Ray's Gigs

Daily news and reviews of gigs bars clubs restaurants product launches films theatre fashion shows books art galleries hotels competitions interesting places to visit ...and much more!

News and Reviews: 23rd July 2019

Tuesday 23 July 2019.
Happy Birthday to DAVID ESSEX who is 72 today.
-----------------
The next few days will be hot, hot, hot in London.
Experts predict scorching conditions for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Thursday looks like it is going to be the hottest day of the year so far.
The Met Office says we could see highs of 37°C in some parts of the UK, which would be the hottest ever for July.




Sunday 21 July 2019.
NICK LOWE live at Walpole Park for The Ealing Blues Festival, London W5.
The park is 10 mins walk from Ealing Broadway tube station.
A local gig for 70 year Nick who has lived nearby in Brentford for over 35 years.
Nick Lowe plays songs from his 40 year career.
Nick has been a cornerstone of British music since his 1978 debut album, Jesus Of Cool, and his solo career, which includes collaborations with Johnny Cash and production credits for Elvis Costello, has earned him a reputation as the definitive musician’s musician.
Nick produced the debut album by The Damned in 1977 which included their classic singles
"New Rose" and "Neat Neat Neat".
As part of his UK tour that played Shepherds Bush Empire in June but I did not attend as it clashed
with Metallica at Twickenham Stadium.
I have seen Nick play live several times over the course of his career.
With support from The Who tribute band - Who's Next.
Tickets on the day only £7 before 3pm and just £10 after 3pm.
----------------------
A nice cosy local festival that has maybe 2000/3000 here.
Many have brought their own fold up chairs and picnic blankets.
At this festival each person is allowed four cans of lager to be brought in with them.
NICK LOWE is the main headliner today but he came on early for whatever reason.
Nick and his acoustic guitar arrive on stage at 5pm for his 70 mins set.
"The Bard of Brentford" was one of many British singer-songwriters who appeared in the late 1970s.
He whizzed through around 20 songs including his classics "Cruel to Be Kind" and "I Knew The Bride".
A fact about his final gem tonight."(Whats So Funny 'Bout ) Peace , Love and Understanding".
It was piggybacked onto the “The Bodyguard” album, after its six Whitney Houston opuses, its Kenny G/Aaron Neville duet and its Lisa Stansfield tune, is a rendition by Curtis Stigers of "(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding.” Lowe wrote the song in the early 1970s, when he was playing in the British pub rock band Brinsley Schwarz. Elvis Costello made it a widely heard rock anthem in 1979, when he covered it on his “Armed Forces” album (like the rest of Costello’s first five albums, “Armed Forces” was produced by Lowe).
"The Bodyguard" album sold many millions worldwide and in a recent interview Nick said he made over a million dollars from his track just as he was dropped from his record company at the time.
Great lyrics for his songs and he went down well with the crowd.
Nick Lowe setlist included...
Lay It on my Baby
Tokyo Bay
Blue on Blue
Cruel to Be Kind
I Knew the Bride (When She Used to Rock 'n' Roll)
(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding
ROBERT HOKUM REVUE arrived on stage at 7pm and played for 70 mins.
Now aged 68, Robert Hokum is an established figure on the British Blues and West London music scenes, not only as a musician but also for his involvement in several Festivals, promoting Ealing’s music heritage and collaborations with the ethnic communities.
His band sounded good as they mixed original music with Blues covers.
WHO'S NEXT arrived on stage at 9pm and played for 95 mins.
The singer has a great voice but is wearing a very dodgy wig circa Roger Daltrey early 70s period.
The singer is good with microphone swings and there are plenty of Pete's guitar windmills.
The singer is also wearing a fringed waistcoat with an impressive flat stomach.
The highlight for me was the bass player who had John Entwistle's bass sound down perfect.
Lots of classics played along with rare tracks from "Live at Leeds" that the real Who never play anymore.
A good show.
Highlights included...
I Can't Explain
Substitute
Pinball Wizard
Baba O'Riley
Behind Blue Eyes
Who Are You
Won't Get Fooled Again
Love Reign O' er Me
My Generation
See Me Feel Me (guitarist smashed a guitar up)
Encore :
Long Live Rock




Sunday 21 July 2019.
Happy Birthday to Yusuf Islam , commonly known by his stage name CAT STEVENS , who is 71 today.
He released his first album over 50 years ago.



Saturday 20 July 2019.
Happy Birthday to SEX PISTOLS/PROFESSIONALS drummer PAUL COOK who is 63 today.
Paul along with Sex Pistols guitar hero Steve Jones went to the same school as me.
Christopher Wren School in White City, Shepherds Bush.
They were three years older than me but that's how i ended up seeing early Sex Pistols gigs in 1976.



Thursday 18 July 2019...I went to two events tonight...
Before i get to the main event , i browse the designer store concessions here in Selfridges.
Stella McCartney is selling a "All We Need Is Love" jumper for a hefty £725....yes £725...madness.
You can see pictures of the jumper if you put the info in Google.
6pm to 8pm
J BRAND x ELSA HOSK - launch party - 3rd Floor,Selfridges. London W1.
Elsa Hosk (now aged 30) is a Swedish model and current Victoria's Secret Angel, who has worked for brands including Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Free People, Ungaro, H&M, Anna Sui,Lilly Pulitzer and Guess.She modeled for Victoria's Secret, appearing in the brand's annual fashion show from 2011 to 2018.She has also appeared in many of the brand's campaigns, especially for the sub-division PINK.In 2015, she was announced as one of 10 new Victoria's Secret Angels. She has also played professional basketball in Sweden.
Around 150 guests at this event that was much better than expected.
Guests included fellow models Yumi Lambert, Justine Skye, Maya Henry and Gizele Oliveira.
Needless to say Elsa Hosk looks stunning and is friendly to everyone and posing for photos.
Elsa opted for a full outfit from her collaboration with J Brand including a pair of leather-look jeans complete with dramatic ankle-slits and a plunging leather blazer.
The catwalk queen finished her look with black pointed heels, which elongated her endless pins and showcased her enviable physique.
Elsa had a huge 6' 6" personal security guy keeping an eye on her.
J Brand is an American designer jeans brand.
The designer jeans i looked at cost between £190 to £275.
A dj was playing tunes in the background.
Complimentary Ruinart champers, Margherita cocktails, three different types of tacos and desserts.
www.jbrandjeans.com
Visit the J Brand website for more info and photos of Elsa Hosk.
then
8.15pm to 9.45pm
JOSHUA HAGLER " Chimera " - private view - Unit Gallery, 3 Hanover Square, London W1.
American contemporary artist Joshua Hagler is presenting his large scale oil paintings.
Over 200 guests here as they always invite a big crowd.
Two different complimentary vodka cocktails for all guests.
www.theunitldn.com
Visit their website here for more info.
----------------------
10pm - As it was a mild evening the three of us stayed outside the gallery for another hour
just talking about gigs n stuff planned in the next week or two.




Thursday 18 July 2019
Led Zeppelin star helps legendary music agent ROD MACSWEEN celebrate honorary degree.
Led Zeppelin star Robert Plant has finally received £8 he was due for playing a gig more than 40 years ago – during a university graduation ceremony.
The musician has helped the legendary music industry figure who played a key role in his career celebrate being awarded an honorary degree.
Mr Plant joined Rod MacSween, one of the world’s most successful agents, on stage as his achievements were recognised by the University of Exeter.
MacSween studied chemistry and statistics at the University of Exeter, which is where he got his first experience working with music artists: He served as social secretary of the Students' Guild in 1969. Among the acts he booked while at Exeter were Pink Floyd and Plant's pre-Led Zeppelin group, Band of Joy.
Mr MacSween joked he had still not paid Mr Plant for a concert he played in the 1970s, and offered him a £10 note, which he came on stage to collect. Mr Plant joked this wasn’t enough, and told his friend it had been “great sharing my adventures with you”.
The agent now personally represents renowned artists such as Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, Def Leppard, Guns n’ Roses, Kiss, Lenny Kravitz, Maroon 5, Ozzy Osbourne, Pearl Jam, Scorpions, Tool and The Who. In 2015 he was the recipient of the prestigious VIP Classic Rock Award.




Wednesday 17 July 2019...I went to two events in Canary Wharf tonight...
6.15pm to 9pm
MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS - showcase - West India Quay, London E14.
The Museum of London Docklands (formerly known as Museum in Docklands) is a museum in Limehouse, and is close to Canary Wharf in East London. Which tells the history of London's River Thames and the growth of Docklands. The museum is part of the Museum of London jointly funded by the City of London Corporation and the Greater London Authority.
The museum opened in 2003 in grade I listed early-19th century Georgian "low" sugar warehouses built in 1802 on the side of West India Docks on the Isle of Dogs, a short walk from the Canary Wharf development.
Their current exhibition is "Secret Rivers of London".
Around 150 guests here in the sugar & rum store space that has been here since the 1800's.
At 7pm we had a nice presentation on the history of the building and the area.
From 7.30pm we have a dj playing tunes in the background.
Complimentary drinks and food included two different rum cocktails, wines, beers, rum & raisins ice-cream,
bowl food and canapés.
www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands
Visit their website here for more info.
then
9.05pm to 11pm
HUMBLE GRAPE CANARY WHARF - launch party - Mackenzie Walk, London E14.
Humble Grape Canary Wharf is the fifth wine bar & shop to join the independent wine company, Humble Grape . The venue is located waterside at the steps leading down from Cabot Square onto Mackenzie Walk.
It is an upmarket wine bar where they have a hundred plus different bottles always available.
Some glasses on their drinks menu are £15 a pop which is quite expensive.
It will be popular with the Canary Wharf office workers for sure.
It had started at 6pm so we missed the canapés as we were at the other event.
Complimentary sparkling wines and red & white wines for all guests.
www.humblegrape.co.uk
Visit the Humble Grape website here for more info.



Wednesday 17 July 2019.
It was on this day 23 years ago on 17 July 1996 that THE SEX PISTOLS played one of the greatest
gigs ever at The Shepherds Bush Empire.



Wednesday 17 July 2019.
Sad news that JOHNNY CLEGG has passed away.
One of South Africa's most celebrated musicians, Johnny Clegg, has died at the age of 66, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Known as the "white Zulu", he was a vocal critic of the apartheid government which ruled until 1994.
The British-born musician, who uniquely blended western and Zulu music, was diagnosed with cancer in 2015.
I saw him live twice at Hammersmith Odeon in 1990 when he came over on the back of interest in
South African music due to Paul Simons "Graceland" album.




Tuesday 16 July 2019.
Grab yourself a drink and sit down and watch my fave gig of the year.
The full show of KISS live at The 02 Arena from last week is now up on YouTube.com



Monday 15 July 2019...6.30pm to 10pm...
EVENT MARKETING ASSOCIATION SUMMER SOIRÉE 2019 at
Middle Temple Hall, Middle Temple Lane, Temple, London EC4.
Middle Temple Hall is probably the finest example of an Elizabethan Hall in London. 101 feet long and 41 feet wide, it is spanned by a magnificent double hammer-beam roof. Begun in 1562 when Edmund Plowden, the famous law reporter, was Treasurer of the Inn, it has remained little altered to the present day.
One of the four ancient Inns of Court, Middle Temple is situated at the heart of London, overlooking the Thames. Although just moments away from Fleet Street, The Strand and Embankment, the peace and tranquility of the grounds and the awe-inspiring splendor of the buildings is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the London streets.
Built between 1562 and 1573, the main buildings have remained virtually unchanged to this day, with many original features surviving the Great Fire of London and both World Wars. Superb, detailed architecture, impressive oak paneling and beautiful stained glass create a breathtaking and majestic atmosphere - a truly spectacular setting for your event.
Weddings, gala dinners or garden parties, board meetings, AGMs or corporate dining; their specialist staff are experts in creating tailor-made events that are as unique as the Middle Temple itself.
Around 150 guests at this stunning historic venue with it's many different rooms including the main hall.
There are half a dozen companies showcasing what they can do for your event...
A cool looking robot that took and printed photos of us.
A "poet for hire" who writes instant , bespoke ,vintage typewriter poems for guests to take away.
I told him to write an ode to punk rock, this is what he did for me...with my initials on the three lines.
Randy knobcheese fucker
An army couldn't stop
Ya, unless they had speed
www.poetforhire.net
Visit Poet For Hire website here for more info.
At 8.30pm we all went out to their beautiful garden area until darkness fell.
Complimentary drinks and food tonight including three different cocktails including espresso Martinis,
wines, bowl food, canapés & pastries.
www.middletemplevenue.org.uk
Visit their website here for more info.




Monday 15 July 2019.
Surely the greatest cricket game of all time that had everything and went down to the wire.
All this and it was a World Cup Final too as England beat New Zealand on the last ball.
Check the 8 mins video highlights on YouTube.
It has had over 14 million views in less than 24 hours.





Sunday 14 July 2019
QUADROPHENIA REUNITED 40th anniversary event at Shepherds Bush Empire, London.
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of one of Britain’s greatest cult movies, this one-off night brings the stars of Quadrophenia together on stage for a unique table read. Hosted by Lauren Laverne it will also feature a series of interviews with the cast, some special surprises and an audience Q&A.
The event will be filmed for a special TV broadcast to be shown in the future on SKY Arts.
---------------------
Several pimped up scooters are parked up outside the venue.
Lots of older ,smartly dressed mods here.
First time i have seen cabaret style tables on the floor stalls standing area at this venue.
Around 20 tables of six seats that are for guests of the artists and the production.
This i presume was for the film cameras that are dotted around.
Maybe 700 folks are here in the building altogether.
The show was on for two hours over two sets.
The last 10 mins was an audience Q & A section.
There is a semi -circular table where Lauren Laverne sits between the eight guests.
Phil Daniels, Toyah Willcox, Leslie Ash, Garry Cooper, Philip Davis, Trevor Laird, Gary Shail, Mark Wingett read famous scenes from the original film script in front of a live audience.
John Altman also came on for a few minutes to discuss his part.
John became singer of rock band Heavy Metal Kids for a couple of years from 2010.
The live recording, which will air on Sky Arts in September around the film’s anniversary date, was hosted by Lauren Laverne – and also saw the cast share anecdotes from their time on the film set.
Inspired by The Who’s 1973 rock opera of the same name, Quadrophenia – which also starred Sting and Ray Winstone (who both could not make it but sent video wishes) – was released in 1979 to critical acclaim.
The actors talked about how they got the parts and how the audition process went.
Phil Daniels and Ray Winstone had both just finished making another great film "Scum".
Toyah confirmed that John Lydon was up for a part but that fell through.
We had some great readings from the film including the fight scene between the mods and rockers
on Brighton beach in 1964 and the alleyway sex scene.
There were film clips on the big screen along with outtakes along with photos.
The script is sooooo non-PC but it was a different time back then.
Guests in the table seating area included Pauline Black from Selector, ex footballer Lee Chapman who is the
husband of Leslie Ash and Paul Weller's sister who organised The Jam Exhibition a couple of years ago and
is well known in the Mod community.
An enjoyable evening , and a good reminder to watch this superb film again.




Saturday 13 July 2019.
LIVE AID at Wembley Stadium....It was 34 years today
On Saturday, 13 July 1985, rock and pop music's top table came together to raise money and awareness.
From noon to 11pm...It was the greatest day of live music ever.
It is my number one gig of the 6500 plus i have been to since 1973.



Saturday 13 July 2019...I went to two gigs today...
The Somerstown Festival , Chalton Street, London NW1....3.30pm to 7pm...
The Somerstown area is hidden away behind Euston train station.
Around 1000 folks at this street party that was free entry to all.
There is two stages, a rock n roll jumble market, a funfair, comedians and lots of homemade food stalls etc.
First i casually come across one of the best new bands i have seen this year.
OH! GUNQUIT have got a odd band name but they put on a great show for 30 mins from 3.45pm.
They formed the band around the idea of creating a vibrant blend of new-wave vicious Psych-Surf, Garage-Punk, Exotica & RocknRoll. Oh! Gunquit are named in part to a town in Maine US which was an artists colony in the 1800's originally coined by the Abenaki Indians.
Think a potent mix of The Cramps / The Rezillos / garage rock n roll with lots of sax.
Great uptempo tunes including "Bad Bad Milk", "Nomads of The Lost" and my fave "Sinkhole".
With a very lively American female singer who looks like one of Charlie's Angels in a tight go-go girl outfit
as she sang on a street bollard, high kicked during many songs and rolled around on the street tarmac.
Did i mention her playing the trumpet while hula hooping?
They are signed to Dirty Water Records and they have some videos up on YouTube.
They would have been an ideal support act on the recent Stray Cats tour.
PETER PERRETT was the headliner and although he was down for a 60 mins set he actually
was on stage for 90 mins from 5.15pm.
Peter was the singer in a very underrated British legendary group called The Only Ones.
He has made two comeback albums in 2017 and 2019 but i did not see his London shows on
the tours to promote the albums - The Electric Ballroom in 2017 and The Scala in 2019 -
as they clashed with other gigs/events.
Peter looks healthier these days and thankfully he did not go the way of his good chum
Johnny Thunders who he hung around with a lot in the late 1970s/ early 1980s.
Long hiatuses in Peter's music career have been ascribed to his enduring struggles with heroin and
crack cocaine addictions.
His band included his two sons and he dedicated the show to his wife as they celebrate 50 years together.
Most of the songs played featured the best tracks from his two recent albums.
His lyrics are amazing, he really was like a British Bob Dylan.
Halfway through the rumours on what was promised arrived as the two remaining living members of
THE ONLY ONES joined Peter on stage to play four of their classic tunes which was superb.
John Perry on guitar and Alan Mair on bass guitar.
From Here to Eternity (The Only Ones song)
The Whole of the Law (The Only Ones song)
Another Girl, Another Planet (The Only Ones song)
Inbetweens (The Only Ones song)
A great show.
Fact of the day - In 1971 Alan Mair employed FREDDIE MERCURY of the rock band Queen at his Kensington Market shop as his shop manager from 1971 until 1974.
--------------------
I saw THE ONLY ONES seven times during the period when they released three great albums on CBS.
Television,Only Ones Hammersmith Odeon, London 17.04.1978
Only Ones,Business City Poly, London 30.09.1978
Only Ones Queen Mary College, London 11.05.1979
Only Ones,Toyah,Psychedelic Furs Lyceum Theatre, London 02.09.1979
Only Ones,Simple Minds,Martha And The Muffins Lyceum Theatre, London 24.02.1980
Only Ones,Athletico Spizz 80,Wasted Youth Electric Ballroom, London 10.05.1980
Only Ones Hope And Anchor Pub, London 03.11.1980 a week of special shows here
------------------
then
FLORENCE + THE MACHINE live at Hyde Park, London.
Florence arrived on stage at 8.30pm and played for 1 hour 50 mins.
The last time i saw Florence was in May 2018 when she supported The Rolling Stones.
At that show she duetted with Mick Jagger on one song.
Florence arrived on stage wearing her trademark flowing dress as she was a bundle of energy
as she danced, hopped , skipped and twirled around the stage.
Like the Bob Dylan/Neil Young show the previous night , the overall sound was excellent.
Florence used the wraparound screen superbly as she mixed live footage with pre-recorded images.
An early highlight was last years hit single "Hunger" which was brilliant.
Florence has got a fantastic voice and is full of confidence as she totally owns this big show and crowd.
A great show.
Full Florence setlist played tonight...
June
Hunger
Ship to Wreck
Only If for a Night
Queen of Peace
Patricia (Dedicated to Patti Smith)
Dog Days Are Over
Jenny of Oldstones (Dedicated to Arya Stark)
100 Years
Moderation
You Got the Love (Candi Staton cover)
The End of Love
Cosmic Love
Delilah
What Kind of Man
Kiss With a Fist (Florence crowd surfed during this song)
Encore:
No Choir
Big God
Shake It Out




Friday 12 July 2019.
Bob Dylan and Neil Young will appear as co-headliners at British Summer Time Hyde Park, London.
11 March 2019 update - this unique pairing of legends is now sold out...65,000 tickets sold...
I have seen Bob Dylan over 20 times since i saw him headline Earls Court Arena in 1978.
I have seen Neil Young over a dozen times since i saw him headline Hammersmith Odeon in 1976.
A month before this show Neil Young's long-time manager Elliot Roberts passed away.
Elliot Roberts, one of the most respected and liked managers of the rock era, has died at age 76.
Elliot Roberts had managed Neil Young since 1976. He was also Joni Mitchell’s manager until 1985.
Which Bob Dylan will turn up and what will the setlist be?
Bob Dylan current touring show & setlist does not really suit a big outdoor gig like this.
While the hardcore fans will know this, how will the casual fan feel when he does not play a hits set?
As it is a co-headline show, both acts are down to play for 1 hour 45 mins.
Bob Dylan is now aged 78 and Neil Young is now aged 73.
--------------------
It was a lovely day of sunshine for this outdoor gig in the park.
I am more excited about seeing Neil Young rather than Bob Dylan today.
After the visual treat of the KISS shows this week, tonight we will get the very opposite and
the two artists will focus on the music rather than any kind of visual show.
NEIL YOUNG & PROMISE OF THE REAL arrived on stage at 6.15pm and play for 1 hour 45 mins.
Neil's staging was simple, with Native American touches including a totem pole and a fringed, winged, swinging keyboard in the shape of a bird.
His trademark distinctive vocals and guitar sound were fully intact and sounded fantastic.
Highlights included mega versions of "Heart of Gold" , "Old Man" , "Rockin' In The Free World"
and the first encore song which was "Like a Hurricane".
A great set.
Full Neil Young setlist played tonight....
Mansion on the Hill (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
Over and Over (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
Country Home (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
Alabama
Walk On
Winterlong
Words (Between the Lines of Age)
Heart of Gold
From Hank to Hendrix
Old Man
Throw Your Hatred Down
Love and Only Love (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
Rockin' in the Free World
Encore:
Like a Hurricane
I've Been Waiting for You
Roll Another Number (For the Road) (stopped after first line as "not dark enough")
Piece of Crap (Neil Young & Crazy Horse cover)
------------------
BOB DYLAN arrived on stage at 8.40pm and played for 1 hour 40 mins.
It was pretty much business as usual for Bob as his show was pretty much like recent
indoor theatre shows i have seen including The Royal Albert Hall and The Roundhouse.
Bob reinvented a few of his classic tracks as with those shows.
His backing band are top notch and included brilliant pedal steel guitar.
Bob is not saying much as usual and his vocal style these days is hard to grasp as he semi-mumbles
away and you cannot make out the words, even when it is a well known song.
However it is Bob Dylan , the music legend so he can do whatever he likes.
Most songs got polite applause rather than big raptures.
A good show by Bob but Neil nicked it for me tonight.
Full Bob Dylan setlist played tonight...
Ballad of a Thin Man
It Ain't Me, Babe
Highway 61 Revisited
Simple Twist of Fate
Can't Wait
When I Paint My Masterpiece
Honest With Me
Tryin' to Get to Heaven
Make You Feel My Love (Adele does a great cover of this Bob Dylan song)
Pay in Blood
Like a Rolling Stone
Early Roman Kings
Girl From the North Country
Love Sick
Thunder on the Mountain
Soon After Midnight
Gotta Serve Somebody
Encore:
Blowin' in the Wind
It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry
------------------
Sadly neither act joined the other on stage for a song or two which many were hoping for.





Friday 12 July 2019.
Type these two into Google for your viewing pleasure on YouTube.
KISS - London 02 arena 11/7/19 Highlights (25 mins)
KISS - Beth / Crazy, Crazy Nights / Rock and Roll All Nite - live @ in Zurich 04.07.2019




Thursday 11 July 2019.
KISS + DAVID GARIBALDI live at The 02 Arena, London.
KISS 'End of the Road' final World Tour hits Europe in the summer.
KISS start their farewell European Tour in Germany on 27 May and arrive in the UK in July.
KISS vocalist and guitarist Paul Stanley said: “This is going to be our last tour. It will be the most explosive,
biggest show we have ever put on".
This very nice KISS item is released as a multi-coloured double vinyl album on 29 March 2019.
KISSWORLD brings together 20 of their best-loved tracks together on one album. Iconic fan faves such as “I Was Made For Lovin’ You”, “Rock And Roll All Nite” and “God Gave Rock ‘N’ Roll To You II” alongside top 10 U.S. chart hits “Beth” and “Detroit Rock City” on one huge collection.
KISS have always been my fave American rock band.
I have seen KISS over 40 times since their two debut London shows in May 1976 at Hammersmith Odeon.
I have seen them on every UK tour at least once, including America, Belgum, Italy, Spain and France.
See my photos section where there is a picture of me with the band from a meet & greet in Madrid.
KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer was in a band called Black n Blue who i saw twice at Hammersmith Odeon
in 1984 when they supported Whitesnake.
KISS have an odd choice of support act???
Professional painter David Garibaldi serves as Kiss's opening act for the North American and European legs of the tour.
David Garibaldi (age 36) is an American performance painter. His specialty is his "Rhythm and Hue" stage act in which he rapidly creates paintings of notable rock musicians.
---------------------
Back to see KISS again after that stunning show in Birmingham on Tuesday.
That show got a great five star review in The Metro national newspaper.
Even The Guardian gave it four stars.
Big queues for KISS fans buying merch even though it is steep prices of £35 a t shirt and £25 a programme.
It is pretty full tonight...security said around 15,000 fans are here , with many in KISS make-up and costumes.
DAVID GARIBALDI arrived on stage at 7.45pm for his 30 mins set.
Definitely not the type of support act you normally see at a rock concert.
David is a bit like a showbiz version of Rolf Harris as he expertly did three paintings of musicians
and getting the crowd to cheer him along to a backing tape of rock music.
He did John Lennon, then Freddie Mercury and finished off with a KISS painting set within a UK flag.
That would later be signed by the band and auctioned off for The Teenage Cancer Trust.
KISS again arrived on stage at 8.55pm for the same brilliant 2 hours 5 mins set.
I have a perfect view in the guest list block 112 , right of looking at the stage.
Paul Stanley is a great frontman with perfect stage banter.
Tonight he mentioned KISS playing Hammersmith Odeon in 1976 ( I was at both those shows).
For the final song i will have Tommy Thayer hovering above me on a Cherry Picker crane.
In Birmingham i was on the other side where Gene Simmons hovered over me.
The setlist was exactly the same as the Birmingham show.
Another mega show.
Encore:
Beth (Eric Singer on piano)
Crazy Crazy Nights (with KISS balloons falling from the ceiling)
Rock and Roll All Nite ( world war 3 kicks off as the stage props are all thrown in together as
Gene Simmons and Tommy Thayer hover over the crowd in Cherry Picker cranes).
Outro song on pa - KISS God Gave Rock 'n' Roll to You II




Wednesday 10 July 2019...I went to four events today...
5pm to 6pm
FORTNUM & MASON - Christmas in July showcase - 181 Piccadilly, London W1.
We are on the fourth floor of this famous historic store.
Their main display is their incredible Christmas hampers.
I think they have 15 different types...with prices to match if it includes champers and caviar.
They also have vegan hampers and gluten free hampers.
They are showcasing bottles of sparkling tea...quite nice.
Also presents for Christmas included fragrances exclusive to Fortnum's.
Complimentary Fortnum's champers , canapés and pastries for all guests.
All guests got a goodie bag of Fortnum's items - tin of loose tea, tin of biscuits, jar of cranberry sauce.
www.fortnumandmason.com
Visit their website here for more info.
then
6.30pm to 7.30pm
CLYM EVERNDEN - private view - Sketch, Conduit Street, London W1.
Clym Evernden is an award winning artist and art director with a unique, creative eye. His signature ink-based style has evolved to encompass mixed media, animation, and set design. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, Clym studied BA Fashion Design Womenswear prior to working solely as an artist.
His natty illustrations have caught the eye of brands from Michael Kors to Aqua di Parma.
On Instagram, Clym has amassed a large following for his creative illustrations and popular story paintings that unfold before your eyes on a series of progressive artworks that evolve as he unfolds a simple piece of paper, transforming part of one image and reinterpreting it into something else entirely.
A dj was playing the background and i recognised a couple of faces from the fashion world here.
I always make a point of visiting their stylish "pod" toilets here.
Complimentary gin cocktails, wines and Peroni beers.
www.clymdraws.com
Visit his website here for more info.
then
8pm to 9pm
LENNY KRAVITZ x DOM PERIGNON - photo exhibition private view -
I Park Village East, Regents Park, London NW1.
This venue is a couple of minutes walk from the famous Dublin Castle punk pub.
Around 150 guests here so not as big an event as expected.
LENNY KRAVITZ is here and looking totally cool as ever.
Also here were Neneh Cherry, Princess Beatrice and Eva Hertzigova.
The space has some sort of canvas covering extension which made it unbearably hot & stuffy.
No sign of KISS members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons who had a rest day before their London show.
A female dj was playing tunes in the background.
Complimentary Dom Perignon champers and canapés for all guests.
You can visit the exhibition at the weekend on July 12 and July 13 - free entry.
then
9.30pm to 12pm
MAGNUM x SINK THE PINK - summer store pop up party - 52 Regent Street, London W1..
Lenny Kravitz event was very tame compared to this full on party from this popular ice cream brand.
Around 200 guests here over the two floors and it is a very lively with many dancing to dj sounds.
A dozen fully dressed up trans (from Sink The Pink) folks are parading around the venue.
A few celebrity names here too including...
Millie Mackintosh, Nick Grimshaw and Maya Jama were among guests enjoying ice creams at the launch party of the Magnum Pleasure Store on Regent Street. BBC Radio 1 presenter Clara Amfo took to the decks as guests, including Anais Gallagher, Jamie Winstone, Mabel, Ashley James, Amber Le Bon, Joshua Kane, Oliver Proudlock and Nicola Roberts, celebrated the opening of the summer store.
Complimentary prosecco , three different cocktails including a very yummy Baileys based one along with
canapés and boats of Magnums where you added your own choice from the 20 sprinkles available.
A goodie bag with half a dozen girlie items in.
www.magnumicecream.com
Visit the Magnum website here for more info.





Tuesday 09 July 2019.
KISS live at Birmingham Arena.
A trip up North to see KISS on the opening night of their UK tour.
I missed the support act as I was chatting to KISS fans in a pub near the venue.
This is the arena by Birmingham's newish library rather than the one out by the N.E.C.
I have a great view front left of stage seating.
The floor standing is rammed solid so it looks a full house of around 15,000.
KISS were on stage from 8.55pm and played a mega 2 hours 5 mins set.
The band have three big screens mixing live footage with classic KISS footage from the 1970s.
Tons of flames and pyros and lasers and non-stop incredibly loud explosions on stage.
An amazing opening with "Detroit Rock City" and "Shout It Out Loud".
The band in full costumes and make up means they never age and look how they were in the 70s.
We have the full visual treat that is a KISS show so we get rocket firing guitars from Tommy Thayer,
Paul Stanley flies through the air on a wire, a drum kit and two podiums that rise 20 ft in the air,
Gene Simmons breathes fire and spits blood and sings a song up in the stage rafters.
So many great songs played from their career including a stunning encore section that was gig perfection.
Paul said "it looks like tonight is the last time we are playing Birmingham and he
talked about playing Birmingham in 1976 on their debut UK tour".
An amazing show that was best gig of the year for me so far.
DO NOT MISS KISS ON THIS FINAL TOUR...as they were mega tonight.
Full KISS setlist played tonight...
Intro song on pa - Led Zeppelin Rock & Roll
Detroit Rock City
Shout It Out Loud
Deuce
Say Yeah
I Love It Loud
Heaven's on Fire
War Machine (Gene breathes fire)
Lick It Up (with “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who snippet)
Calling Dr. Love
100,000 Years (with drum solo)
Cold Gin (with Tommy Thayer rocket firing guitar solo)
God of Thunder (with bass solo)
Psycho Circus
Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll (with guitar and bass solo, Paul and Gene together with Tommy)
Love Gun (Paul flies through the air to B stage in middle of the crowd)
I Was Made for Lovin' You (Paul remains on B stage in the crowd)
Black Diamond
Encore:
Beth (Eric Singer on piano)
Crazy Crazy Nights (with KISS balloons falling from the ceiling)
Rock and Roll All Nite ( world war 3 kicks off as the stage props are all thrown in together as
Gene Simmons and Tommy Thayer hover over the crowd in Cherry Picker cranes).
Outro song on pa - KISS God Gave Rock 'n' Roll to You II





Monday 08 July 2019...5.30pm to 8pm...
TAITTINGER UK Sommelier of the Year 2019 at The Savoy Hotel, Strand, London WC2.
Romain Bourger has been named the Taittinger UK Sommelier of the Year 2019.
Having excelled in the live tasks in front of an audience of wine industry leaders, the Vineyard head sommelier won having beaten Gareth Ferreira and Alan Bednarski in a close fought final at the Savoy hotel in London today.
Ferreira, head sommelier at Core by Clare Smyth placed second, while Texture’s head sommelier Bednarski was third in the competition, organised by The Caterer in partnership with the Academy of Food and Wine Service and sponsored by Taittinger.
Speaking after his win Bourger said: “I’ve competed six times so patience is a virtue. I had a great time on stage today.
I stressed quite a bit but just kept it inside. I thought I was consistent throughout the day and am delighted to have come out on top.”
Having come through regional heats in April, 15 sommeliers began the finals day at the Savoy. They took on a series of tasks before being whittled down to three, who completed the final tasks in front of a live audience.
As part of the live element of the competition the finalists were required to identify errors on a wine list, undergo blind taste tests of wines and spirits, serve at a bar and in a restaurant scenario, and finally to pour a magnum of Taittinger into 19 glasses.
Around 150 guests at this famous five star hotel.
Guests enjoyed complimentary Taittinger champers (Brut and Rose) and hot and cold canapés.




Saturday 06 July 2019
THE WHO live at Wembley Stadium with special guests.
The Who will be joined by a symphonic orchestra for most of their show.
This is their only show in Europe between their two North American tour legs.
Roger Daltrey was 75 on 01 March 2019.
Another older legendary band charging steep prices - £195, £155, £130, £95 , £70 plus booking fees.
This show will be celebrating 40 years since The Who played Wembley Stadium.
I was at that show in 1979---The Who,Stranglers,AC/DC,Nils Lofgren Wembley Stadium, London.
I have seen The Who around 25 times since 1975 including three times with Keith Moon.
This sad news comes just days before the veteran group are due to play Wembley....
The Who have paid tribute to the long-term guitar technician of Pete Townshend who passed away just days before their upcoming gig at Wembley.
Announcing the news on their website yesterday (July 4), The Who paid tribute to Alan Rogan. Rogan had been Townshend’s guitar technician for over forty years.
-------------------
A few empty unsold blocks tonight but it is still an impressive 50,000 tickets sold out of a possible
65,000 floor seating capacity.
All the support acts have full use of the two side screens.
CONNOR SELBY BAND arrived on stage at 3.40pm for their 30 mins set.
Connor is the only act today who I have not seen play before.
Connor is a young Blues guitarist from Essex who played some neat songs from his debut album.
-------------------
IMELDA MAY arrived on stage at 4.30pm for her 35 mins set.
Imelda arrives on stage in a very fetching red military jacket and black thigh high boots.
Imelda has a great voice and played good versions of "Mayhem" and a cover of "Teenage Kicks".
-------------------
KAISER CHIEFS arrived on stage at 5.25pm for their 40 mins set.
The band play a great set featuring many of their catchy uptempo gems.
Singer Ricky Wilson is a bundle of energy and the crowd love them.
Full Kaiser Chiefs setlist played today...
People Know How to Love One Another
Never Miss a Beat
Everyday I Love You Less and Less
The Factory Gates
Golden Oldies
Ruby
I Predict a Riot
The Angry Mob
Oh My God
--------------------
EDDIE VEDDER arrived on stage at 6.30pm and played for 60 mins.
Pearl Jam's frontman is playing a solo set with the help of a musician or two on some tracks.
Eddie Vedder is pleased to be here as The Who are pretty much his fave band
as I have seen him come on with them a couple of times in the past.
He just had the one big screen for a few songs then he had all three big screens in use.
His laid back style didn't have the energy of The Kaiser Chiefs but was still really good.
He felt compelled to cover a Queen song at this venue and dedicate if to Freddie Mercury.
Wishlist (Pearl Jam song)
I Am Mine (Pearl Jam song)
Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town (Pearl Jam song)
Corduroy (Pearl Jam song)
I'm the Answer (Simon Townshend cover) (with Simon Townshend)
Just Breathe (Pearl Jam song)
Better Man (Pearl Jam song)
Society (Jerry Hannan cover) (with Glen Hansard)
Black (Pearl Jam song) (with Glen Hansard)
Crazy Little Thing Called Love (Queen cover) (with Glen Hansard)
Porch (Pearl Jam song)
Hard Sun (Indio cover)
---------------------
THE WHO arrived on stage at 8.10pm and played for around 2 hours 25 mins.
A fairly average stage production with the three big screens and loads of lights.
The show was in three parts - with orchestra , then band only , then with orchestra.
The band only section was only four songs and 25 mins.
The orchestra were more rockestra as they were nice and loud and the overall sound was great.
Loads of classics played along with a few lesser known songs.
Pete got very emotional when he talked about losing his guitar tech to cancer a couple of days ago.
Roger was on top form even though his vocals seemed to dip for the last 30 mins.
Zak Starkey was superb on drums.
Eddie Vedder joined them for one song.
Finale of "Baba O'Riley" in the darkness was mega.
An excellent day of live music.
Full setlist played by The Who tonight...
WITH ORCHESTRA
Overture
It's a Boy
1921
Amazing Journey
Sparks
Pinball Wizard
We're Not Gonna Take It
Who Are You
Eminence Front
Imagine a Man
Hero Ground Zero (live debut)
Join Together
BAND ONLY
Substitute
The Seeker
Won't Get Fooled Again (acoustic; Roger & Pete only)
Behind Blue Eyes (with strings)
WITH ORCHESTRA
Guantanamo (Pete Townshend song)
The Real Me
I'm One
The Punk and the Godfather (with Eddie Vedder)
5:15
Drowned (acoustic; Pete only)
The Rock
Love, Reign O'er Me
Baba O'Riley




Friday 05 July 2019
THE SOUND OF JOY DIVISION ORCHESTRATED live at The Royal Albert Hall, London.
Joy Division’s legendary bassist Peter Hook is set to revisit the band’s post punk repertoire with Manchester Camerata.
Week commencing 22 June 2019 gives Joy Division's Unknown Pleasures a Top 40 placing for for the very first time – the album's previous peak was Number 71 in 1980 following the death of lead singer Ian Curtis, but today it goes straight in at Number 5.
I was lucky enough to have seen Joy Division five times during 1979/1980 before Ian Curtis suicide.
Joy Division,Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark,Certain Ratio Nashville Pub, London 13.08.1979
Joy Division,Distractions,Certain Ratio Electric Ballroom, London 26.10.1979
Buzzcocks,Joy Division Rainbow Theatre, London 10.11.1979
Joy Division,Killing Joke,Certain Ratio Town Hall , High Wycombe 20.02.1980
Joy Division,Killing Joke,Certain Ratio Lyceum Theatre, London 29.02.1980
Joy Division have gone down in history as one of the most iconic bands ever.
Only two full-length albums released (Unknown Pleasures and Closer) along with the 1978 EP and a handful of singles and posthumous releases along with many bootleg albums.
------------------
Not sold out tonight but at least 95% full....and we have floor standing for a dance atmosphere.
I spotted one of my fave tv presenters here - Jeremy Vine.
Dj Dave Booth played some good tunes from 7.30pm to 8.15pm including Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks.
Magazine, Roxy Music, David Bowie, Only Ones, Kraftwerk etc.
THE SOUND OF JOY DIVISION ORCHESTRATED were on stage for 2 hours 10 mins over two sets of
55 mins and 75 mins.
There are around 25 musicians on stage in the orchestra.
Peter Hook is on bass guitar & vocals and he shares vocals with one male and two females.
The male vocalist looks and sings and dances a bit uncannily like Ian Curtis.
Peter Hook has the words "Guitar Hero" on his amps as a tribute to Sex Pistols guitar hero Steve Jones.
His fantastic bass sound where he treats it like a lead guitar with awesome riffs is still there.
The lush strings and arrangements are fantastic and the drummer was nifty with those JD drum fills.
Really good to hear and see so many Joy Division classics played tonight.
A great show.
Setlist highlights included...
Atmosphere
Transmission
Dead Souls
Atrocity Exhibition
She's Lost Control
Shadowplay
Disorder
New Dawn Fades
A version of "Higher, Higher, Higher Love" which is by Peter Hooks old band Monaco.
A mega three song encore of...
Digital
Ceremony
Love Will Tear Us Apart




Thursday 04 July 2019...3.30pm to 11pm...
HOUSE FESTIVAL - Kenwood House. Hampstead Heath, London NW3.
Set on the edge of Hampstead Heath and surrounded by tranquil landscaped gardens, Kenwood is one of London's hidden gems. The House, its breathtaking interiors and stunning art collection are free for everyone to visit.
IF ONLY ALL FESTIVALS WERE LIKE THIS ONE.
Soho House members club host their annual party.
Most of 7000 guests have paid £250 each to be here and that includes loads of different free food & drinks
all day , along with 11 bands (5 name bands and 6 up & coming bands) over two stages.
Around 20 corporate names entertaining guests here including ITV, Sky, Talk Talk,Google, Facebook etc.
It always sells out pronto before the bands have even been confirmed.
Complimentary Collet champers, different cocktails and spirits, wines, beers, soft drinks and
food trucks including Dirty Burger, Hot Dogs, Pizza East, Hog Roast, Lobster Salad, Meat Balls,
Roast Chicken ,Crosstown Doughnuts ,ice-creams, desserts, churros, coffees etc.
Very hot today so we stay in the circus tent watching the acts as we got stuck into the food & drinks.
There are plenty of long tables here for guests to sit down in the shade while eating.
There is a full fun fair here but we don't have time to get on the dodgem cars.
FRANZ FERDINAND arrived on stage at 6.55pm for their 50 mins set.
They are introduced by a very enthusiastic Alex Zane.
We are front row right as they are easily the highlight of the day for me.
Great jerky uptempo indie guitar gems including "The Dark Of The Matinee" , "Do You Want To",
"Take Me Out", "Ulysses" and "This Fire"....a short but sweet excellent set...
GROOVE ARMADA headline the second stage from 8.50pm for a 55 mins set.
Their rave sound goes down well with the dance crowd here.
Lots of lights and a great version of their Top 20 hit from 2001 "Superstylin'".
BLACK EYED PEAS arrive on stage at 9.50pm for their decent 60 mins set.

----------------------