Tuesday 05 November 2024.
Tuesday 05 November 2024.
LAURA PAUSINI live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Back again to see this show for the second time.
Tonight is the extra show added after yesterday's show sold out pronto. Not sold out tonight, as 200 or 300 stalls standing are unsold , but seat levels are all full up.
LAURA and band again play a full THREE HOUR show .
Another visual treat , that is exactly the same setlist.
Again , fans have brought flags from their countries .
The crowd sing loudly along to the songs.
The soft rock songs and ballads tick along nicely.
Costume changes from Laura and dancers again.
Again , there are a couple of times in the show , when you think it's all over, then Laura comes back on stage.
It may have been mainly a non English speaking show , but was still very enjoyable to watch.
The dazzling big screen again , was top notch.
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Monday 04 November 2024.
LAURA PAUSINI live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Laura plays the first of two shows at this venue.
Grammy-Award winning Laura Pausini’s career spans over three decades and to celebrate Pausini is heading out on her tenth world tour. Her extraordinary show will feature a setlist of iconic songs, including hits from her latest album Anime Parllele/Almas Paralelas.
Laura sings mainly in Italian and Spanish , and has sold over a staggering 70 million records .
In some countries she can sell out big arenas.
Laura has headlined the massive San Siro Stadium.
Laura has also headlined at Radio City Music Hall and The Theatre at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Level 1 seats for this Shepherds Bush Empire show cost over £100.
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Tonight is fully sold out, and includes stalls standing.
My friends on security said 100 fans were in the queue at lunchtime, and many more turned up in the afternoon, as this was certainly an intimate show for Laura.
As expected it is mainly an Italian audience .
It's not only the likes of Bruce Springsteen and The Cure who can play three hour shows, as LAURA and her band arrived on stage at 8pm , and played a mammoth THREE HOURS. A full arena production squeezed in here, with a stunning use of the big screen , and for several songs there were 14 on stage , Laura , six piece band , three backing signings and four dancers.
Costume changes for Laura and the band.
Most of the show and chat is non English , but the show is a colourful visual treat .
Laura is looking great for age 50, as she celebrated her 30 year career.
The big screen mixed live footage , with her music videos, dazzling graphics and personal images, including a video of the day she proposed to her longtime boyfriend, and guitarist, Paolo Carta. The couple got married in 2023 after dating for 18 years and having their daughter.
The music was pretty much middle of the road , with a mix of uptempo numbers and romantic power ballads .
Lots of chat between songs , that the fans all loved .
At the end of the show there was a video of folks she had sung with , including Phil Collins and Kylie Minogue .
Also a full list of credits of the small army that are working on the tour, as the ticker-tape fell over the crowd .
Overall, a very enjoyable show.
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Sunday 03 November 2024.
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
They Might Be Giants perform their super popular “evening with” performance of their breakthrough album 'Flood' in its entirety. The show evolves every night, but needless to say, this is a once-in-a-lifetime performance.
TMBG will play two full sets that span the band's entire career from early favourites to brand new ones from their current Grammy-nominated album ' Book' , as well as the spontaneous and improvised moments that have made their shows legendary.
This alt-rock band with humour , have released over 20 albums over the last 40 years.
They had a Top 10 UK hit in 1990 with 'Birdhouse in Your Soul'.
I saw them play The Garage back in 1999.
This show is part of a UK tour.
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It says sold out outside the venue, and inside it is full.
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS are on stage for two hours over two sets of 55 mins and 65 mins.
The five main members are joined by a three man brass section for half the songs tonight.
A big screen mixes live footage with recorded images.
They do have a unique quirky sound.
Plenty of humour between the songs.
The songs didn't really excite me that much.
Final song of the main set was the big hit ' Birdhouse in Your Soul' which was good, but the rest of the show wasn't as good as I had hoped for...It just felt average.
Updated 4th November 2024 Permalink
Saturday 02 November 2024.
Saturday 02 November 2024.
I will be playing drums this coming Saturday.
65th birthday party and gig for the band members , who all celebrate 65 , within a 9 month period.
YOU ARE ALL INVITED TO A PUNKY REGGAE PARTY.
GUN CONTROL will be playing The Rocket Pub, 11-13 Churchfield Road, Acton, London W3 6BD.
By public transport....
it is 10 mins walk from Acton Town tube station.
Two mins walk from Acton Central Overground.
207 bus from Shepherds Bush to Acton Town Hall and 2 mins walk.
My band from the early 1980s, with me on drums will be playing a special one off show...on stage 9pm for around 40 mins....FREE ENTRY.
DJ V.SQUEEZEBOX playing some cool reggae and dub tunes.
Gun Control played around 40 gigs 1980 to 1982.
Mainly on the West London area.
We will try to squeeze in a rehearsal ,but it's more about us band members celebrating our milestone birthday, and long friendships .
Our original singer Pete, will be coming up from Basildon for our first get-together in a few years.
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Nice to see the pub get pretty full up, with old faces and some new faces.
Due to circumstances , our current younger singer couldn't do the show , so Mario out lead guitarist took over vocals for the first time.
Normally we would play a dozen songs , but a bit shorter tonight , so Mario could focus on the chosen songs.
We came on at 9.15pm and played for around 45 mins
Great to hear the crowd clapping and cheering after every song.
I couldn't hear the vocals properly due to the loudness of the two guitars, but it sounded good out front, we were told.
Full GUN CONTROL setlist in played tonight...
Teenage Kicks (cover )
Cheap Publicity
Wasted Youth
No Mercy
On Parole
You Mean Nothing To Me
Do I Need You
Steppin' Stone ( cover )
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Encore :
Steppin' Stone ( cover reprise) ( with Pete our original singer from the early 1980s on vocals, singing with us again for the first time in many years.
We were over at 10pm , so could mingle with folks.
A great night.
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Friday 01 November 2024.
UB40 live at Wembley Arena.
I have seen UB40 around 20 times since 1980, when I first saw them supporting The Pretenders at The Brunel University , Uxbridge.
There are two versions of UB40 playing gigs these days , as the two brothers have fallen out .
The original UB40 ( tonight's version )
The original band members are Robin Campbell, Earl Falconer, Jimmy Brown, and Norman Hassan. Matt Doyle is the current lead singer, taking over from Duncan Campbell, who retired in 2021.
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell ( are playing Hammersmith Apollo on 03 December )
This splinter group is led by Ali Campbell, who left the original band in 2008 to pursue a solo career. Mickey Virtue left the band in 2018, and Astro died in 2021. Ali Campbell continues to tour and release new music under this name.
The band has had more than 50 singles in the UK Singles Chart, and has also achieved considerable international success. They have been nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album four times, and in 1984 were nominated for the Brit Award for Best British Group.UB40 have sold more than 70 million records worldwide.The ethnic make-up of the band's original eight man line-up was diverse, with musicians of English, Welsh, Irish, Jamaican, Scottish, and Yemeni parentage.
Special guests will be SOUL II SOUL.
I have seen them a few times before.
They have sold over 10 million albums.
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The corner blocks at the rear are unsold tonight, and there is space in rear stalls standing , so maybe 9000 tickets sold out of 12,500 capacity .
YOUNG CULTURE BAND on at 7pm for their 30 mins.
Reggae band from Birmingham warmed the crowd up.
A nice touch was that all three bands got to use the big screens, that mixed live footage / pre-recorded images .
SOUL II SOUL on at 7.50pm for their 40 mins.
They were due to play 50 mins, but only played 40.
The full band , with around a dozen on stage including three vocalists (two females and Jazzie B).
Their big tunes like ' Keep on Movin ' and 'Back to Life' sounded fantastic.
Full SOUL II SOUL setliat played tonight....
Fairplay
Ghetto Heaven ( The Family Stand cover)
Nothing Compares 2 U ( Prince cover)
Keep On Movin'
Universal Love
Get a Life
Back to Life (However Do You Want Me
UB40 on at 9.05pm for their 1 hour 50 mins set.
UB40 are very popular with male and female white folks, but not many black folks in the crowd tonight.
The band were experts at reggae tinged cover versions, and we got plenty of their best hits tonight , as the crowd sang , and danced, and swayed and nodded along
Also tracks from their 45th anniversary album 'UB45'.
Their early tracks 'One in Ten' and 'Food For Thought ' still sound incredible .
A great show.
Full UB40 setlist played tonight ..
Here I Am (Come and Take Me) ( Al Green cover)
Keep on Moving ( The Wailers cover)
Homely Girl ( The Chi‐Lites cover)
Sing Our Own Song
One in Ten
Home
Please Don't Make Me Cry (Winston Tucker cover)
You Don't Call Anymore / Me Nah Leave Yet
The Keeper
Many Rivers to Cross ( Jimmy Cliff cover)
Cherry Oh Baby ( Eric Donaldson cover)
Gimme Little Sign ( Brenton Wood cover)
Wear You to the Ball ( John Holt cover)
Food For Thought
Red Red Wine ( Neil Diamond cover)
Encore:
Kingston Town ( Lord Creator cover)
Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley cover)
Updated 2nd November 2024 Permalink
Thursday 31 October 2024.
Thursday 31 October 2024.
SUM 41 live at Wembley Arena.
I have seen these Canadian pop punks a couple of times before , with the first time in 2002 at The Reading Festival when they supported The Foo Fighters and Muse.
They have sold over 15 million albums.
They are in a UK and European Tour.
Sum 41 are promising a full two hour show with lasers , confetti cannons and balloons.
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Not sold out tonight, but they still draw a massive crowd.
Maybe 10,000 tickets sold out of a 12,500 capacity .
It is stalls standing tonight, so very lively with dozens crowd surfing throughout the evening.
KAREN DIO are on at 6.45pm for 30 mins.
Young Brazilian punk rocker did a good set of catchy pop punk , including the track ' Sick Ride'.
THE BRONX are on at 7.30pm for 40 mins.
Los Angeles band have released half a dozen albums ,over the past 20 years. A bit too punk hardcore for me, as I prefer the catchy pop punk sound.
SUM 41 on at 8.45pm for 2 hours 10 mins, but 5 mins of that was for a serious medical issue in the stalls standing area that stopped the show .
As promised , it is a full.montybstage production.
Loads of lights and lasers, pyros, flames, dry ice, confetti ,
streamers, balloons ...but there is one thing missing. There are no big screens , which would not go down well with those sitting at the end of the venue.
The singer got the crowd to do circle pits.
The frontman’s energy was infectious, he raced around the stage throughout the evening and cut a genuine figure on stage as he expressed his love and gratitude for the fans, who he affectionately referred to as his “family”.
Highlights included ' Fat Lip' , ' Still Waiting' and ' In Too Deep'....an enjoyable show.
Full SUM 41 setliat played tonight...
Tape into - T.N.T. (AC/DC song)
Motivation
The Hell Song (Show stopped to check on emergency in crowd)
Over My Head (Better Off Dead)
Screaming Bloody Murder
Underclass Hero
War
Welcome to Hell
Landmines
Dopamine
We're All to Blame
Some Say
No Reason
Walking Disaster
With Me
Makes No Difference
My Direction / No Brains / All Messed Up
Drum Solo
Best of Me
Preparasi a salire
Rise Up
Raining Blood (Slayer cover) (Solo) (snippet)
Master of Puppets ( Metallica cover) (Solo) (snippet)
Pieces
What We're All About (snippet)
Fat Lip
Still Waiting
Encore:
Summer
Waiting on a Twist of Fate
In Too Deep
Encore 2:
Noots (Live Debut)
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Wednesday 30 October 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
5pm to 8.30pm
MOTORING BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS at The RAC, 89 Pall Mall, St James's, London SW1.
Around 150 guests at this plush members venue.
Must be 90% older guys in their compulsory jacket, shirt and tie that must be worn here by all male guests.
For 90 mins we had complimentary Piper-Heidsieck champers and canapes , as we browsed the motoring photos , books and classic cars in the foyer.
From 6.40pm for an hour we are all sat for the awards .
After the awards , we have wines and more food including cheese burgers and chicken burgers .
The Royal Automobile Club awarded four category winners in addition to the overall winner, and best debut author. All category winners are listed below.
The Motoring Book of the Year
The Austin Pedal Car Story, by David Whyley, Porter Press International, £85.00
Books about motor cars and motoring, costing no more than £50.00
Morgan: An English Enigma, by Martyn Webb, The Crowood Press, £45.00
Books about motor cars and motoring, with no price limit
BMW: Behind the Scenes, by Steve Saxty, Seven Spoke Publishing, £239.95
Books on a motor sporting subject, costing no more than £50.00
Goldie, by John Mayhead, National Motor Museum Publishing, £20.00
Books on a motor sporting subject with no price limit
The Last Eyewitness, by Doug Nye, Porter Press International, price £195.00
Graham Robson Award for Best Debut Author
Bob Evans, Happy Lucky Days: My Life in Racing, BHP Publishing, £32.00
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Clare Hay
then
8.45pm to 11.45pm
Post-show reception for BARCELONA press night that was held earlier at The Duke of Yorks Theatre.
The two person play is only on for a short 90 mins.
The party was held in The Crypt at Trafalgar Square.
This basement area holds around 300 guests.
For the first two hours we are in the VIP area as that's where the cast members and creatives were doing interviews and photos, and Moet champers was flowing, along with wines, bowl food and canapes.
I was on photographer duties as my Argentinian chum said both the two stars of the play are well known in Argentina , so i took photos of him with ALVARO MORTE and LILY COLLINS .
For the last hour we were in the main area, where there was prosecco, vodka cocktails , gin cocktails, wines, beers , bowl food, canapes and mini cup-cakes....and a female dj is playing tunes loudly.
Updated 31st October 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 29 October 2024.
Tuesday 29 October 2024.
DR STRANGELOVE - press/VIP opening night - at The Noel Coward Theatre , St Martins Lane, London WC2.
Stanley Kubrick's DR STRANGELOVE featuring Peter Sellers was first screened in 1964.
This theatre production has been adapted by Armando Iannucci and Sean Foley.
STEVE COOGAN shines as an array of brilliantly absurd comic characters in this faithful stage transposition of Kubrick’s anti-war masterpiece .
STEVE COOGAN plays the titular German scientist, a Royal Air Force captain trying to stop Ripper from destroying the world, and the US president. He betters Peter Sellers, in number at least, by also taking on a fourth part for which Sellers initially aimed – the gung-ho pilot who rides the iconic warhead.
then....
9.30pm to 12pm was the post-show celebrations.
The Londoner Hotel , Leicester Square , London WC2.
A big crowd as must be around 500 guests in the basement ballroom of this luxury five star hotel.
Those here included...
STEVE COOGAN
FRANK SKINNER
DAVID BADDIEL
MICHAEL PALIN
GRAYSON PERRY
RICHARD AYOADE
GRIFF RHYS JONES
ARMANDO IANNUCCI
other cast members
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wines , Red and White Wines and Peroni Beers, along with different bowl foods , canapes and Tiramisu dessert.
We left at midnight, and it was due to finish at 1am.
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Monday 28 October 2024.
6.45pm to 10.15pm.
10th TRAVEL MEDIA AWARDS at The Four Seasons Hotel, Hamilton Place , off Park Lane ,
Mayfair , London W1.
Around 300 guests in the first floor ballroom of this luxury five star hotel.
The Travel Media Awards, launched in 2015, is widely recognised as the premier awards event in travel media, and the only UK national awards exclusively recognising editorial excellence and achievement across all forms of media.
From 7.15pm for an hour was the 23 awards .
Great to see actor , comedian and travel presenter SIR MICHAEL PALIN pick up The Special Contribution Award.
See my Facebook page , for a photo of me with him .
Complimentary Moet Champers , wines, beers,different bowl foods, canapes and desserts.
Updated 29th October 2024 Permalink
Sunday 27 October 2024.
Sunday 27 October 2024.
JOHNNIE WALKER last show is today on BBC Radio 2.
Legendary BBC Radio presenter , now aged 79, retires due to his ill health, after an incredible 58 years.
His Sunday afternoon show was the only radio show I listened too these days.
Walker’s final episode of his show, Sounds of the 70s, will air today 3pm to 5pm. He will be replaced on the programme by former The Old Grey Whistle Test presenter Bob Harris from 3 November.
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Sunday 27 October 2024.
GUN CONTROL are rehearsing this evening.
We will be in Brentford , as our usual rehearsal space in North Acton has closed down
My band from the 1980s (with me on drums) bash out a dozen tracks in readiness for our gig at The Rocket Pub in Acton on Saturday 02 November .
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Saturday 26 October 2024.
ABSOLUTE BOWIE + DONT STOP QUEEN NOW live at
Shepherds Bush Empire.
Two top tribute bands perform.
I have seen them both before.
I have been lucky enough to have seen the real David Bowie and Queen with Freddie Mercury many times since the 1970s.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, so maybe 700 here.
Both hands played full length sets.
Not the real thing of course, but great to hear all the many classics that both these bands have.
DONT STOP QUEEN NOW on at 7pm for 1 hour 40 mins....The Freddie Mercury was on good OTT form.
Near the end of their set the David Bowie tribute came on to sing their duet ' Under Pressure' which was a nice touch.
They finished with ' We Will Rock You' and 'We Are The Champions'.
ABSOLUTE BOWIE on at 9.15pm for 1 hour 45 mins .
For the first half he was dressed as Ziggy Stardust and second half was the smart suit 1980s period.
Highlights included 'Starman' , 'Changes', 'Jean Genie', ' All The Young Dudes', 'Lets Dance' and the last two songs played 'Heroes' and 'Rebel Rebel'.
An enjoyable pair of tribute acts.
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Friday 25 October 2024.
RICHARD ASHCROFT with Four Piece String Orchestra live at The Royal Albert Hall.
He first came to attention with The Verve, with who he released one of the biggest albums of the era in the shape of Urban Hymns (the UK’s 18th biggest selling album of all-time) as well as a succession of anthems which remain staples of his live set today, including ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’, ‘Lucky Man’ and ‘Sonnet’. His most recent album, Acoustic Hymns, was released in 2022 and reached No.2 in the UK Album Chart.
He has been confirmed as the main support act on most of the Oasis UK stadium shows in the summer of 2025.
I have seen him a few times with The Verve and solo.
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The venue is fully rammed sold out .
As expected it is a proper drinking crowd.
Legendary live music booking agent ROD MacSWEEN ( Richard Ashcroft , The Who , KISS, Aerosmith , Pearl Jam , Guns N Roses and many more ) was here with The Who's legendary manager BILL CURBISHLEY .
The DJ support was Wayne Griggs , but his obscure tracks didn't warm up the audience at all.
RICHARD ASHCROFT arrived on stage at 8.55pm and played for 1 hour 45 mins.
It is floor standing tonight , and this crowd are singing
loudly along to the many hits played.
Lots of gems by The Verve in the set.
The four person string section sounded lush.
The light show got bigger and better.
RA is super cool as ever , as he works the crowd.
Lots of songs extended with great guitar workouts.
Final track of the night was a stunning 8 mins version of the clasdic ' Bitter Sweet Symphony'.
A great show.
RA is the main support act for many shows on the Oasis 2025 UK Stadium tour , an ideal pairing.
Full RICHARD ASHCROFT setlist played tonight...
Sonnet (The Verve song)
Space and Time ( The Verve song)
Music Is Power
They Don't Own Me
Weeping Willow ( The Verve song)
Velvet Morning (The Verve song)
A Song for the Lovers
Break the Night With Colour
Hold On
The Drugs Don't Work (The Verve song)
Lucky Man ( The Verve song)
Encore:
C'mon People (We're Making It Now) ( Dedicated to Liam and Noel)
History (The Verve song)
Bitter Sweet Symphony ( The Verve song) (Dedicated to friend in audience)
Updated 26th October 2024 Permalink
Thursday 24 October 2024.
Thursday 24 October 2024.
I went to three events tonight.
6.15pm to 7.30pm
Private view at Loop Generation , 171-175 Draycott Avenue, London SW3.
Polish artist Paweł Kałużyński is showcasing his art.
Loop Generation is a two floor store that buys and sells designer items , including clothes , shoes and bags....the art is on display until 21 November.
Complimentary Penfolds champers and canapes here
for the upmarket local attendees.
then
7.45pm to 9pm
HACKETT - 14 Savile Row , Mayfair, London W1.
Well known menswear tailors are hosting a party to coincide with the nearby LAPADA at Berkeley Square.
They have a lovely cosy room out the back.
Complimentary prosecco, Negronis, Savile Row Gin Cocktails and canapes for the guests.
All guests got a notebook , with their name engraved on the front cover.
then
9.05pm to 11pm
JUSTERINI & BROOKS - 275th Anniversary Celebration - Burlington Arcade, Mayfair, London W1.
Top notch fine wines and spirits store celebrate being in London since 1749.
Over 200 guests here.
There is a jazz trio playing in the middle section.
Complimentary Philipponnat champers , Johnnie Walker Whisky Cocktails and many different red and white wines , along with canapes , a cheese buffet table, and a slice of birthday cake.
All guests got a very nice goodie bag on departure .
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Wednesday 23 October 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6.15pm to 7pm.
ALISON JACQUES GALLERY - 22 Cork Street, Mayfair, London W1.
A private view for around 100 guests.
A showcase featuring works by Alison Wilding .
Complimentary gin n tonics, and prosecco.
then
7.10pm to 10.30pm.
RATHBONES - private view and dinner - at LAPADA , Berkeley Square, Mayfair , London W1.
Rathbones are based at 30 Gresham Street, London, United Kingdom, EC2V 7QN
Their London team is proud to be part of one of the UK’s largest wealth management firms. Rathbones is part of Rathbones Group Plc, which has a heritage dating back to 1742 and a listing on the London Stock Exchange.
They provide various financial planning services.
Around 200 guests here , viewing the stunning art , watches , antiques , jewellery etc that is on view and for sale.
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wines , red and white wines and canapes.
From 8.30pm to 10.30pm was a sit down dinner.
Mains - Beef and Horseradish and sides.
Dessert - Ferrero Rocher Mousse...with drinks.
Our table host was Scottish born, and was very impressed by my knowledge of Scottish music .
He was a bit too young to know about The Skids and The Rezillos , and couldn't believe that i saw Scottish folk band Skipinnish recently in Shepherds Bush.
All the catering was from Jimmy Garcia.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure, which was a 75cl bottle of Chapel Down English Sparkling Wine.
Updated 23rd October 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 22 October 2024.
Tuesday 22 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Biffy play the last of their three shows at this venue.
I am back to see them for the third time.
I recognised several that have also been at all three.
BIFFY CLYRO were on stage for two hours over two sets of 60 mins each.
They played their third album in the first set.
Again , the venue is packed to full capacity .
The front two become shirtless within 30 mins.
Just a few mins gap between the two sets.
Like Muse, Biffy are not your traditional sounding rock band. They mix lush balladry, giving way to rumbling grunge, prog-rock leanings, sweet harmonies and singalong choruses leading to crazed feral screams over a vicious heavy rock noise.Lots of moshing and crowd surfing down the front.
Highlights included ' Black Chandelier ' and "Many of Horror "(famously covered by 2010 X Factor-winner Matt Cardle, under the more family-friendly title "When We Collide" which was a Christmas number one.) The crowd surfing down the front went into overdrive for 'Many of Horror' and the pit security did a great job of handling the onslaught . Another top notch show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setlist played tonight...
FIRST SET Infinity Land album
Glitter and Trauma
Strung to Your Ribcage ( First time live since 2014)
My Recovery Injection
Got Wrong ( First time live since 2008)
The Atrocity ( First time live since 2007)
Some Kind of Wizard ( First time live since 2014)
Wave Upon Wave Upon Wave ( First time live since 2017)
Only One Word Comes to Mind ( First time live since 2014)
There's No Such Man as Crasp ( First time live since 2009)
There's No Such Thing as a Jaggy Snake
The Kids From Kibble and the Fist of Light (First time live since 2014)
The Weapons Are Concealed ( First time live since 2005)
Pause It and Turn It Up (First time live since 2005)
Tradition Feed (First time live since 2005)
SECOND SET - Best Of
Different People
Semi-Mental (First time live since 2016)
Woo Woo (First time live since 2014)
Accident Without Emergency ( First time live since 2014)
Sunrise (First time live since 2019)
Adored
Bonanzoid Deathgrip (First time live since 2014)
Black Chandelier
Whorses ( First time live since 2017)
The Thaw ( First time live since 2014)
Slurpy Slurpy Sleep Sleep
Encore:
Machines
Many of Horror
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Monday 21 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Biffy play the second of their three shows at this venue...I am back again to see them.
Again,the venue is fully rammed sold out .
BIFFY CLYRO on stage for 2 hours 5 mins over two sets , which was 10 mins more than the previous night....again just 10 mins gap between sets.
Their overall sound again is loud , powerful , intense rock. They were joined by a couple of female violinists in the first set, for a couple of tracks.
Great , how they can play so many different songs, over the three nights they are playing here.
Lots of moshing again at the front of stalls .
The cameras were here again filming all the show.
The front two are shirtless pretty early on.
The bass player crowd surfed into the crowd.
They played their second album in the first set and their best of in the second set.
Highlights were great versions of ' The Captain' and
'Mountains'.
Another great rock show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setliat played tonight...
FIRST SET - The Vertigo of Bliss
Bodies in Flight (First time live since 2014)
The Ideal Height ( First time live since 2014)
With Aplomb ( First time live since 2014)
A Day of... (First time live since 2013)
Liberate the Illiterate/A Mong Among Mingers (First time live since 2014)
Diary of Always ( First time live since 2017)
Questions and Answers
Eradicate the Doubt (First time live since 2014)
When the Faction's Fractioned (First time live since 2008)
Toys, Toys, Toys, Choke, Toys, Toys, Toys ( First time live since 2017)
All the Way Down: Prologue Chapter 1 (First time live since 2017)
A Man of His Appalling Posture ( First time live since 2005)
Now the Action Is on Fire! ( First time live since 2014)
SECOND SET - Best Of
The Captain
Sounds Like Balloons ( First time live since 2017)
The Champ
A Tragic World Record ( First time live since 2014)
Get Fucked Stud ( First time live since
...And With the Scissorkick Is Victorious (First time live since 2014)
Instant History
In the Name of the Wee Man ( First time live since 2018)
Now I'm Everyone ( First time live since 2009)
Biblical
Encore:
The Rain ( Simon solo acoustic; first time live since 2018)
Mountains
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Sad news that PAUL Di 'ANNO has passed away.
Paul Di'Anno left Iron Maiden in 1981 after a meeting with the band and their manager Rod Smallwood. Di'Anno was the band's lead singer from 1978 to 1981, and sang on their debut album and Killers. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson.
I saw him with Iron Maiden at Hammersmith Odeon in 1980 ,when they supported Judas Priest.
I saw him in October 2023 ,when he supported KK Priest at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Her performed his set from his wheelchair.
A trouper to the end...R.I.P.
Updated 22nd October 2024 Permalink
Sunday 20 October 2024.
Sunday 20 October 2024.
BIFFY CLYRO live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The Scottish rockers will play a different album each night, along with their best known songs.
Under the title of 'A Celebration of Beginnings'.
Sun 20 Oct (Blackened Sky) (First album)
Mon 21 Oct (The Vertigo Of Bliss) (Second album )
Tues 22 Oct (Infinity Land) (Third album )
All three shows sold out very quickly.
They have released nine studio albums .
Five of their albums have got to number one in the UK.
Their biggest hits are on their 4th and 5th albums.
These are intimate shows , as they have headlined many big festivals over the past 20 years including Reading Festival/ Leeds Festivals , Download Festival , Glastonbury Festival, The Isle of Wight Festival and others .
I have seen them several times , including from 2008 , when they were a support band to Linkin Park, Bon Jovi and Iron Maiden, and support to Muse in 2010, then headline shows at The Royal Albert Hall, The 02 Arena and an intimate show at The Forum in 2021.
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The venue is fully rammed sold out tonight.
The trio are joined by two other musicians.
The drums , keyboards and amps are all white.
A ton of arena level lights and strobes.
They spent their career seemingly on a mission to play every venue in the land from London to Llandudno. As a result, the band has built a dedicated following the old fashioned way – what some would even refer to refer to as ‘the right way’: through writing fantastic songs and performing them relentlessly in front of anyone willing to listen.
BIFFY CLYRO arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for 1 hour 55 mins over two sets.
The first set was 55 mins of their debut album.
The second set of 60 mins was their best of tracks.
Their loyal fans know all the words to all their songs.
Lots of moshing , and a dozen crowd surfers.
A stunning ' Bubbles' was a big highlight tonight.
A great show.
Full BIFFY CLYRO setliat played tonight...
FIRST SET - Blackened Sky album
Joy.Discovery.Invention ( First time live since 2014)
27 ( First time live since 2014)
Justboy ( First time live since 2018)
Kill the Old, Torture Their Young ( First time live since 2014)
The Go-Slow ( First time live since 2014)
Christopher's River
Convex, Concave ( First time live since 2014)
57
Hero Management (First time live since 2014)
Solution Devices (First time live since 2005)
Stress on the Sky ( First time live since 2014)
Scary Mary ( First time live since 2014)
SECOND SET
A Hunger in Your Haunt
Howl (First time live since 2019)
Fever Dream ( First time live since 2019)
A Whole Child Ago ( First time live since 2017)
Modern Magic Formula ( First time live since 2017)
Space
Hope for an Angel (First time live since 2014)
Living Is a Problem Because Everything Dies
The Pink Limit
Witch's Cup
Bubbles
Encore:
Break a Butterfly on a Wheel ( Simon solo acoustic; first time live since 2014)
Stingin' Belle ( First time live since 2019)
Note: Intermission of 10 minutes between end of Blackened Sky and rest of set
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Saturday 19 October 2024
I went to two events today
12.30pm to 6pm
QPR 1 PORTSMOUTH 2
Massive relegation clash, as both near the bottom.
We are in the SUMMIX CAPITAL HOSPITALITY LOUNGE for a three course lunch and drinks.
Ex QPR player Andy Sinton is hosting a nearby table.
Smoked salmon and marinated prawns.
Corn fed chicken breast with sides.
A plate of desserts including Irish cream cheesecake.
My drinks were a few JD n cokes.
Half time was a steak n ale pie with another JD n coke.
After the game was a cheeseboard selection ,along with another JD n coke and coffee.
We had a fantastic afternoon ,despite the score.
then
LEIF VOLLEBEKK live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Canadian folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leif Vollebekk tours his latest album, ‘Revelation’, which is his fifth studio album.
He is playing a full UK & European Tour
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Level 3 is closed tonight, but other levels are full.
The crowd looks very polite and well mannered.
CONNOR YOUNGBLOOD on at 8pm for 30 mins.
Just him with his guitar and some backing tracks
His voice was too low and muffled to enjoy.
LEIF VOLLEBEKK on at 9.05 pm for 95 mins.
Leif and his musicians are casually dressed .
Leif has a sleeveless vest , that looks very shabby.
He easily mixes playing piano , electric guitar and acoustic guitar. When he plays the piano he waves his arms in a strange gestered way.
The music is pretty much laid back listening.
Leif played a few solo tracks on his own.
JAMES BAY joined him for three songs , including the evenings highlight,which was a cover of Prince ' Purple Rain' as the last song of the night.
Updated 20th October 2024 Permalink
Friday 18 October 2024.
Friday 18 October 2024.
ASTON MERRYGOLD live at Shepherds Bush Empire
Aston Merrygold is known for his time with band JLS, who had five Number 1 hits, winning numerous awards. He has made strides in his career appearing on the West End, Strictly Come Dancing and released his platinum debut single “Get Stupid” as well as singles “Overboard”, “How Many Times” and “Sweat”.
This is show three on a five date UK tour.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed , and plenty of space elsewhere in the stalls and Level 1.
His band JLS can play arenas around the UK, but like many musicians when they go solo, smaller crowds.
As expected , it's around 90 % female fans here.
The bar staff are not very busy tonight.
JAMIE GREY on stage at 8pm for 25 mins.
A singer-songwriter from Redcar who played ok.
The DJ did a good job of playing the right tunes,that got all the girls singing loudly along.
ASTON MERRYGOLD on stage at 9.50pm for 80 mins.
Plenty of screaming during his set.
A highlight is his fantastic dance moves, and his band got involved with the dancing too.
The only JLS tracks performed were after an hour , when he performed a medley of their hits, including ' Beat Again' and ' Everybody in Love'.
His solo material ticked along ok , with most of his hits in the second half.
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Thursday 17 October 2024.
DUA LIPA live at The Royal Albert Hall.
DUA LIPA plays a special one-off London show, on her world tour of arenas and stadiums.
Following her headlining performance at Glastonbury, three-time Grammy and seven-time BRIT Award-winning global pop powerhouse Dua Lipa announced she will perform two massive shows at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium in June 2025.
Dua Lips is promoting her third studio album.
'Radical Optimism' is the latest studio album by English and Albanian singer Dua Lipa. It was released on 3 May 2024 through Warner Records. Her first full-length studio album in four years since ' Future Nostalgia' (2020). The album was preceded by three singles, "Houdini", "Training Season", and "Illusion", all of which peaked within the top ten of the UK Singles Chart.
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The venue is rammed solid sold out.
The crowd are told no filming, and the RAH staff do their best to try and stop folks taking sneaky videos.
The stage production is just jaw dropping
The end where the stage usually is , is now seats.
The production takes over the entire floor area , and looks like a giant scalextric , which has been transformed into a lavish in-the-round arena for the night. A looping, custom-built walkway cuts through the center of the venue, weaving around Lipa’s collaborators for the evening – the 53-piece Heritage Orchestra, a 14-person choir, and seven-person band. As a sight, it’s nothing short of breathtaking.
All of the musicians and road crew are dressed in black , as there are cameras everywhere , recording it for future broadcast.
DUA LIPA was on stage for 90 mins ,over two sets of 70 mins and 20 mins.
Just a five minute break between sets , to change into another stylish gown.
Dua Lipa spends much of the night standing at its centre, performing some modest dance moves.
Every now and then , she would have a walkabout.
I don't really know her material , but recognise some.
At the start of the second set / encore , the venue erupts as ELTON JOHN joins Lipa onstage – for a rendition of the boppy mash-up collab “Cold Heart/ Rocket Man".
As if there weren't enough people with her, she is joined by a dozen dancers after Elton's stint.
No doubt that when the show is broadcast, it will shift a few more tickets for her Wembley Stadium shows .
It was quite a show.
Updated 18th October 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 16 October 2024.
Wednesday 16 October 2024.
NIK KERSHAW live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
The 1984 Tour - Celebrating 40 Years.
1984 - Yes, a dystopian novel by George Orwell but also the year that Nik Kershaw was the UK’s biggest selling artist, languishing for some 62 weeks in the Top 40 singles chart and releasing two platinum albums, Human Racing and The Riddle.
On the 40th anniversary, Nik and his band take to the road to perform both albums in their entirety. This will never happen again so you will not want to miss it. Nik will perform two sets with no opening support act.
Nik had five Top 10 hit singles in the UK .
I saw him a few times in the 1980s, when he headlined at Hammersmith Odeon in his heyday , when i worked front stage security .
I also saw him play at Live Aid in 1985.
I also saw him last year at Shepherds Bush Empire.
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Level 3 is closed tonight , but other levels are full.
Like many acts from the 1980s, he has loyal fans.
NIK KERSHAW was on for 1 hour 55 mins over two sets of 50 mins and 65 mins.
Nik is still looking good for his 66 years.
Five musicians on stage, including keyboards.
The two featured albums were performed.
Sone of the album tracks plodded a bit , but the hit singles were great, especially when they had the addition of the neat lasers being used.
A great final song of ' The One and Only'.
A very enjoyable show.
Full NIK KERSHAW setlist played tonight...
First Set - THE RIDDLE ALBUM
Roses
Know How
Wide Boy
City of Angels
Easy
Don Quixote
Wild Horses
You Might
Save the Whale
The Riddle
Second Set - HUMAN RACING ALBUM
Cloak and Dagger
Human Racing
Bogart
Dancing Girls
Shame on You
Gone to Pieces
Wouldn't It Be Good
Faces
Drum Talk
I Won't Let the Sun Go Down on Me
Encore:
When a Heart Beats
The Sky's the Limit
The One and Only ( Nik wrote this Chesney Hawkes Number One hit single in 1991 cover)
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On the way out I spotted DAVID GILMORE longtime personal security guy ...I joked with him " it's not just David Gilmore that uses lasers"....he was with two guys that had worked on previous David Gilmore shows and had been to see DS the night before at RAH".
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Wednesday 16 October 2024.
Shock news that LIAM PAYNE has been found dead.
Liam Payne, who shot to fame in the band One Direction, has died at a hotel in Argentina after falling from a third-floor balcony, according to officials. Payne, 31, was posting on social media only hours before his death.
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Tuesday 15 October 2024.
I went to two showcases today.
4.15pm to 5.30pm.
KINDRED - Bradmore House , Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London W6.
Lovely venue over three floors.
The ground floor is The Cellar restaurant and bar.
Upstairs at Kindred are two floors used for cultural and private events, as well as weekday coworking. Cellar at Kindred, is a neighbourhood dining spot with a seasonal menu sourced from quality producers.
The venue has great heritage decor , and is ideal to pop in to before a gig at Hammersmith Apollo, which is just across the road.
There is a DJ playing tracks in the background, and a they have a nice stage for their live acts.
Complimentary prosecco, wines and canapes for all.
We all got a small goodie bag on departure.
www.wearekindred.com - Visit their website here for more info.
then
6.15pm to 9pm.
F1 ARCADE , One New Change , St Paul's , London EC4.
My first visit to this venue that opened a couple of years ago. A massive space where Next used to be.
The F1 Arcade is upstairs and as you go up the staircase you can hear the noise of the engines and the lights build the atmosphere to the venue. When you get to the top you can clearly see a big open facility with a nice bar and table facilities as well as a lot of different screens and sounds and Formula 1 themed writing on the wall. You can see all the 60 different simulators around the space. There are a load of simulators in the main room and then in some subdivided rooms for private parties and small office groups etc and a balcony area as well.
Our private area has five simulators , I had a couple of efforts. Good fun once you get used to the controls.
Complimentary prosecco, wines , beers and food inc
Wild Mushroom & Spring Onions Croquettes
Fried Chicken Strips
BBQ Corn Ribs
Korean Cauliflower Wings
Various Pizza Slices
www.f1arcade.com - Visit their website here for more info.
Updated 15th October 2024 Permalink
Saturday 12 October 2024.
Saturday 12 October 2024.
JET live at The Forum.
The quartet released three studio albums Get Born (2003), Shine On (2006) and Shaka Rock (2009) before disbanding in 2012. Get Born is their highest charting work, which peaked at number one in Australia, top 20 in the United Kingdom and top 30 in the United States. Its lead single "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" (2003) reached the top 20 in Australia and UK and top 30 in the US.
They are on another UK reunion tour.
I have seen them a couple of times before.
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Not sold out tonight, but the venue is very full.
VILLANELLE on at 8pm for their 30 mins.
VILLANELLE feature Gene Gallagher on vocals.
The youngest son of the former Oasis frontman - who he shares with ex-wife Nicole Appleton - has been supporting Liam on his recent Definitely Maybe 30th anniversary dates last month. They have their first UK tour in November , despite having no music out.
A good set of tunes.
His mum NICOLE APPLETON is here to watch him with some of her celebrity friends, including
FRANK LAMPARD, CHRISTINE LAMPARD and HOLLY WILLOUGHBY....they watch the band from the circle but don't come back to their seats for Jet.
JET on stage at 9.05pm for their 85 mins.
Five musicians in stage, who all look proper cool.
The band play four songs , then it's their big album ' Get Born' , so we get 'Last Chance' then the unmistakable chords of "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" blasted through the speakers, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This wasn't just another rock show—it was JET's highly anticipated anniversary tour, celebrating the career of one of the 2000s' most iconic rock bands. From the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear that this night was a celebration of their legacy, and they were ready to deliver.
The crowd erupted, singing every word back at the band as frontman Nic Cester strutted across the stage, his signature swagger still intact after all these years. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the timelessness of their music and the excitement of hearing these songs live once again.
As the night progressed, JET took the audience on a journey through their discography, mixing smash hits with deeper cuts. "Cold Hard Bitch" brought the raw power of early 2000s rock back to life, while the more mellow "Look What You've Done" had the crowd swaying in unison.
A great show uptempo rock n roll show , as the band were fully Jet propelled.
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Friday 11 October 2024.
CARDINAL BLACK live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
This was gig number 7700 for me.
Cardinal Black: The Second Album Tour 24/25.
Over two years after their launch, you could say that Welsh born alt-rock band Cardinal Black are testament to the power of patience, thought and persistence after stints in other bands.
I have seen them at this venue a couple of times as the support act. They headlined Dingwalls recently and this is their biggest London headline gig.
Support:
The Cinelli Brothers, Rosie Frater-Taylor.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, and Level 1 must have 60 or 70 folks on the guest list.
ROSIE FRATER-TAYLOR on at 7.15pm for 30 mins.
Rosie was backed by two musicians , as she played some nice twangy guitar , and covered Kate Bush ' Running Up That Hill'.
THE CINELLI BROTHERS on at 8.15pm for 30 mins.
The four musicians on stage did a good set of mixing blues and soul. They have a huge European Tour coming up before Christmas.
CARDINAL BLACK on at 9.15pm for their 95 mins.
I was really looking forward to seeing this show.
After many years of friendship and working together, the cogs of the machine finally aligned to a great reception, as guitarist Chris Buck (Best New Guitarist in the World, 2019 - Guitarist Magazine), and the stunning vocals of Tom Hollister unleash a blues/ rock show crammed of superb musicianship.
Six on stage , including female backing vocals
Three rugs at the stage, for the three at the front.
Tom has that amazing voice in the vein of Teddy Swims/ Rag n Bone Man . Gems like ' Tell Me How It Feels' and 'Morning Light' are magical.
The guitar solos from Chris.are mesmerising.
A full standing ovation from the Level 1 crowd.
The only way is up for Cardinal Black.
Updated 11th October 2024 Permalink
Thursday 10 October 2024.
Thursday 10 October 2024...6.15pm to 9.15pm...
L'OSCAR LONDON - showcase - 2/6 Southampton Row, Bloomsbury , London WC1.
Really nice to be at this very plush five star hotel , that's near to Holborn tube station.
They are showcasing their various rooms and spaces.
The hotel has kept many of the features from when it was a church.
Over 100 guests are in their very impressive octagonal chapel with glass topped dome that dates back to 1903.
There is a female trio of violinists playing covers.
They played two sets of 20 mins each.
Complimentary Gusbourne English Sparkling Wine, other wines , beers , mulled wine and top notch tasty food , including mini lobster rolls and desserts .
At 8.30pm there was a business card draw.
First prize - an overnight stay for two in the hotel.
Second prize - dinner for two at the hotel.
Third prize - lunch for two at the hotel.
Sadly, I did not win anything.
There was a goodie bag for all guests on departure.
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Tuesday 08 October 2024.
I went to three events tonight.
5pm to 6.45pm.
BOOM BATTLE BAR - showcase - 88 Oxford Street , London W1.
The venue is nearby to the iconic 100 Club.
A small entrance, leads down to a massive space.
It is lively as there is a DJ playing and a female sax playing, as the showcase guests mix with the normal paying guests...must be over 200 folks here.
Battle it out with a selection of games including Augmented Reality Axe Throwing, Crazier Golf, Augmented Reality Darts, Beer Pong, Shuffleboard ,
Pool, Karaoke , Basketball Hoops and more .
Ideal for that Christmas office party and small groups.
Complimentary Terry's Orange Chocolate Espresso Martins , wines, beers ,Guinness and hot food.
then
7pm to 8pm.
PHILLIPS GALLERY - Freeze Art Week Party - 30 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1.
Around 200 guests at this big gallery space.
A couple of Andy Warhol portraits on sale of Charles and Diana on sale for a million quid each.
Complimentary Espresso Martins and wines for all.
then
8.05pm to 9.15pm.
ASPERY - Freeze Art Party - 1st Floor, 34-36 Bruton Street , Mayfair, London W1.
Around 100 guests in their upstairs art space .
We have a special guest being interviewed.
Susan Kare (now aged 70) is an American artist and graphic designer, who contributed interface elements and typefaces for the first Apple Macintosh personal computer from 1983 to 1986. She was employee #10 and creative director at NeXT, the company formed by Steve Jobs after he left Apple in 1985. She has worked as a design consultant to Microsoft, IBM, Sony Pictures, Facebook, and Pinterest. As of 2023 Kare has been an employee of Niantic Labs. As a pioneer of pixel art and of the graphical computer interface, she has been celebrated as one of the most significant designers of modern technology.
Taittinger champers and canapes for all the guests.
Updated 8th October 2024 Permalink
Monday 07 October 2024.
Monday 07 October 2024...7pm to 9pm...
LATER WITH JOOLS HOLLAND live recording at
Alexandra Palace Theatre, North London.
DAVID GILMOUR
THE THE
AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS
DHRUV
MOONCHILD SANELLY
I went to several Later with Jools Holland episodes , when it was filmed at BBC White City but this is my first time since it moved back to London.
A lovely venue , which has stunning views of London.
The audience of around 200 are seated in seats upstairs, and it looks exactly the same as Level 1 at Shepherds Bush Empire, and you look down on the floor where all the acts perform.
We have nice reserved seats in the front row, and music critic Neil McCormick is nearby , who i last saw at Sex Pistols opening night at Bush Hall , where he gave it a very nice four star review for The Telegraph .
At 7.20pm Jools and the artists take to the floor .
At 7.30pm the recording starts
All the acts perform tracks from their new albums.
The sound for all the acts was perfect and clear.
This is how the show order went, track by track.
David Gilmour
Amyl and The Sniffers
Jool interview with Matt Johnson from The The
Dhruv
The The
Moonchild Sanelly
Jools interview with David Gilmour
Amyl and The Sniffers
David Gilmour
Pretty amazing to see a rock legend Ike David Gilmour in such an intimate setting.
On Wednesday 09 October, David Gilmour plays the first of six sold out Royal Albert Hall shows .
Finally get to see Amyl and The Sniffers.
Her nearly there outfit will go down well on TV as she channelled early Debbie Harry attitude with a Farah Fawcett 1970s blonde flicked hairstyle. Really good .
Great to see The The again , after seeing them last week at Brixton Academy
The two other acts also performed well.
The new series starts on Saturday 19 October on BBC Two and this episode is shown on Saturday 02 Nov.
I have put a video and photo up Facebook ,of the pre-recording , but obviously nothing was allowed during the actual recording.
Well worth applying for tickets via the BBC website for future shows in the series...and they are free.
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Sunday 06 October 2024.
ARCH ENEMY + IN FLAMES + SOILWORK live at Hammersmith Apollo.
Metal titans Arch Enemy and In Flames are teaming up for a UK & European co-headline tour with Special Guests Soilwork....all three bands are Swedish.
Arch Enemy will close the show in London.
Looking forward to seeing Arch Enemy for the first time . I have seen In Flames a couple of times before when they were a support act.
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It does not say sold out , but the venue is very full.
Looks like a mini Download Festival .
Oddly it is six months since my last visit to this venue, which was The Hives.They don't seem to get as much good stuff on like the legendary Hammersmith Odeon shows in the 1970s and 1980s.
SOILWORK on at 6.15pm for 45 mins.
They are given a postage size space at the front.
Six members spread across the stage .
A decent enough heavy metal sound.
IN FLAMES on at 7.25pm for 75 mins .
Both the headliners have full stage productions.
Visually looks fantastic with lots of lights and strobes
In Flames have a raised platform for drums and keys.
Again it was a decent heavy metal set .
ARCH ENEMY on at 9.10pm for 75 mins.
Arch Enemy had a huge curtain and also looked visually great with all the lights and strobes.
A female singer , who sounded a bit manly with her screaming , growling vocals.
Lots of moshing , crowd-surfing and headbanging throughout the evening...a good event.
Updated 7th October 2024 Permalink
Saturday 05 October 2024.
Saturday 05 October.
DANDY WARHOLS + BLACK ANGELS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Part of a 13 date UK & European co-headline tour.
The second of their two London shows.
This was the extra show added after strong ticket sales for their Forum gig this past Thursday .
I have seen The Dandy Warhol's a few times.
The first time was at Shepherds Bush Empire in 1996, and the second time was supporting David Bowie and Muse at Glastonbury Festival in 2000.
The Dandy Warhols got a major record with Capitol , and a 400,000 dollar budget for the mega video for their great track 'Not If You Were the Last Junkie on Earth', which is one of my fave videos of the 1990s.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed tonight, but the stalls and Level 1 are rammed solid . Maybe one show was enough in London, but good for us here.
Grant the singer from Feeder was spotted here .
MIRANDA LEE RICHARDS on at 7.15pm for her 25 mins. She played tracks from her albums and a track she co-wrote with Anton Newcombe , when she had a stint with him in Brian Johnstown Massacre.
BLACK ANGELS on at 8pm for 70 mins.
The Black Angels are an American psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas.Formed in May 2004, they took their name from the Velvet Underground's "The Black Angel's Death Song."They have released six studio albums and one compilation album.
All five members looking cool, dressed all in black.
A nice psychedelic rock sound, with psychedelic images on the big curtain behind them.
DANDY WARHOLS on at 9.40pm for their 75 mins.
The band are more psychedelic pop rock than rock.
They also have the psychedelic images on the big curtain behind them.
Zia on keyboards, does her cute dancing behind her keyboards .Like the Roundhouse show a couple of years ago i saw , they only play a couple of the half dozen big songs I know them for (Bohemian Like You and Get Off ) which were really good.
Very enjoyable evening overall.
Full DANDY WARHOLS setliat played tonight...
Good Morning
Ride
Plan A
Be Alright
Summer of Hate
I Love You (extended live version)
I'd Like To Help You With Your Problem
Holding Me Up (extended live version + trumpet)
STYGGO
Bohemian Like You
Get Off
Godless
Zia Outro / There's a Daisy on My Toe (by Zia only)
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Friday 04 October 2024.
WEDDING PRESENT live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Indie rock legends are playing another UK tour .
Celebrating the 35th anniversary of their second studio album BIZARRO (1989).
I have seen them a few times over the years.
The first time was at The Mean Fiddler in 1996, and including supporting PiL in 2012 at Rochester Castle Kent.
They were one of John Peels fave bands.
I saw them at this venue last year , and it is the same support act.
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Level 3 is closed and Level 2 is half empty , but the stalls floor standing and Level 1 are rammed solid
Lots of middle aged men here.
MIKI BERENYI TRIO arrived on stage at 7.50pm for their 45 mins. Miki used to be in the indie-rock band Lush. They are a trio as the drummer is a drum machine tape...some nice dreamy vocals.
THE WEDDING PRESENT arrived on stage at 9pm for their 95 mins set.
Lots of nifty guitar riffs though the evening. The last half a dozen tracks upped the tempo , and got the crowd dancing madly down the front. A really good show. At the end , singer Dave Gedge signed stuff by the merch stand in the foyer.
Full WEDDING PRESENT setlist played tonight...
Scream, If You Want to Go Faster ( Working Title)
This is the Girl ( Working Title)
A Million Miles
Don't Talk, Just Kiss
I Could Write a Book (Working Title)
Dalliance
Drive
Come Play With Me
BIZARRO ALBUM
Brassneck
Crushed
No
Thanks
Kennedy
What Have I Said Now?
Granadaland
Bewitched ( Extended Intro)
Take Me!
Be Honest
Crawl
My Favourite Dress
Updated 5th October 2024 Permalink
Thursday 03 October 2024.
Thursday 03 October 2024.
HAEVN live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Having captured the hearts of countless music fans with their 2018 debut Eyes Closed, HAEVN are back with their latest release, Wide Awake.
Renowned for their distinctive ambient sound, seamlessly blending indie-pop and cinematic elements with ethereal vocals, HAEVN promises an unforgettable experience filled with captivating arrangements, touching moments and instances of true musical vulnerability.
HAEVN are from Amsterdam, Holland.
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Not sold out tonight, but all levels are pretty full.
A middle aged crowd, with lots of Dutch folks.
HAEVN on stage at 8.05pm for their 1 hour 45 mins .
Six musicians on stage, all dressed in black.
The band are led by film composer Jorrit Kleijnen and singer/ songwriter Marijn van der Meer, the two have gained a large fan base with their music in recent years. Not only very popular in the Netherlands, but also other countries .
Their sound was mainly gentle and mellow .
In the middle of the set , a male African singer in full robes , helped with the vocals on a couple of tracks ,
which was really good ...a good show.
At the end of the show, the band announced they were doing a meet n greet at the back of the stalls ,after the show....a big queue soon formed.
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Wednesday 02 October 2024.
JXDN live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
LA- based singer and songwriter jxdn returns to the stage in support of his latest LP WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS. It marks jxdn’s long-awaited follow up to his celebrated debut album Tell Me About Tomorrow.
His current world tour of over 30 shows has seen him in North America, Mainland Europe and now the UK .
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Level 3 is closed , and Level 2 is half empty.
Maybe 1000/1200 here, and most are females.
The younger females are tightly packed at the front of the stage , ready to swoon and scream.
SACE 6 arrived on stage at 8pm for their 30 mins set.
A nice set from this American trio , as they had hints of Linkin Park in their alt-rock sound.
JXDN arrived in stage at 9pm for their 80 mins set.
They played a good set of catchy pop punk.
Jxdn has the slim lean body like a Dave Gahan.
He took his shirt off halfway through for a
neat cover of ' Miss You' by The Rolling Stones .
The drummer was pretty amazing to watch.
Overall, two good bands tonight.
Updated 3rd October 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 01 October 2024
Tuesday 01 October 2024.
THE THE live at Brixton Academy .
THE THE, one of the most acclaimed and cherished bands of the last few decades, head out on their ‘Ensouled’ world tour, their first since the hugely successful ‘The Comeback Special’ world tour in 2018...i went to The Royal Albert Hall show on that tour, which has since come out on DVD
I also saw The The twice in 2000.
'Ensouled' is their first studio album for 24 years.
The band’s music inhabits a genre of its own: it is music of long shadows, high hopes, channelled anger, feverish passions and sweetly disturbing poignancy. It is pop and rock, blues and folk, soul and polemic. It spans alienated electronics to twisted cinematic soundtracks, guitar tumbling swing to crimson ballads, rants and prayers to diaries.
Looks like on stage for over two hours over two sets
The first set will be the new album in its entirety , and the second set with be their best of songs.
There will be a strict no phone recording in place .
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Tonight is not sold out, but looks pretty full.
THE THE are on stage for 2 hours 10 mins ,over two sets of 50 mins and 80 mins.
Singer Matt Johnson (now aged 63) , said the first set was for " Listening" and the second set was for "
Dancing".
The sound quality is perfect , and Matt's vocals are nice and clear .
Pretty amazing how popular The The still are.
They always had a niche, arty, creative , hipster kind of following, similar to Nick Cave.
Just proves if you make interesting music, people will always come back to support you.
There was a massive big screen curtain where they played pre-recorded images.
As expected the second set had their best tracks.
A really good show
Full THE THE setlist played tonight....
Ensoulment FIRST SET
Cognitive Dissident
Some Days I Drink My Coffee by the Grave of William Blake
Zen & the Art of Dating
Kissing the Ring of POTUS
Life After Life
I Want to Wake Up With You
Down by the Frozen River
Risin’ Above the Need
Linoleum Smooth to the Stockinged Foot
Where Do We Go When We Die?
I Hope You Remember (The Things I Can’t Forget)
A Rainy Day in May
Retrospect SECOND SET
Infected
Armageddon Days Are Here (Again)
The Sinking Feeling
Heartland
The Whisperers
Love Is Stronger Than Death
August & September
Slow Emotion Replay
This Is the Day
Icing Up
Dogs of Lust
Sweet Bird of Truth
Lonely Planet
Encore
Uncertain Smile
GIANT
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Sunday 29 September 2024.
COMEDY WAREHOUSE presents JAMAICA v THE WORLD live at Shepherds Bush Empire .
Several black comedians (and one white guy ) perform....
Line up - Richard Blackwood, Slim, Axel Blake, Kane Brown, Kevin J, Kyrah Gray, Toju, Jay Handley and Kayleigh Lewis
I have been to this good event a couple of times.
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As it is a comedy show, it is stalls seated tonight.
Levels 2 and 3 upstairs, are only half full.
It is at least a 75% per cent black audience
The show was on for 2 hours 45 mins , over two sets of 80 mins and 85 mins.
All the comedians had 15 to 20 mins each.
All had plenty of of funny bits ...Maybe my fave as usual was host Kane Brown , due to his audience participation about their relationships etc .
Kevin J was the token white comedian. He grew up in Tottenham on the Broadwater Farm Estate.
Always an enjoyable evening.
Updated 30th September 2024 Permalink
Saturday 28 September 2024.
Saturday 28 September 2024.
SKIPINNISH live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
One of Scotland's most beloved traditional music bands will play a milestone performance in London, marking the band's biggest ever gig outside of Scotland, a highlight of their year-long 25th anniversary celebrations.
They have headlined big gigs like Edinburgh Castle and Glasgow Barrowlands back home in Scotland.
They are pretty much unknown in England.
In the late 1990s / early 2000s there was a Scottish band called RUNRIG who were big in Scotland , but not so much in England.
I saw them four times at Hammersmith Odeon from 1989, when i worked front of stage security at Hammersmith Odeon
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Level 2 is half empty and Level 3 is closed tonight.
Maybe 1000/1200 tix sold.
A couple of kilts were spotted in this crowd , that would mostly I presume have Scottish connections .
JAMES STEWART came on at 7.50pm for 40 mins.
Scottish singer-songwriter and his guitar, struggled a bit with so many folks chatting loudly , but a nice cover of 'Dirty Old Town' quietened them down a bit.
SKIPINNISH were on at 9pm for 1 hour 45 mins.
They opened up with a bagpipes led song.
For some songs there are ten musicians on stage, including TWO bagpipers .
There’s something of The Pogues feel about them at their most poetic, the yearning for a mythical Celtic land, as whistle, fiddle, guitar , bagpipes and accordion join in the drum propelled Scottish folk anthems.
While the music ticked along nicely, the Scottish crowd were amazing , as the stalls are swaying and jigging away all the way back to the mixing desk.
Arms around each other, and on top of friends shoulders , and singing loudly along.
Even when the band finished , and the house lights went up, for a further 10 mins then crowd were singing Scottish anthems like ' The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond' until security had to get a loudhailer to get them to exit the venue.
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Friday 27 September 2024.
FURNACE AND THE FUNDAMENTALS live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Lively Australian party covers band are back in London after selling out The Electric Ballroom .
Musical chameleons with a sense of humour, the band is tight, energetic and engaging. Furnace and the Fundamentals are guaranteed to live up to their reputation as the most epic, ridiculous & energetic party band ever.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed , and plenty of space in Stalls and Level 1 so maybe only 600 or 700 folks here .
An indication of how the evening will proceed , is that the support act is two rubber dolls for a DJ battle , elbowing each other etc , which was pretty funny.
FURNACE AND THE FUNDAMENTALS arrived on stage at 9pm for their 1 hour 45 mins set.
Six of them in stage in matching jacket , shirt ,.tie.
A bit ambitious for a covers band to play this venue, but they are are a full on party band who know how to put a good show on , that had everyone dancing and singing and smiling all through the evening.
The songs are all classic pop from the last 50 years , although most seem to be from the 1980s.
Some are a minute long and some are full length.
There is a big screen showing original artists music videos as well as their own comedy skits.
The band are moving around the stage non-stop .
The crowd are dancing and singing non-stop.
The confetti cannons start pretty early, and 20 mins in , we get 'Its Raining Men' and a dozen male plastic blow up dolls are thrown down on to the crowd from Level 2, along with 100 balloons.
The pyros are going off often too.
We get great versions of ' Teenage Dirtbag' and 'Tiny Dancer', along with Bon Jovi , Blur, Oasis, Beatles ,Nirvana, Shania Twain etc.
After 85 mins the singer is sat astride an inflatable Swan as it floats over the audience heads.
We have a conga for 'Hot,Hot,Hot' and the final song of the main set is 'Sweet Caroline' which took the roof off, and the encore was 'Bohemian Rhapsody'.
They were very entertaining indeed. If you were getting married and had some spare cash for the ideal wedding party band, then this lot would be perfect.
Updated 28th September 2024 Permalink
Thursday 26 September 2024.
Thursday 26 September 2024.
THE SEX PISTOLS with FRANK CARTER live at
The Forum, London.
Punk legends play the last of five extra shows with their new singer , after selling out three nights at The Bush Hall, London in August....I was lucky to be at all three of those excellent shows.
The third show was the 32nd time i had seen The Sex Pistols since July 1976.
I have been to over 100 live music events in 2024, and those three Sex Pistols shows and the two Wembley Stadium shows by Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band , have been my 10/10 top of the bunch.
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Nice to see so many punk rockin' chums here, on this horrible, gloomy rainy day.
The venue is positively rammed inside , as this show sold out pronto.
There was a serious medical issue with a male customer in the stalls , so the band were delayed for 30 mins.
They arrived on stage at 9.30pm for their 75 mins set.
There is a slight change to the Bush Hall setlist as ' Did You No Wrong' is dropped, and 'Silly Thing' and ' My Way' are added.
Every track from NMTB is superb as usual.
Great to see Glen , Paul and Steve together
Frank Carter is giving it 100% as he goes into the crowd a few times and even stage dives from the dog leg stairs that lead up at the side to the balcony.
Frank is really doing a fantastic job .
Another fantastic show , that was over far too quickly.
Full setlist played tonight....
Holidays in the Sun
Seventeen
New York
Pretty Vacant
Bodies
Silly Thing
Liar
God Save the Queen
Submission
Satellite
No Feelings
No Fun ( The Stooges cover)
Problems
E.M.I.
Encore:
My Way (Claude François cover)
Anarchy in the U.K.
Those spotted during the evening included Jeni Cook, John Giddings , Andy Copping , Slim Jim Phantom, Spizz Energi , Joe Corre, John ' Boogie' Tiberi,
Roedent , Ray Stevenson, Anne Pigalle and no doubt a few more i missed.
Aftershow party in the balcony bar...
Nice n buzzy here as 100 guests , with a pay bar.
I was here with Mal-One until 1.15am.
It was due to finish at 1.30am.
Glen Matlock and Frank Carter were here.
Also Julien Temple, Nick Moran, Stephen Webster ,
Tom Spencer , Chris McCormack, Chris Musto.
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Wednesday 25 September 2024.
MONSTER MAGNET live at The Forum.
New Jersey rockers are celebrating 35 years since forming....They have released around 10 albums...
They are playing a UK & European Tour
Led by original founder member and vocalist Dave Wyndorf, the acclaimed five-piece are famed for their signature heavy and spacy sound, a style which is heavily influenced by early metal bands of the 1970s.
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Lots of space upstairs and on the floor , so maybe only 1000 here out of the 2000 capacity.
MARGARITA WITCH CULT on at 8pm for 45 mins.
A rock trio who all had full length 1970s long hair.
Hailing from the home of metal, Birmingham UK, Margarita Witch Cult are the Sabbath City’s newest heirs to the throne of darkness- serving a merciless concoction of stoned sludge, demented thrash, and proto-metal weirdness. The self-proclaimed “disciples of the riff” played some good tracks off their debut album , along with a nifty cover of ' White Wedding '.
MONSTER MAGNET on at 9.15pm for 90 mins.
They had a stage curtain , that had psychedelic images and clips from famous porn film 'Ginger' projected onto it.
Five musicians playing some swirling psychedelic guitar, along with cosmic bass and weird keyboard sounds.
Dave Wyndorff's crew are purveyors of mind-expanding space rock.
A good set that ended with 'Space Lord'.
Updated 26th September 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 24 September 2024.
Tuesday 24 September 2024...6.45pm to 8.45pm...
BOOK LAUNCH PARTY - for 'Syndicate ' by Felix Francis at The Cavalry & Guards Club ,
127 Piccadilly , London W1.
This plush old school members club is just a few yards away from the original Hard Rock Cafe.
Great paintings and furniture all over the building.
Men have to wear a jacket and tie here.
Around 100 older posh guests here.
RICHARD STILGOE is here...now aged 81.
FELIX FRANCIS (age 71) releases his 18th book.
He makes a speech at 7.15pm and signs books.
Complimentary prosecco and wines for all the guests.
About the book...
THE BRAND NEW 2024 NOVEL FROM THE MASTER OF THE RACING THRILLER.
Chester Newton is a successful racehorse syndicate organiser and his company, Victrix Racing, is having its best year yet. When his prized horse, Potassium, wins the world-famous Epsom Derby, Chester is set to become the next big thing in British horse racing.
But one phone call changes everything.
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Monday 23 September 2024.
RAYE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Raye plays a special ballot only show for customers of 02 Priority.
I saw Raye play sold out shows at Shepherds Bush Empire Nov 2021 and Royal Albert Hall Sept 2023.
BRIT AWARDS 2024 belonged to RAYE, who, after already breaking the record for most BRIT Award nominations for a single artist in one year, received six prestigious awards, among them Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, Best New Artist, Song of the Year for “Escapism,” R&B Act and Songwriter of the Year.
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Level 1 is all for the 200 folks on the guest list .
Guests included ....
PALOMA FAITH
JESSIE J
ALEX SCOTT
CLARA AMFO
MAISIE WILLIAMS
NCUTI GATWA ( the current Dr Who)
RAYE arrived on stage at 8.50pm for her 80 mins set
A lovely all white stage , with platforms for her nine musicians, who included a four man brass section.
All musicians dressed in white shirts with bow ties .
Raye is wearing a glamorous, red sparkly dress.
Lots of excitable chat from Raye between and during the songs .She easily mixes Hollywood glamour and South London street girl.
Highlights included a superb cover of 'Its A Mans Mans World' and the finale of her massive hit ' 'Escapism ' . A really good show .
Updated 24th September 2024 Permalink
Sunday 22 September 2024
Sunday 22 September 2024.
ZEAL & ARDOR live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Swiss avante-garde metal band Zeal & Ardor are back with their fourth studio album GREIF, named after a mythical hybrid creature.
This show is their only UK show , which comes at the end of their European Tour. They head to USA and Canada for gigs in Nov/Dec 2024.
I only know them from a good review they got from Bloodstock Festival , UK in 2023.
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Lots of folks in black goth/metal clothing tonight.
Level 3 is closed tonight, but all other levels are full.
This means more folks here than The Dead Daisies three band rock package the night before.
Two band names beginning with Z gave the impression it was gonna be a ' Zany ' evening.
ZETRA arrived on stage at 7.30pm for their 40 mins.
A male and female in long black coats and wearing face paint , with each standing on a podium.One plays keyboards and one plays guitar and they use tapes for the drums...A decent enough set of industrial goth.
ZEAL & ARDOR arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for just 80 mins. There is six of them on stage , which includes the main singer-guitarist and two backing vocals.There are tons of lights and strobes.
There is serious moshing and banging of heads, when the band are at their best when full tilt for their crunching black metal riffs.
When the house lights go up after just 80 mins, the crowd shout out loud boos, and stamp their feet and chant " one more song" , " one more song" for a full five minutes but the band never came back on.
A pretty good show overall.
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Saturday 21 September 2024.
THE DEAD DAISIES live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Hard rock band The Dead Daisies are heading out on their ‘Light ‘Em Up’ UK & European Tour to celebrate their latest album of the same name.
I have seen them a few times since 2013, including when Glenn Hughes was in the band.
Current band members are....
David Lowy
John Corabi ( back for a second stint as vocalist )
Doug Aldrich
Michael Devin
Tommy Clufetos
A nice three rock bands package, with support from
THE TREATMENT who are promoting their sixth album ' Wake Up The Neighbourhood' and the hotly tipped for success THE BITES, who are a Hollywood-based rock band who transport hard rock and hair metal from the '80s and bring it into the 2020s.
They are promoting their debut album ' Squeeze'.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed, but other two levels are full.
THE BITES on at 7.45pm for 30 mins.
They played good catchy uptempo rock n roll.
A lively entertaining singer , with simple lyrics in the mould of Poison and Motley Crue, and they did a Black Sabbath cover.
THE TREATMENT on at 8.30pm for 40 mins.
They played a good solid set of rock tunes.
Some nice twin guitars dueling away.
THE DEAD DAISIES on at 9.30pm for 90 mins.
They have a lovely big screen showing pre-recorded images and videos
Plenty of great vocals, guitar playing and drums .
They all look like proper rock stars.
A good choice of cover versions.
A really enjoyable three rock bands tonight.
Full DEAD DAISIES setlist played tonight ..
Light 'Em Up
Rise Up
Dead and Gone
Make Some Noise
I Wanna Be Your Bitch
Unspoken
Bustle and Flow
Lock 'n' Load
I'm Gonna Ride
Born to Fly
Take a Long Line (The Angels cover)
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap / Seven Nation Army / Children of the Grave / Whole Lotta Love / Join Together (Band introductions featuring snippets of above songs)
I'm Ready ( Muddy Waters cover)
Fortunate Son (Creedence Clearwater Revival cover)
Mexico
Midnight Moses (The Sensational Alex Harvey Band cover)
Encore:
Long Way to Go
Helter Skelter ( The Beatles cover)
Updated 22nd September 2024 Permalink
Friday 20 September 2024.
Friday 20 September 2024.
NEEDTOBREATHE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Grammy nominated American band who started off as a Christian rock band, but are now more mainstream country rock, with a Christian influence.
The five-piece are back with their ninth studio album, CAVES . Many of the albums have made The Billboard Top 200 chart in America and made the top spot in the Christian album charts over there.
As part of an eight date UK & European Tour.
This show sold out in advance.
In 1987 I saw Christian hair metal band Stryper at Hammersmith Odeon , and I still have one of the bibles they threw out with their logo on.
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The crowd certainly certainly do look a bit like Christian church going folks.
Support act MOSA WILD played a decent 30 mins set.
NEEDTOBREATHE arrived on stage at 9pm for their 1 hour 50 mins set. A nice stage production with lots of lights , strobes and vertical lighting poles.
The singer is wearing a Stetson throughout.
They sound very tight , due to their non-stop touring and the guitarist played some nifty guitar.
A couple of good covers were played, which were 'House of the Rising Sun' and Tom Petty 's 'You Wreck Me'' , and they played a few slower tracks in the middle of the set.
Their country rock , with a Christian slant was much better than expected .
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Thursday 19 September 2024.
6.30pm to 9.30pm
Over a dozen cool design stores in South Kensington are showcasing for London Design Week.
We get along to a few of them as all near each other .
All have complimentary drinks including prosecco, Negronis, wines, beers and canapes .
GIORCETTI - Home Furnishings
CASSINA - Home Furnishings
MOLTENI - Home Furnishings
B & B ITALIA - Furniture
OCCIHO - Lighting
OCCIHO was probably the best of tonights events.
Around 100 guests here, nice and buzzy.
A female DJ is playing tunes in the background.
Complimentary prosecco , wines, beers, canapes, various cheeses and Italian breads .
then
10pm to 12pm
theatre party at The Haymarket Hotel for the opening press/VIP night of WAITING FOR GODOT.
The play is on until 14 Dec 2024.
All the cast turn up including the main two actors who are LUCIAN MSAMATI and BEN WHISHAW.
Ben appeared as Q in the James Bond film Skyfall (2012), going on to reprise the role in Spectre (2015) and No Time to Die (2021). He has voiced Paddington Bear in Paddington (2014), its sequel Paddington 2 (2017), the follow-up television series, and Paddington in Peru (2024) and many more acting roles.
Other guests here included....
AISLING BEA
LENNIE JAMES
SHARON SMALL
Complimentary drinks and food included two different whiskey cocktails, prosecco, wines, beers , canapes , cartons of fish n chips and desserts.
Updated 20th September 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 18 September 2024.
Wednesday 18 September 2024...5.45pm to 8.30pm...
HARD ROCK CAFE - showcase - Piccadilly Circus , London W1.
I went to the big opening launch party for this venue five years ago in Sept 2019 where KEANE performed.
They are showcasing their various spaces for hire
From a private room holding 50, to the full venue that can hold 650 standing .
Always great to see all the music memorabilia on the walls of the entire venue.
Very interesting for me to see the white tuxedo jacket that Sid Vicious wore when he recorded the video in Paris of his hit cover single version of ' My Way'....I presume it is the original?
Around 100 guests here over two of the spaces.
A DJ was playing tunes in the background.
Complimentary drinks and food included two different cocktails, prosecco, wines, beers and the usual Hard Rock Cafe food and desserts.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure.
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Tuesday 17 September 2024....5.30pm to 8pm...
Venue and Festive Menu Showcase .
THE FIRE STATION - 197 Chiswick High Road,
Chiswick, London W4.
My band used to play in a couple of the pubs in Chiswick in the early 1980s.
This ex Fire Station has a cool contemporary feel.
They have the main bar and space at the front, and at the rear has a space for up to 50 for private parties.
We had lots of complimentary drinks and food...
We had some lovely small plates of...
Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups
Harissa Spiced Roasted Potatoes
Crispy Squid with Smoked Chilli Jam
Spiced Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Wings
Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Sauce
Cheese Burger Sliders
Mini Fish Goujons with Tartare Sauce
Truffled Cheese Sourdough Toasties
Also Blackberry Spritz cocktails , prosecco, wines, beers .
Updated 18th September 2024 Permalink
Monday 16 September 2024.
Monday 16 September 2024.
Day 4 of London Fashion Week.
I went to two London Fashion Week Parties tonight.
7.30pm to 8.30pm
DE FICHIER Presentation at 11 Carlton Park Terrace, London SW1.
Around 100 guests here.
Half a dozen models showcase three outfits each.
Included some very nice silk creations.
Complimentary prosecco for all the guests.
then
9.15pm to 2.30am
BURBERRY LFW PARTY at Kensington Roof Gardens, Kensington, London W8.
Always the biggest and best LFW party.
My first time back at this stunning venue that was re-opened a few months ago, after many years closed.
When I worked at Hammersmith Odeon in the 1980s , several of the bands had big aftershow parties here.
The best one i remember was The Cult in 1987, to celebrate three sold out Hammersmith shows.
The beautiful outdoor gardens look better than ever , but the peacocks and flamingos of old have gone.
Over 500 on the guest list , including....
PALOMA FAITH (see photo on my Facebook page)
EDWARD ENNINFUL with SACHA BARON COHEN
SADIQ KHAN
ANGELA RAYNER
JULIEN MacDONALD
ERIN O'CONNOR
LENNON GALLAGHER
DANIEL LISMORE
STEPHEN WEBSTER
JEFFERSON HACK
WAYNE HEMINGWAY
HAROLD TILLMAN
JOHN RICHMOND
OZWALD BOATENG
Magician DYNAMO was performing some tricks in the garden.
DJs inside and outside are playing tracks .
Lots of complimentary drinks and food, including five different cocktails , prosecco , wines, beers , bowl food and canapes.
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Monday 16 September 2024.
Shock news that TITO JACKSON has died of a heart attack in America.
I saw him on stage just seven days ago at The Boogietown Festival, Walton-on -Thames.
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Sunday 15 September 2024.
Day 3 of London Fashion Week.
PERFECT MAGAZINE LFW PARTY - 1 Hotel, 3 Berkeley Street , Mayfair , London W1.
Over 300 guests at this very nice five star hotel.
Wall to wall young female and male fashion models.
Also ..
DAMIAN LEWIS with ALISON MOSSHART
DAMIAN HURLEY
STEPHEN JONES
FRAN CUTLER
LENNON GALLAGHER
DANIEL LISMORE
The female djs crank up the volume as the night goes on, and that gets guests dancing.
In the side room BETH DITTO was hosting the Karaoke , which was great fun.
Complimentary drinks and food , included five different cocktails, including Espresso Martinis and hot and cold canapes.
See my Facebook page for photos and a video.
Check Getty Images for lots of nice photos.
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1 Hotel Mayfair, was built and refurbished from two existing buildings and reimagined to reduce CO2 emissions and accelerate sustainable practices throughout. In addition to their live green walls, 1 Hotel Mayfair features 1,300 individual plants, shrubs and trees throughout its verdant grounds.
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Saturday 14 September 2024.
DEATH OF GUITAR POP live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
2 Tone ska pop revivalists Death of Guitar Pop from Essex are back in London for their biggest headline show of their career.
They were second headliners on the main stage at Rebellion Festival, Blackpool on 03 August 2024.
They have released four studio albums.
Two of them have made the UK Top 40 charts .
Will be good to see a new ska band who are on the up.
I saw many great gigs by the likes of The Specials and Madness during the late 1970s ska revival.
Death of Guitar Pop are playing a full UK tour in 2025, but the London show on Saturday 29 April is at 229 Great Portland Street , which is a much smaller venue than Shepherds Bush Empire.
Earlier this year they played their first shows in USA.
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Level 3 is closed , and other levels have space so maybe 1000 max here , and they have a massive guest list of well over 100 for this celebration gig.
A DJ played great old school ska tracks along with The Specials and The Clash between the acts .
JAMES BONE arrived on stage at 7.20pm for 30 mins.
South Londoner played tracks from his debut album.
He said “I’ve got a guitar, a voice, a bunch of tunes i believe in and a 2007 Volkswagen Golf. I’ll go wherever in the world people want it,” (who doesn’t love a classic hard working troubadour?) and the opening track on the album, ' Fuck ‘Em All' was a great start to the evening.
BLOCK 33 on at 7.55pm for their 30 mins.
A four piece who played a nice set of indie rock tracks from their albums , with a mod influence.
They finished their set with 'Lucky Day'.
Like the headliners, they are very DIY, without any help of major record companies .
DEATH OF GUITAR POP on at 9pm for 1 hour 45 mins.
Their intro and outro song is the theme from
Only Fools and Horses TV show .
There are ten of them on stage , including a lovely sounding three man brass section.
It soon becomes a proper dance party as the streamers are fired into the audience during the second song, and the crowd are dancing lots.
The band are clearly happy to be playing this legendary venue, and mention three artists that have played here...Paul Weller, David Bowie and Adele.
I was at Paul Weller and David Bowie.
The entire show was filmed by them.
A very enjoyable show
Highlights included...
Ska is The Bollocks
Bosh! ( with Tom Skinner)
No 1 in America
Just Another Pub Band
Junkie Man (dedicated to Rancid)
69 Candy Street ( with a dozen friends dancing on stage with them)
Updated 15th September 2024 Permalink
Thursday 12 September 2024.
Thursday 12 September 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
6pm to 9.30pm .
MAYFAIR SUMMER GARDEN PARTY, Mount Street Gardens , Mayfair , London W1.
For some reason , this event was postponed from June to Sept, so it is a bit chilly out in the open.
Around 500 guests here .
There are a dozen top restaurants and hotels from the Mayfair area giving out delicious complimentary hot and cold food and desserts and drinks, including full size grilled chicken burgers , oysters ,whiskey and mixers , Nyetimber English Sparkling Wines , lager , Guinness, Hot Dogs, sushi , cartons of fish n chips, red and white wines , prosecco, coffees, Crepes etc.
We have two 25 mins set from the really good disco and soul covers nine piece band called Dee Supremes, and in the middle is the auction and raffle.
Very enjoyable here .
then
10pm to 12pm - opening night press/VIP party for ASK YOURSELF, WHY AM I SO SINGLE ? at
STEREO , The Piazza , Covent Garden , London WC2.
About the show...which is on at The Garrick Theatre.
From the writers of the worldwide mega smash hit SIX, comes a brand-new all-singing, all-dancing MUSICAL extravaganza. Join two best friends as they drink, eat, laugh, and cry while they attempt to answer the impossible question of why they are so single.
WHY AM I SO SINGLE? promises to be the ‘West End’s most relatable new musical’, uncovering ‘the messy, magical lives of the city’s unmatched and unattached’ (Vogue).
Book now if you’re single, looking, or happily partnered (no judgement).
A massive crowd , as must be over 300 guests here.
This venue used to host some retro nights when it was called The Roadhouse...i saw a few here...
2000 - Alvin Stardust
2001 - Suzi Quatro
2001 - Slade 2
2002 - Roy Wood Army
There was a loud DJ and a good live soul covers band, where the singer had a superb falsetto voice.
Complimentary drinks and food included spirits n mixers , prosecco, wines, beers , a chilli con-carne with sides buffet and cup cakes.
We left at midnight , but still lively as on until 1am.
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Wednesday 11 September 2024.
I went to two events today .
1pm to 5.15pm.
THE BIG CHRISTMAS PRESS SHOW at
The Business Design Centre, Upper Street ,
Islington , London N1.
Around 50 brands are showcasing for Christmas.
There are two live reindeer in a pen when we arrived.
It is a 90% female crowd ,so handy that I meet up with a couple of female friends.
There is complimentary drinks and food all day long.
Four different lunch boxes from Canababes.
The Emissary Bar for prosecco.
The Aperol Spritz Bar
Coffees and teas with various sweet treats.
Mulled wine with mince pies.
We visit several of the stands , but it is mainly items for women and children, rather than men.
A few stands are handing out goodie bags.
Those here included...
Smyths Toys Superstores
MGA Entertainment & Toys
Hello Kitty
Lego
QVC
B & M Stores
Russel Hobbs
MenKind
Yoto
The V & A Museum Shop
Target Darts featuring Luke Littler products
Cloud Nine Hair Products
Bird & Blend Tea & Coffee
then
Shepherds Bush Empire.
Berlin quintet Einstürzende Neubauten (formed in 1980) are known for their influence on industrial music and their use of building tools and scrap metal, as well as inventing contraptions to be used as instruments.
Now the experimental music group are back with their latest album Rampen - apm: alien pop music.
They still feature two original members from 1980.
This is their only UK show on their European Tour.
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Level 3 is closed tonight, but other levels look full.
You can hear many German accents in the crowd.
No support act tonight and the band arrived on stage at 8.30pm for their 1 hour 55 mins set.
Six of them on stage , and the singer is bare foot.
75% of the songs are in German, and the rest are in English.
Their gloomy industrial sound is not for the casual listener, so it's pretty much a loyal hardcore crowd .
One of their trademarks is the use of custom-built instruments, predominantly made out of scrap metal and building tools, and noises, so tonight we have a shopping trolly and set of pipes being bashed, in addition to standard musical instruments. Their early albums were unremittingly harsh, with Bargeld's vocals shouted and screamed above a din of banging and scraping metal percussion. Subsequent recordings found the group's sound growing somewhat more conventional, yet still containing many unorthodox elements.
The overall sound didn't really do much for me, but the encores were slightly better.
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Very sad news that FRANKIE BEVERLY has passed aged away aged 77.
He was the lead singer in soul r n b group Maze.
I saw them live over 20 times at Hammersmith Odeon in the 1980s when I worked front stage security , as they would play multi nights there on every tour.
Updated 12th September 2024 Permalink
Tuesday 10 September 2024.
Tuesday 10 September 2024.
7.30pm to 10pm.
THE MOCO MUSEUM launch party -
1-4 Marble Arch London W2.
This massive gallery space actually opened in August, but are just having the launch party now.
The Moco Museum (Modern Contemporary Museum) is an independent museum with locations in Amsterdam, Barcelona, and now London, dedicated to exhibiting modern and contemporary art. The museum was founded with the mission of attracting broader and younger audiences, and making art accessible to the public.
It is a massive space as it's 25,000 square feet over three floors.
It will be a pay ticket to visit here , so will be interesting to see how they get on here, when so many top galleries in London are free entry.
A big crowd of around 300 here , over the three levels.
Guests included....
MARINA ABRAMOVIC
DANIEL LISMORE
TAMARA BECKWITH
STIK
OZWALD BOATENG
PHILIP COLBERT
DAME ZANDRA RHODES
ANDREW LOGAN (Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood staged the "Valentine's Ball", at which the Sex Pistols first came to media attention, at Andrews Butlers Wharf sculptor studios on 14 Feb 1976).
A DJ playing tunes in the background .
Complimentary Porte Noire champers , wines, beers ,
sushi canapes and desserts
then 10.05pm to 12pm.
Party after at NOBU, Portman Square, London W1.
Around 100 folks here at this nice venue.
Only Daniel Lismore is here from the known faces earlier at the main event.
Complimentary prosecco , wines , beers, canapes .
We left at midnight, but still buzzing as a 1am finish.
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Monday 09 September 2024...7.30pm to 11pm...
HEINZ SALAD CREAM - Celebrating 110 years at
Grasso , 81 Dean Street , Soho London W1.
This was a fun and unusual event for sure .
Around 40 guests here for sit down dinner and drinks.
A couple of snappers outside so thanks to Holly from www.culted.com for the update on who's here.
There are female twins from Love Island, a couple from TV series Love is Blind and a few well known Tik Tok influencers....a mainly younger crowd for sure.
Lots of complimentary food and drinks
Five courses, all sprinkled with a dash of salad cream.
Crudités & Zucchini Fries
Mozzarella Sticks in tomato sauce
Chicken Caesar Salad
Crispy Pancetta
Baked Kiwi Cheesecake
Three different cocktails and red & white wines.
DJ kicked in after 10pm , and I asked him for a punk tune request and he played 'Hong Kong Garden'.
We were given a nice item at the end of the night , as we all get a bottle of Heinz Salad Cream with our first names engraved on the front .
Check out photos and a video on my Facebook page.
www.culted.com -
Visit their website here , for their content.
After each course , the male host would tell us some facts and figures regards Heinz Salad Cream .
110 years on, Salad Cream remains a firm favourite with Brits, who eat nearly 190,000 tons a year. It was first sold in 1914 – just as the First World War broke out – by Charles Hellen, the UK boss of Heinz.
And it had taken chefs eight years of testing before it was judged to be “just right”. Now the garnish – which contains water, egg yolk, rapeseed oil, mustard powder, sugar, cornflour and spirit vinegar – is Britain’s fifth most popular condiment, with sales topping £30 million a year.
Only ketchup, brown sauce, vinegar and mayo are more popular.
Updated 9th September 2024 Permalink
Sunday 08 September 2024.
A nice a couple of days watching some big names.
BOOGIETOWN FESTIVAL is held at Apps Court, Walton on Thames, Surrey .
Saturday 07 August 2024.
KC & The Sunshine Band
Bananarama
Lisa Stansfield
Soul II Soul
Sunday 08 August 2024.
Boy George & Culture Club
The Jackson's
Village People
ABC
Incognito
Tunde from The Lighthouse Family
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Around 10,000 folks here each day, so not too big.
The weather forecast was grim, but no rain at all.
A middle aged crowd for this retro festival.
You can bring your own food into this festival.
Saturday...
SOUL II SOUL on stage at 5pm for 60 mins
Jazzie B and his full collective play a good set.
Great to hear ' Keep on Moving' and ' Back to Life'.
LISA STANSFIELD on stage at 6.30pm for 60 mins.
Eleven on stage , creating a nice big sound .
Great to hear ' This is The Right Time' and ' Been Around the World'.
BANANARAMA on stage at 8.05pm for 55 mins.
The two girls still in a playful mood as usual .
Lots of big singalong hits played in their good set .
KC & THE SUNSHINE BAND on at 9.30pm for 85 mins.
I was blown away when KC performed at Koko in 2017, which was his first UK show for 18 years , and tonight is another totally stunning show.
Fifteen on stage including four man brass and four female dancers/backing vocalists , and band in matching snazzy jackets . KC (Harry Wayne Casey) is now 73 and is a big chap like Meat Loaf , and puts on a full set of showmanship just like Meat Loaf. He is doing many dance routines and sweating lots , buts it's great to see
So many great hits got everyone dancing.....
Full set list played ..
Opening band medley of KC hits
(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty
Boogie Shoes
I'm Your Boogie Man
Yes I'm Ready (Barbara Mason cover)
Please Don't Go
Keep It Comin' Love
Do You Wanna Go Party
Queen of Clubs
Rock Your Baby ( George McCrae cover) ( written by KC)
Give It Up
Drum Solo / Band intros and solos
That's the Way (I Like It)
Get Down Tonight
I Gotta Feeling snippet / Please Don't Go
Sunday...
TUNDE from The Lighthouse Family did a good set , including ' Lifted ' and ' Ocean Drive'.
UK British Funk legends INCOGNITO played their best tracks from their 19 studio albums .
ABC arrived on stage at 4.15pm for their 60 mins.
They were the highlight of the day for me.
So many great hits played by Martin Fry and co.
'All of My Heart' is a song , that is sooo good.
Full ABC setlist played tonight...
When Smokey Sings
Show Me
(How to Be a) Millionaire
Viva Love
Poison Arrow
King Without a Crown
That Was Then but This Is Now
Vanity Kills
The Night You Murdered Love
Be Near Me
Tears Are Not Enough
All of My Heart
The Look of Love
THE VILLAGE PEOPLE on stage at 5.45pm for 60 mins . They still feature six members dressed like the outfits they wore back in the day. Only one original member , who was the main singer ( The NY Cop) .
Some big hits played including , ' Macho Man', ' Go West' , ' In The Navy' and 'YMCA'.
Lots of dance routines, and very enjoyable.
THE JACKSONS on at 7.35pm for 60 mins.
I think still two original members from The Jackson Five are here, including Tito.
A great set featuring all their big hits and a couple of Michael Jackson hits in tribute to him.
BOY GEORGE & CULTURE CLUB on stage at 9.10pm for 75 mins . Three originals but not drummer Moss.
They opened with a Rolling Stones cover and closed with a T.Rex cover and in the middle was all their hits, including ' Karma Chameleon ' , ' It's A Miracle' , ' I'll Tumble 4 Ya' , Everything I Own' , 'Time' and ' Do You Want To Hurt Me ' .Boy George looking good and with lpenty of playful banter with the crowd.
A really great couple of days at this festival.
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Friday 06 September 2024...7pm to 10.30pm...
PRESS NIGHT for the opening of DUVALE'S at Riverside East , Thornton Street , Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park , Stratford , London E20.
Surrounded by green space and the River Lea in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, enjoy 360° views from their rooftop terrace & bar as well as their outdoor yard - a space to watch DJs and screenings whilst savouring street-food.
They use locally sourced, sustainable ingredients with a low carbon impact. Taste them in all-day classic dishes from our Café, evening menu dishes at their residency DUVALE'S and two street-food vendors. For drinks, indulge in hand-shaken cocktails and local craft-beers in the Riverside bar, rooftop terrace or outdoor yard.
Their inclusive spaces are perfect for group bookings and larger parties, they can host any occasion. See what they are about with their events programme of family-friendly activities, DJ sets, screenings and more.
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We walk past all the noisy restaurants in the Stratford Shopping Centre, and we arrive at the much more peaceful DUVALE'S which is just yards from the entrance to The London Stadium.
They will have a reduced menu on big event days as gets very busy here, but tonight it's just perfect .
We have several delicious dishes to share and some great cocktails.
Parmesan Croquettes
Stracciatella
Heritage Beetroots
Chicken Schnitzel
Flat Iron Steak with Truffle Fries
Hake Fillet
Bread and Butter Pudding
Tiramisu
The staff were great , and one of them was a lovely young chap from Limerick , so we chatted all things Irish .
A great evening , and well worth going here.
Updated 7th September 2024 Permalink
Thursday 05 September 2024.
Thursday 05 September 2024.
I went to two events tonight.
5.30pm to 7.15pm
SHOWCASE - 17 Dickens Yard , Ealing , London W5.
September is the main month for venues showcasing to get bookings for the pre Christmas period.
Part of Darwin & Wallace’s ever-growing collection of neighbourhood bars, No 17 combines two bars and a first-floor terrace. Cosy interiors feature generous lounge seating and large bleached oak sharing tables. Outside meanwhile boasts a large outdoor courtyard on the ground floor filled with foliage, and a first-floor wraparound terrace which overlooks the Dickens Yard development.
Open all day, No 17 serves up coffee in the mornings, before making way for cocktails at night, including the likes of a Honey Martini and a Plum Collins. From the food menu, guests can enjoy a seasonally changing offering.
They have a happy hour 4pm to 8pm.
The showcase is upstairs for around 30 guests.
Complimentary Raspberry Spritz, prosecco, wines , beers , cheeseburgers and canapes.
then
8pm to 9.15pm
PRIVATE VIEW - Maddox Gallery , 12 Berkeley Street , Mayfair, London W1.
Maddox Gallery is proud to present Dreamstate, the first solo exhibition in the UK of American artist, Jessica Brilli.
Fuelled by a deep feeling of nostalgia, Jessica Brilli’s practice is a glossy coating on the American dream. Populated by swimming pools, modernist buildings, nondescript characters and mighty Cadillacs, this series of 24 works follows a melancholic journey through the seasons of American retro life from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.
Around 100 smartly dressed guests here.
Complimentary Nyetimber English Sparkling Wines.
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Tuesday 03 September 2024.
G FLIP live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
G FLIP plays the first of two shows at Shepherds Bush Empire , after the original show sold out.
A very odd stage name that is an abbreviation of her full name .
30 year old female Australian musician G Flip is hitting the road with their ‘Drummer Tour Continued’ celebrating their 2023 ' Drummer'.
The album hit number one in the Australian charts.
G Flip is becoming the role model for her fans that they never had growing up, making the kind of high powered rock and pop music that could only come from the heart and mind of a drummer.
G Flip married an American actress in 2022.
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Sooo many female couples in the house tonight.
Must be 90 per cent female couples here tonight.
G Flip is certainly seen by them as a Gay Icon.
There are more girls going in the men's toilets than actual males.
MERCER HENDERSON was on at 8pm for 40 mins.
Mercer is a female singer from San Francisco.
She was backed by a female guitarist.
Mercer has an EP out on Friday 06 Sept.
G FLIP was on at 9.10pm for 80 mins.
G Flip has loads of mini tattoos all over her body.
She was backed by a three piece band.
Nice to see a massive drum kit dominate the stage.
G Flip plays drums , flying v guitar and keyboards during different parts of the show, and indeed the opening five minutes is a full drum solo from her.
Half way through she would perform another drum solo, and the rest of the set was by a male drummer.
G Flip sung one song from up in Level 2, which sent her fans into a frenzy.
She has lots of friendly chat to say to the crowd.
Her fans are singing loudly along to every song , to create a fantastic live atmosphere .
G Flip has plenty of energy for all the show.
Keen to show off her toned stomach in sports bra .
It got very lively at the end of the main set for ' Be Your Man' , ' Drink Too Much ' and ' Gay 4 Me'.
A good cover of Taylor Swift ' Cruel Summer' and her big track ' The Worst Person Alive' was great.
A really good show, much better than expected.
Updated 4th September 2024 Permalink
Monday 02 September 2024.
Monday 02 September 2024.
LIME CORDIALE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Australian indie pop rockers are touring the UK.
' Enough of the Sweet Talk' is the third studio album by Australian band Lime Cordiale. The album was released on 26 July 2024. Seven singles preceded the album's release, starting with "Facts of Life" on 8 April 2022.
The album went to number one in Australia.
They headlined The Forum in 2023...I did not go.
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A near sell out crowd, that is mainly full of Aussies.
Pretty much 75% females under the age of 40.
GRAND CABLE are on at 8.15pm for 30 mins.
We have another Aussie band as support.
A decent enough indie rock set.
LIME CORDIALE are on at 9.15pm for 1 hour 40 mins.
A nice production with a raised platform at the back , their band name in huge letters on a curtain , and lots of lights and strobes.
A five piece ,plus a trombone player on a few tracks .
The lively crowd are all up dancing and singing from the start ,to their bouncy indie pop rock tunes.
The two brothers at the front look cool and the keyboard player is wearing some dodgy tight shorts.
A highlight was a cover of their Aussie heroes The Divinyls ' I Touch Myself'.
A good show, that the crowd loved.
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Sunday 01 September 2024.
LINDISFARNE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
They are best known for the albums Nicely Out of Tune (1970), Fog on the Tyne (1971) (which became one of the biggest selling UK album in 1972), Dingly Dell (1972) and Back and Fourth (1978), and for the success of songs such as "Meet Me on the Corner", "Lady Eleanor", "Run for Home", "Fog on the Tyne" and "We Can Swing Together".
Rod Clements is the one original member these days.
Rod Clements (now aged 76) is a British guitarist, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He formed the folk-rock band Lindisfarne with Alan Hull (R.I.P.) in 1970.
They are playing a massive UK tour to promote their three cd box set on Cherry Red Records titled ' The Mercury Years 1978 - 1979'.
I saw them headline Hammersmith Odeon in 1985
and 1987 , when i worked front stage security there.
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Levels 2 and 3 are closed as unsold, and stalls seating as an older crowd, so maybe 600 folks here.
LINDISFARNE are on stage for 1 hour 50 mins , over two sets of 50 mins and 60 mins.
Five members on stage , and Rod Clements now has a walking stick to help him get to his stool
He shares the vocals with other band members.
It is the usual laid back folk rock sound.
The overall sound is nice and clear.
Lots of lyrics were related to their Newcastle roots
Highlights in the first set included ' Lady Eleanor ' and 'All Fall Down' and the final five songs of the second half were the biggies ...a very enjoyable show.
Great to see them still playing live.
We Can Sing Together
Fog On The Tyne
Meet Me On The Corner
Run For Home
Clear White Light
Updated 2nd September 2024 Permalink
Friday 30 August 2024.
Friday 30 August 2024...3pm to 11pm...
THE KINKS Tribute Show & Sightseeing Tour
Meet George lV Pub, Chiswick, W4 2DR
Paying homage to one of the greatest groups of all time!
We're delighted to announce that The Kinks' drummer, Mick Avory will be joining us at this tribute event along with Dave Davies' son, Christian; the group's backing vocalist, Debi Doss and Ray Lovegrove, roadie for The Kinks in 1964. Also attending is star of stage and screen Mike Berry so reserve your seats soon as this event is likely to sell out!
Celebrating 60 years since their formation, Music Heritage London invites you to the last of the Kinks 60 tribute events in the Boston Room at George lV pub on Friday 30th August.
The event begins with a 3-hour guided sightseeing tour on a 1961 Routemaster, double-decker London bus taking you back to venues and locations where The Kinks and many other 60s music legends performed, recorded and hung-out. You'll visit the site of Harold Pendleton's National Jazz & Blues Festival (1961-1965) and the famous Station Hotel in Richmond where Ray Davies performed as a member of the Dave Hunt Blues Band before forming The Kinks. You'll stop at Olympic Studios, visit the Half Moon in Putney and pass by the Hammersmith Odeon on your way to the Goldhawk Social Club, where The Detours (The Who) supported The Kinks in 1964.
After the tour, you'll be dropped off right outside the George lV pub in good time for dinner (make sure you book a table) or a libation or two before the Boston Room doors open at 7.30pm. The show begins at 8.00pm with the critically acclaimed 'Konks' tribute band, playing renditions of all of The Kinks' hits and lesser known album tracks.
For those travelling by tube, Turnham Green Station is only 5-minutes walk to the venue (District Line and Piccadilly Line after 10.30pm)
bus tour only...£25
gig only...£20
both combined....£40
*LUNCH is available at George lV with 20% DISCOUNT for tour and/or show ticket holders -
3.00pm TOUR - 'The Journey' leaves George lV Pub. 185 Chiswick High Rd., London W4 2DR
6.00pm (approx.) Arrive back at George lV pub
https://buytickets.at/musicheritagelondon/1267770
I have seen The Kinks a few times since 1978.
I have seen Ray Davies a few times since 1996.
I have seen Dave Davies just the once in 2014.
I saw The Kinks musical ' Come Dancing ' in 2008.
There are also daily bus tours of 1960s music and fashion locations....www.60sbus.london
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What a great day out this was.
3pm to 6pm.
Meet up at the pub in Chiswick High Road.
Good to see Sabine Brignell on the bus and David Stark later at the gig.
The classic Routemaster RML bus is full.
There are sounds on the bus playing 1960s classics.
We head down Chiswick High Road and the bus soon gets the attention of the public, as they smile away at the sight of it, and take photos.
The organiser Paul Endacott does a great job of telling the history of the 1960s to the passengers , as we pass locations that are linked to The Kinks and the 1960s music scene.
We go past Chiswick House & Gardens , where The Beatles made a couple of their videos .
We then head up to Richmond Hill for it's stunning views , and drive past Mick Jagger and Jerry Halls old house and Ronnie Woods legendary party house 'The Wick' , that he sold to Pete Townshend , who recently sold it for £ 15m.
Then through Richmond where there were many cool record and clothing shops situated there in the 1960s, along with The Station Hotel .
We then had a few stories from guest on the bus , Ray Lovegrove , who was Kinks tour manager in 1964 and 1965 , and also drove Jimi Hendrix to Wales.
We went past the site of The Crawdaddy Club where all the acts of the 1960s performed.
Then to the original site of The National Jazz & Blues Festival that later became The Reading Festival.
Then past the site of the legendary Olympic Studios in Barnes , where many acts recorded including ,
Jimi Hendrix, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones ((recorded six albums here 1966 to 1973) David Bowie, Led Zeppelin, Ella Fitzgerald, Queen, Ray Charles, the Who, B. B. King, Traffic, Prince, the Eagles, Eric Clapton, Oasis, Adele, Björk and others .It is often regarded as being as significant as Abbey Road Studios, and remains an important cultural landmark.
It is now a cinema and cafe.
At 5pm, we have a 20 mins comfort break at The Half Moon Pub in Putney . This is another venue that started gigs in the 1960s, and many big names have played here .
Then it was down Fulham Palace Road , past the site of The Greyhound Pub , then past The Hammersmith Apollo , where we were told of all the big names that that played there when it was Hammersmith Odeon , including The Beatles , then past the site of The Clarendon Hotel , then past the site of Hammersmith Palais .
Then past Shepherds Bush Empire , and along The Goldhawk Road where a couple of clips of Quadrophenia were filmed .
Then past The Goldhawk Social Club at 205 Goldhawk Road , where (The Detours) The Who and The Kinks and others played in the 1960s.
Then it was back to the George IV pub in Chiswick.
The bus tour was a really enjoyable three hours.
then a break for dinner.
8pm to 11pm.
Never knew the George IV pub had a big room out the back for live music.
The venue is full , with most of the 200 seated .
Guests in the crowd included original Kinks drummer MICK AVERY , The Kinks backing singer DEBI DOSS and Dave Davies son CHRISTIAN DAVIES..
Also here was singer and actor MIKE BERRY , now 81.
Too notch Kinks tribute band THE KONKS play.
It is a nice long show of 2 hours 30 mins over two sets of 65 mins and 85 mins.
They look the part , in their cool 1960s attire.
A fantastic mix of all the hits and lesser known tracks,including ....
All Day and All of The Night
Tired Of Waiting for You
Stop Your Sobbing ( with Debi Doss )
I'm Not Like Anybody Else
Dead End Street
Ray Lovegrove told a couple of Kinks anecdotes
Days ( with Debi Doss)
Where Have All The Good Times Gone
David Watts
Dedicated Follower of Fashion ( with Mick Avery on vocals , wearing his flashy jacket , now aged 80,
but still full of humourous chat)
Death of a Clown ( with Debi Doss)
Waterloo Sunset
Apeman
Come Dancing
Sunny Afternoon ( with Debi Doss)
Lola ( with Debi Doss)
Encore :
Victoria
A great gig , combined with the afternoon bus tour ,
was superb day out.
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Thursday 29 August 2024.
PORTOBELLO FILM & ART FESTIVAL 2024.
Opening Night at the Gate Picturehouse,
Notting Hill Gate , London .
An evening with JULIEN TEMPLE and screenings of two of his punk films Never Mind The Baubles - Sex Pistols at Christmas (60 mins) and New Year With The Clash (75 mins), and five of his music videos.
I have seen both films before, but never on the big screen
There will also be a Q n A with Julien Temple.
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Always nice to be at this cinema with luxury seating.
Nice to see a few familiar faces here.
8pm - we are shown five of Julien Temples videos.
Julien has had over 40 years as a film director and film producer.
Neil Young - Rockin' in The Free World.
The Rolling Stones - Undercover of The Night.
The Kinks - Come Dancing .
The Sex Pistols - God Save The Queen
Sid Vicious - My Way.
Julien Temple then said a few words.
8.30pm - New Year With The Clash.
Great to see the doc based around The Clash playing on the opening gig of The Roxy Club on 01 Jan 1977.
Great to hear all those gems from their debut album.
I was not at this gig , but had seen The Clash at The 100 Club Punk Festival a few months before.
I saw five gigs at The Roxy Club, Covent Garden.
Damned,Boys Roxy Club. London 17.01.1977 Damned,Rejects Roxy Club. London 31.01.1977
Damned,Johnny Moped Roxy Club. London 21.02.1977
Johnny Thunders Heartbreakers,Siouxsie And The Banshees Roxy Club. London 02.03.1977
Cherry Vanillas Police,Chelsea Roxy Club. London 03.03.1977
Julien Temple then came back for the Q n A.
I saw Julien at the first night of The Sex Pistols with Frank Carter at The Bush Hall, and I asked him what he thought of it . He said ' Frank was athletic and had tattoos , then quickly moved on to his love for Steve Jones and his guitar sound, and his disgust at John Lydon for supporting Donald Trump.
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10.10pm - Never Mind The Baubles - The Sex Pistols in Huddersfield on Christmas Day 1977.
I had seen The Sex Pistols three times in 1976.
I had seen them once in 1977. Huddersfield would be their last UK gig until they reformed in 1996.
In Huddersfield they played two gigs in the one day .
Mostly great footage from the afternoon show which was for the children of striking fireman .
The Pistols mixing with the children and a cake fight, with John Lydons face covered in cream.
Many of the classic NMTB tracks played too.
A really good evening.
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All the films and documentaries are FREE ENTRY.
Just book via their website.
www.portobellofilmfestival.com
From 30 August , the screenings are all at The Muse,
269 Portobello Road, London W11.
Other highlights include...
Monday 02 September - This Is Not a Rock Doc - The Sharks ( introduced by Snips).
Friday 06 Sept and Sat 07 Sept.
Two evenings feat The Comic Strip.
The festival is on until 15 September 2024.
Updated 30th August 2024 Permalink
Wednesday 28 August 2024.
Wed 28 August to Sat 31 August 2024.
SALON PRIVE returns to Woodstock, Oxfordshire.
Set in the stunning grounds of Blenheim Palace, Salon Privé is back for 2024, in its 19th year. And with gorgeous classics, luxury brands and fine dining, be sure to dress for the occasion.
Classic Cars and Supercars will be on display.
The Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients is arguably the UK's most exclusive Concours and the only one to be adjudicated by the globally renowned ICJAG judging body. 50% larger, this year's collection of 75 cars, from 21 different countries, brings cars unseen for 40 years and rare exotics from 1908 to the land speed record breaking 2005 Bugatti Veyron experimental prototype 5.5, making this year an absolute MUST-ATTEND for any classic car enthusiast.
This year's line-up of priceless machinery will include the wonderful 1953 Siata208 CS Balbo – the car which Steve McQueen referred to as his 'little Ferrari'. Powered by a 2.0-litre V8 Fiat motor, it is one of just 9 Carrozzeria Balbo-bodied aluminium 208CS coupes produced by Italian marque. This diminutive sporting machine was raced across the USA from 1953 to 1959 and has remained in single family ownership from then on.
Zenvo Automotive is to star at Salon Privé later this month with the exclusive Danish hypercar brand confirming the Blenheim Palace debut of its radical 'new era' Aurora models. The Aurora Agil and Tur editions will be shown in public for only the second time globally, following their European show debut just a few weeks ago.
From a jaw-dropping 120th anniversary line-up of Rolls-Royces to Pebble Beach-winning Bugattis, exotic classic Ferraris and legendary Group C racing cars, this year's Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients is a MUST-SEE for all classic aficionados.
A unique 1950 Ferrari 166MM / 212 Export 'Uovo' is to be a headline attraction at this summer's Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients at Blenheim Palace.. 'Uovo' is Italian for 'egg', which perfectly describes this futuristic car's attention-grabbing design, and its presence at the UK's most exclusive automotive garden party is certain to cause a stir.
Both general admission tickets (£75) and tickets will full hospitality(£295) are available.
www.salonpriveconcours.com - Visit their website here for more info and to buy tickets.
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Wednesday 28 August 2024...11.45am to 5.45pm..
We went to the opening press day today.
Around 1000 smartly dressed guests here...90% male.
All the stunning super cars and classic cars look amazing. All the main marques are represented.
John Lennon's white Rolls-Royce was here.
They are all in such gleaming perfect condition.
Lots of complimentary food and drinks all day.
Complimentary Pommery champers for an hour.
Then it was a buffet lunch and desserts .
The short ribs tasted amazing .
From 2.30pm to 3.45pm was the cavalcade .
All the cars were started up and paraded in front of the judges . The engines sounded fantastic.
From 3.45pm to 5.45pm was afternoon tea.
Vodka cocktails , Gin Cocktails, wines, beers, coffees, finger sandwiches, scones with cream & jam etc.
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Tuesday 27 August 2024.
Gala / Press Night at The Peacock Theatre, Aldwych, London WC2.
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN - The Musical.
SADLERS WELLS presents at THE PEACOCK THEATRE...21 August to 23 September...
Janis Joplin: meet the first queen of rock ‘n’ roll and the women who lit her fire.
Starring Mary Bridget Davies and Sharon Sexton as Janis, this multi award-winning show is an extraordinary musical journey paying homage to Janis Joplin and her biggest musical influences.
Like a comet that burns far too brightly to last, Janis Joplin exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock & roll. The unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock.
Fuelled by such unforgettable songs as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart”, “Mercedes Benz”, “Cry Baby” and “Summertime”, a remarkable cast and breakout performances...
Janis Joplin was part of the '27 Club' where three musicians of that age died early at the age of 27.
Janis Joplin 1970
Jimi Hendrix 1970
Jimi Morrison 1971
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We had superb seats ..three rows from the front.
Nice to see Pink Floyd's NICK MASON and TONY SMITH here. Tony is co-manager of Pink Floyd , along with Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets, Genesis , Phil Collins and Mike + Mechanics.
He is also co -producer of tonight's show along with Canadian live music veteran MICHAEL COHL, who is also here.
The show is on for around two hours over two sets.
A nice stage set with a full late 1960s look.
A five piece band were joined by three man brass and four female backing singers
It is presented as a gig, with Janis singing and telling stories. The "twist" is that she is talking about all the singers who inspired her and, as though in a dream, they join her on stage. It turns the show into "An Evening with Janis Joplin… and Friends".
The powerful blues vocals by Mary Bridget Davies as Janis at 100% full throttle was really fantastic and the backing singers all had a song or two each as they took on classic soul singers, including Aretha Franklin and Etta James .
All Janis Joplin's best known songs were performed,and the first set finished with a superb sing off with Janis and Aretha.
For the final curtain call, the cast were joined on stage by Janis Joplin's brother Michael and sister Laura.
I enjoyed this gig-style show rather a lot.
Well worth going to see.
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10.30pm to 12pm was the after-party at The Bloomsbury Hotel, behind The Dominion Theatre.
Around 150 guests here , including NICK MASON , TONY SMITH and MICHAEL COHL.
All the cast eventually turned up, along with Janis Joplin's brother Michael and sister Laura.
Complimentary wines, beers, canapes and fries.
We were given a complimentary programme and a drink voucher for the interval when we arrived at the theatre.