31 Dec

The Pretenders The Glasshouse Gateshead Oct 17 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Chrissie Hynde, Pretenders. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

“I’m special, so special” (Brass in Pocket, The Pretenders, 1979)

and that is oh so true of the legend that is Chrissie Hynde. Chrissie Hynde and The Pretenders are synonymous and are, in fact, one and the same today.

From The Glasshouse site: “Unmistakable. Timeless. Female fronted force. Rock icons The Pretenders are opening their 2024 UK tour here at The Glasshouse on Saturday 24 February. Off the back of their latest album Relentless, The Pretenders have been blowing away crowds with their high-energy sets. Their recent sold-out club shows were described as “iconic” (Evening Standard) and “outrageously good” (Louder Than War).

The new songs shine alongside classics in an inspiring display of longevity. With surprise Glastonbury performance featuring special guests Johnny Marr and Dave Grohl, them joining Guns N’ Roses at London’s BST Hyde Park and a spectacular UK homecoming at BBC Radio 2 In The Park in front of 35,000 fans in Victoria Park, Leicester, The Pretenders prove they still rock as hard as ever. Don’t miss the chance to see these Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees bring their rebellious, crowd-rousing spirit and enduring songbook to The Glasshouse stage.” “persistently brilliant songwriting … surely how Chrissie Hynde always wanted The Pretenders to sound”. MOJO. “as sharp as ever, with new songs stealing the limelight from classic hits”. The Guardian.

I have seen The Pretenders many times before. My blog memories are below. This turns into quite a marathon tour of Pretenders concerts over the years for which I apologise. However, what the hell, I think it is important to give some context to my overall memories of an excellent sassy lady and her evolution through different versions of her band.

The Pretenders Newcastle gigs 1979 – 1981
Chrissie Hynde moved to London from the USA in 1973, finding work at the NME and at Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood’s clothes store. She became involved with the early punk scene, and hung around with the Pistols, The Clash and The Damned. She had a few short-lived bands and then formed the Pretenders in 1978 with Pete Farndon on bass, James Honeyman-Scott on guitar, and Martin Chambers on drums. They released a cover of The Kinks “Stop Your Sobbing” in 1979, followed by the great “Kid”. It was around the release of “Kid” when I first saw the Pretenders on 3rd August 1979 at Newcastle Mayfair.

The Mayfair was a big heavy metal haunt, and the audience would give punk and new waves bands a hard time. The Pretenders were no exception, and they faced an onslaught of beer glasses. If I remember right, Chrissie Hynde put on a brave front arguing with the hecklers, but they eventually abandoned the gig, soaked with beer. Nonetheless, they played a great set and left me wanting to see them again. In January of 1980, the Pretenders hit No 1 in the UK charts with “Brass in Pocket”. On 8th February 1980 I saw them play to a packed, sold out, Newcastle Polytechnic.

They gave a storming performance, and Chrissie was simply amazing. This remains the best time I have seen them in concert, and a gig that sticks in my mind as something pretty special. It was one of those nights where you felt that you were seeing a band on the verge of the big time, they knew it, we knew it and the atmosphere was electric; I think they may have been No 1 the week of the gig. From there on the next couple of visits to Newcastle were to the City Hall; on 6th October 1980 with (Swords of 1000 men) Ten Pole Tudor as support and again on 30th November 1981. The Pretenders were a great live act; Chrissie all swagger, tunes with great hooks, and a sense of their ’60s pop roots blended with punk and new wave. By the end of 1982 both Pete Farndon and James Honeyman-Scott had died from drug overdoses, and it seemed that the band would be no more. However they were to regroup in 1983 and were back at the City Hall in 1984.

The Pretenders Newcastle City Hall 1984
The Pretenders regrouped in 1983 with original members Chrissie Hynde (guitar and vocals), and Martin Chambers (drums). They were soon back in the UK charts with “Back on the Chain Gang” and “2000 miles”. By the time I saw them in concert at Newcastle Hynde and Chambers had been joined by Malcolm Foster (bass) and Robbie McIntosh (guitar). The line-up was professional, and the concert good, but I felt some of the rawness of the original band was lacking. However, Chrissie Hynde remains an engaging performer to this day. I next saw the Pretenders when they supported Rod Stewart at St James Park Newcastle in 2007. It was then 10 years before we met again. Time flies in the life of a rock ‘n’ roll concert follower.

The Pretenders Newcastle City Hall 2017
Laura, Jackie my carer and I went along to the City Hall looking forward to hearing a string of hits, some great rock ‘n’ roll, and seeing the living icon that is Chrissie Hynde. The girls sitting beside us were a little worse for wear, singing along with every song and every now and then threatening to fall on top of, and flatten, Laura. All the ingredients for a fun night out, on the town (or should I say “the toon”). And a fun night it was. The Pretenders treated us to a set of new songs, old hits, Chrissie Hynde solo tunes and more. After a couple of songs I didn’t recognise the old classics started to emerge: “Message of Love”, the exquisite “Talk of the Town” and then we were back to the start and “Kid” with images of the young Chrissie being soaked in beer thrown over her by members of the crowd at the Mayfair in the late 70s flashing through my mind.

The band may be different with only Hynde and drummer Martin Chambers remaining from the original Pretenders, but the sound and the songs remain the same. The new members bring new life and continue the soulful, edgy, rock ‘n’ roll that is The Pretenders. “Don’t Get Me Wrong” was followed by “I’ll Stand by You” and then after a few more songs my mind was flashing back again to the first time I saw the band in the Mayfair with the Kinks classic “Stop Your Sobbing”. “Back on the Chain Gang” took us towards the end.

But we knew it wasn’t really going to be the end. The encore included the classic ballad “I Go to Sleep” and finished with (of course, what else but) “Brass in Pocket” taking me back to the Friday night in Newcastle Polytechnic Students Union, the week the song was number one in the charts, standing on the tables with Marie, while the place erupted around us. It was so many years ago and yet in many ways it seems only like yesterday. The girls next to us finally fell on the floor. 

The Pretenders The Cluny Newcastle 2023
Wow! Sometimes there are gigs where everything comes into place, and you have an unforgettable evening. Well this was one such occasion. The Cluny is a tiny pub venue in Newcastle. It cannot hold more than a few hundred people. So when the Pretenders announced that they were playing some intimate gigs and one of them was the aforementioned Cluny I just had to go along. The tickets sold out in minutes, if not seconds. I was lucky enough to score one for myself and a companion, who turned out to be Elaine, and who also took some great photos. We arrived around 8:10 PM. The Pretenders were due on stage at 8:30 PM. So we were just in time to squeeze through the tiny door which gained us entry into the concert room at the back of the pub.

We came into the concert part and were faced with a jampacked room, filled with a sea of people. We couldn’t move and couldn’t see a thing. Now usually I don’t take advantage of being in a wheelchair. But this was one occasion I broke my rule and used my disability to my advantage. I slowly moved forward asking people to let me through to the front. Slowly but surely, everyone was so kind, and I reached a spot almost at the front of the crowd, one person between me and the stage. I had a wonderful view of everything. Thank you so much Cluny crowd! Elaine followed nervously behind me. I asked her to go to the bar and get me a drink and a T-shirt. “I can’t possibly move at all” she explained “and if I do get to the bar there is no way I can get back!” And she was right. We were completely crammed in and could not move at all.

The entire venue was completely full and there was no room to move anywhere. Wonderful. It felt just like the old days when I was used to being crammed down close to the front. 8:30 PM. The band come on stage. Chrissie is just in front of me and looks just great. This lady is 71 years old and looks just wonderful. She is the archetypal rock chick in thigh length black leather winklepicker boots, jeans, and a black shiny leather jacket. She sounds great and the new band she has assembled are excellent musicians.

The advertising for the show told us that there would be no hits. But as I said, sometimes magic does happen and four songs in we get “Kid”. A meltdown moment. Tears in my eyes. And a mix of great rock ‘n’ roll and hits follows. But the evening gets better. Chrissie Hynde spots me and asks the people in front of me to move aside so I can see. “Are you okay? Can you see?” She says to me. I told you it was one of those evenings. Chrissie Hynde talking directly to me. I tried to mouth back “do you remember playing the Mayfair?” But she can’t hear me.

So we get “Back on the Chain Gang”, “Talk of the Town” and “Don’t get me Wrong”. All played at full volume, with great raspy vocals from Chrissie. At one point she asks, “did any of you see the New York Dolls?” A big cheer. “And Johnny Thunders. He’s dead now. But so is everyone these days.” Says Chrissie. “We could play arenas if we wanted to, but we want to come back and play little venues. We are losing a f***ing fortune!” Chrissie also talks about the Grammys: “what happened to real music and great rock ‘n’ roll?” More rock ‘n’ roll follows. And then they are gone.

They play three encores. It is 9:50 PM. A member of the crew gives me a set list. Everyone is so kind. Thank you, Chrissie, for a wonderful evening. Special things happen every now and then. This was one of them. We wander out of the venue not quite believing what we have just witnessed. Elaine loved it and so did I. Proper rock ‘n’ roll in a small venue. And so close to the band. And Chrissie spoke to me and looked after me! As I said magic does happen now and then.

And so have we are in 2024, in the much staider venue of the majestic Glasshouse, only a year after being crammed into that magical night at the Cluny. Chrissie looks just great, a little older, but very much the same sassy lady that I first witnessed all those years ago. The set comprises old and new, but the old ones are, at least for me, the best. So, after a few unfamiliar tunes, the years rolled back to “Talk of the Town” and, yes, right back to the very start (I’m in the Mayfair again) and “Kid” still as jangly and soulful as ever.
A few songs on and we get “Back On the Chain Gang” and “Don’t Get Me Wrong”. Both magic.

Then a surprise, Chrissie does her own take of Grace Jones’ “Private Life” and pretty good it is too. The first encore starts off with the sublime “I Go to Sleep”. Finally the evening closes with (what else but) “Brass in Pocket”. Chrissie still has “it” (whatever “it” is) in droves. Thank you for coming with me on my short tour of Pretenders gigs over the past 45 years. “Who Knows Where the Time Goes?” (Sandy Denny, 1966). Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and to Chris for manipulating the site. Images come from my own collection and Wikimedia Commons.

The 2024 Setlist: Losing My Sense of Taste; A Love; Accountant Daddy; Talk of the Town; Kid; Hate for Sale; The Buzz; My City Was Gone; The Losing; You Can’t Hurt a Fool; Back on the Chain Gang; Don’t Get Me Wrong; Private Life; I Think About You Daily; Biker; Thumbelina; Night in My Veins; Time the Avenger; Junkie Walk; Let the Sun Come In.
Encore: I Go to Sleep; Precious; Middle of the Road.
Encore 2: Brass in Pocket.

30 Dec

Nick Heyward The Fire Station Sunderland 22 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Haircut 100, Isabella Coulstock, Nick Heyward. Tagged: , , , .

Nick Heyward‘s return to the spotlight at the Sunderland Fire Station was a night of charming nostalgia and a lesson in pure pop magic. Best known for fronting Haircut 100, Heyward delivered a dynamic set that spanned his 40 plus year career and was sprinkled with new material and timeless hits.

The Fire Station site stated that, “Following a huge 2023 with Haircut 100 playing the BBC Radio 2 Piano Room, a sell-out London reunion show at the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire and a joyous laundry tour of the UK and Ireland; Nick Heyward sets off on his first solo tour since the critically acclaimed Woodland Echoes album release tour in 2018.”

I first saw Nick Heyward as the front man of Haircut 100 at Newcastle University and Newcastle City Hall in 1982. I blogged at the time: “Haircut 100 burst onto the UK pop scene in 1981, fronted by Nick Heyward. By the time Marie and I saw them at Newcastle University Students Union they were already pretty successful, having hit the charts with “Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)” and the place was absolutely packed. Their music was straight pop, with a very clean-cut image. Their next single “Love Plus One” was a massive hit, followed by two further top ten singles “Fantastic Day” and “Nobody’s Fool”.“

“These concerts were at the time of Haircut 100’s debut album Pelican West which was also an enormous success. Three months after the first gig, Haircut 100 were big enough to headline at Newcastle City Hall, and I went along to see them again; with my friend Norm. Norm told me the other day that I won tickets in a competition, which I can’t recall, but could well be true.”

“The City Hall gig was packed with screaming girls; this band was very hot at the time. The music was a mix of pop, Latin rhythms, some horns, and a little jazz. Very up, and quite summery, and very different from the punk and new wave that was going on around them. Nick Heyward left the band later in 1982, and they split shortly after. Hayward then went onto a successful solo career. There were programmes for each of these two gigs, but the only difference was the colour of the cover, and the dates listed inside!” I remember thinking that this was a bit of a swizz at the time.

The next time I saw Nick he was a solo star and support act for Wham! The Final at Wembley Stadium in 1986. The support came from (the now disgraced) Gary Glitter and Nick Heyward. In May 1986 Wham! announced that they were to split and that they would play one final concert at Wembley Stadium. My friend Dave and I decided to go along. It was a momentous concert and to be honest, I remember little of the support acts. Dave and I concentrate on the bar during the earlier part of the day and spent the rest of our time watching Wham! with lots of young women. I would say that the crowd was 90% female! A day I will treasure for ever!

So I went along to the Fire Station with a pocket full of great memories yet not knowing what to expect. Support came from Isabella Coulstock who is a young singer/songwriter “making waves on the Americana Rock scene, known for her unique storytelling, vocal qualities and dynamic live shows.” (From her official site). She certainly warmed up the crowd well.

I was pleasantly surprised as, for me, the evening re-affirmed his reputation as a consummate live pop performer. Backed by a tight 4-piece band, Hayward opened the show with “Can’t Explain” a song unfamiliar to me; however it certainly set an upbeat tone for the evening. There’s something wonderfully timeless about his ability to write pure pop songs. Tunes like, “Blue Hat for a Blue Day” and “Fantastic Day” are just as infectious now as when they first hit the airwaves.

The Fire Station was the perfect venue for Hayward’s upbeat set. The audience sang along to all the Haircut classics such as “Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl) and “Love Plus One” while newer tracks highlighted his ongoing creativity and pop sensibility.

The night ended with the aforementioned “Fantastic Day” which was very fitting, considering the fantastic evening we’d all had. Everyone left with a smile on their face as they headed out into the cool Sunderland evening. The Fire Station is an excellent venue and is a great asset to the Sunderland music scene. I treated myself to a signed poster (see image).

“When I’m getting off my train
And my love is on my brain
Every day and every night
The only thing that makes it right
Is seeing my favorite sight
Crying in the night with the summer in her eyes tonight
Fantastic day” (Nick Heyward 1982)

Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs, to Laura for helping me with the blog entry and to Chris for navigating and manipulating the site.

Setlist: Can’t Explain; Mr. Plain; He Doesn’t Love You Like I Do; Kite; A Chelsea Sky; Blue Hat for a Blue Day; The Remainers; Carry on Loving; The World; Ordinary People; Whistle Down the Wind; Traffic in Fleet Street; Angelfish; Over the Weekend; On a Sunday; Take That Situation; Love Plus One; Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl); Who?; Fantastic Day.

29 Dec

Paul Weller The City Hall Newcastle 24 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Jam, Liam Bailey, Paul Weller, Style Council. Tagged: , , , , , , , , .

Paul Weller, the Modfather himself, brought his unrelenting energy and trademark swagger to Newcastle City Hall. The night was a masterclass in blending rock, postpunk and acoustic brilliance and was a testament to his legendary career.

I first experienced Weller way back in the days of The Jam. My blog entry of the time jogs my Memory (At Least A Little): “The Jam 1977 And 1978. When We Think Of Late 70s Punk Rock, We have a certain image of safety pins, spitting, the pogo, and fast furious rebellious rock. In reality the punk scene was a pretty broad church, which drew from a wide range of influences.

The Jam burst onto the scene in 1977, blending mod, sharp suits, with attitude, arrogance, and great catchy pop songs. They had obviously been influenced by, soul, R&B, The Who and Small Faces and you could tell that lead singer and guitarist Paul Weller was a huge fan of Steve Marriott and Pete Townshend.

I attended a few early Jam concerts in the Northeast, at Newcastle Mayfair and at Sunderland Seaburn Hall. These gigs were pretty wild affairs with Weller and the guys having to dodge a hail of glasses (and they were real glass in those days, not plastic) and waves of spit.

The Seaburn Hall gig (see postcard of Seaburn which I recently purchased on eBay, Seaburn Hall is top left) was particularly ferocious; it was attended by a group of skinheads (“We hate punks”) who were looking for trouble and there were several scuffles. The Jam set in those days drew from their first album, their early singles, and a nifty cover of the Batman them closed the show. They were a breath of fresh air, and it was evident even at those early gigs, that this was a band that stood above the rest and would ultimately transcend the punk movement.

By 1978 The Jam had graduated to playing Newcastle City Hall (see ticket above), a venue that would be host to some great Jam gigs over the next few years. I also saw them headline the Friday night of the Reading festival in the same year. Sample Jam setlist from 1978: The Modern World; London Traffic; I Need You (For Someone); The Combine; Aunties & Aunts; Standards; Here Comes the Weekend; Sounds From the Street; News of the World; London Girl; In the Street, Today; Bricks and Mortar; In the City; In the Midnight Hour; Carnaby Street; All Around the World.” Thanks to Wikimedia Commons for the picture of the Jam in concert at Newcastle City Hall in 1982, a concert which I almost certainly attended.

I saw Paul many times after those early performances including further Jam concerts at Newcastle City Hall, their farewell tour at Whitley Bay Ice Rink (the first concert at that cavernous, cold venue), and when he formed The Style Council (see my recent purchase of the single “Ever-Changing Moods” by the Style Council) including momentous performances at Live Aid and as part of Red Wedge, which Paul founded with Billy Bragg.

The tour was to mark the release of Paul’s latest album 66 which is his 17th solo album and was released on Polydor Records on 24 May 2024. The artwork was by Sir Peter Blake, who designed The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper’s LP all those years ago, again demonstrating Paul’s 60s influences. 66 is named partly for his age at release and partly, he claims, for 1966 – the year that produced much of the music that fired him up in the first place. (From Newcastle University website).

Such memories swirl around my head as I go to see Paul Weller again. It has been some years since I’d last seen Weller live; his arena tour in 2009 to be precise. So, I figured it was about time to see him again. Supporting Paul was Liam Bailey an English singer-songwriter from Nottingham. Liam is noted for his soul, reggae, and blues-influenced vocal style. He was an excellent opening act, warming the crowd up for the main man. Paul Weller kicked off the evening with “Cosmic Fringes”, and “That Pleasure”, Weller wasted no time, igniting the crowd and reminding us all what a great performer he still is.

Backed by his excellent band, he smoothly moved through an eclectic mix of music from his solo work, Style Council hits and even provided a nod to his Jam days. The audience erupted during “Start” and “Shout to the Top”, songs that remain as anthemic as ever! Midway Weller softened the pace with poignant renditions of “Broken Stones” and, later “Wild Wood”; his voice strong, filling the hall with warmth. The audience were captivated as they were taken through the depth and breadth of his career.

During the encore, the energy reached an all-time high. “That’s Entertainment” and “Town Called Malice” had the entire hall on their feet, singing every word as one. I was reminded of all the times I’d seen The Jam, and, for a moment, it felt like no time had passed since those days. Indeed, leaving Newcastle City Hall that evening, it was clear to me that Weller continues to be a great live performer and remains a true rock ‘n’ roll legend.

He is a world class act through and through. In many ways he carries his mod colours loud and proud; the 60s, Small Faces, The Who and my own particular hero Steve Marriott resonate throughout his every move and sinew. Class indeed. Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs, along with Laura for helping complete the entry and Jan and Chris for navigating the site.

Setlist: Cosmic Fringes; That Pleasure; Soul Wandering; My Ever-Changing Moods; Have You Ever Had It Blue; All the Pictures on the Wall; Headstart for Happiness; Above the Clouds; More; Stanley Road; Glad Times; Village; Hung Up; Shout to the Top!; Start!; Broken Stones; Nothing; Jumble Queen; Out of the Sinking; Into Tomorrow; Peacock Suit.

Encore: The Changingman; Porcelain Gods; You Do Something to Me; Wild Wood.
Encore 2: That’s Entertainment; Town Called Malice.

27 Dec

Maximo Park The Fire Station Parade Ground Sunderland 31 August 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Maximo Park. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

I have seen Maximo Park several times in the past. Although I can’t claim to know many of their songs, I always enjoy their performance. They are entertaining, full of rocky energy and Paul Smith is the consummate front man, resplendent in bowler hat (or something similar) and leaping all over the stage.

It was great to see them again in my local venue The Fire Station, outside in the Parade Ground when I recently saw Inspiral Carpets. When I arrived, with Jan, The Fire Station had very kindly reserved a table for us with a splendid view of the stage. Thank you very much, lovely treatment from my favourite local venue.

 

The Fire Station announced the show: “We’re delighted to host indie rock icons Maximo Park for a very special show in The Parade Ground as part of The Fire Station’s Summer Parties season. Like their friends and neighbours, The Futureheads and Field Music, Mercury Prize-nominated Maximo Park craft smart, sharply catchy songs inspired by post-punk and new wave legends like The Jam, XTC, Wire, and The Smiths.”

Once again Maximo Park did not let me down. It was great seeing them outside on a lovely late summer evening. As referred to above, these local legends are massively popular in the north-east, coming originally from Newcastle. They soon recruited Paul Smith from Stockton on Tees as singer: “When he first joined, we didn’t know if he could [sing]; just that he was a lunatic jumping around in a suit, it felt like the last piece of the jigsaw”. (From Wikipedia). He has certainly done them proud and has become the focal point for their live performances.

This was another important, and ultimately triumphant, concert for the band. The first time that I saw them at such an important concert was when they played at Newcastle City Hall, a large venue and a right of passage for any local band entering the “big time”. I wrote the following about that concert.

This concert was a big deal for Maximo Park. Their Facebook page proudly declared “everyone has played Newcastle City Hall: Bob Dylan, the Beatles; and now we are playing there”. The concert had sold out quickly: a hometown show with the added attraction that the band were showcasing their excellent debut album “A Certain Trigger” in full was bound to be a big draw. Laura was really excited about going but sadly came down with flu on the night of the concert, so along I went to the City Hall on my own.

Maximo Park exploded onto the stage to a big loud and friendly roar from the home crowd. The set was one of two halves, opening with 11 tracks drawing from across their career, starting with “Girls who play guitar”. This was followed by a performance of all 13 tracks from “A Certain Trigger”. Ten years on the songs from the first album sound as fresh and modern as ever. The crowd loved it, and you could see how much the band enjoyed the night, and how keen they had been to grace the City Hall stage.  A great performance from a local band who maintain a loyal and strong following.

Roll on to 2024. Paul remains as always. Full of energy, singing a set of songs that were very familiar to the audience. Everyone was singing along and appeared to know every word! An impressive performance by a magnificent local band. I bought a signed album (pictured). Many thanks to Jan for the photographs and Atlanta for manipulating the site.

Setlist: The Coast Is Always Changing; Girls Who Play Guitars; The End Can Be as Good as the Start; All of Me; Leave This Island; Hips and Lips; Quiz Show Clue; Questing, Not Coasting; I Want You to Stay; The National Health; The Kids Are Sick Again; Going Missing; Risk to Exist; By the Monument; What Equals Love?; Favourite Song; Our Velocity.
Encore: Versions of You; Books From Boxes; Apply Some Pressure.

24 Dec

Steve Hackett Glasshouse Gateshead 19 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Genesis, Steve Hackett. Tagged: , , , , , .

Steve Hackett’s 2024 tour celebrated 50 years of the iconic Genesis album The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway. The Glasshouse website stated that “Alongside his outstanding touring line-up of Roger King (keyboards), Nad Sylvan (vocals), Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, additional keyboards), Craig Blundell (drums) and special guest, Amanda Lehmann on guitar and vocals. Hackett will perform Lamb highlights plus Genesis classics and solo gems.” So, as a long-standing Genesis fan, I decided to go along and see him.

Hackett delivered a spectacular performance. The show was in two parts. The first part focused on Hackett’s solo material. Joined by his brilliant band, Hackett opened the evening with solo pieces “Every Day” and “A Tower Struck Down”. His guitar playing held the audience spellbound, his dexterity mesmerising. It was a testament to the versatility of the instrument and, the first half of the show symbolised Hackett’s status as a legend of guitar playing.

The second half of the show was what I’d been most keen to see. Hackett dedicated this section to Genesis classics. “The Lamb Lies down on Broadway” and “Carpet Crawlers” took us all back in time. Hackett’s intricate playing breathed new life into these old favourites. The highlights for me were the haunting, magical “Dancing with the Moonlit Knight” and the soaring instrumental beauty of “Firth of Frith”.

I saw the original Lamb lies Down on Broadway tour at Newcastle City Hall in 1975. At the time I wrote on my blog: Always listen to the album before you go to the concert. That is a piece of advice I keep giving to myself, but I often don’t follow. It was never truer than in this case. It had been a couple of years since I last saw Genesis, and I was interested to see their new production for the new album The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.

I’d read the reviews but hadn’t heard the album (you see; mistake). For some reason, I hadn’t bought a ticket for this tour, but when Genesis reached Newcastle City Hall, I decided to go along on the night and try to buy a ticket. I managed to do so, purchasing a ticket for a little more than face value from someone outside the venue.

My seat was pretty near the back, but hey I was in! I knew what to expect; the set was the entire new (double) album played in sequence to tell the story of Rael and was their most theatrical show to date. Peter Gabriel really excelled himself in terms of his performance and in costume changes, the most spectacular and outrageous of which was the Slipperman who was covered in terrible growths.

The concert was incredible as a piece of theatre, however having not heard the album, I found it difficult to follow at times. Even to this day, I don’t fully understand the story or know many of the tracks; and I do have a copy now. My favourite is of course “Carpet Crawlers”. My memory tells me that they came back at the end and encored with “The Knife”, but published setlists tells me that it was likely to have been “Watcher of the Skies”, “The Musical Box”; or both.

Roll on almost 50 years to 2024 and as the last notes of “Los Endos” rang out, the audience erupted into applause. We’d all witnessed an evening celebrating one of prog-rock’s finest. Steve Hackett remains an absolute master of his craft. I wish that he had closed with “The Knife” as Genesis did back in the old days, but hey you can’t have everything. A beautiful reminder of an era sadly passed. Thank you, Steve, for helping us to relive our old memories and of happy, happy days.

I treated myself to a programme, signed LP, and signed drum skin. Class. Many thanks to Jackie for taking the photos and to Laura and Chris for helping with the blog entry and manipulating the site.

Setlist: People of the Smoke; Circo Inferno; These Passing Clouds; The Devil’s Cathedral; Every Day; A Tower Struck Down; Basic Instincts; Camino Royale; Shadow of the Hierophant.
Lamb Highlights: The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway; Fly on a Windshield; Broadway Melody of 1974; Hairless Heart; Carpet Crawlers; The Chamber of 32 Doors; Lilywhite Lilith; The Lamia; it; Dancing With the Moonlit Knight; The Cinema Show; Aisle of Plenty.
Encore: Firth of Fifth; Drum Solo; Los Endos / Slogans / Los Endos.

15 Dec

Walter Trout plus special guest Laura Evans The Glasshouse Gateshead 18 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Laura Evans, Walter Trout. Tagged: , , , , , .

On 18th October, the Glasshouse in Gateshead was the place to be for blues enthusiasts, as the legendary Walter Trout took the stage, with support from Laura Evans. The evening was a masterclass in blues guitar and soulful vocals, with both artists delivering performances that resonated deeply with the audience.
The Glasshouse website announced the concert: “Hardy. Hearty. Healing blues music. Resilient blues-rock phenomenon Walter Trout rides a creatively formidable wave. He heads into 2024 with Broken an album that’s raucous, wild and poignant. It features appearances from powerhouse singer Beth Hart, Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider and Harmonica virtuoso Will Wilde. It comes out on March 1 via Provogue / Mascot Label Group.”

“All of us are broken. But no one’s beyond repair- a philosophy that Walter Trout’s lived by during seven volatile decades at the heart of America’s blues-rock scene. Even now, with the world more fractured than ever – by politics, economics and social media – the fabled US bluesman’s latest album, chronicles the bitter schisms of modern life but refuses to succumb to them. In Broken some of Trout’s most raw and bruised songs of his career lie. Still, hope leads the way with the notion that music can help us overcome brokenness – one note at a time.”

This was my first encounter with blues man Walter Trout, although I had been meaning to see him for some time. My friend John encouraged me to go along and see the guy. John is a big fan and has seen him several times in the States. And I was glad that I finally took the plunge and went to see Walter Trout perform.

Laura Evans opened the event with an impressive set that showcased her powerful voice and emotive songwriting. Her ability to blend contemporary themes with a classic blues sound set the tone for what was to come. Then came Walter Trout, whose decades long career has cemented him as a true icon of the blues. From his first notes of his opening track, “I Can Tell”, it was clear that Trout was here to deliver nothing less than an authentic blues performance. His signature guitar and roaring, heartfelt vocals energised the crowd, many of whom were up on their feet from the start.

Trout’s set was a journey through his classic back catalogue of blues standards and newer material. It displayed his incredible skill as a guitarist and his deep connection to the blues. Highlights included the fiery “Wanna Dance” and the emotional “Say Goodbye To The Blues”. The crowd erupted during “All In This Together” a song that speaks to the resilience and unity of the human spirit.

Trout told lots of tales about his life, which has been pretty tragic, partly as a result of his alcohol and substance addictions. The guy really opened up his soul to us. And the audience were entertained throughout. At the end of the performance Trout explained he had just seen Rory Gallagher’s famous Stratocaster sold for thousands (or was it millions?) in an auction.

From the Rory Gallagher website: “Brilliant news, Rory’s 1961 Fender Stratocaster has been bought for approximately €1,069,000 and the purchaser, MCD and Live Nation, is donating the guitar to the National Museum of Ireland as confirmed by Catherine Martin the Minister for Tourism, Culture & Arts.” So the guitar was going home to Ireland, just back where it started with Rory in the 1960s. I first saw Rory in his band Taste at Sunderland Empire in 1969 or 1970. He Stratocaster was battered then! I sat, 13-year-old and enthralled by his guitar prowess. Happy days. Happy memories. RIP Rory.

I had bid in the same auction for one of Rory’s foot pedals and dropped out at £1000. I wish I had kept bidding. I recently treated myself to a programme from a Taste tour from the same era on eBay (see image). All of this story led to Walter performing Rory Gallagher’s “Bullfrog Blues”, although he confessed to not understanding the meaning of the lyrics. He asked us all if we’d ever woken up with a bullfrog on our mind! Some people, jokingly, put up their hands. “What the hell does it mean?” continued Trout “Waking up with a bullfrog on your mind! Crazy, man”

The evening concluded with an explosive encore of “Going Down”, a blues rock anthem that left the audience on their feet, cheering for more. It was the perfect end to a night that celebrated the enduring power of the blues.

Thanks to Jackie for the photos and Laura and Chris for helping with the blog entry.

Setlist: I Can Tell; Courage in the Dark; Wanna Dance; Say Goodbye to the Blues; Say Goodbye to the Blues; Ride; Follow You Back Home; We’re All in This Together; Bleed; Red Sun.
Encore: Going Down

11 Dec

Squeeze 50th Anniversary Tour O2 City Hall Newcastle13 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Badly Drawn Boy, Squeeze. Tagged: , , , , , , .

On 13th October, I was lucky enough to attend a spectacular performance by Squeeze at the Newcastle City Hall. Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the band delivered a powerhouse show packed with timeless hits and fan favourites.

The Squeeze website announced: “UK Tour starts next Friday. First, a big thank you to everyone who came out to see us this past month in the USA and Canada. The gigs were electric, and we had an absolute blast. A very big thank you as well to Boy George, his band and crew, and our own indispensable crew for making it all possible. No rest for the wicked, though, as we kick off another two months of shows across the UK, starting in Sheffield next Friday, 4 October along with our special guest Badly Drawn Boy.” Picture courtesy of City Hall website.

I have seen Squeeze at least eight times prior to this. The first time was when they were supporting Eddie and the Hot Rods at Newcastle City Hall in 1978. I wrote at the time “By 1978 The Hot Rods had enjoyed chart success with Do Anything You Wanna Do and had released their second album Life on the Line. They returned to the City Hall with another strong supporting line-up of Radio Stars and Squeeze. Radio Stars had supported the Hot Rods at the City Hall the year before, so we were already acquainted with the mad antics of Andy Ellison, and their great song Dirty Pictures.”

“Squeeze were new to the scene and were the first band on the bill at this concert. Squeeze had just released their first album and single: “Take Me I’m Yours” and there was a buzz about them, but this was before the massive hits “Up the Junction” and “Cool for Cats”, which followed in 1979. This was the original line up of Squeeze, featuring Chris Difford, Glenn Tilbrook, and Jools Holland. I remember making a point of getting to the gig early to see Squeeze and Radio Stars. Eddie and The Hot Rods were great as usual, super high energy rock n roll. Another fun night. Both support bands were excellent, and it was clear that Squeeze had a big future ahead of them.”

The first time I saw Squeeze was when they were supported by Wreckless Eric at Newcastle Mayfair in 1980. I’d seen Squeeze supporting Eddie and the Hot Rods, The Tubes, Dr Feelgood, The Police and at the Reading Festival, but this was the first time, and only time, I saw them as a headline act.

This was the classic Squeeze line-up featuring Chris Difford, Glenn Tilbrook, and Jools Holland. Squeeze had just released their third album Argybargy and had already made the UK top 20 four times, with their first single “Take Me, I’m Yours” which reached No 19 in 1978, the excellent “Cool for Cats” and “Up the Junction”, both of which reached No. 2 in 1979 and their most recent release at the time, “Another Nail in My Heart”, which made No. 17 in January 1980.

Support came from the crazy Wreckless Eric, whose most well-known song is the wonderful “Whole Wide World”. Squeeze were a great live act who produced a clutch of perfect pop songs; my favourite is “Up The Junction” which is just pure class. I have missed many opportunities to see them since, including several at Newcastle City Hall and the Glasshouse Gateshead. Big mistake.

Squeeze have always been experts in blending catching melodies with razor sharp storytelling and this evening was a testament to their enduring legacy. From the opening chords to the final encore, the energy in the hall was electric and the band took the audience on a journey through their incredible 5-decade career. Support came from Badly Drawn Boy who warmed the crowd up with a set of excellent songs. I was very glad that I arrived early enough to see him.

The Squeeze set list was nothing short of a greatest hits compilation, starting strong with “Black Coffee in Bed” and flowing effortlessly into tracks like “Up the Junction” and “Cool for Cats”. Fans were on their feet, singing along at the top of their voices. One of the standout moments of the night was the performance of “Labelled with Love” a ballad that highlights the band’s knack for weaving vivid narratives throughout their music. It was also a treat to hear some newer tracks, proving that Squeeze continue to create music which resonates with audiences today. My favourite was, as always, “Up The Junction” and it was great to see them return, at the very end, to the very start with “Take Me I’m Yours”. Happy days.

The chemistry between the band was as evident as ever, their harmonies perfectly in sync and their stage banter making it clear how pleased they were to still be going, 50 years on. They showcased the depth of their catalogue with a performance that was both nostalgic and refreshingly lively. It was more than just a celebration of the past, it was a reminder how their music has stood the test of time, still sounding as fresh and relevant as it did decades ago.

Setlist: Black Coffee in Bed; Footprints; Is That Love; Up the Junction; One Beautiful Summer; Someone Else’s Heart; In Quintessence; Departure Lounge; Some Fantastic Place; If I Didn’t Love You; Pulling Mussels (From the Shell); Another Nail in My Heart; Annie Get Your Gun; You Get the Feeling; Trixie’s Hell on Earth; Goodbye Girl; Cradle to the Grave; Slap & Tickle; Tempted; Cool for Cats; Labelled With Love; Hourglass; Take Me I’m Yours.

9 Dec

David Gilmour The Royal Albert Hall London October 11 2024

Posted by vintagerock in David Gilmour, Pink Floyd. Tagged: , , , .

October 2024 saw the long-awaited return of Dave Gilmour to London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, marking his first shows in the city in 9 years. This tour was to showcase his latest album, Luck and Strange. Gilmour’s website stated that “Luck and Strange was recorded over five months in Brighton and London and is Gilmour’s first album of new material in nine years. The album features eight new tracks along with a beautiful reworking of The Montgolfier Brothers’ ‘Between Two Points’ .”

As a lifelong Pink Floyd fan, I was thrilled to see the return of a music legend, especially in such a historic venue. It turns out it was almost 9 years to the day since I last saw him back in 2015, once again in the Albert Hall. Back in 2015, it had also been 9 years since I’d last seen him, again in the Albert Hall in 2006 (I see a pattern emerging!)

On that occasion, Gilmour had been joined onstage by special guests Crosby and Nash, Robert Wyatt and was joined by Nick Mason on drums during the encore. In fact, the previous night, he’d been joined by Bowie who came out during the encore to sing “Arnold Layne” for what was to be his last ever UK performance (If only I’d gone that night!) So, as I approached the Albert Hall, I was half wondering whether there would be any surprises in store for us.

Gilmour’s ability to blend the ethereal tones of his guitar with emotive songwriting has always been a hallmark of his music and this evening was no exception. The set was divided into two acts, with the usual blend of new material and classic favourites. The show opened with the instrumental “5 A.M.” followed by the new album’s title track “Luck and Strange” and then move into a collection of favourite songs that included classics from Dark Side of the Moon including “Breathe” and “Time”.

The audience was captivated as Gilmour transitioned between his new work and the nostalgic sounds of Pink Floyd’s greatest works. For me, the highlight of the first set was a very moving performance of the tribute to Syd “Wish you were Here”, a personal favourite of mine. The first set ended with “High Hopes”, a fitting choice that blends Gilmour’s reflective side with a hopeful message.

The interval allowed us time to wander around the hall, pick up another drink and savour the atmosphere and ambience of the occasion. After the interval, the second act delved deeper into Gilmour’s repertoire. Tracks like “Sorrow” show-cased his guitar mastery whilst “The Great Gig in the Sky” which featured a powerful vocal performance, brought the house down. As the set progressed, we were treated to the evocative “Dark and Velvet nights” and the ethereal “Scattered”. As usual, a great set. One notable omission for me was “Shine On, You Crazy Diamond”. Still you can’t have everything.

Of course no Gilmour concert would be complete without the usual encore, “Comfortably Numb”. The song’s iconic guitar solo echoed through the historic Albert Hall, leaving everyone spellbound. It was still whirling through my head when I exited the concert hall and set about trying to find a taxi to return us to our hotel. There may have been no surprise guests this time round however I felt privileged to have spent another memorable night with David Gilmour. Hopefully 9 years won’t pass until the next time!

Thanks to Atlanta and Jan for accompanying me on the journey to London and return, for the photograph and to Laura and Chris for helping manipulate the blog entry.

Setlist: Set 1: 5 A.M.; Black Cat; Luck and Strange; Speak to Me; Breathe (In the Air); Time; Breathe (Reprise); Fat Old Sun; Marooned; Wish You Were Here; Vita Brevis; Between Two Points; High Hopes.

Set 2: Sorrow; The Piper’s Call; A Great Day for Freedom; In Any Tongue; The Great Gig in the Sky; A Boat Lies Waiting; Coming Back to Life; Dark and Velvet Nights; Sings; Scattered.
Encore: Comfortably Numb.

Postscript from David Gilmour website: “David Gilmour’s tour, promoting his highly praised album ‘Luck and Strange’ released on September 6th, encompassed 21 dates. The tour featured two special rehearsal shows already completed at The Brighton Centre, six shows at The Circo Massimo in Italy, six at The Royal Albert Hall in London, one at The Intuit Dome in L.A., and three at The Hollywood Bowl in California. The final five performances were at Madison Square Garden in New York. Gavin Elder documented the tour for a future video release, with footage from the Rome concerts and each subsequent venue.”

4 Dec

Pat Barker Shining Levels Durham Gala Theatre 11 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Pat Barker, The Shining Levels. Tagged: , , , , , .

Sadly, I was unable to attend the live Gala Theatre performance of this show as it clashed with my trip to the Royal Albert Hall to see David Gilmour. However, I was eager to experience the event, not least because my daughter Laura is the band’s vocalist but also because I have attended several Shining Levels gigs and was intrigued to here yet another one of their literary inspired performances. So, the day after the show, I settled down to watch the live stream from the comfort of my home.

The evening commenced with a dramatic reading taken from Pat Barker’s new book “The Voyage Home”. As New Writing North describes on their site, the book is the “highly anticipated follow-up to The Women of Troy and The Silence of the Girls, chronicling the experiences of women in the aftermath of the Trojan War.” Local actors Charlie Hardwick “famous for her longstanding role as Val in Emmerdale) and Layla Zaidi (from Benidorm), embodied various characters as they read numerous passages from the novel. The reading was atmospheric and engaging and was interspersed with dramatic sound-effects, ambient lighting, and live music from The Shining Levels.

The Shining Levels specialise in reinterpreting novels through music, creating eery, haunting and melancholic sounds that perfectly complemented the often bleak yet defiantly hopeful drama. They performed 4 songs from their EP “The Voyage Home” which draws from the themes of the book.
The band which consists of piano, guitar, violin, flute, and vocals, have previously produced music inspired by Benjamin Myers’ “The Gallows’ Pole” and “Cuddy”, as well as Pat Barker’s “The Silence of the Girls”. It was wonderful to hear the band’s latest offering, especially in the context of this literary event.

After a 15-minute interval, Booker Prize winning Pat Barker took to the stage for an interview conducted by journalist and writer Adele Stripe. Their discussion delved into the inspiration and themes of “The Voyage Home” offering profound insights into Barker’s narrative approach. Barker was an engaging speaker who told amusing stories and responded to audience questions with great enthusiasm.

Experiencing the event, even via live stream, was a unique blend of literature and music. The shining Levels added a rich layer to the story-telling and Pat Barker was an entertaining and engaging speaker. I look forward to the next literary themed event.

Many thanks to Laura for helping with the entry, to Wikimedia Commons for some of the images and Chris for manipulating the site.

Shining Levels Set List: The Voyage Home; To Kiss a God; Ladybird; The Voyage Home Reprise.

27 Nov

Vonda Shepard Fire Station Sunderland 9 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Vonda Shepard. Tagged: , , , .

A recent discovery in terms of music for me, and a great show for the Fire Station to score. I had not heard of Vonda Shepard, but after a little digging I soon realised just what a talent she is. This lady’s career is intimately entwined with the TV show Ally McBeal, which my late wife, Marie, used to love and we both watched it on TV regularly. This was really a great coup for the Fire Station to promote.

They announced the concert as: “Following the success of Vonda’s recent barnstorming UK tours which sold out venues across the country, Vonda will be returning to play a set of greatest hits and favourites from her many albums including her latest release, Red Light, Green Light with her full band.”

“Vonda first shot to fame through her long running appearances, performances, and musical accompaniment on the smash hit US TV show Ally McBeal. The theme song Searching My Soul reached the top 10 in the UK and Vonda released a series of Ally inspired albums which went on to sell a staggering 12 million copies worldwide. Including such favourites as Tell Him, Maryland, I Only Want To Be With You, Baby Don’t You Break My Heart Slow, Proud Mary, Walk Away Rene and You Belong To Me. This is one feel good evening filled with nostalgia not to miss!”

Vonda has said of her recent UK tours: “I had so much fun performing for my fans in the UK, it’s been a joy to reconnect with everyone and I can’t wait to come back and see everyone again”

“Vonda Shepard (born July 7, 1963) is an American singer, songwriter, music director, and actress. She is perhaps best known for her starring role as a fictionalized version of herself on the television series Ally McBeal (1997–2002), for which she recorded five soundtrack albums as well as the series’ theme song “Searchin’ My Soul”, which saw international commercial success.” (From Wikipedia) So I was actually seeing Ally McBeal in the flesh! It doesn’t get much better.

It was great to see another friend and ageing reporter there who clearly knew much more about Vonda and her career than I did. Shame on me. I was soon to find out how wonderful this lady is in performance. She looks great, has a lovely voice, and sat at a grand piano taking us through songs familiar and new (at least to me anyway). I was sitting at one side of the stage with a view to the back of Vonda. I asked if I could move across to the other side of the stage, which seemed to be unoccupied, and the kind Fire Station staff allowed me to do so.

A preshow pint of Guinness was called for. The concert was in two parts. To be honest I didn’t recognise many of the songs in the first half, other than the closer which was an excellent version of the Staple Singers “Respect Yourself”. A great song to start the interval and which enabled me to have my second drink of the evening. As usual, a double Jack Daniels (neat with ice) hit the spot just right.

The second set comprised many more gems which I recognised including wonderful versions of the Supremes “Someday We’ll Be Together”, the Four Tops “Walk Away Renée”, Betty Everett’s (and of course covered by Cher ) “It’s In His Kiss” and the closing song was one of my favourites, the punchy tune of Billie Davis’ “Tell Him”. By this point Vonda was up and dancing.

The encores were also magnificent choices: Dusty Springfield’s “I Only Want to Be with You” and Jo Stafford’s lovely “You Belong To Me”. A particular favourite of my friend. All of the above will probably have featured in Ally McBeal at some point. A magnificent performance by an equally magnificent songstress set in the fast-becoming heart of a vibrant music city, the Fire Station.

Great to connect with old friends and I promised to write a review for the Sunderland We’ar Shine A Light reporters network which I will do based on this blog entry. Many thanks to Jackie for providing the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site as always. Happy days.

Setlist: (something like this): Set 1: Maryland; The Wildest Times of the World; Shine Your Light; Dirty Laundry Line; Made of Rain; I Just Don’t Get It; I Know Better; To the Stars; Respect Yourself.
Set 2: Someday We’ll Be Together; Something About You; Someone You Use; The Sunset Marquis; Walk Away Renée; Another January; It’s in His Kiss; Hooked on a Feeling; Neighborhood; Baby, Don’t You Break My Heart Slow; Searchin’ My Soul; Tell Him.
Encore: I Only Want to Be With You; You Belong to Me.

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