a five-day free festival of live music & entertainment will take place on the site.
It is nice and brand new but so many expensive flats have taken the soul out of the area.
Plenty of pricey food trucks but you won't find a McDonalds or KFC here.
Lots of the stores are similiar to Westfield, White City....no Poundland stores here...
There are circus performers dotted all around the area, and a DJ and stage area.
It was my first first visit to the new specially built BPS tube station ,think Canary Wharf station.
In a way , the current layout of stores & eateries is like Westfield, White City within four chimneys.
The location is right next to the river, and there is a pontoon to catch a boat up the river.
There is a playground for kids, and plenty of open space, well worth a visit.
then
I bumped into tv presenter JOSIE GIBSON walking along by The River Thames.
Her lovely Bristolian banter for ITV This Morning cheers me up when writing reviews in the morning.
She told me she had been at The National TV Awards at The 02 Arena , the night before.
I took a selfie with her.
then
Friday 14 October 2022.
ROXY MUSIC live at The 02 Arena.
ROXY MUSIC play three just UK dates following their September tour of North America.
Their first shows for over a decade in 2011.
The reviews from the North American tour have been great.
Roxy Music are playing a 50th anniversary tour to celebrate the 1972 release of their debut album.
Roxy Music had four number one albums in the UK, and several Top 10 hit singles,
including a number one with "Jealous Guy" in 1981.
Looks like the setlist will feature tracks from all their eight studio albums - 1972 to 1982.
Bryan Ferry will be aged 77 when they play these shows.
Roxy Music still have four original members in their line-up.
I have seen Roxy Music and Bryan Ferry solo several times each in the past.
I first saw ROXY MUSIC in 1979 headlining Hammersmith Odeon.
I first saw BRYAN FERRY in 1977 headlining The Royal Albert Hall.
Support comes from Nilufer Yanya, who is a 27 year old female singer-songwriter.
Roxy Music are hotly tipped to play the Legends slot at Glastonbury Festival June 2023.
-------------------
Needless to say I was really looking forward to this show.
I end up avoiding the unknown support act, and wonder how on earth did she get this nice support gig.
Some expensive tickets prices, but we still have a nice full house tonight.
Lots of cool older folks here in tonight, in smart threads.
Our seats are Block D on the floor near the mixing desks.
ROXY MUSIC arrived on stage at 8.50pm and played for 1 hour 40 mins.
Thirteen musicians on stage including three backing vocals.
A massive screen across the rear is mixing arty pre-recorded images and live footage.
Bryan Ferry glides on stage and looks amazing for his 77 years of age.
He has three backing vocalists to help him out with any tricky vocal parts.
Phil Manzernera plays some nifty guitar bits, and great to see sax player Andy Mackay upfront on "Tara".
Certainly not an obvious greatest hits set, as the first half of the set had some deep cut tracks for the hardcore, but the second half had most of the big hits that folks know.
So many great songs including "Oh Yeah" had everyone swaying along.
Roxy smooth gems followed including "Dance Away", "More Than This" and "Avalon" ,
then some livelier classics "Love Is The Drug", "Virginia Plain" and "Do The Strand".
Needless to say it was a fantastic show.
Full ROXY MUSIC setlist played tonight...
Re-Make/Re-Model
Out of the Blue
The Bogus Man (Short version)
Ladytron
While My Heart Is Still Beating
Oh Yeah
If There Is Something
In Every Dream Home a Heartache
Tara
The Main Thing
My Only Love
To Turn You On
Dance Away
More Than This
Avalon (with band introductions at the end)
Love Is the Drug
Editions of You
Virginia Plain
Jealous Guy ( John Lennon cover)
Do the Strand
then
I was at the ROXY MUSIC aftershow party from 10.45pm to 11.45pm.
As it was just the one big London arena show, there must be at least 200 guests here.
A pay bar.
The crowd seemed more family and friends related , as they was nobody from all the
bands that Roxy Music have influenced...like the Punk and New Romantic bands.
All the four original members of Roxy Music turn up.
Odd sighting was Cheap Trick guitarist RiCK NIELSON talking to Phil Manzernera.
Odd because Cheap Trick cancelled their UK tour planned for this month , which was due
to include a show at Shepherds Bush Empire on 06 October 2022.
Jewellery designer STEPHEN WEBSTER is here...Bryan Ferry has performed at his store launches.
I left early to get the tube back, but most were still here.
Updated 15th October 2022 Permalink
Thursday 13 October 2022.
Thursday 13 October 2022....I went to two events tonight...
6.30pm to 9pm...private view...
MONEYGAME by ELIZABETH WATERMAN at Boogie Wall Gallery, 193 Piccadilly, London W1.
There are 11 black and white blown up photographs adorning the walls.
This new gallery next to BAFTA is dimly lit, just like it would be somewhere in like Stringfellows etc.
At 7pm we had a speech from the photographer.
"the photos were taken over the past four years," says American fine art photographer Elizabeth Waterman, "I have spent most of my Saturday nights in strip clubs, photographing and building a rapport with the dancers who make their livelihoods there".
In the middle of the room is a pole for two dancers from the legendary STRINGFELLOWS club.
The stunning Roxy and her friend both did top notch pole-dancing routines at 7.15pm and 8pm.
It was really great that for once a gallery put on a great piece of entertainment.
I will put up a couple of photos on my Facebook page Friday lunchtime.
Complimentary prosecco, wines and beers for all the guests here.
then
10pm to 11.15pm
The Royal Exchange Pub , Paddington, London W2.
The Clash bass playing legend PAUL SIMONON is the DJ again here tonight.
Paul is helping out his mate ,who runs the pub, get some extra revenue in.
I walk past this small pub every so often and there is a dozen folks in there max.
Tonight like every Thursday ,there are 100 folks here, with most outside on the pavements.
CHRIS MUSTO was here again...he told us he is working with PAUL SIMONON on a new
range of shoes with Dr Martens.
CHRIS MUSTO's Johnny Thunders tribute album is re-released by Cadiz next week.
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
Thursday 13 October 2022.
The organisers of an event i went to last month have put up a nice 3 mins professional video
of the event that was held at The Design Centre, Islington.
Type in the search - The Big Christmas Press Show Highlights 2022
--------------------------------------
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Wednesday 12 October 2022.
NATALIE IMBRUGLIA live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Australian singer who now lives in Windsor, is playing a 25th anniversary UK tour.
Her massive hit from 1997 "Torn" is still a staple on UK commercial radio.
The official video for "Torn" has had over 250 million views on YouTube.
"Torn" is best known as Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia's 1997 debut single. Her version peaked at number one on the singles charts of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Spain, and Sweden, as well as the US Billboard charts. Imbruglia's version sold over four million copies worldwide.
"Torn " went Top 10 in over 20 countries.
Natalie had 5 x Top 10 hits in her heyday, but has not troubled the charts for 15 years, which was
mainly due to having writers block for several years.
"Torn" is the opening track on her "Left of the Middle" album which was Top 10 in UK and USA in 1997.
For the 25th anniversary the album will be released on blue vinyl.
Natalie Imbruglia won The UK Masked Singer in Feb 2022.
----------
Tonight is half empty in Level 3 but all others levels are full.
Another show with 100 folks on the guest list.
Support comes from MARCUS McCOAN & band, who arrive on stage at 7.30pm for their 25 mins.
Marcus McCoan is a Cornish singer-songwriter who as performed at Glastonbury Festival
and has collaborated on songs for K-pop band BTS, the world’s biggest boy band.
Marcus and his band ticked along ok, but were far too loud for this type of crowd.
NATALIE IMBRUGLIA & band arrived on stage at 8.35pm and played for 95 mins.
Natalie looks pretty amazing and ageless for her 47 years of age, as she bounces around the stage.
Highlights included "Shiver" ," Smoke" , "Big Mistake " and her mega hit "Torn".
Nice encore encore session ended with a great "Build It Better"
A very enjoyable show.
Full NATALIE IMBRUGLIA setlist played tonight...
What It Feels Like
Wrong Impression
Wishing I Was There
Nothing Missing
Shiver
City
Smoke
Pigeons and Crumbs
Firebird
One More Addiction
Leave Me Alone
Impressed
Just Like Old Times
Big Mistake
Torn (Ednaswap cover) (with Phil on bass who co-wrote the track)
Encore:
Something Better
Left of the Middle
Build It Better
Updated 13th October 2022 Permalink
Wednesday 12 October 2022.
Wednesday 12 October 2022.
In celebration of National Album Day, they have released a nice list of the Top Selling UK Debut Albums.
1.Bat Out Of Hell - Meat Loaf (1977)
2.Back To Bedlam - James Blunt (2004)
3.Spirit - Leona Lewis (2007)
4.The Fame - Lady Gaga (2008)
5.No Angel - Dido (1999)
6.Spice - Spice Girls (1996)
7.Hopes And Fears - Keane (2004)
8.Jagged Little Pill - Alanis Morissette (1994)
9.In The Lonely Hour - Sam Smith (2014)
10.Parachutes - Coldplay (2000)
11.Tubular Bells - Mike Oldfield (1973)
12.Scissor Sisters - Scissor Sisters (2004)
13.Tracy Chapman - Tracy Chapman (1988)
14.+ - Ed Sheeran (2011)
15.Come Away With Me - Norah Jones (2002)
16.19 - Adele (2008)
17.Appetite for Destruction - Guns N’ Roses (1987)
18.Our Version of Events - Emeli Sandé (2012)
19.Definitely Maybe - Oasis (1994)
20.Hot Fuss - The Killers (2004)
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Tuesday 11 October 2022.
GODSMACK + THE RAVEN AGE live at The Roundhouse.
Heavy Rock band GODSMACK are a massive act back home in America.
They have released eight albums since 1997, and three of those were number-one albums (Faceless, IV, and The Oracle) on the Billboard 200 chart....Godsmack have sold over 12 million albums worldwide...
Oddly, none of their albums have made it into the UK Top 40 charts.
I saw them back in 1999, when they supported MEGADETH at The Forum.
On Saturday 01 Oct i noticed a huge billboard poster for this one show.
It is on the wall between Camden Road tube station and The Electric Ballroom.
Support band THE RAVEN AGE are an English heavy metal band formed in London in 2009 by guitarists Dan Wright and George Harris (son of Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris).
They have released two albums and two extended plays.
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Not sold out tonight, but the venue is pretty full.
Easy to get near the front of stage side standing tonight, so looking at stage left,
i saw a guy in the front row in a wheelchair with his Mrs, and he stayed there the entire night.
THE RAVEN AGE arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
A decent set of more metal than classic rock tracks.
During the interval Godsmack put up a huge curtain that hangs over the stage pit,
and covers their huge amount of stage equipment they have brought over from the States.
GODSMACK arrived on stage at 9.05pm for their 1 hour 40 mins set.
"We Will Rock You" is their intro song as their images come up on the stage curtain.
Multi-platinum, record-breaking rockers from Boston. The band are one of the biggest rock acts in the US, delivering a series of number one, platinum and gold certified albums, dominating radio airwaves and selling out arenas across the States.
The band are meticulously rehearsed and the singer says all the right things to the crowd.
Getting wasted on Tequila seemed his drink of choice, as he kept talking about it.
You can hear all the lyrics as the sound was perfect , and the crowd sing loudly along to them.
A highlight during the show was a stunning drum solo battle that went on for several minutes.
A second drum kit comes out of nowhere , that is hidden by black curtains side of stage.
Then by magic, or remote control the main drum kit and the second drum kit move on their own
to the centre of the stage and turn around 360 degrees while the drummers are playing.
The two drumming were the drummer and the singer...worth look at this on YouTube from previous gigs...
A very enjoyable show.
Full GODSMACK setlist played tonight....
Intro song Queen "We Will Rock You" (Queen song) (Mega mix)
When Legends Rise
Keep Away
Cryin' Like a Bitch!!
Unforgettable
Awake
1000hp
Something Different
Speak
Voodoo
Batalla de los tambores ( drum battle)
Surrender
Whatever
Encore:
Under Your Scars
Bulletproof
I Stand Alone
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Monday 10 October 2022...7pm to 10pm...
PHILLIPS - FRIEZE ART PARTY - 30 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1.
Phillips are showcasing their 20th Century & Contemporary Art.
Around 200 guests at this huge gallery space,that is over two levels.
A female DJ is playing tunes gently at the start, then got louder later.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food throughout the evening,
including two different cocktails, wines, beers, hot & canapes including
BBQ chicken skewers, sushi, along with vanilla and chocolate Mochi ice-cream rolls.
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SEX PISTOLS items from their 1970s punk heyday are still attracting very high prices.
Sotheby's are holding an online auction from 10 Oct to 21 Oct for this amazing collection.
The Sex Pistols: The Stolper-Wilson Collection
All the very rare items can be viewed via their website along with guide prices.
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Prog rock legends YES - The UK Relayer Tour dates for 2023 are as follows:
Saturday 10 June Birmingham Symphony Hall
Sunday 11 June Southend Cliffs Pavilion
Monday 12 June York Barbican
Wednesday 14 June Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
Thursday 15 June Gateshead The Sage
Friday 16 June Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Saturday 18 June Manchester Bridgewater Hall
Tuesday 20 June London Eventim Apollo
Tickets from Yesworld.com, Bookingsdirect.com and all usual outlets.
About YES....
Steve Howe: guitars, backing vocals (1970 –1981, 1990–1992, 1995–present)
Geoff Downes: keyboards (1980–1981, 2011–present)
Jon Davison: lead vocals, acoustic guitar (2012–present)
Billy Sherwood: guitar, backing vocals ((1994, 1997–2000), bass guitar, backing vocals (2015–present)
Jay Schellen: drums and percussion
Updated 11th October 2022 Permalink
Saturday 08 October 2022.
Friday 07 October 2022.
MAXIMO PARK live at The Roundhouse.
Maxïmo Park are an English alternative rock band, formed in 2000 in Newcastle upon Tyne. The band consists of Paul Smith (vocals), Duncan Lloyd (guitar), and Tom English (drums). The band have released seven studio albums: A Certain Trigger (2005), Our Earthly Pleasures (2007), Quicken The Heart (2009), The National Health (2012), Too Much Information (2014), Risk to Exist (2017) and Nature Always Wins (2021). The first two albums went gold in the UK and their debut was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
I saw Maximo Park in 2006 when they supported New Order at Wembley Arena.
Maximo Park have had 4 x Top 10 albums in the UK.
Maximo Park have had 8 x Top 40 singles in the UK, including a Top 10.
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Not sold out tonight, but the venue is pretty full.
PIP BLOM arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
They played some decent indie tunes , with female vocals.
MAXIMO PARK arrived on stage at 9.05pm for their 90 mins set.
Singer Paul Smith is wearing his trademark bowler hat as usual.
His friendly Geordie stage banter went down well with the crowd.
One of those bands that have ticked along nicely, mainly due to their student following.
A well paced set of uptempo indie-rock tunes, that gradually got the crowd dancing more and more.
They said it was " a singles show" , even though they have only had the one Top 10 single.
Highlights included "Our Velocity" , "Apply Some Pressure" and "Girls Who Play Guitars".
A really good show.
Full MAXIMO PARK setlist played tonight....
All of Me
The Night I Lost My Head
Leave This Island
Hips and Lips
Baby, Sleep
The National Health
Karaoke Plays (London online poll selection)
I Want You to Stay
Questing, Not Coasting
Great Art
Get High (No, I Don't)
Our Velocity
What Equals Love?
The Kids Are Sick Again
Going Missing
Books from Boxes
Versions of You
Apply Some Pressure
Encore:
The Undercurrents
Girls Who Play Guitars
Graffiti
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Thursday 06 October 2022....I went to three events tonight...
6pm to 6.45pm
UKTV PLAY PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION - private view - 40 Earlham Street, London WC2.
The BBC owned network behind channels such as Gold and Dave - has announced a photography exhibition to take place in October.
Over the weekend of Friday 7th -Sunday 9th October 2022, the broadcaster will host the free exhibition near Covent Garden in central London.
At The Stables, 40 Earlham Street, they will display a range of original props from Dave, W, Yesterday and Drama programmes, alongside more than 170 photographs commissioned for original series.
Promoting the broadcasters catch-up platform UKTV Play, it aims to encourage users to sign-up to and discover the free service.
UKTV explain: "The pop-up exhibition celebrates commissioned photography for UKTV's Original programming over the last seven years. From Big Zuu's Big Eats ( Big Zuu was here) to Bangers And Cash to Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over, the space will host artwork from a variety of UKTV's much loved programming, all available to stream for free on UKTV Play.
"Attendees will also see a range of props displayed from Dave, W, Yesterday and Drama content and guests will easily be able to access information about their favourite programmes and props through scanning the adjacent QR code via their smart phone. The link will take them directly to the UKTV Play site."
Complimentary wines, beers and canapes for all guests.
then
7pm to 9.30pm
THE BAR AT 12 HAY HILL - launch party - 12 Hay Hill, Mayfair, London W1.
Luxurious Mayfair private members club open their new bar, in the basement.
A great location as it is between Berkeley Square and Dover Street.
Before arriving here , we saw SIMON LE BON go in the nearby Sexy Fish restaurant & bar.
We had a piano player named Ben Noke play two sets of cover versions.
Complimentary drinks including three different cocktails, wines, beers and canapes.
My fave was an exquisite combination of whiskey and coffee with Frangelico Foam.
As it is Mayfair, the cocktails would normally cost £15 a pop.
then
10pm to 11pm
The Royal Exchange Pub , Paddington, London W2.
The Clash bass playing legend PAUL SIMONON is the DJ again here tonight.
Paul is helping his friend out who owns the pub every Thursday , get some extra revenue in.
Pub only holds around 20, but there must be 100 folks outside on the pavements.
CHRIS MUSTO , the current drummer in The Glen Matlock Band was here.
Updated 7th October 2022 Permalink
Wednesday 05 October 2022.
Tuesday 04 October 2022...I went to two events in South Kensinton tonight...
6.15pm to 7pm.
MULTI-ARTIST - private view - 4 Cromwell Place Gallery, South Kensington, London SW7.
This huge gallery space always has a few different exhibitions on at the same time.
Complimentary prosecco and beers for all guests.
then
THE SOUND OF 007 IN CONCERT at The Royal Albert Hall.
Celebrate 60 years of the James Bond film franchise with a charity concert that will showcase the iconic music of Bond, headlined by the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey, and featuring several guest singers.
Curated by five-time Bond composer David Arnold and produced by EON Productions, the concert will feature Bond soundtrack artists including Garbage, as well as special guests including Celeste, putting their own interpretation on classic theme songs, backed by the 50+ member Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Dodd.
The date marks the anniversary of the world premiere of the first 007 film, Dr. No held on 5 October 1962.
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The venue is totally sold out, with many in black ties as a tribute to James Bond.
The bars are even serving Martinis which they never usually do here.
The show was on for 2 hours 10 mins over two sets of 60 mins and 70 mins.
The 50+ member orchestra backed every singer, and sounded fantastic.
Pretty much every song , got a standing ovation from the crowd.
The big screen showing Bond film clips and Bond related images.
The Royal Box is empty and covered by black curtains.
All the show was filmed by multi-cameras.
FIRST SET
SHIRLEY BASSEY opened the show with great versions of "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Goldfinger".
The Queen of Bond themes was wearing a sparkly gold dress...looking fab at age 85.
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
JAMIE CULUM "From Russia with Love".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD
LULU "The Man With The Golden Gun".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
ELLA HENDERSON "Skyfall".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
CELESTE " You Only Live Twice".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
ELLA EYRE " License To Kill".
SECOND SET
GARBAGE "The World Is Not Enough".
DON BLACK tribute to JOHN BARRY.
HANS ZIMMER "No Time to Die".
SKIN from SKUNK ANANSIE "Live and Let Die".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD "You Know My Name" (included tribute to Chris Cornell).
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
PALOMA FAITH "Golden Eye".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD
ELLA EYRE "Nobody Does It Better".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD.
JOHN GRANT "We Have All The Time In The World".
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD - classic Bond medley
Encore :
RPO with DAVID ARNOLD - classic Bond medley reprise, but a bit faster tempo.
Lots of hospitality until midnight at this show and there were two after-parties in Level 1 reception rooms.
Complimentary Lauent Perrier champers, Martinis, wines and beers and canapes for all the guests.
The only known face here I saw was celebrity chef PAUL HOLLYWOOD.
A great night.
Updated 5th October 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 04 October 2022.
Monday 03 October 2022.
BMI LONDON AWARDS at The Savoy Hotel, Strand, London WC2.
Always nice to be at this famous five star hotel.
ELLIE GOULDING received the BMI President’s Award and Nigerian singer TEMS received the BMI Impact Award at the 2022 BMI London Awards.
The prestigous event will be hosted by Mike O’Neill, BMI president and CEO.
I have been to these awards several times before with the main award going to....
2007 - Peter Gabriel
2008 - Bryan Ferry
2011 - Queen
2013 - John Lydon
2015 - Graham Gouldman (10cc)
2016 - Sting
2017 - Jay Kay (Jamiroquai )
2018 - Harry Gregson - Williams (film composer)
2019 - Noel Gallagher
The ceremony also pays tribute to the U.K. and European songwriters and publishers of the previous year’s most-performed songs on U.S. radio and television from BMI’s repertoire. The million-air awards, song of the year, and awards for pop, dance, film, television and cable television music will be handed out.
6pm to 7.15pm - red carpet arrivals reception for the press folks here.
Around a dozen photographers here including Dave Hogan from The Sun.
Also tv and radio interviewers.
Complimentary Laurent Perrier champers for all 300 guests.
Many of the songwriters getting recognition are not well known faces.
Songwriting legend DON BLACK is always here, and I see CORRINE BAILEY-RAE.
ELLIE GOULDING is last to arrive as she gets the main award this year.
We are not invited for the sit down three course meal, so we have our own elsewhere.
then
9.30pm to 11.45pm - back to Savoy Hotel so see some of the songwriting medals given out.
Ed Sheeran and Johnny McDaid win the European song of the year award for their global hit “Bad Habits” at the 2022 BMI London Awards.
The award is given to BMI’s most performed song of the previous year by U.K. or European writers. The single spent 11 consecutive weeks at the top of the Official U.K. Singles Chart.
Accepting the award via video message, Sheeran said, “We had so much fun making the song and it has been so much fun playing the song out on the road and seeing the reactions of people all around Europe and I can’t wait to go out and do some more.”
Ed Sheeran won a few other awards tonight for multi-million plays of his tracks.
Among the multiple Million-Air awards presented throughout the evening were Tom Barnes and Sam Roman for 4 million performances of “Someone You Loved” performed by Lewis Capaldi; and Sam Smith and Normani for “Dancing With a Stranger.” With 6 million performances, Stig Anderson, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus were honored for “Dancing Queen” as performed by ABBA. Elton John was honored with three BMI London Awards, honoring 7 million performances of “Rocket Man,” 6 million performances of “Tiny Dancer” and in the pop songs category with “Cold Heart (Pnau Remix),” co-written with Andrew Meecham and Dean Meredith.
Nice to see Dolores O'Riordan (RIP) The Cranberries get an award for 4 million plays of "Dreams".
At 10pm ELLIE GOULING gets her moment, showing all her videos on the big screen and speeches.
Ellie also sings two songs with the help of a piano player and two female backing singers.
She performed singles "Woman” and “New Heights,” from her 2020 album "Brightest Blue".
A full complimentary bar after including Laurent Perrier champers and different spirits, wines,beers etc.
Updated 4th October 2022 Permalink
Monday 03 October 2022.
Sunday 02 October 2022.
LUCKY DAYE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Lucky Daye is a 37 year old R & B singer-songwriter for America, who is touring the UK & Europe.
His second album," Candydrip " was released on RCA March 2022, and made no 69 in the American charts.
He cites his influences as Prince, Rick James and Stevie Wonder.
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The venue is totally rammed sold out tonight.
It is a 75 % females crowd under the age of 30, with most of them black.
A couple of weeks ago i had never heard of Lucky Daye but I am always intrigued by acts
who can sell out 2000 capacity venues like this one, with only their own fans knowing who they are.
DEBBIE arrived on stage at 7.30pm for her 20 mins set...nice vocals with a great backing band.
TAY IWAR arrived on stage at 8.05pm for his 30 mins set.
He performed to backing tapes, so for me not as good as the previous act.
A DJ over the pa played some perfect tunes to hype the crowd up before Lucky Daye appears.
LUCKY DAYE arrived on stage at 9.15pm and performed for 75 mins.
Tonight is a classic example of why I stick to Level 1 seats here as the downstairs is sooo rammed.
Word of advice for general admission/ stalls standing only for sold out shows here - go to the bathroom as soon as you get in the venue or sometime before the headliner comes on cause you’re not getting your spot back in the crowd. Speaking of crowd, it was very crowded. It looked very claustrophobic as all were piled up against each other, it was very much too close for comfort, from my view upstairs.
If you thought you were going to have space to dance around at that venue, think again!
However, that did create a great atmosphere.
It is very much smooth r & b soul , as the females scream at the intro to each song.
He certainly knows how to work the crowd, and the females know all the words to each track.
He got a couple of girls on stage to sing to, and took his shirt off after an hour, to massive screams.
The two girls front row centre stage stalls each got a signed vinyl copy of his album at the end.
An enjoyable show.
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Saturday 01 October 2022.
HARD-FI live at The Forum.
indie-rockers play a special re-union show with all four original members.
Just three gigs on this run --- Milton Keynes, Manchester and London.
They released three studio albums.
Stars of CCTV (2005) (went to number one in the UK)
Once Upon a Time in the West (2007) (went to number one in the UK)
Killer Sounds (2011)
They have had 7 X Top 40 hit singles in the UK, including 2 X Top 10s.
I have seen them live three times, including headlining Wembley Arena in Dec 2007.
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Another gig with over 100 on the guest list.
A great sold out buzzy atmosphere tonight as DJ WRONGTOM plays some cool tunes.
It is a drinking crowd so a good time for the venue to showcase their new lounge bar upstairs,
opposite the circle bar, in the space that was previously used as the merch stand.
HARD-FI arrived on stage at 9pm and they played for 95 mins.
The stage had 24 spotlights at head height around the stage, and plenty of strobe lighting.
They sound great and the singer Richard Archer has a cool working class from Staines swagger.
A neat cover of The White Stripes "Seven Nation Army" went down well.
Lots of great oldies played including "Cash Machine", "Hard to Beat" and the crowd singing
loudly for encores of "Stars of CCTV" and "Living for The Weekend".
A really good show.
Full HARD-FI setlist played tonight....
Middle Eastern Holiday
Gotta Reason
Can't Get Along (Without You)
Happy (Live debut)
You and Me
Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes cover)
Tied Up Too Tight
Better Do Better
Good for Nothing
I Shall Overcome
Fire in the House
Cash Machine
Looking For Fun (New song)
Suburban Knights
Hard to Beat
Encore:
Move on Now
Stars of CCTV
Living For The Weekend
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Friday 30 September 2022.
THE CORONAS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The Coronas are an Irish rock band that originated in Dublin. They release their music by their own independent record label, 3ú Records, and are based between Dublin and London. They have released six studio albums, Heroes or Ghosts (2007), Tony Was an Ex-Con (2009), Closer to You (2011) The Long Way (2014), Trust The Wire (2017) & True Love Waits (2020).
They are massive selling recording and live act back home in Ireland.
This show was originally booked in for May 2020, just after the first coronavirus lockdown started.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight , but the stalls floor and Level 1 looked very full.
SEBASTIAN SCHUB arrived on stage at 7.20pm for his 30 mins set.
Just him and his guitar, along with some good songs.
He is very pleased to be playing here, as he said he lives just 2 mins walk away from the venue.
ROISIN O arrived on stage at 8pm for her 35 mins set.
Lots of Irish folks in the crowd tonight, to support the two main acts.
Róisín O is the daughter of Irish singer Mary Black,and the sister of Danny O'Reilly of The Coronas.
Her recently released second album got to number 3 in Ireland.
Roisin O sung and played guitar, and a chap plays the keyboard.
Some good songs that the crowd sang along to.
THE CORONAS arrived on stage at 9.05pm for their 1 hour 40 mins set.
Danny the singer asks "So how have the last two years been for you?"
"We are so unbelievably proud to be play this venue ," said Danny, his vocal arguably better live than in studio, visibly moved by the warmth of the reception.
"We want to thank you so much for hanging onto your tickets for over two years".
The band were joined by trumpet, sax and Roisin O throughout the show.
Oddly the guitarist is wearing a "tea cosy" on his head , just like fellow Irish guitarist The Edge.
Judging by the crowds big reaction, the band played all their most well known catchy pop rock songs.
They played a few new tracks from their new album out next week, on 07 Oct 2022.
A notable moment in the set was during ‘L.A at night’ when Danny took a stroll into the crowd in the stalls going right to the sound desk at the back and then up to the Level 1 seats...the crowd went wild.
When breaking into ‘ What a Love’ Danny asked the crowd to turn to the people they came with to the concert and give them a hug. Another lovely moment which showed the power of live music. Danny also discussed the struggles we all had during the pandemic before jokingly saying "you thought you had it bad? Imagine being in a band named after the virus causing the pandemic" a funny moment for all.
The rest of the set included other great Coronas songs including ‘How This Goes’, ‘Mark My Words’ and ‘We Write Our Own Soundtrack ‘.
Lots of chants of "Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole...Ole"....during their evening.
A very enjoyable show.
Updated 1st October 2022 Permalink
Thursday 29 September 2022.
Thursday 29 September 2022...I went to two events tonight...
6.15pm to 7.30pm.
BEAT LONDON - showcase - 48 Margaret Street, London W1.
This basement club is just a couple of minutes from Oxford Circus tube.
Before the internet and mobile phones this same venue back in the 1960s and 1970s
was a popular late night musicians hangout called THE SPEAKEASY.
The Speakeasy known as The Speak, was a club situated at 48 Margaret Street, London, England, and served as a late-night meeting place for the music industry from 1966 to June 1978.
I was lucky to have seen three midnight shows there just before it closed.
Johnny Thunders Allstars feat Hot Rods And Snatch members Speakeasy Club, London 31.01.1978
Depressions Speakeasy Club, London 22.03.1978
Johnny Thunders Allstars feat Steve Jones and Paul Cook Speakeasy Club, London 25.03.1978
Around 200 folks here and it is nice and buzzy as a DJ is playing tunes too.
Punk fan original and fashionista PHILIP SALLON was here.
The venue has a 250 capacity and is available for hire.
Complimentary Spicy Margaritas, Rum Cocktails, prosecco, wines,beers and canapes for all guests.
www.beat-london.com - Visit their website here.
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then
8pm to 10.15pm.
ALL STAR LANES - Christmas Showcase - Westfield, White City, London W12.
We are in their private space at the rear, which is available for Christmas office parties etc.
It can hold 120 and has two private bowling lanes and its own bar etc.
They have four branches in London - White City, Holborn, Stratford and Brick Lane.
Great fun to have a couple of games of bowling - won one and lost one.
Complimentary prosecco, wines, beers, cheese-burgers, chicken-burgers, hot and cold canapes.
Always very enjoyable at this bowling venue.
www.allstarlanes.co.uk - Visit their website here.
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Wednesday 28 September 2022.
THE BIG MOON play The Forum.
They are on a UK tour to promote their third album "Here Is Everything" released 14 Oct 2022.
The Big Moon are a London all female four-piece band formed in 2014 by Juliette Jackson.Their debut album, Love in the 4th Dimension, was released on 6 April 2017, containing a number of singles previously released on their EP, The Road. The album was shortlisted for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2017.The band is signed to Fiction Records and have toured internationally. Fiction Records are best known for signing The Cure over 40 years ago.
The video for their track "Your Light" has had over 7 million views on YouTube.
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Another one of those shows with over 100 folks on the guest list.
It is full in the stalls, but the circle is half empty.
This year some acts have been complaining about venues taking 25% of their merch sales
for letting the act sell the merch inside the venue. The Big Moon have taken a stand against this
and there are signs saying we are not selling merch inside the venue and their merch is available at the nearby Abbey Tavern Pub in Kentish Town Road until midnight.
GENTLY TENDER arrived on stage at 7.25pm for their 30 mins set.
A five piece band who played songs just like their band name implies.
ART SCHOOL GIRLFRIEND arrived on stage at 8.15pm for their 30 mins set.
A four piece , with dreamy vocals from the female singer.
THE BIG MOON arrived on stage 9.15pm for their 75 mins set.
The four girls walk on stage , one by one, all wearing white trousers, and look great.
They have large circular screen behind them, showing the moon and other images.
Some nice stripped lighting too, along with a glitter ball.
The band swop instruments, and their harmonies are fantastic.
A cover of Fatboy Slim "Praise You" went down really well.
Final song "Your Light" got everyone dancing down the front.
Really good to see a confident all girl band playing their own material.
Full setlist played tonight...
It's Easy Then
Take a Piece
Don't Think
Barcelona
Cupid
2 Lines
Wide Eyes
Daydreaming
Formidable
Sucker
Why
Praise You (Fatboy Slim cover)
Bonfire (the singer sang the whole from in the pit)
Trouble
Encore:
Waves (the singer sang the whole song from in the pit)
Your Light
Updated 29th September 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 27 September 2022.
Tuesday 27 September 2022....I went to three events today...
3pm to 6pm
INTERNATIONAL SECURITY EXPO at Olympia, West London.
Bringing together all corners of the security industry, International Security Expo returns to Olympia London this September.
International Security Expo is the only flagship event bringing Government, industry, academia and the entire end-user community in charge of regulation & procurement together to debate current challenges, share knowledge and updates and to source the latest security technologies, products and services.
Around 200 stands from all areas of security.
A 90 % male crowd as expected.
Body Cams are getting cheaper ,so response teams at concert venues are starting to use them.
A security friend works at a job centre, and he says they certainly help defuse a situation.
HALO TECHNOLOGIES gave me a nice demonstration where they put a full police type body armour
kit on me including stab vest and body cam.
From 4pm to 5pm MIMECAST had complimentary wines, beers,coffees, canapes on their stand.
Mimecast named Market Leader for Email Security and Management
Mimecast has been named a Market Leader by Cyber Defense Magazine at the 2022 Global Infosec Awards in the category of Email Security and Management.
From 5pm to 6pm was the aftershow party at the venue with complimentary wines and beers
for at least 500 folks in the upstairs area.
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then 6.30pm to 7.30pm
MIKE McCARTNEY - private view - Atlas Gallery, 49 Dorset Street, London W1.
Mike McCartney is the younger brother of music legend PAUL McCARTNEY.
"McCartney's Early Liverpool" is Mike McCartney’s ‘definitive statement of a magic era,’ as revealed through his photography, illustrations and fascinating commentary.
In his recently published limited edition book, ‘Mike McCartney’s Early Liverpool’, Mike McCartney brought together all of his finest work including a wealth of previously unseen photographs and treasured drawings. To celebrate the publication of the book, Atlas Gallery will be presenting a selection of his photographs, including some of the earliest images of The Beatles, their rock ‘n’ roll idols and Mike’s own group, Scaffold, at an exhibition running from Saturday 24th September to Saturday 1st Oct
MIKE McCARTNEY was here, along with MARY McCARTNEY .
SIR PETER BLAKE and TERRY GILLIAM (Monty Python and film director) were also here.
Complimentary wines and beers for guests.
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then 8pm to 10.30pm
RADO DIASTAR ORIGINAL - 60th anniversary edition launch party -
Ochre at The National Gallery , Trafalgar Square, London WC2.
Around 100 folks here in this newly refurbished and renamed venue where i have been before.
A full London Fashion Week crowd are here with many male and female models.
One of the young females I spoke to was part of the Burberry catwalk show the day before.
Regular party-goers like ALISTAIR GUY and MASON MOUNT were here.
Actor NICHOLAS PINNOCK was also here.
Folks are looking and trying on the watches which are on display.
Rado DiaStar Original 60-Year Anniversary Edition created by internationally renowned, Zurich-based, Swiss-Argentinian product designer Alfredo Häberli. Known for his inventive and minimalist furniture and objet, Häberli – himself an owner of a mid-century DiaStar – became fascinated with 1960s watch design on his 18th birthday when his father bought him one.
A DJ is playing quietly in the background, then a bit louder after the speech by ALFREDO HABERLI.
Complimentary Nyetimber sparkling wines, Tequila cocktails, wines , beers and canapes for guests.
Everyone got a goodie bag on departure.
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ANTHRAX have said that the main reason that they cancelled their UK & European was related to
travel costs, as hiring a tour bus has more than doubled in price.
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Monday 26 September 2022...6.45pm to 10.15pm...
TRAVEL MEDIA AWARDS 2022 at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, London W1.
Always nice to be at this well known five star hotel, where many A-listers have stayed.
Famous names included Elizabeth Taylor, Alfred Hitchcock, Barbara Streisand, and Dwight D. Eisenhower, among others. Eisenhower actually stayed here during World War II when he was still a Five-Star General and made the suite of rooms in which he staid his headquarters.
Elizabeth Taylor stayed at The Dorchester for the first time with her mother as a 17-year-old, and returned to the hotel throughout her life. The hotel's penthouse Harlequin Suite became her home away from home.
Around 300 guests are standing in the hotels ballroom.
From 7.30pm for an hour we have speeches and around 20 awards.
Winners came from the big newspapers travel writers to freelance and online.
Travel legend SIMON CALDER won an award but sadly not here, so sent a jokey video from Germany.
Final award of the evening went to publishing entrepreneur and travel writer TONY WHEELER, co-founder of Lonely Planet, is the worthy recipient of the 2022 Special Contribution Award.
Complimentary Veuve Clicquot champers , wines and beers all through the event.
Also various canapes before the awards, and various bowl food after the awards.
A very enjoyable evening.
Updated 27th September 2022 Permalink
Sunday 25 September 2022.
Sunday 25 September 2022.
COMEDY WAREHOUSE SPECIAL live at Shepherd's Bush Empire.
Several black comedians will play short sets throughout the evening.
I have seen this event a couple of times before as it's an annual event, and a couple of
them performing were here last time, including the host.
It stalls seating and pretty full so maybe 800 or 900 here.
Around a 75 % black audience here tonight.
The DJ was on from 7pm to 8pm and was very playing tunes very (too) loudly.
The show was on for two sets of 95 mins and 75 mins - 2 hours 50 mins total.
Each act had around 15 to 20 mins on stage.
The host did a great job with banter and jokes when talking to the audience between the acts.
Lots of funny moments throughout.
Plenty of jokes relating to black folks, white folks and even The Royal Family and The Queens funeral.
Comedians were Kojo, Dizzle, Richard Blackwood, Kane Brown, Babatunde, Slim, Curtis Walker.
Special guest on the night was ALEX BLAKE who recently won Britain's Got Talent and plays
his own special headline comedy show at Hammersmith Apollo soon.
An enjoyable evening.
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Saturday 24 September 2022.
FU MANCHU live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
American stoner rock band are playing a 30th anniversary UK tour as a band.
They have released a dozen albums since 1994.
I have seen them twice before , in 1999 and 2000.
Support comes from ELECTRIC CITIZEN who have released three studio albums.
Electric Citizen are an American rock band from Cincinnati, Ohio formed in 2012.
The group's current line-up features Laura Busse on lead vocals.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed , but stalls standing is very full, so maybe 1000 folks here.
ELECTRIC CITIZEN arrived on stage at 8pm for their 45 mins set.
The blonde female singer headbangs away as her great band play a crunching noise.
Guitar , drums and bass are all very Black Sabbath sounding and they rock good.
FU MANCHU arrived on stage at 9.15pm for their 80 mins set.
Support band had a tiny singer, and the Fu Manchu singer looks at least 6' 3" tall.
The atmosphere for the band is pretty amazing as the front half of the stalls is frantic moshing all night,
and crowd-surfing bodies continually end up in the pit.
Heavy swirling guitar riffs , with highlights including "California Crossing" , "King of The Road"
and encore of "Eating Dust".
Both bands were really good tonight.
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This is a good 15 mins video on YouTube.
A typical day in the life of a touring band set-up playing arenas in America.
If you are unfamiliar on the amount of work that's goes on behind the scenes during a tour, check this out.
Type in search....The Absurd Logisics of Concert Tours
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Friday 23 September 2022.
Not many megastars cross the Atlantic to plays shows in Dublin, and ignore England,
but that is what country music star GARTH BROOKS has just done.
He has just played five massive stadium shows at Croke Park , Dublin to 80,000 fans a show.
More than 400,000 tickets have been sold to see the country music superstar perform across the five nights.
Happy Birthday to BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN who is 73 today.
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Thursday 22 September 2022....I went to two events tonight...
London is back to normal as loads of events and gigs on tonight.
5pm to 9pm.
GALLIARD HOMES 30th ANNIVERSARY PARTY, 95 Dean Street, Soho, London W1.
Big name house builders are celebrating their 30th anniversary and showcasing their
new block of apartments - TCRW (Tottenham Court Road West).
Comprises 81 studio, 1 , 2, & 3 bedroom luxury apartments.
It was surprisingly a full on proper event for 200 guests, so we stayed here longer than planned.
They had a marquee in the courtyard.
At 7pm we had a speech and then a 15 mins drag act performed a few cover songs.
Then the DJ played tunes.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food as a full bar including Laurent Perrier champers along
with some very tasty food.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure.
www.galliardhomes.com - Visit their website here.
then
9.30pm to 11.15pm.
MARKET PLACE VAUXHALL - press launch - next to Vauxhall station, London SW8.
Boutique food hall group Market Place open their third location , after Peckham and Hounslow.
There are 12 food traders here alongside a bar, a DJ and seating for 200.
We arrive a bit late due to attending the previous event but we have a nice complimentary
meal from Rudies Jerk Shack and a couple of whiskey n cokes.
www.marketplacevauxhall.co.uk - Visit their website here for more info.
Updated 23rd September 2022 Permalink
Wednesday 21 September 2022.
Wednesday 21 September 2022...6.45pm to 9pm...
HALLYU! THE KOREAN WAVE - private view - The V & Museum , South Kensington, London SW7.
Around 500 guests are here, including many from Korea.
I have my photo taken with actor BILL NIGHY.
At 7.20pm we had a couple of speeches, then a DJ played tunes in the background.
At 8pm I tour the 200 exhibits for around 20 mins.
Remember that massive hit "Gangnam Style"...Gangnam is a wealthy district of Seoul.
Korea is now the world's 10th largest economy.
Hallyu! The Korean Wave will showcase the colourful and dynamic popular culture of South Korea, exploring the makings of the Korean Wave and its global impact on the creative industries of cinema, drama, music, fandom, beauty and fashion.
Highlights the history of K.Pop acts and how a few like BTS and Blackpink have had worldwide success.
There are costumes that have been worn on stage and in videos by K.Pop acts.
They all go through multi-auditions to become known as "Idols" in South Korea.
I saw BTS headline Wembley Stadium a few years ago.
The tech-savvy quick-quick smartphone younger generation of Koreans have certainly helped K.Pop acts.
Looking good and dance routines seem more important than actually playing an instrument.
Complimentary Korean sparkling wines, Korean cocktails and Korean canapes including fried chicken.
Tickets are £20...concessions are cheaper...it is on until June 2023.
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Tuesday 20 September 2022.
A1 live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Boy band from the late 1990s have still got all four original members for this current UK tour.
They had 8 x Top 10 hits in the UK, including 2 x number ones.
Levels 2 and 3 are closed off as unsold so maybe only 500 folks are here.
I have seen some impressive stage productions at this venue....but this wasn't one of them.
Keeping the show costs down to a minimum , there is no support act, just boy band hits over the pa.
Also A1 do not use a backing band , so there are backing tapes throughout the show.
They play keyboards and acoustic guitar on a few tracks to pad the sound out.
They arrived on stage at 8.40pm and play for 90 mins.
It is pretty much a 90% female crowd so, plenty of screaming.
Lots of folks from Philippines here as they were massive in that country...they love ballads there.
As there are plenty of ballads so they have to bring out the stools as well.
The many dance routines were good to watch.
The simple lyrics were nice and clear.
A nice touching medley of covers from boy / girl bands whose band members have died.
Final track of the night was their hit cover of Aha "Take On Me".
It was an ok show.
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Monday 19 September 2022....8am to 5pm...
QUEEN ELIZABETH II FUNERAL SERVICE at 11am.
A very sad day but it is a major historical event.
I can remember bringing my two young sons to lay flowers in Kensington Gardens for Princess Diana
25 years ago in 1997 then going to the funeral a few days later.
4000 military will be on parade, and the biggest amount of police ever seen on London's streets.
Thousands of security and stewards everywhere, who were looking after things, then an hour
before the funeral, the police take their place on the main route and security stewards mingle with the public.
Pall Mall and other places would be too busy with folks camping out all night.
We opted for somewhere that would be a bit quieter , but it was still very busy.
We end up at South Carriage Drive near Hyde Park Corner.
We are by The Mandarin Oriental Hotel and The Yacht Club.
Both of them had drinks events for their guests with a great higher up view.
We are near Knightsbridge Barracks so see many of the horse regiments go and come back.
We see a few motorbike police escorts and their VIP cars go past.
There is a big screen showing everything in the park , so we can hear the commentary and the gun salute.
At 1.40pm we see the Queens coffin and hearse go past.
We then visit The Park Rose Garden to see all the flowers that have been left.
It was pretty amazing how everything came together so well on the day.
I will have to watch the highlights on tv later.
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Friday 16 September 2022.
GLEN MATLOCK BAND live at The 100 Club.
Glens regular drummer Chris Musto will not be playing, as he has injured his arm.
His replacement will be his friend Matt Hector.
Neal X on guitar and Jim Lowe on bass duties will be there as usual.
With support from ED TUDORPOLE + THE FECKIN LATCHINOS with special guests.
Punk , garage and glam rock classics from DJ Jeffrey Munday.
Sex Pistols legend Glen is playing a gig at this iconic venue where i saw THE SEX PISTOLS in Sept 1976.
Glens career includes Sex Pistols, Rich Kids, Iggy Pop , The Faces and is a current Blondie member.
Glen is responsible for 90% of the music of THE best known punk band of all time, the Sex Pistols, writing iconic songs such as Anarchy In The UK, Pretty Vacant and God Save The Queen and since his stint in the Pistols has played with a who’s who of artists including Iggy Pop, The Faces and currently the one and only Blondie!
This show is one of only two UK gigs Glen is playing between his Blondie touring and recording commitments and will cover songs from right across his career from Pistols classics to solo gems.
With the success of the recent Danny Boyle Sex Pistols drama 'Pistol' and God Save The Queen being the years biggest selling vinyl single, there is sure to be great interest in this gig - we hope you enjoy the chance to see a UK music legend play live.
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So many folks here i know at this sold out gig in this iconic venue.
Great to see my old school chum Ronnie Evans, who recently brought out the book
on Wally Nightingale who played with Steve Jones and Paul Cook before The Sex Pistols.
THE FECKIN LATCHINOS arrived on stage at 9.15pm for their 30 mins set.
They played a great set of classic covers, with a couple of special guests joining them.
Full setlist played....
I Wanna Be Your Dog
Children Of The Revolution ( i got a name check from the stage)
Boredom
Neat Neat Neat (with Spizz Energi)
Did No You No Wrong (Sex Pistols track) ( with Ronnie Evans on guitar)
Another Girl, Another Planet
EMI ( a second name check to me from the stage)
ED TUDORPOLE arrived on stage at 9.50pm and played a 40 mins set.
Just zany Ed and his acoustic guitar.
A good set that finished with "Who Killed Bambi" and "Swords Of A Thousand Men".
GLEN MATLOCK BAND arrived on stage at 10.50pm and played for 65 mins.
A lot of bands on tonight, so Glen comes on much later than planned.
The rowdy crowd are certainly up for enjoying themselves tonight.
Stand-in drummer Matt Hector does a great job...and all the time he is wearing a three piece sit.
Glen plays a perfect mix of solo gems along with Sex Pistols & Rich Kids classics.
Solo tracks including "Rattle Your Cage" and "Born Running" sound as fab as ever ,
and the final song of Pistols anthem "Pretty Vacant" got everyone dancing front of stage.
An excellent show.
Full setlist played by GLEN MATLOCK BAND tonight...
Rattle Your Cage
Burning Sounds (Rich Kids song)
Magic Carpet Ride
Who's Side Are You On ?
God Save the Queen (Sex Pistols song) (dedicated to John Lydon)
Hook In You
Blank Generation (Richard Hell & the Voidoids cover)
Ghosts of Princes in Towers (Rich Kids song)
Consequences Coming
Can't Be Myself With You
Head On A Stick (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone (Paul Revere and the Raiders cover)
Born Running
Pretty Vacant (Sex Pistols song)
There was a midnight curfew, so no time for an encore of the planned "All or Nothing" as all the earlier bands earlier had delayed stage times.
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Friday 16 September 2022.
It has taken 50 years for the debut album by MISTY to finally be released.
The album is released on 16th September by Cherry Red Records on their Grapefruit label.
In October 1969, King Crimson released their debut, In The Court Of The Crimson King, Pink Floyd unleashed Ummagumma and Led Zeppelin put out their second LP. At the same time, Misty were in London’s Regent Sounds Studio recording what turned out to be the only album of their career with producer, Adrian Ibbetson, who had cut his teeth as an engineer working with everyone from the Beatles to the Equals.
After only a handful of gigs, Misty signed a deal with Parlophone and began to gather momentum with the release of their debut single Hot Cinnamon. Although they received a lot of airplay, the single failed to chart and the band’s hopes of releasing their debut album were dashed. Reluctantly, Misty went their separate ways and the Here Again album mastertapes sat gathering dust on a shelf until original keyboard player Michael Gelardi came across the original acetate and decided it was time for the album to finally see the light of day.
Bridging late psych and early prog, songs like Life Has Just Begun, Witness For The Prosecution and the title track were played with a perfect mix of high-flying experimentation and virtuosic musicianship. Blurring the fine lines between rock, jazz, classical and chamber pop, Here Again is a transcendent kaleidoscope of colour that is beyond definition.
Maybe you can tell an album is truly timeless when it takes half a century for it to be properly appreciated. Misty were a rare bird, a brilliant, truly original band who should have left an indelible mark instead of joining what now seems like the never- ending line of half-remembered and long-forgotten flotsam and jetsam of the psychedelic era.
The band duly went their separate ways and now after a brief hiatus of 52 years, Grapefruit is proud to host the first-ever release of the Misty album, a 13-track set that fuses classic three-minute songwriting with an organ-based late psychedelic/early progressive rock sound, firmly in the tradition of classically-informed bands like Procol Harum and The Nice.
Augmented by the audio content of that 15-minute television showcase, a 4000 word sleeve-note about Misty’s hitherto-undocumented existence together with photos, memorabilia and quotes from band members. Another dropped stitch in the tapestry of late 60s/early 70s British psychedelic and progressive rock.
www.cherryred.co.uk - Buy here for £12.99
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Updated 17th September 2022 Permalink
Thursday 15 September 2022.
Thursday 15 September 2022...I went to two events in Paddington today.
6.30pm to 9.30pm...
PACIFIC ASIA TRAVEL - summer party - Huckster, 4 Kingdom Street, Paddington, London W2.
One of those hidden gems of a venue that is tucked away behind all the new high rise apartments and venues by Paddington Basin as the entire area has been totally given a new lease of life.
Around 150 guests here from various travel agents and press.
Around 20 stands from the likes of Taiwan , Hong Kong , Vietnam, Thailand , including airlines, hotels, etc.
We chat to some of them...Hong Kong has four flights a day from Heathrow.
At 9pm there are a dozen prizes to be handed out via lucky dip names ballot.
It started off with some basic prizes before the big one at the end.
Main prize was a return flight to Taiwan with a week's accommodation...I didn't win anything.
Complimentary spirits n mixers, wines, beers, ciders along with canapes and bowls of nachos n dips.
then
9.45pm to 11pm.
ROYAL EXCHANGE PUB , Sale Place, off Praed Street, Paddington, London W2.
Ex bass playing legend from THE CLASH "PAUL SIMONON" is playing a secret DJ set.
My friend who lives in the area told me about this.
Paul has been turning up most Thursday's in August and September to DJ at his mates pub.
It is a tiny pub, so maybe 30 inside and another 60 on the pavement outside.
Paul is outside when we arrive, along with lots of the older Clash Ladbroke Grove posse.
At 10pm Paul djs for an hour playing some reggae, some Clash too.
It is free entry and i would imagine Paul will be there the next couple of Thursday's.
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Wednesday 14 September 2022....Noon to 7.45pm.
THE BIG CHRISTMAS PRESS SHOW at The Business Design Centre, Islington, London N1.
It is a 90 per cent female crowd, but I am with a couple of female friends.
They both got a complimentary nail manicure and nails painted when there.
At the same time i got a back and head massage.
A neat stunt happened when i saw two security guys with their SIA badges on their arms wandering about
then we had a " flash dance" when the two "security " and six "customers" burst into a street dance routine.
Around 50 or 60 brands are showcasing their Christmas offerings.
Hard to believe i was at this event for nearly eight hours.
Lots of complimentary canapes, snacks, EMISSARY prosecco and coffees throughout the day.
Chatting to various sales folks and then sitting down every now and then for refreshments.
Many are giving out samples and goodie bags of their products.
Here are some of the highlights...
PAPERCHASE...will be having many three for two offers.
BUYAGIFT.CO.UK and REDLETTERDAYS.CO.UK....Buyagift & Red Letter Days Christmas Gift guides, have everything from afternoon tea, dining, adventure, short breaks, spa’s and so much more.
PACT COFFEE...featuring their V60 coffee dripper.
ELF LAND...featuring The Lost Wish book to inspire young readers.
RAVENSBURGER...children's & family games and CreArt.
CARTWRIGHT & BUTLER...various hamper items.
New hamper in for £80 is an array of truly pink products, from melt-in-the-mouth butter fudge to a fine bottle of Finders Fruits of the Forest Gin, various biscuits.The hamper makes a great gift for a Gin lover.
BAYLIS & HARDING...beauty products and bath and shower products.
PIGLETS PANTRY...for deluxe cup cakes, pies and treats etc.
HAMPERS.com...various hamper items.
RUSSELL & HOBBS....toasters and mixers.
REMINGTON...hair tongs and curlers etc...along with shave & groom products for men.
They were showcasing their new PROluxe You collection.
BIRD & BLEND TEA CO....lots of different teas , my fave was Gingerbread Chai.
TREATBOX...packaged and personalised boxed treats in the post.
CRICUT...make your own ironed on images.
DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES...
We sat down for an hour or so for the nice lunch provide by BERRY & BRIE.
At 4pm we sat down for an hour for a bowl LITTLE MOONS MOCHI ICE CREAM and a coffee.
From 6pm to 7.45pm NIGHTCAP Bars Group hosted the drinks reception.
They have 33 bars in total , including the many Barrio Bars.
Three very nice different complimentary cocktails to choose from.
A female singer sung some cover versions and Christmas songs.
All guests got a £25 UBER credit to help with getting all their bags home.
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Tuesday 13 September 2022...6.15pm to 10.15pm...
COTTON'S SHOREDITCH - showcase - 45 / 47 Hoxton Square, Shoreditch,London N1.
Across from this venue, just 50 yards away back in 2007 , i was at an XBox 3 launch party feat three members of The Sex Pistols (John , Steve and Glen ) as they had re-recorded "Anarchy In The UK " for it.
It was just before those amazing Sex Pistols five nights (I was at all five shows) at Brixton Academy.
Cotton's are London's longest-running Caribbean brand with rum shacks in Camden, Vauxhall, Notting Hill and Shoreditch.
We have a nice table in the corner, and the staff are bringing us non-stop drinks and food.
Complimentary Caribbean canapes , along with rum punch cocktails and prosecco.
Top notch entertainment here tonight...
A three piece steel pan band played two sets of 30 mins each.
Two fully dressed up female carnival dancers performed two sets of five mins each.
SOUL II SOUL legend JAZZIE B played a dj set in the basement area from 8.30pm to 10pm.
An enjoyable evening.
www.cottons-restaurant.co.uk - Visit their website here.
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Monday 12 September 2022....6.15pm to 8.30pm
MOONAGE DAYDREAM - The Life and Times of Ziggy Stardust - The Anniversary Edition.
Private View and Book Re-Launch - Atlas Gallery, 49 Dorset Street, London W1.
Legendary photographer Mick Rock celebrates 50 years of David Bowies album Ziggy Stardust.
Mick Rock died in November 2021.
Sole survivor of The Spiders from Mars band, WOODY WOODMANSEY is here , now aged 72.
I got a photo with him that will be up soon on my Facebook page.
French singer based in London ANNE PIGALLE was here...her next gig is in Marseilles on 01 October.
The book is on display to browse through, along with many of the best photos from it on the walls.
Includes the iconic photo of David Bowie, Iggy Pop and Lou Reed together.
First published as a signed limited edition, “Moonage Daydream” sold out in a matter of months and became lore among David Bowie fans. Now, on the 50th anniversary of Bowie’s acclaimed album, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, the book is available once more as an Anniversary Edition, published by Genesis Publications.
In time with the release of the book a special exhibition, with a selection of prints by Mick Rock will be exhibited at Atlas Gallery.
The photographs by Mick Rock capture the span of Ziggy’s 18-month reign: the early English concerts where Ziggy and the Spiders made their name; Rock’s classic images of Bowie at home at Haddon Hall; Bowie’s collaboration with Lindsay Kemp in the ground-breaking shows at The Rainbow; the breakthrough tour of the USA; the massive sell-out UK tour culminating in Ziggy’s retirement; recording Pin Ups in Paris; and Ziggy’s final swansong, the flamboyant 1980 Floor Show.
The book is on sale here for £125.
The exhibition is on until 21 September 2022.
Complimentary wines and beers for all the guests here.
Updated 13th September 2022 Permalink
Monday 12 September 2022.
Sunday 11 September 2022....I went to two events today...
3.45pm to 4.30pm
EPIC BURGERS - press preview - Crown Buildings, 4 The Green, Chingford, London E4.
This recently opened restaurant does a great range of top notch burgers.
We each had a DA VINCI (beef patty, bacon, two cheeses) which was pure five star yumminess and fries.
You can also order home delivery via their website.
They have a £9.99 special opening meal deal offer for a Klassiq burger, fries and drink
www.epicburgers.co.uk - Visit their website here.
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then
EPPING FOREST MUSIC FESTIVAL is at Chingford Plain, Epping Forest, London E4 - Essex.
Sat 10 Sept - CLEAN BANDIT plus support acts.
Sun 11 Sept - UB40 feat Ali Campbell plus support acts.
I have seen UB40 over 15 times since they supported The Pretenders at Brunel University
in Uxbridge in 1980.There are now two versions of UB40 due to the Campbell brothers falling out.
UB40 had 17 x Top 10 hits in the UK, including 3 x number ones.
Easy to get to the venue by train, tube or bus as Chingford is Zone 5 for Oyster Cards.
Tickets are £50 per day for general admission and £100 with complimentary drinks in VIP lounge area.
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5pm to 10.15pm.
Very nice to be in this countryside setting on the Sunday.
A smallish festival with maybe 2,000 to 3,000 here.
There is the one big screen on the right side of the stage.
We saw a Rod Stewart lookalike singing Rod hits to a backing tape for 30 mins then a covers
band playing a 30 mins set , then a DJ playing a 30 mins set.
Thankfully we were in the VIP/press marquee to the left of stage.
We chatted to a lovely local couple (Michael and Jackie) who took our minds off the lame support acts.
Our wristbands were valid for free drinks inc rose wines , beers and spirits and mixers until 8pm.
UB40 feat Ali Campbell arrived onstage at 8pm for their 85 mins set.
It was nice and dark when they arrived on stage, so the lightshow looked nice.
Several members in the band including sax, and the overall sound was great.
Nice and easy to have a dance to many of their pop reggae hits,many of which were covers.
Highlights included "Homely Girl", "Cherry Oh Baby", "One in Ten", "Too Many Rivers To Cross"
and great four song encore of "Food For Thought", "Kingston Town", "Can't Help Falling In Love",
and "Red, Red Wine"......a very enjoyable show.
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Well done to YUNGBLUD who i have seen play two great shows at The Forum in the past.
UK punk-pop artist YUNGBLUD sees his self-titled third studio album debut at No.1 in Australia, England, Ireland, Scotland and New Zealand this week.
Updated 12th September 2022 Permalink
Saturday 10 September 2022.
Saturday 10 September 2022.
COCK SPARRER live at The Roundhouse.
Cock Sparrer play the second of two special shows at The Roundhouse.
They rarely play London, and usually stick to playing The Rebellion Punk Festival in Blackpool.
I saw them play up north at punk festivals in 2003 and 2006 , but never seen them play in London.
Cock Sparrer are widely considered to be one of the most influential Street Punk bands in history.
2022 marks the celebration of their 50th Anniversary.
British music paper Sounds sums it up perfectly in a live review from April 1978:
“Musically and visually, the Cock Sparrer crew are just about as motley and uncouth as its possible for a band to project. Imagine five collectively imageless Cockneys with hair length varying from skinhead to Woody Roller, wearing clothes that looked they pool from the jumble sales, and singing about how East End life is tough but fun…(they)…create a good time sound that occasionally approximates to the original spirit of Slade.”...
In 1980, the band found themselves on a number of compilation albums and a new breed of fans discovered them. This was punk from the streets, and Sparrer were part of the Oi! music movement at the time.
The band will be playing two sets each night.
The band split up in the mid 1980s but reformed for gigs in 1992 and were surprised at how many non UK
fans were at an Astoria gig and since then they have toured the world every now and then.
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Plenty of older skinheads in the crowd tonight, but they are behaving themselves.
Folks from all over Europe have made the trek to this special anniversary event.
COCK SPARRER play for two hours 10 mins over two sets of 55 mins and 75 mins.
Their style is influenced by pub rock, glam rock and raw 1960s beat music as delivered by bands like the Small Faces and The Who. Their lyrics mostly deal with topics related to the daily lives of working class people. Their name derives from their original name, Cock Sparrow,a Cockney term of familiarity.
Pretty amazing they can fill this venue for two nights when you never hear them on the radio or see them on tv.
The first set had video clips of band members talking about the early days of the band on the big screen.
The second set had live footage of the gig on two big screens.
It got very lively down the front for the second set which included their best known songs including
"Riot Squad", "Argy Bargy", "Take Em All", "England Belongs To Me " and "We're Coming Back".
All the crowd are singing very loudly to the catchy simple lyrics.
Cock Sparrer doing their own thing for their own fans, a great gig.
FIRST SET (rarities set)
Out on an Island
We Love You (The Rolling Stones cover)
Chip on My Shoulder
I Need a Witness
Bats Out
I Live in Marbella (Working, Part 3)
Battersea Bardot
True to Yourself
Family of One
Take It On The Chin
One by One
SECOND SET ( their usual set)
Riot Squad
Watch Your Back
Working
Teenage Heart / Droogs Don't Run
What's It Like to Be Old
Argy Bargy
Gonna Be Alright
Tough Guys
A.U.
Nothing Like You
Runnin' Riot
I Got Your Number
Because You're Young
Take 'em All
Where Are They Now?
Suicide Girls
England Belongs to Me
We're Coming Back
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Friday 09 September 2022.
LAURA MVULA live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Her three solo albums have all made the UK Top 40.
Laura has also released a live album from Abbey Road Studios.
I have seen her three times before, with the first time in 2014 supporting PRINCE in Birmingham.
This is her only headlining show on her summer European Tour where she has been on the middle
of the bills, along with a couple of shows supporting Coldplay at Wembley Stadium.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, and there is space on the floor so maybe only 800 folks here.
Laura Mvula career has had its fair amount of up and downs over the past decade.
Other female artists have come after her, and had more commercial success.
TAMARAEBI arrived on stage at 7.50pm for his 35 mins set.
Nigerian born Londoner and his band performed a nice soul set.
The set included a cover of Coldplays "Magic" that he dedicated to his newly born son.
Headliner LAURA MVULA arrived on stage at 9.05pm for her I hour 45 mins set.
An impressive entrance by Laura as she is wearing a shimmery dress with a neck halo and high heels,
and is holding a keyboard (keytar) around her shoulders that she plays on many songs.
Laura would also play normal keyboards during the show.
Laura has a big screen showing pre-recorded images.
There is a film crew here, filming everything.
Laura has a fantastic soulful voice and a warm and friendly on stage personality.
Many critics and musicians highly rate Laura including Nile Rodgers so we get a nice cover of
"Lost in Music" dedicated to him, and of course Prince so we get a stunning cover of his gem
"I Would Die 4 U ".
Neat the end she performed her breakout track "Green Garden" and the first encore was another
stunning cover of Michael Jackson's "Human Nature"
Before the prescribed pre-encore will-they-won't-they, Laura Mvula ends her set with an impassioned tribute to her band, her team and her fans. It's always a pleasure to see an artist so overjoyed to be performing their music live and so gracious for the people around them who bring their musical vision to life. Having said that, she can thank all the people she wants, but it was Laura herself who stole the show tonight.
Updated 10th September 2022 Permalink
Thursday 08 September 2022.
Thursday 08 September 2022.
Very sad news that QUEEN ELIZABETH II has died aged 96.
She was a pretty amazing woman , who was much loved by everyone.
An incredible reign as Queen for over 70 years.
She was still working just two days before her death.
Prince Charles now becomes KING CHARLES III.
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Thursday 08 September 2022.
STARSAILOR live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Starsailor have had 10 x Top 40 hit singles in the UK (between 2001 and 2009).
I have seen Starsailor several times since 2001 when i attended a tv recording of Later with Jools Holland.
They are playing their 2001 debut album in full, as a belated tour (due to covid) for its 20th anniversary
"Love is Here" is the debut studio album by rock band Starsailor, released on 8 October 2001 by Chrysalis Records. After finalising their line-up, a positive review from NME started a bidding war between record labels.
The album went platinum in the UK and reached number 2 in the charts and featured five Top 40 hit singles.
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Level 3 is closed and Level 2 is half empty , so maybe 1000 folks here.
There were two support bands who played decent 30 mins each.
First up was THE HORN , then ROSELLAS.
STARSAILOR arrived on stage at 9.15pm for their 85 mins set.
Their stage backdrop was the cover of their debut album.
I always had a bit of a soft spot for Starsailor, which was mainly due to singer James Walsh
being such a laid back unassuming quiet front man.
The band's songs are more keyboard led, rather than guitar based.
The first eleven tracks of the set is the debut album in full , which included the great singles
"Alcoholic" , 'Fever" and "Good Souls".
The latter part of the set included gems "In The Crossfire" and "Four to the Floor".
For their encore, they played their highest charting entry, ‘'Silence is Easy’' which was incredible as the crowd singing almost out did the band themselves.
A very enjoyable show.
Full STARSAILOR setlist played tonight...
Tie Up My Hands
Poor Misguided Fool
Alcoholic
Lullaby
Way to Fall
Fever
She Just Wept
Talk Her Down
Love Is Here
Good Souls
Coming Down
This Time
In the Crossfire
Heavy Weight
Best of Me
Tell Me It's Not Over
Four to the Floor
Encore:
Silence Is Easy
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Wednesday 07 September 2022...6pm to 9.15pm
WHISTLE PUNKS URBAN AXE THROWING - Launch Party - 53 Eastcastle Street, London W1.
We have indoor mini-golf, indoor bowling, indoor electronic darts and now indoor AXE THROWING.
Yes, indoor axe throwing.
There are nine pairs of lanes with an instructor always overseeing things on each lane,
and explaining how to throw the axe, and not to act foolish , and to act responsible.
Nets separate each lane.
We had a session where we threw 10 times each.
A couple bounced out , but the rest hit various places on the target.
Around 150 guests here , so it got very busy and noisy.
It was good here fun, and something different.
Complimentary spirits n mixers, prosecco, wines, beers, ciders for all guests, along
with slices of sourdough pizza and popcorn.
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The UK’s original urban axe-throwing brand Whistle Punks continues to lead the industry from the front with a new flagship location 300m from Oxford Circus Tube. It is officially set to be Europe’s biggest axe-throwing venue with nine lanes, an extensive bar area and an all-new kitchen serving delicious sourdough pizza. The new venue launches on in Septemper and tickets for all venues are on sale at whistlepunks.com.
In 2016, Whistle Punks was the first brand to bring urban axe throwing to the UK. To date, over 15million axes have been thrown across four existing sites in Vauxhall, London, Manchester, Leeds and Bristol. The brand's unique scoring system and experienced hosts have set the standard for this high-octane experience and now the new 7000 sq ft venue is set to offer the most immersive axe-throwing experience in Europe.
Each axe throwing session is led by an experienced instructor with a brief masterclass followed by practice throws and a full tournament to crown an ultimate champion.
"I think a large part of the appeal is that it feels like something you shouldn’t be allowed to do. It’s a visceral experience which is physical without being too demanding. It all takes place under the close watch of our instructors who make sure everyone stays safe while having a truly unique night out. With our brand new and world-beating Oxford Circus location, we couldn't be more proud to be bringing the signature Whistle Punks experience to such a large audience." Co-founder Jools Whitehorn
That new venue will see Whistle Punks stylishly transform the former Busaba Eathai site at 53 Eastcastle Street. It will have nine throwing lanes, each with its very own instructor who guides players from novice to axe throwing whizz in 70 minutes. Whether you're a first-timer or an axe-throwing superstar, Whistle Punks instructors have always been central in creating an epic atmosphere on the lanes so that participants at all levels have an unforgettable experience. This includes an end-of-game skill session where players can learn trick shots, underarm and two axe throws as well as taking the ultimate snap for Instagram.
Updated 8th September 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 06 September 2022.
Tuesday 06 September 2022...I went to two events today...
3pm to 5.15pm.
SPECIALITY FINE FOOD FAIR at Olympia, West London.
This was the second and final day of this two day event.
It is billed as the UKs leading showcase of artisanal food & drink.
Over 200 quality food & drinks brands are showcasing here today.
Most are having tastings and some are giving out samples.
There are several that catch my eye....
WILLY'S Live Apple Cider Vinegar with organic Honey & Tumeric.
Good for your gut, and they gave me a few bottles.
I have been going through a phase of having Baklawa so good to see some here.
SWEETLAND had some complimentary boxes of four in the press room but the superior
quality and taste of luxury CEDAR BAKLAWA was pure delicious....both can be bought online.
They are based in Luton with over 2000 customers, and have been around 22 years.
They won a Best Taste Award in 2022.
Tins of SOMERS Sour Cream & Chive Gourmet Popcorn were very tasty.
Frozen cakes from Italy's LA CREDENZA were very nice...unfrozen here.
I had a full size Cheesecake Ricotta and Pistacchio.
Small packets of COPPERPOT Caramel & Sea Salt Fudge from Cornwall were very yummy.
Tubes of GIN MAYO , yes Gin Mayo with 2% alcohol will be tried at home some time soon.
IMPERIAL OLIVES had over a dozen different stuffings so they gave me a jar of Olives stuffed with Carrot.
COCOA CANOPY had some interesting coffee beads packets.
RIVERSIDE SPIRITS were giving out some nice mini-cocktails.
CANNEDWINECO had half a dozen tins, which are available in The National Gallery.
I have put the following image up on my Facebook page.
FINE FOOD DIGEST magazine cover has a design nicked from the iconic NMTB album cover.
No thank you credits or copyright mentioned.
then....
THE CADILLAC THREE live at The Roundhouse.
Southern USA country rockers from Nashville are playing the last show on a 10th anniversary UK tour.
The show has sold out out in advance...could be down to the good value tickets of only £22.50.
They have released five studio albums.
I saw them at The Ramblin' Man Fair Festival , Maidstone, Kent in July 2016.
In 2015 the band played a show in America on the Friday, flew in from America to the UK to play Download Festival on the Saturday and ended up hitting the stage using fellow American band Black Stone Cherry's equipment as TC3's had not made it to the UK with them. Within hours of their set at Download they were heading back to America for a different festival appearance the following day.
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There were several cowboy hats in the crowd tonight.
I have seen some pretty boring support acts recently,, but tonight we have a good one.
Support act LINDSAY ELL (age 32 ) is a Canadian country pop singer, songwriter, guitarist and television personality from Calgary, Alberta. Her music incorporates elements of rock and blues.
She was discovered by rock legend RANDY BACHMAN as a 15 year old.
She arrives on stage in glitter jacket and glam rock boots.
A duo with Lindsay on vocals & guitar and a drummer.
Lots of nifty guitar playing on tracks from her albums and she played a great guitar solo where
she laid on her back by the edge of the stage with her long hair hanging over the edge.
THE CADILLAC THREE arrived on stage at 9.15pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
Just the three of them on stage.. but one member mixes playing steel guitar and bass playing.
The main guitar playing was nice and loud, but that sometimes drowned out the steel guitar.
Lots of songs about drinking and getting messed up, and generally have a good time.
Support act Lindsay & guitar joined them for three songs near the end.
Clearly a band that loves to play live.
A very enjoyable show.
Full THE CADILLAC THREE setlist played tonight...
Hard Out Here For A Country Boy
Blue El Camino
Crackin' Cold Ones With the Boys
The Jam
Peace Love & Dixie
Slide
Soundtrack to a Six Pack
Bury Me in My Boots
Tennessee Mojo
Back It Up
Hank & Jesus
American Slang
Running Red Lights
Take Me to the Bottom
Head Over Wheels (with Lindsay Ell)
Tabasco & Sweet Tea ( with Lindsay Ell)
Sweet Southern Spirit (with Lindsay Ell)
I'm Southern
Whiskey Soaked Redemption
White Lightning
The South
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Sunday 04 September 2022.
BLEACHERS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Bleachers play the second of two sold out shows at SBE, both sold out two months before the shows.
Bleachers are an American rock band from New Jersey and the official stage name of songwriter and record producer Jack Antonoff. Antonoff has been nominated for a Golden Globe Award and won six Grammy Awards, including the 2022 Grammy for Producer of the Year.
All three of the their albums have made the Top 50 in the USA.
Their third album "Take The Sadness Out Of Saturday Night" got a nice four star review from
NME in 2021 , and on November 16, 2020, Bleachers released the lead singles "45" and "Chinatown", the latter featuring fellow New Jersey musician megastar Bruce Springsteen.
On their 2022 North American tour, Bleachers surprised the crowd at NYC’s Radio City Music Hall by inviting Springsteen to join them for ‘Chinatown’...the video is up on YouTube.
These two SBE shows are their only shows in Europe, between their lengthy North American Tour.
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Support act BONNIE KEMPLAY & band arrive on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
Her tracks ticked along ok, but not really lively enough for me.
Matt the singer in The 1975 is in the Level 1 guest list VIP seats.
BLEACHERS are on stage from 9.10pm for 1 hour 40 mins.
The venue is rammed solid and everyone is up in the seated areas and dancing from the start.
The crowd seem to know all the words to all the songs.
A nice stage production with loads of lights and raised white platforms, and there are six musicians.
Including two drum kits and two keyboards and two sax as the musicians swap around for some of the songs.
Main man Jack on vocals is giving it 100 per cent , and you can see how he is influenced by Mr Springsteen.
The similarities between the two are striking. The mannerisms, the appearance, the sound, the guitar.
They play tracks from from their three albums, and there are hints of The Killers in sound.
They cover the classic "The Whole of The Moon" , which oddly The Killers also cover.
Loads of great uptempo catchy singalong tunes are played, with full of energy.
Three giant balloon tomatoes are thrown into the crowd during the final song of the night.
A really good show, that was much better than expected.
Updated 5th September 2022 Permalink
Sunday 04 September 2022.
Saturday 03 September 2022.
THE FOO FIGHTERS & FRIENDS live at Wembley Stadium.
This is a Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert.
The Foo Fighters drummer Taylor sadly passed away in March 2022.
I saw Taylor play drums with Alanis Morissette before he joined The Foo Fighters.
I saw Taylor drum with The Foo Fighters around a dozen times.
Those advertised to attend include Travis Barker, Martin Chambers, Josh Freese, Violet Grohl, Justin Hawkins, Shane Hawkins, James Gang feat Joe Walsh, Brian Johnson, Kesha, Luke Spiller , Lars Ulrich , Nandi Bushell, Chris Chaney, Stewart Copeland, Liam Gallagher, Omar Hakim, Joshua Homme, Chrissie Hynde, Alain Johannes, John Paul Jones, Greg Kurstin, Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Brian May, Krist Novoselic, Nile Rodgers, Mark Ronson, Supergrass, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor, Wolfgang Van Halen, Chevy Metal and a special appearance by comedian Dave Chappelle.
MTV and others will be showing coverage of the event.
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Needless to say i was really looking forward to this sold out show.
Never seen such long queues for merch, both outside and inside the stadium.
A nice long show that was on from 4.30pm to 10.20pm.
The FOO FIGHTERS arrive on stage, and Dave gives an emotional speech.
A superb opening as LIAM GALLAGHER sung two Oasis classics, with The Foos backing him.
"Rock N Roll Star" and "Live Forever".
An image of Olivia Newton John was on the front of the bass drum of the main kit.
No proper interval and quick changeovers of usually just five mins.
Lots of rock legends end up on stage tonight for our viewing pleasure.
BRIAN JOHNSON singing two AC/DC classics with Lars from Metallica on drums.
Two remaining members of RUSH play three of their songs.
THEM CROOKED VULTURES and THE JAMES GANG feat JOE WALSH reform for tonight.
WOLGANG VAN HALEN plays the UK for the first time , and plays two Van Halen classics.
QUEEN play a great five song set with different singers.
Every musician tonight had a connection with Taylor Hawkins. He was influenced by them or are friends.
Why are Supergrass here?...They supported Foo Fighters on their 1997 American tour.
Who are The Coattail Riders and Chevy Metal ? Both were Taylor Hawkins side project bands.
Taylor Hawkins loved Jeff Buckley, so Dave Grohls daughter Violet sings a couple of his tracks.
There were video clips of Taylor and tributes on the big screens from musicians during changeovers.
Here are all the tracks played between Liam Gallagher and The Foo Fighters...
Dave Cappelle speech
Let's Dance - Nile Rodgers with Josh Homme
Modern Love - Nile Rodgers with Gaz Coombes
Psycho Killer - Chevy Metal and The Coattail Riders
Children Of The Revolution - Chevy Metal and The Coattail Riders with Kesha
Louise - The Coattail Riders with Justin Hawkins and Josh Freese
Range Rover Bitch - The Coattail Riders with Justin Hawkins and Josh Freese
It's Over - The Coattail Riders with Justin Hawkins and Josh Freese
On Fire - Wolfgang Van Halen, Dave Grohl, Justin Hawkins, Josh Freese
Hot For Teacher - Wolfgang Van Halen, Dave Grohl, Justin Hawkins, Josh Freese
Last Goodbye - Violet and Dave Grohl, Alain Johannes, Chris Chaney, Greg Kurstin and Jason Falkner
Grace - Violet and Dave Grohl, Alain Johannes, Chris Chaney, Greg Kurstin and Jason Falkner
Richard III - Supergrass
Alright - Supergrass
Caught By The Fuzz - Supergrass
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Them Crooked Vultures
Gunman - Them Crooked Vultures
Long Slow Goodbye - Them Crooked Vultures
Precious - The Pretenders with Dave Grohl
Tattooed Love Boys - The Pretenders with Dave Grohl
Brass In Pocket - The Pretenders with Dave Grohl
Walk Away - James Gang
The Bomber - James Gang
Funk #49 - James Gang with Dave Grohl
Valerie - Violet Grohl, Mark Ronson, Chris Chaney, Jason Falkner
Back In Black - Brian Johnson, Lars Ulrich and Foo Fighters
Let There Be Rock - Brian Johnson, Lars Ulrich and Foo Fighters
Next To You - Stewart Copeland and Foo Fighters
Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic - Stewart Copeland and Foo Fighters
It was nice and dark at 8.05pm when RUSH arrived on stage, so the lightshow kicked in nicely.
2112 Part 1: Overture - Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Dave Grohl
Working Man - Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Dave Grohl
YYZ - Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Omar Hakim
We Will Rock You - Brian May, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor, Foo Fighters and Luke Spiller
I'm In Love With My Car - Brian May, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor and Foo Fighters
Under Pressure - Brian May, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor, Foo Fighters and Justin Hawkins
Somebody To Love - Brian May, Roger Taylor, Rufus Taylor, Foo Fighters and Sam Ryder
Love Of My Life - Brian May
THE FOO FIGHTERS arrive on stage at 9pm for their 80 mins set.
A mainly greatest hits set that really rocked superbly....with various guest drummers...
Great to see PAUL McCARTNEY sing two Beatles songs with them.
Pretty amazing to see Taylor's son play some stunning drums to, of course " My Hero".
Full FOO FIGHTERS setlist played tonight....
Times Like These (with Josh Freese) (Dave started crying in the middle of the song, but recovered and kept singing)
All My Life (with Josh Freese on drums , session drummer who has played with many bands)
The Pretender (with Travis Barker from Sum 41 on drums)
Monkey Wrench (with Travis Barker) (Grohl forgot part of the vocals to Verse 2)
Learn to Fly (with Nandi Bushell)(teenage female internet drumming sensation)
These Days (with Rufus Taylor , who looks uncannily like Taylor Hawkins)
Best of You (with Rufus Taylor)
Oh! Darling (The Beatles cover) (with Paul McCartney) (also with Chrissie Hyde and Omar Hakim)
Helter Skelter (The Beatles cover) (with Paul McCartney) (also with Omar Hakim on drums)
Aurora (with Omar Hakim)
My Hero (with Oliver Shane Hawkins)
Everlong (Dave Grohl Solo, followed by all the performers taking a bow and a photo of Taylor above)
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A totally excellent event of top notch live music.
I will be at over 150 gigs this year, but this is bound to be number one, come the end of Dec.
Updated 4th September 2022 Permalink
Friday 02 September 2022.
Friday 02 September 2022....Ladies Day...11am to 5.30pm...
I went back again to SALON PRIVE at Blenheim Palace.
Each day is slightly different.
Today is Ladies Day , so there are many more females here today , compared to Wednesday.
At 11am for an hour i catch the Official Concours Parade.
The compère and the driver do a great job of describing the history of the car.
There are some very rare beautiful cars here, some are worth over a million pounds.
Some collectors have several rare cars.
Jay from Jamiroquai has one of his cars on show here.
We see JAMIE BLANDFORD and a nice surprise to see ANDREW RIDGELEY here.
We get some photos which will be on my Facebook page soon.
At 2.30pm we had the Supercars Parade.
We have a go on the car simulators, and visit the Indian motorbikes stand.
At 3.30pm was the Best of Show Ceremony.
A Navy Blue with white hood 1956 Ferrari GT250 by Zagato won the Best of Show.
Later on was Boodles Best Hat competition.
Again the Pommery champers flowed freely throughout the day, along with he same food as Wed.
Another excellent day out in the countryside to see these stunning cars.
Dates have been confirmed for SALON PRIVE 2023 shows....see you there.
20 April - 22 April 2023 Salon Prive London at The Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
30 August - 03 September 2023 Salon Prive at Blenheim Palace.
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Thursday 01 September 2022...I went to two events tonight...
6.30pm to 8pm.
SEBASTIAN CHAUMETON - private view - Maddox Gallery, 9 Maddox Street, Mayfair, London W1.
His paintings are inspired by the giants of British contemporary art in a solo show that opens in London on 2 September and continues until 9 October.
The exhibition at Maddox Gallery, entitled Little Palette, includes a Mr. Banksy, a Mr. Bacon, a Mr. Opie and a Ms. Riley, along with works inspired by 15 other artists. Each is painted in a way that evokes that artist's style and subject matter.
In a recent video interview, Chaumeton said that people tend to like things that are familiar. That goes not just for Roger Hargreaves' Mr. Men books, which have sold over 100 million copies, but also works by contemporary artists.
Complimentary Ruinart champers and Mojitos for all the guests here tonight.
then....
DAVID SINCLAIR FOUR play shows to promote their new album...
The band’s forthcoming album "Apropos Blues" which will be released on September 2.
The single in advance of the album is now available to stream and download from all the usual platforms: Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, Deezer, etc.
The DS4 will showcase songs from their brand new album, Apropos Blues, along with favourites including
Eight Rounds Later, Coming Off The Rails and Life Gone Cold. A great night guaranteed. Just don’t step on their blue suede shoes!
A limited number of pre-release copies of the brand new CD – Apropos Blues – will be available for purchase.
The DS4 combines a vintage sense of blues, rock and high-energy R&B filtered through a modern, London singer-songwriter lens.
Sept 1 Half Moon, Putney (album launch show)...£8 in advance online or £10 on the door.
www.halfmoon.co.uk - Visit the venue website here to buy tix.
Sept 4 Tropic at Ruislip
Sept 24 Limelight, Aylesbury
Note : David Sinclair reviewed live gigs for The Times newspaper for many years.
The copy of Classic Rock mag in the stores July/Aug has a great multi-page interview
with ZZ Top when David interviewed them recently.
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Always nice to visit this legendary pub rock venue.
David Sinclair Four play for around 95 mins over two sets of 40 mins and 55 mins.
Well crafted songs with great lyrics from David are the order of the day here.
Some songs certainly hint of Dire Straits.
Lots of nifty guitar playing.
They were joined by a cool harmonica player for some tracks.
A perfect mix of new album tracks and some gems from previous albums.
A really good band that you should check out.
FIRST SET
Sick of Being Sick
The Click-Clack Man
Borrowed Rhyme
Apropos Blues
Years Are Gone
The Bands of London
Sweet Jane
Let It Rock
SECOND SET
Living Like a Yo-Yo
I'm Clean
Life Gone Cold
When Her Ship Comes Sailing In
Hip-Hopping
World Turns Around
Loneliness ( Won't Leave Me Alone)
Eight Rounds Later
Coming Off The Rails
Encore :
Bye Bye Johnny
Updated 2nd September 2022 Permalink
Saturday 03 September 2022
Wed 31 Aug to Sun 04 Sept - SALON PRIVE presents Concours d’Elégance at Blenheim Palace.
Blenheim Palace is in the glorious countryside location of Woodstock, Oxfordshire.
Celebrating 17 consecutive years of the Concours d’Elégance in 2022, Salon Privé offers an experience for entrants that is truly second-to-none. Gathered on the South Lawn will be the finest collection of classic automobiles available in the UK.
Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Future.
Welcoming more than 100 stunning cars across carefully curated classes, the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance presented by Aviva has something for all. Treasured relics from the Edwardian era will return to Britain’s Greatest Palace, joined by some of the rarest and most valuable grand tourers, classic sports racers, era-defining icons and racing legends, alongside the world’s most jaw-dropping supercars and concepts from the present and future.
An opportunity to witness manufacturers World, European and UK debuts.
Plus, see the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance featuring more than 100 cars.
The Platinum Collection – a specially curated display of cars from the past 70 years, brought together for the first time in honour of The Queen’s Jubilee.
Don’t miss the Prodrive Legends feature that will celebrate the British company with a line-up of rally cars, racing cars such as the Ferrari 550 GTS and Aston Martin Vantage GT4, and the new Prodrive Hunter – the world’s first all-terrain hypercar.
As a Concours, the reputation of Salon Privé precedes it, with no other event in the UK rivalling the sensational venue, hospitality, brands on display and show-stopping array of classic cars.
Wednesday to Saturday are tickets with hospitality only days which includes lunch, afternoon tea
and all day champagne......Sunday is general admission to the public.
This stunning venue is on the outskirts of Oxford...Lots of car parking space.
Trains to Oxford then a 30 mins bus ride or taxi.
www.salonpriveconcours.com - Visit their website here,
for information on what is happening each day and to buy tickets.
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Wednesday 31 August 2022...press day....11.30am to 5.30pm...
A lovely sunny day at this stunning historic 11,500 acre palace and grounds where
SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL was born in 1874.
Maybe around 1000 smartly dressed guests here including JAMIE BLANDFORD , the current
Duke of Marlborough whose home Blenheim Palace is.
Also here was F1 racing car driver Lewis Hamiltons dad ANTHONY HAMILTON.
The cars were gleaming and looked fantastic parked up, before the parade at 2.30pm.
They all purred along really great, when started up.
How do they keep those old classic cars in such good condition?...they look pretty amazing.
All the iconic brands are here including Aston Martin,Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Bristol, Bugatti,
Chrysler, Jaguar,Jensen, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Maserati, Morgan, McLaren, Porcsche,
Rolls-Royce and many more.
Pommery champers was flowing all afternoon, along with spirits & mixers, wines and beers.
Noon - Lunch was was salmon & roast chicken with sides, along with desserts.
2.30pm - parade of cars for the judges for an hour or so.
4pm - English afternoon tea, with finger sandwiches, pastries and coffee/tea.
An excellent day out, and i will go back to this stunning event and location in a couple of days.
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Friday 02 September 2022....Ladies Day...11am to 5.30pm...
I went back again to SALON PRIVE at Blenheim Palace.
Each day is slightly different.
Today is Ladies Day , so there are many more females here today , compared to Wednesday.
At 11am for an hour i catch the Official Concours Parade.
The compère and the driver do a great job of describing the history of the car.
There are some very rare beautiful cars here, some are worth over a million pounds.
Some collectors have several rare cars.
Jay from Jamiroquai has one of his cars on show here.
We see JAMIE BLANDFORD and a nice surprise to see ANDREW RIDGELEY here.
We get some photos of them both which will be on my Facebook page soon.
At 2.30pm we had the Supercars Parade.
We have a go on the car simulators, and visit the Indian motorbikes stand.
At 3.30pm was the Best of Show Ceremony.
A Navy Blue with white hood 1956 Ferrari GT250 by Zagato won the Best of Show.
Later on was Boodles Best Hat competition.
Again the Pommery champers flowed freely throughout the day, along with he same food as Wed.
Another excellent day out in the countryside to see these stunning cars.
Dates have been confirmed for SALON PRIVE 2023 shows....see you there.
20 April - 22 April 2023 Salon Prive London at The Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
30 August - 03 September 2023 Salon Prive at Blenheim Palace.
Updated 1st September 2022 Permalink
Tuesday 30 August 2022.
Tuesday 30 August 2022.
BRIGHT EYES live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Bright Eyes was founded by singer-songwriter and guitarist Conor Oberst.
The American indie-rockers have released ten studio albums since 1998.
Over 9 million views on YouTube....Bright Eyes - First Day of My Life [Official Music Video]
Oddly whenever i think of them words Bright Eyes , i always get reminded of that catchy
hit by Art Garfunkel, which I ended up humming for most of the day.
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The show is not sold out tonight, but very full inside.
Support act PENELOPE ISLES & her band arrived on stage at 7.45pm for their 45 mins set.
Some decent enough songs from her debut album that was released on the cool Bella Union label.
BRIGHT EYES arrived onstage at 9pm and played for 1 hour 55 mins.
The stage backdrop sign is that of the letters sign that you read at the opticians to test for glasses.
For some songs there was a mini-orchestra used, so a dozen musicians on stage at times.
The vocals could have been clearer , and there was too much mumbling stoner chat between songs.
Weird pre-recorded sounds were used to start many songs.
The songs ticked along ok, but only the first encore "First Day of My Life" stood out for me.
Overall , the show was a bit of a letdown for me, but the crowd liked it.
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Monday 29 August 2022....1pm to 7.30pm...
My first time going to both days of NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL for over a decade.
Such an amazing unique atmosphere at the carnival.
The big crowds and the noise are not for the faint hearted.
Some areas you had one loud sound system in your left ear , and another in your right ear.
We saw bits of the procession, and some of the incredible colourful costumes.
The WRAY & NEPHEW sponsored stage had several acts playing short sets.
SEAN PAUL arrived on stage at 5.45pm for a lively 20 mins hits set.
He had two female dancers in bikinis, lights, fireworks and streamers in his show.
Our AAA media passes were valid for the WRAY & NEPHEW bars dotted around the festival.
We had half a dozen different cocktails to choose from , throughout the day.
WRAY & NEPHEW rum is strong stuff as 63% , compared to most spirits of 40%.
I did not see much trouble at all throughout the two days i was there , but Tuesday morning on
the tv news, they said a 21 year old man had been stabbed to death Monday evening at carnival.