Another “trip out” to see a group of (who seem like) old friends. This time it was the acoustic version of Fairport Convention, which is basically the band without a drummer. The venue was the lovely Queen’s Hall Arts Centre in Hexham. A bit of an adventure to a new (for me, anyway) venue. I have visited Hexham many times in the past; to the market and to take my son to hockey matches when he used to play at national level grass hockey. My friendly taxi driver was up for the challenge to take me to Hexham and back, probably approximately an 80+ mile round trip. This was the nearest that the band were appearing on their current tour, so I couldn’t resist and Jackie my carer and I made the journey the other night.
We set off early at 6 PM, giving us (hopefully) enough time to arrive for the 7:30 PM start. Well, the best made plans…., did not include a great big tailback on the A1, partly the result of heavy traffic around the local Metrocentre, and partly due to roadworks. So, Jackie and my driver both consulted their satnavs (or in Jackie’s case Google maps) and agreed that a detour through the scenic route along quite windy roads would be the best course of action. It probably was but it did result in us arriving a few songs into the first set.
The Queen’s Hall is set behind a park in the centre of Hexham (thanks to Wikimedia Commons for the image). The staff in the venue quickly helped us up in the lift and found us some alternative seats (presumably because we were late in arriving) at the rear of the hall overlooking the stage, with actually a pretty good view of the proceedings. The staff were wonderful and really helpful throughout the night going out of their way to make sure I was safe going up and down in the lift to reach the bar during the interval.
I have seen Fairport Convention many times in recent years. Each time I enjoy them more and more. This band has a rich folk-rock heritage and a massive back catalogue of songs to draw from. Each song is preceded by a detailed and often comical explanation of the origin and meaning of the song. Each member takes a turn in explaining the songs and taking a lead role on either vocals, guitar, mandolin or violin. The first set completed with some songs which are becoming very familiar to me now. The sound was excellent and the audience reception was very warm and friendly. In a Fairport Convention concert, I often get the feeling that it is a meeting of old friends coming together, and last night was no exception. This band have a very strong, loyal following.
There was no new merchandise on sale, other than CDs and the recently published Gonna See All My Friends: A People’s history of Fairport Convention book to which I contributed and already have a copy. Still, that allowed me a little more time to venture downstairs to the bar and partake in a lovely double Glenfiddich.
The second half of the concert was excellent as always. The singing troubadours delivered a clutch of songs some familiar and some less so. “Portmeirion” is based on the village where the TV series The Prisoner was set. I used to watch it when it was first aired in the 1960s and could not understand it. Perhaps it is time to revisit it? I will see. Soon we were taken back in time again, to the day when, as told by Simon Nicol, they auditioned for a lady singer and in walked Sandy Denny who for a few short years changed the nature, sound and destiny of the band. Simon delivered an exquisite rendition of my favourite “Who Knows Where the Time Goes”. As magical as it ever was and always will be. I was pleased to see that particular song return to the set. Then followed the traditional song “Matty Groves” as the closing folk tale. But we knew that wasn’t the end. Fairport returned to deliver the timeless encore “Meet on the Ledge”. A great evening with a great band.
The journey back was another adventure. The A1 was closed for work on the road and we followed a diversion into the centre of Newcastle, through Gateshead and onward towards home. I was back home for around midnight. Roll-on next time.
Thanks to Jackie for the photos and to Chris for helping me manipulate WordPress.
Setlist: Set 1: Walk Awhile; Doctor of Physick; The Banks of Sweet Primroses; Cider Rain; Bankruptured; The Year of Fifty Nine; Lalla Rookh; The Festival Bell; Steampunkery.
Set 2: Royal Seleccion No. 13; Honour and Praise; My Love Is in America; Moses Waits; Portmeirion; The Happy Man; John Gaudie; Who Knows Where the Time Goes?; Matty Groves.
Encore: Meet on the Ledge
Vintagerock's Weblog. 
Posted by Steve on October 29, 2023 at 5:03 pm
Don’t worry Peter, I didn’t understand “The Prisoner “ either!!
Posted by vintagerock on October 29, 2023 at 5:43 pm
I have determined to rewatch it Steve and see if I can untangle the meaning this time 🙂 Peter
Posted by Prof_Alistair on October 29, 2023 at 10:15 pm
Definitely watch (and re-watch 🙂 ) The Prisoner. As much a definitive part of the UK 60s zeitgeist as The Avenger (the series with Diana Rigg). Awesome series with some great actors.
Another I’d recommend (for different reasons) is Callan (with Edward Woodward). The antidote to the James Bond school of spying.
I’ve re-watched both a couple of times and been enthralled.
Posted by vintagerock on October 30, 2023 at 12:29 pm
I agree and great choices Alistair. Many thanks. You know what I used to love and be really frightened of when I was a kid? Do you remember a series called Mystery and Imagination? It terrified me as a youngster. Sadly very few of the episodes remain. I also would love to see the series Adam Adamant again! Happy days and bring back black-and-white TV 🙂 Peter
Posted by Prof_Alistair on October 30, 2023 at 11:47 pm
I remember Mystery and Imagination but it was at a time when for various periods I was without TV and out and about a lot so I wasn’t a regular. Looking at the record, though, like much UK TV drama of the time, it had a blindingly good set of writers and actors. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0165050/fullcredits/?ref_=tt_cl_sm
Posted by vintagerock on October 31, 2023 at 10:53 am
Thanks Alistair and thank you very much for the link. Fascinating Peter
Posted by Bryan on October 30, 2023 at 2:42 pm
Oh for the long lost days of the local folk club. Fairport were leaders in their craft. Tales of everyday life, set to music. I’ve got The Prisoner box set. This allegorical tale has become all too real! Explores the themes of freedom, surveillance & control. Who is No.1?
Posted by vintagerock on October 30, 2023 at 2:56 pm
Hi Bryan. Yes I also spent many happy evenings in local folk clubs. I think some still exist. I must watch The Prisoner. I think I can get it on Britbox. Happy days Peter
Posted by ciarant1step on October 31, 2023 at 10:20 am
One thing I love about Fairport Convention is that they made folk and traditional music accessible to younger people like I once was! And they could still rock when they wanted too. Really enjoyed this story of meeting your old friends and all the memories that the night brought back. And so good to hear the the band are still in great form and great voice.
Posted by vintagerock on October 31, 2023 at 10:43 am
Thanks Ciaran yes Fairport Convention are still very much on top form and highly enjoyable. Happy days Peter
Posted by TerriersFan on February 18, 2024 at 5:36 pm
This reads like a great evening’s entertainment, Peter.
I have a ticket to see them at Lincoln Drill in a few days’ time and, according setlist.fm, the set looks very similar.
The major difference seems to be that Dave Mattacks is due to appear on drums! 😊
I’ll post a review afterwards; I hope that I enjoy my gig as much as you enjoyed yours.
Roger 🤘👍
Posted by vintagerock on February 18, 2024 at 5:42 pm
Dave Mattacks on drums is certainly a plus! Should be great. Enjoy it. Cheers Peter