20 Oct

David Essex Newcastle City Hall 19 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in David Essex. Tagged: , , , , , .

“Hey, did you rock ‘n’ roll?

Rock on

Ooh, my soul

Hey, did you boogie too, did ya?

Hey, shout, summertime blues

Jump up (up, down) and down in my blue suede shoes

Hey, did you rock ‘n’ roll?

Rock on” (David Essex, 1973)

I guess it’s not cool to admit a liking for David Essex on a blog named vintagerock, so this should probably rate as a guilty pleasure. For me, my journey with David Essex started in 1973 when I first heard “Rock On”. There was something strange, intriguing about the song which drew me in. It was moody, quirky and I was a fan from then.

I first went to see David Essex at Newcastle City Hall in 1976 along with one of my mates. I recall us feeling a bit awkward at the gig, as the place was packed with screaming girls, and we were definitely in the minority. We went to the early 6pm show and had seats up in the balcony. David had hit the charts several times by this time, including two number ones: “Hold Me Close”, and “I’m Going to Make You a Star”. I had also seen him in the movies That’ll Be The Day and Stardust, in which he gave two great performances. The concert was a fun experience, with lots of hits, a great atmosphere, and some great pop songs.

The following year David toured again and called at Sunderland Empire. This time I went along to the concert by myself, largely to see the support act the Alessi Brothers (or simply “Alessi”), a duo of American identical twins, who had a UK hit at the time with the single “Oh Lori”, and with which I was quite taken. I bought a cheap seat up in the gallery, at the top of the theatre, and made sure that I got in early to see Alessi. And pretty good they were too. David Essex was once again fun and ran through all his hits.

“Essex made his first record, titled “And the Tears Came Tumbling Down”, for the Fontana label in 1965. He then toured with a band called ‘David Essex and the Mood Indigo’ for two years and released a further seven singles in the 1960s.” (From Wikipedia). I recall how he talked about playing the nightclubs in Sunderland in the 1960s. Now that would have been something to see. The guy is a legend.

It was 28 years until I saw David Essex in concert again, on a Once in a Lifetime bill with the late, great David Cassidy at Newcastle Arena in 2005. I must admit, it was the presence of David Cassidy that drew Marie and I along to this gig. We’d both enjoyed seeing him at the City Hall a few years earlier, and quite fancied seeing him again. I bought tickets as soon as they went on sale, and we ended up with front row seats in the first block.

The rest of the bill was The Osmonds (minus Donnie and Marie) and Les McKeown fronting his version of the Bay City Rollers. The gig was good fun, with the two Davids putting on the best show in my view and getting the best crowd reactions. Roll on 19 years, I am back to where I started in 1976 at Newcastle City Hall seeing David Essex again, 48 years since I first saw him in concert at the same venue. Magical. Lots of memories come flooding back.

From David’s website: “Internationally renowned singer, composer and actor DAVID ESSEX OBE has today announced a massive 20 date UK tour for August and September 2024 culminating at the London Palladium.  This tour, his first since 2022, will see him perform much loved hits spanning over his entire repertoire.

David first shot to fame when he went to an audition for the London production of the musical Godspell and was chosen by enthusiastic US producers for the role of Jesus. He received major awards and some ecstatic reviews which saw him lead a cast at the Roundhouse and then at the West End for two years.” Just treated myself to an original programme from the West End run of the show featuring David Essex, Jeremy Irons, and others (see image).

“He has written, recorded, and produced albums that have sold millions of copies worldwide. He’s also had twenty-three Top 30 singles in Britain alone. These include the Grammy© nominated Rock On which not only topped the charts in Britain and the USA but sold over one million copies. Subsequent singles followed such as Lamplight, Hold Me Close and Gonna Make You A Star which made David a household name.”

I had forgotten just great a singer-songwriter he was and how many hits he had over the years. The performance was, as it always has been, impeccable with hit after hit. Each one bringing back so many memories. The guy is now 77 and still looks and sounds great. Particular favourites were “Lamplight”, “Oh What a Circus”, “A Winter’s Tale”, and, of course, where it all started “Rock On” which still is as strange, mystical, and moody as ever. David recalled how he wrote the song during the filming of That’ll Be the Day and had a wish to include it in the film. This didn’t happen, so he released the song as a single. The rest is history.

Back to the concert. Sure, his dancing may not be as hot as it was “back in the day” but the crowd loved it. Everyone was up on their feet dancing. For the encore we got “Hold Me Close”, and a version of the Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” (eh?). And then he was gone. Rock on David.

Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and to Chris for manipulating the site.

Setlist: Beautiful Day: Lamplight; If I Could; Dangerous; Me and My Girl (Night‐Clubbing); Father and Son; Oh What a Circus; A Winter’s Tale; City Lights; Stardust; Imperial Wizard; Rock On; Here We All Are Together; Gonna Make You a Star; Silver Dream Machine.

Encore: Hold Me Close; You Really Got Me; It’s Gonna Be Alright; Missing You (Magic).

“And where do we go from here?

Which is a way that’s clear?

Still looking for that blue-jean baby-queen

Prettiest girl I’ve ever seen

See her shake on the movie screen

Jimmy Dean

(James Dean)” (David Essex, 1973)

14 Oct

Marc Almond The Glasshouse Gateshead 15 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Alex Lipinski, Marc Almond. Tagged: , , , , , .

I first saw Marc as part of the duo Soft Cell at Kirklevington Country Club in 1982. Kirklevington Country Club (The Kirk) was a legendary venue in North Yorkshire which played host to Jimi Hendrix, Clapton, Joe Cocker, and many other bands in the late 60s. By the early 80s it was a very trendy night club. I went a couple of times, once to see Soft Cell and another to see Geno Washington.

The Soft Cell gig was great, coming not long after their number one hit with “Tainted Love”. The gig was sold out, but I went down with a couple of mates, and managed to blag our way in, can’t quite remember how. The place was ram packed and Soft Cell were excellent. You could sense then what a talent in the making Marc was. They had just released coach “Say Hello Wave Goodbye”. Their set was short, but spot on, wonderful atmosphere, and Marc was every bit a star. I remember manager Stevo standing in the crowd, watching his proteges from the dancefloor. A very special night. The next time I saw Marc was at Newcastle Mayfair. By now he had gone solo, was dressed heavily in leather and very much the melodramatic torch singer. Impressive stuff. That was in 1985.

It was many years before I saw Marc Almond perform again. The next occasion was a few years ago in the magnificent surroundings of York Minster at a Jethro Tull Christmas concert. Marc was a surprise special guest. He played a lovely rendition of “Bedsitter”, the aforementioned “Say Hello Wave Goodbye” and, revealing that he was a long time Jethro Tull fan, duetted with Iain Anderson and the band on “The Witch’s Promise”. Magical.

courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

From the Glasshouse website, advertising his appearance: “Captivating. Emotional. A journey through musical brilliance. Whether with his rich solo catalogue or during his time with the iconic Soft Cell, Marc Almond has always possessed a gift for introducing songs – some lesser known, others a little forgotten by time – to new audiences. 2024 marks the anniversary of Marc Almond’s 45th year in music and a career of breath-taking diversity that’s taken in chart topping pop, cutting-edge electronica, torch songs, orchestral ballads, French chansons, historical song-cycles, jazz, flamenco, Russian folk and much more. In the spirit of the new album, ‘I’m Not Anyone’  (out July 2024) the concert tour will consist only of cover songs.”

So, we were going to be in for a treat. Mark has a diverse and eclectic taste in music, and I felt sure that he would deliver for us some wonderful uplifting and challenging songs to match his intriguing, sometimes dark, emotional, and soulful voice, performance, and character. And I was not wrong. His set comprised some of my favourite songs, each of which brought back their own special memories.

Support was from Alex Lipinski. We arrived just as he was closing his set. He certainly warmed up the crowd for the main act. Now over to Marc Almond and his songs.

courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

“Elusive Butterfly”, I love this song both by Val Doonican (yes honestly) and the original version by Bob Lind. “Dream Lover”, I had the Bobby Darin single when I was a kid in the 60s and played and played it. Another magical choice. “How Can I Be Sure” made famous by the late great David Cassidy, I recall seeing David at a crazy concert at Newcastle City Hall where the ladies screamed throughout the song (my wife and I screamed with them). What a surprise. Then “The London Boys” by David Bowie, can it get any better? And yet it does. “If You Go Away”, from the original French by Jacques Brel. Yet another classic. “The Days of Pearly Spencer” by  David McWilliams, who I once saw at the City Hall supporting 10 cc. Another favourite song of mine.

More of my favourite songs follow. “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” on which Marc duetted with Gene Pitney (who sang the original). “Tainted Love” as heart stopping as ever. The original was by Gloria Jones who became Marc Bolan’s backing singer and then partner and sadly drove the car during the accident in which he sadly died. Dusty Springfield’s “I Close My Eyes and Count to 10”. Marc, you are one of the few individuals who can do this song justice. And indeed you did.

Oh, and I forgot to mention “Sebastian” my favourite Steve Harley song, which Marc sung in memory of the recently passed Steve. I saw Steve close the show with that song so many times. So touching. So poignant. Another Jacques Brel song “Jacky” made famous by the enigmatic and velvet voice of Scott Walker. All great choices, Marc. Thank you for sharing your songbook with us. Dark, passion, emotion, touching deep down into your (and our) soul(s).

Thanks to Elaine for the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site. Another entry complete. Many more to catch up on. Until tomorrow, or maybe the next day. Time will tell.

Setlist: I’m the Light; Gone With The Wind (Is My Love); Elusive Butterfly; Trouble of the World; A Woman’s Story; The Heel; The Boss Is Dead; Yesterday When I Was Young; What Makes a Man; I Have Lived; Terrapin; Dream Lover; One Night of Sin; How Can I Be Sure; The London Boys; Stardom Road; If You Go Away; Sebastian; The House Is Haunted; The Days of Pearly Spencer; Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart; Tainted Love; Jacky; I Close My Eyes and Count to Ten; I’m Not Anyone

8 Oct

Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream The Glasshouse Gateshead 14 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Royal Northern Symphony Orchestra. Tagged: , , .

“Sprites. Fairies. Bring some magic dust.” (From The Glasshouse website). That is exactly how I remember this play. As a child I had some strange interests. My parents gave me a copy of the complete works of Shakespeare when I was very. I soon became fascinated by the book and this particular tale of actors like Oberon, Titania and Puck. Today, some 60 years later, I remember little of their adventures, but I still retain a sense of magic about the ancient tale. So it was with some childhood memories, which I carried along with me, to this concert.

I know, this is hardly vintage rock, but it was a memorable experience and one which I felt worthy of inclusion on my blog. The Glasshouse website continued: “It wouldn’t be a season-opening concert without our very own Royal Northern Sinfonia, Chorus and Principal Conductor Dinis Sousa. They’re joined by special guest, pianist Kristian Bezuidenhout, who returns after his incredible BBC Prom with us last summer, and two superb Samling singers making their debut performances with us, Charlotte Bowden and  Jessica Cale. Be whisked away into the wondrous world of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with Mendelssohn’s very own musical version of it, plus Mozart’s serene Piano Concerto No.21.”

The cast included: Dinis Sousa conductor; Kristian Bezuidenhout piano; Charlotte Bowden and Jessica Cale soprano; Alexander Knox narrator; Tim Burke chorus director and the rest of the Royal Northern Sinfonia. I went along out of curiosity and because, as a friend of The Glasshouse I was invited to see the performance and partake in preshow drinks. How could I resist? It would be rude to decline this tempting invitation.

The website continued: “First up you’ll hear the serene sounds of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21, in which the delicate fragility of the central movement (made famous by the film Elvira Madigan) contrasts with an ending that is entirely devoted to fun. Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream incorporates text from the play and transports you to the mischievous, entrancing and beguiling world of Shakespeare’s play.”

“Addicted to Mozart  Kristian Bezuidenhout confessed to falling in love with the music of Mozart after watching the 1984 film Amadeus, portraying the life and sometimes raucous times of the composer. He went on to create an album of the complete keyboard works of Mozart. You can hear him talking about his passion here.”

As I have said above, this was a new experience for me. It is very rare that I witness an orchestral performance. Having said that, the juxtaposition of Shakespeare, a Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the Royal Northern Symphony Orchestra intrigued me. I really enjoyed the concert and was pleased that I went along. I may well go to similar performances in the future. Many thanks to The Glasshouse for inviting me along.

7 Oct

Lindisfarne The Fire Station Sunderland 12 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Lindisfarne. Tagged: , , , , .

Lindisfarne were back at The Fire Station again, almost one year since I last saw them at the Sunderland venue. In between I have also seen them at their iconic Christmas show (2023) at the equally iconic Newcastle City Hall, their (and formally my) musical home. Apologies for repetition in my blog entry, but I have seen this band so many times, repetition is inevitable.

The Fire Station website: “Legendary 70s Tyneside folk-rock pioneers Lindisfarne present a classic five-piece line-up of long-time members fronted by founder-member Rod Clements on vocals, mandolin, fiddle, and slide guitar. With a repertoire of unforgettable songs including ‘Meet Me On The Corner’, ‘Fog On The Tyne’, ‘Lady Eleanor’ & ‘Run For Home,’ plus a second-to-none reputation for live performance, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanize audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get the crowd on their feet and singing along.”

I first saw Lindisfarne supporting Van Der Graf Generator, with Genesis lower down on the bill at Newcastle City Hall in early 1971. I then attended the Lindisfarne first Christmas concert at the City Hall. Over the last 53 years I have seen Lindisfarne countless times (reminder to myself to check exactly how many times I have seen the band). Some memorable times follow in this blog entry.

Let’s start with the Lincoln Festival, and of climbing up a lighting tower to watch the bands and dancing on the top of the makeshift tent we build out of bales of hay (I do not recall where we found the hay) with about 20 “boys” from Sunderland that we met there, some for the first time who became lifelong friends. The term “boys” is particularly significant. Boys were a group of people from the town who stuck together and formed some sort of group identity, perhaps like the boys in David Bowie’s “London Boys” and Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys are Back in Town”.

It was at the Lincoln festival that they triumphed with the whole crowd singing along to songs from Nicely Out Of Tune and the Fog On The Tyne albums. The Grangemouth festival 1972 in Scotland where they again got the crowd singing along. Seeing them at Sunderland Top Rank around 1972 and headlining the City Hall two nights in a row, one with Genesis support and the other with Stackridge support on the Dingley Dell tour (a much-underrated album). Then the split and witnessing Lindisfarne 2 and the other offshoot Jack The Lad at festivals. The reforming of the band with a magical comeback concert at the City Hall and then back at the top with “Run for Home” and attending a sold-out concert at Redcar Coatham bowl during which we all danced on the tables and the aforementioned single was high in the charts.

The Alan Hull solo concert at the City Hall. Then all the Christmas concerts which I attended during the 1980s at the Newcastle City Hall. Travelling to Carlisle Sands Centre to see their farewell concert. I even took a copy of that evening’s Newcastle evening Chronicle along with me to the Carlisle concert; they were pictured on the cover and I got them to sign the newspaper. They were surprised as they did not know that they featured in it! Attending a ceremony outside the City Hall when a blue plaque was placed there to celebrate the life of Alan Hull. Ray Jackson’s Lindisfarne played outside at the ceremony.

And then starting to see the newly reformed band a few times, firstly with Ray Jackson fronting the band and more recently with Rod Clements as front man. I don’t know how many times I must have seen Lindisfarne, but it is on many, many occasions, most recently at the City Hall and the Fire Station.

The Fire Station was packed for this concert and the set list was very similar to those I have witnessed recently. As usual, we were treated to all the classic songs: “No Time to Lose”, “We Can Swing Together” and my personal favourite “Winter Song” performed perfectly by David Hull– Denholm, Alan Hull’s son in law. Soon, we were on the home front and the closing songs were: “Fog on the Tyne”, “Meet Me on the Corner” and “Run for Home”. The closer was, as it was in 1971 and has been ever since: “Clear White Light”. Another great concert by the North-East heroes.

Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site as usual. Next stop Newcastle City Hall Lindisfarne Christmas show this December 2024! See you soon Geordie heroes.

Setlist: Set 1: Alright on the Night; Squire; Scarecrow Song; Statues & Liberties; Lady Eleanor; Can’t Do Right for Doing Wrong; All Fall Down; Anyway the Wind Blows; Road to Kingdom Come; Walk a Crooked Mile; January Song.

Set 2: No Time to Lose; Passing Ghosts; Sundown Station; Dingley Dell; When The War Is Over; Winter Song; We Can Swing Together; Fog on the Tyne; Meet Me on the Corner; Run for Home; Clear White Light, Part 2.

4 Oct

Elvis Costello & Steve Nieve, The Glasshouse Gateshead 7 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Elvis Costello. Tagged: , , , , , .

Let’s go back 40 odd years. Marie and I are in the upstairs bar in Newcastle Polytechnic Students Union. With us is Captain Sensible of the Damned and a young guy named Elvis Costello. The occasion is, I think (my memory is hazy these days), the first Stiff Tour. The Captain is holding court, telling tales of the Damned on the road and how his favourite band is ABBA. He demolishes a packet of crisps in one go including the plastic pack itself! Elvis is quiet, drinking his pint. I’m not sure why the Captain was there, as he wasn’t appearing that night; I guess he must just have come along for the ride. This was the second time I had seen Elvis Costello live and I must admit I was very impressed, particularly by his second single “Alison”.

I had seen Elvis C a few weeks earlier at Middlesbrough Town Hall, again on the Stiff tour, which also featured (I think) Ian Drury, Wreckless Eric, Nick Lowe and others. I think it must have been around November 5th and Guy Fawkes night, as I recall we were waiting outside the venue and some young kids had their “guy” against the wall and asked Elvis “Penny for the Guy?” as he passed them on his way into the Town Hall. He threw them a few coppers. “That’s Elvis Costello” I told my mates. At the time I wondered how a young guy dared call himself “Elvis”. I was soon to find out. A few months later he was in the charts with “Watching the Detectives”. A few years ago, but I saw him in my hometown of Sunderland, at the Empire. I’ve seen him many times in between. And yet after all the years, I still remember those early, rocking, concert performances by an angry young Elvis who spat out the lyrics.

Roll forward a few years from the Sunderland Empire performance and here I was again, waiting to see Elvis Costello and his long-time keyboard player Steve Nieve at the Glasshouse. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Which Elvis would we get? The angry rocker, the middle-of-the-road crooner, or perhaps a mix? This time there was no band, the Imposters just Elvis and Steve. What sort of performance would they deliver?

The Glasshouse website described the concert as: “Masterful. Captivating. 50 years of peerless songs. Music legends Elvis Costello and long-time collaborator Steve Nieve embark on a 15-date UK & Ireland tour in September 2024, revisiting a profound 50-year songbook. From 1977’s “Watching the Detectives” to 2022’s “The Boy Named If”. Following a run of small theatre shows unearthing over 230 songs, this iconic duo is ready to rediscover and reimagine selections from Costello’s vast catalogue once more. Audiences can expect intimate interpretations and new connections shining light on both familiar favourites and rarely played gems spanning decades of peerless song writing.”

“Costello’s unique singing is of astonishing quality, the voice is always powerful, as is the piano.” Luzerner Zeitung, Lucerne, Switzerland – October 3rd, 2023.

So, as described this was a very different Elvis performance. No band, just Elvis Costello and Steve Nieve performing classics old and new in a dark, acoustic manner. This stage was set in dark lighting and the pair delivered some hits, some old favourites and also did not sing some of the rockier Elvis style songs. If you went along expecting a “normal” Elvis Costello performance you would be disappointed, as indeed my carer Elaine was. I also didn’t realise how dark (both in terms of lighting, and in the way the songs were performed) the concert would be. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the show, and it was great to hear old songs such as “Alison” and “Red Shoes” again. And Elvis’ performance of “She” is truly magnificent. Similarly, “Shipbuilding”, was performed extremely well.

Another great night spent with a true unique talent. Many thanks to Elaine for the photographs and Atalanta for manipulating the site for me.

Setlist: Watch Your Step; Waiting for the End of the World; Black Sails in the Sunset; Still Too Soon to Know; The Angels Wanna Wear My Red Shoes; Mystery Dance; Everybody’s Cryin’ Mercy; Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood; Suit of Lights; A Face in the Crowd; Watching the Detectives; Dio, come ti amo / Almost Blue; She; Hey Clockface; Shot With His Own Gun; Come the Meantimes; Alison; Oliver’s Army; Shipbuilding; Indoor Fireworks; What’s So Funny ‘Bout Peace, Love and Understanding

30 Sep

Texas First Direct Arena Leeds 6 September 2024

Posted by vintagerock in KT Tunstall, Texas. Tagged: , , , , , .

So, off to Leeds again this time to see Texas. This was my second visit to Leeds Arena, the first having been to see Iron Maiden. The train times don’t work out so well for me and it means missing some of the concert to catch the last direct train home. We arrived in Leeds after boarding a direct train from Durham, with plenty of time to spare.

For this concert I was accompanied once again by Jackie and Elaine, the same carers who came to see Iron Maiden with me. I always take two carers to Leeds or York to make sure we all cope with the trains. I am, of course, well covered by passenger assistance service which provides a ramp on and off the train and into a wheelchair space. Perfect.

This time, instead of taking a taxi, we walked the short journey up from the station to the Arena. It was a nice warm evening, and I easily traversed the pavements from station to venue. Leeds Arena is a lovely purpose-built, and quite large venue. I was lucky enough to attend the opening night which, before my accident, featured Bruce Springsteen and was a fantastic evening. Once we arrived at the venue, we found our seats which gave us all a magnificent view (Elaine managed to find a seat on the wheelchair ramp beside Jackie and me).

I bought a drink, a music box for my daughter (see image) and a T-shirt. We were pleased to discover that the support act was none other than fellow Scottish singer KT Tunstall. I recognised some of the songs including “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” and, of course, the closing number “Suddenly I See”, her most well-known song. She also included great versions of “Sweet Dreams” by the Eurythmics and “Walk Like an Egyptian” by the bangles. A great warmup act for Texas.

KT Tunstall Setlist:(something like) I Am the Pilot; Dear Shadow; Other Side of the World / America; The River; Black Horse and the Cherry Tree / Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This); Hold On / Walk Like an Egyptian; Suddenly I See.

“Texas is a Scottish rock band from Glasgow, founded in 1986 by Johnny McElhone (formerly of the bands Altered Images and Hipsway [I didn’t know that!]), Ally McErlaine, and Sharleen Spiteri (on lead vocals). In 1989, the band, now also featuring Tony McGovern, Eddie Campbell, Michael Bannister, and Neil Payne, released their debut EP, Everyday Now. The band’s debut single, “I Don’t Want a Lover”, was released in January 1989.” (From Wikipedia).

The story continues on the Leeds Arena website information for the event: “Who are they? They are Texas, and they make hits. Following a triumphant, stand out performance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury……. Known for their enthralling, high-energy shows, the…. band [will] play a set of classic hits from their recently released The Very Best Of 1989 – 2023.)”

“34 years since they recorded ‘I Don’t Want A Lover’, then watched, gobsmacked, as it reached Number Eight in the charts, Texas, one of the UK’s most loved bands, has gone on to produce ten studio albums, selling over 40 million records worldwide.” Myself, I have only seen Texas once before, in Hyde Park London, supporting Roger Waters as he performed Dark Side of the Moon in its entirety. On that occasion someone stupidly through a shoe at Sharleen Spiteri. She gave the guy a good mouthful and continued with the performance, which was excellent and strong support for Mr Waters.

Soon, Texas were on stage and, to our delight, started the set with a clutch of well-known hit songs including the aforementioned “I Don’t Want a Lover”, “Halo” and “summer son”. All of these were played with power and the emotional voice and tremendous stage presence of Sharleen. She stands stage centre and is clearly the focus. But this is a band that gels well together; and it really annoys me when people refer to Texas with phrases like “are you going to see her?” This show is by the band Texas, not just Sharleen, and I feel sure she would agree.

The graphics and screen effects which accompany the performance are magnificent and the size and shape of Leeds Arena allow the band to have a stage set up which covers 180° of the venue. Texas are superb and each song is catchy, rocky, and classic pop/rock. We manage to catch quite a bit of the show but, as I expected, we need to leave before the end of the performance. We are all sad that we have to leave in order to make our way back to the station. I once again race through the streets of the on the download stretch towards Leeds station.

We go straight to the platform where the friendly assistance guy soon arise with the ramp to get me onto the train back to Durham. Then it is a short journey, and our taxi is waiting for us, shortly after midnight, to take us home. My verdict about travelling to shows in Leeds remains that it is worth doing so for bands I really want to see as long as I am prepared to miss the last part of the concert. Such is life these days. I guess I can’t have everything.

Thanks to Elaine and Jackie for travelling to Leeds with me and taking the photographs. Jackie was so impressed by Texas that she decided to go to Glasgow to see them with family a week or so later, in order to experience the full performance, which she said was excellent. I was a little bit jealous. Thanks once again to Chris for manipulating the site.

Texas Setlist: I Knew These People; I Don’t Want a Lover; Halo; Everyday Now; The Conversation; Hi; In Our Lifetime; Tired of Being Alone; Keep on Talking; Summer Son; Insane; Let’s Work It Out; When We Are Together; Put Your Arms Around Me; Sleep; In Demand; Mr Haze; Black Eyed Boy; Say What You Want.

Encore: Inner Smile; Suspicious Minds.

25 Sep

Maxïmo 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 Maxïmo 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 Maxïmo Park craft smart, sharply catchy songs inspired by post-punk and new wave legends like The Jam, XTC, Wire, and The Smiths.”

“The band have released seven studio albums to date: A Certain Trigger (2005), Our Earthly Pleasures (2007), Quicken The Heart (2009), The National Health (2012), Too Much Information (2014), Risk to Exist (2017) and Nature Always Wins (2021). The first two albums went gold in the UK. The Northeast legends will be visiting Sunderland ahead of the release of their latest album ‘Stream of Life’, and we can’t wait to welcome them for this outdoor performance in The Parade Ground.”

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.

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 Chris 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.

22 Sep

Beth Nielsen Chapman The Fire Station Sunderland 23 August 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Beth Nielsen Chapman, Ruth Trimble. Tagged: , , , , , , .

Beth Nielsen Chapman is, to my shame as I soon discovered, new to me. She has visited The Fire Station before and I somehow missed her. As soon as I entered the bar, I ran into an old friend who I had not seen for years. He told me that he was a huge fan and had been to see Beth in Manchester.

“How did you get into her?” I enquired. “I listen to Bob Harris on the radio, and he often plays her music” he explained. I had not met my friend since before my accident and he was quite surprised to see me in a wheelchair. We were soon chatting about old times and our mutual admiration of Alex Harvey, which just shows you how long we have been friends! After a quick Guinness it was time to go into the auditorium which was full.

Having read all her accomplishments and accolades I am not surprised how popular she is to those “in the know”. The Fire Station website proclaims her return to the venue thus: “Beth Nielsen Chapman is an artist with many accolades to her name: mega-hit ‘This Kiss’, sung by Faith Hill, was ASCAP’s 1999 Song of The Year, garnered a Grammy nomination and Nashville NAMMY’s 1999 Songwriter of the Year. Beth was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame; one she considers to be the highest honour she’s ever received. In 2019 Beth was invited to become an Ambassador for the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation.”

“Beth’s collaboration with her friend the late, great Olivia Newton John was included on Olivia – Just The Two of Us – a special collection released to celebrate Olivia’s career. Their song ‘Stone In My Pocket’, which originally appeared on 2016’s ‘Liv On’ – Olivia’s album with Beth and Amy Sky – is part of 17-track album celebrating Olivia’s duets. Other artists featured include Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey, Barry Gibb, John Travolta, Sir Cliff Richard and more. Her most recent album CrazyTown, charted at Number One on the Official UK Country Chart. Following the album’s release, Beth embarked on a 22-date tour of the UK including to Sunderland.”

Beth was accompanied by Ruth Trimble, who also had been the opening act, on keyboards and another lady on bass and drums. Beth stood centre stage singing songs and accompanying herself on guitar and grand piano. Her songs, all of which were new to me, had a country feel to them. But her repertoire was much broader than that and difficult to categorise. I saw glimpses of Joni Mitchell and Carole King circa Tapestry in her performance. One of the songs “Carrickfergus” was preceded by “My Lagan love” and was sung a cappella. Another “Kiss” had become a big hit for Faith Hill.

Musicians who have performed with Chapman on her albums include: Amy Grant; Bonnie Raitt; Emmylou Harris; John Prine; Michael McDonald; Paul Carrack; Pat Benatar; and Sheryl Crow. Chapman’s songwriting collaborators include Judie Tzuke. This demonstrates the calibre of the lady and some of her influences. She certainly does cross and blend genres.

The introduction of The Fire Station into Sunderland has opened up many new possibilities for me. It allows me to see unfamiliar artists for the first time, artists who I probably would not travel to see. This tempts me to experiment with new genres of music and draws me in to new sounds and performers, many of whom are very pleasant surprises. Beth Nielsen Chapman certainly falls into that category. I purchased an album which Beth and Ruth kindly signed for me (see image). I would certainly go and see her again.

Many thanks to Chris for coming along with me to the concert, taking the photos and navigating the site.

Setlist: (Something like) The Color of Roses; All Around the World; Put a Woman in Charge; 4LeafClover; Sand and Water; All I Have; Walk My Way; All Comes Down to Love; My Lagan Love / Carrickfergus; Epitaph for Love; Cool Kind of Love; How We Love; The Edge; This Kiss; Everywhere We Go; Walk You to Heaven

20 Sep

Hayley Mills in conversation with Christopher Biggins, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, August 18, 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Hayley Mills. Tagged: , , .

I used to go to the Edinburgh Fringe every year to see at least one event. In the past I have seen some marvellous people at the Fringe: a lecture by Brian Eno, Radiohead in concert at Meadowbank Stadium, Patti Smith reads the poetry of Allen Ginsberg accompanied on piano by Philip Glass and several others. I would often drive up in the morning see several events and drive back. Happy times and happy memories.

When I saw the following advertised on the fringe website: “Talking with Christopher Biggins, Hayley takes us back in time to a bygone era, charting a journey from her carefree childhood innocence in post-war Britain, growing up in the shadow of her famous theatrical family, to being propelled into the technicolor boomtown of 1960s Hollywood, where she is mentored to stardom by Walt Disney himself. Afterwards there will be the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Hayley’s autobiography Forever Young and meet Hayley herself.”

Well, how could I resist? Hayley Mills was one of my teenage idols; you might even say a teenage icon for me. Ever since I saw her in the magic movies Whistle Down the Wind and the Parent Trap, I was struck by this young actress, daughter of Sir John Mills.

“Who is it?” (Hayley). “Jesus Christ” (Alan Bates)……

“Let’s get together, yeah yeah yeah;  Why don’t you and I combine; Let’s get together, what do you say; We can have a swingin’ time”.

“Whistle Down the Wind is a 1961 British crime drama film directed by Bryan Forbes and starring Hayley Mills, Bernard Lee, and Alan Bates. ….In 2005, the British Film Institute included it in its list of the 50 films that children should see by the age of 14……Three Lancashire farm children discover a bearded fugitive (the Man/Arthur Blakey) hiding in their barn and mistake him for Jesus Christ. They come to this conclusion because of their Sunday School stories and Blakey’s shocked exclamation of “Jesus Christ!” when Kathy, the eldest child, accidentally discovers him.” (From Wikipedia).

Only a couple of days after witnessing Taylor Swift in London, Jan and I took the train up to Edinburgh on a lovely Sunday morning. Once out of Waverley station, we took a taxi across to the event which was in a beautiful location, complete with a peacock in the garden and a waiter from the hotel (in which Hayley was staying) who came out and offered us drinks. Jan ordered a Pinot Grigio, and I ordered a glass of Jack Daniels with ice. The hotel waiter arrived with a tray and our drinks. Very congenial.

Very shortly we were ushered into the venue and took our seats close to the front. Soon Hayley Mills and Christopher Biggins took to the stage and had a lovely conversation about her times growing up in a family where very famous people were regular visitors: Laurence Olivier, Alec Guinness, Fred Astaire, and others. She talked about her early films and how she was then off to Hollywood and met none other than Walt Disney himself, starring in several of his films.

She talked about her close relationship with her mother, father, and her sister the actor Juliet Mills. In fact, she revealed that she was soon to embark upon a cruise with Juliet, speaking about their lives and memories each evening to guests on the ship. Sounds idyllic.

No sooner than she had started the 1.5 hours was over and we were sadly informed that the books had not arrived on time for Hayley to sign them. Instead, we left our names and addresses with the promise that a signed copy would be sent out to us. By the way, Hayley, I am still waiting for mine :-). So, we never did get to meet Hayley after all. Perhaps for the best. You know what they say about never meeting your heroes. I would have been embarrassed and wouldn’t have known what to say to her anyway.

A taxi, ordered by our friendly waiter from the hotel soon arrive and we moved onwards from the lovely view of the castle down back to Waverley station where we embarked upon our journey home. Soon we were back in Newcastle station, where our taxi waited to take us back home and bedtime for me. A great end to a lovely day spent with a childhood hero, back at the Fringe. Taylor Swift and Hayley Mills within a few days of each other. Magic.

HAY11 Update on 7 October 2024. My signed book arrived today, thank you Hayley! A wonderful keepsake from a magical day spent returning to the Edinburgh Festival and spending a highly enjoyable afternoon with a lifelong hero of mine. The dedication to me makes the book very special. I must remember to return to the Fringe next year! See images of the book, and the dedication from Hayley to me. Happy days.

HAY10

18 Sep

Taylor Swift & Paramore The Eras Tour Wembley Stadium 15 August 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Paramore, Taylor Swift. Tagged: , , , , , , .

Or the day I became a Swifty.

So, Jan, Jackie, Laura, and I travelled to Wembley to experience Taylor Swift mania. Firstly, getting tickets was tricky to say the least. As a wheelchair user I telephoned the Wembley access line and requested a wheelchair ticket plus my companion ticket. That was fine. Part of the job done. The next part of the job was a little more complex. I hadn’t received a code in the ballot to buy tickets, and I required at least one additional ticket for a second carer to accompany me to London. Without a code I was unable to do so. The next possibility was to buy hospitality tickets. I tried to do so but was told that they were all sold, and I was therefore placed on a waiting list.

The saga continues. I was unsure what else I could do at this stage so I simply waited to see if anything would transpire. A couple of weeks later I received an email to inform me that some hospitality tickets had been released. I immediately clicked on the link given to me and was lucky enough to purchase two places in silver hospitality (after all, I should buy two as I could not let a carer be in hospitality on their own, could I?). This meant that I had spent quite a lot of money for the event but at least we were all in! Winner! So, to recap I was in standard, but top price, seats along with my carer, who ended up being Jan on the day. That meant that Jackie and Laura had the joys of silver hospitality! Lots of fun for all.

Come the day, we travelled down to London by train. A bacon roll and a small bottle of red wine made my journey very enjoyable. We were soon in King’s Cross and Passenger Assistance were there as usual, with a ramp to help me disembark the train. A taxi took us all to our hotel for a short rest and then another taxi ride took us to Wembley Stadium. A short walk from the taxi down Wembley Way and we had reached our destination. Jan and I made our way to our seats (which had a very good view of the stage by the way), and Jackie and Laura went to the Bobby Moore suite for their swanky silver hospitality which gave them great seats and a free drink and one free meal. Jan and I were a little jealous! But hey, we were all in, to see Taylor Swift on her Eras Tour, the hottest ticket in town!

From Wikipedia: “The Eras Tour is the ongoing sixth concert tour by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It commenced on March 17, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona and is set to conclude on December 8, 2024, in Vancouver, consisting of 149 shows that span five continents. It is the highest-grossing tour in history, becoming the first tour ever to surpass $1 billion in revenue, and has had a cultural and economic impact across the globe.

Swift announced the Eras Tour in November 2022, following the release of her tenth studio album Midnights (2022), as her second all-stadium tour after the 2018 Reputation Stadium Tour. Running over 3.5 hours, the set list of the Eras Tour consists of over 40 songs grouped into 10 distinct acts that portray all of Swift’s studio albums conceptually; the show was revamped in May 2024 to incorporate her then-new eleventh studio album, The Tortured Poets Department (2024).

The tour received praise from critics, who emphasized the concept, production, aesthetics, and immersive ambience, as Well as Swift’s vocals, stage presence, and versatile showmanship. It recorded unprecedented public demand, ticket sales and attendances, bolstering economies, businesses, and tourism worldwide, dominating social media and news cycles, and garnering tributes and accolades from governments and organizations.”

We arrived just in time to catch some of Paramore’s set. Paramore are an “American rock band formed in Tennessee, in 2004. Since 2017, the band’s lineup includes lead vocalist Hayley Williams, lead guitarist Taylor York, and drummer Zac Farro. Williams and Farro are founding members of the group, while York, a high school friend of the original lineup, joined in 2007. Williams is the only member to appear on all six of Paramore’s studio albums.” (From Wikipedia). I wasn’t familiar with Paramore’s music, but they were quite pleasant, rocky and Hayley Williams is a dynamic lead singer who delivers excellent strong vocals and owns the stage. A great start to the evening.

Paramore Setlist: Hard Times; Burning Down the House; Still into You; Forgiveness; Caught in the Middle; The Only Exception; Misery Business; Ain’t It Fun; This Is Why.

After a short break, during which I replenished myself with a tray of chips and a drink, it was time for the main act to take to the stage. To be perfectly honest, I didn’t know what to expect. I had come along largely because of the hype surrounding the tour and on Laura’s recommendation. Laura is a big Taylor Swift fan and knows all of her repertoire. I, to my shame, did not know any Taylor Swift songs at all! To say I was pleasantly surprised is a massive understatement. This was one of the best performances and concerts I have ever witnessed in my life. From the moment she took to the stage, Taylor Swift was magnificent, and the crowd reaction was unlike anything I have ever seen before in my life.

The introductory music was a favourite song of mine: “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore of “It’s My Party” fame. This was accompanied by a massive clock above the stage which counted us down until the big moment arrived and Taylor Swift appeared. The screams were deafening as she took to the stage and after every song throughout the set, which was over three hours long. I was whisked away on a journey through Taylor’s music. The set followed the eras of Swift’s career (see setlist below), and every song was catchy, magnificent pop music. In my mind I saw glimpses of country music, rock, and pop.

Her performance reminded me in some ways of Bruce Springsteen; in the way in which she interacted with the audience, the authenticity of her performance, and the length of the concert. Sure, the tickets may have been expensive, but they were worth every penny. We certainly got our monies worth. I also saw glimpses of the legendary Jackie DeShannon, which may be crazy, but go to YouTube and watch her performances of “When You Walk in the Room” and “Needles and Pins”, both of which were written by her and made famous in the UK by The Searchers. You may see what I mean; perhaps not. My mind works in strange ways.

Anyway, whatever the influences, Taylor Swift is her own person. Through my mind I thought of other great live performers I have seen over the years: Barbra Streisand, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and others. This performance easily equalled or exceeded each of them. Yes, she really was that great. The whole stadium became part of the performance. Let me explain. When we entered the stadium, we were each given a wristband, which lit up during the show. Some magical technology controlled the wristbands, and the colours changed during the evening.

One block of the stadium might be red, the next blue and so one around the venue. This would then change. The colours would swirl around Wembley, magically matching the colours of the stage set. Sometimes they would all flash; we were all individually part of the show.

At one point towards the end of her concert Taylor Swift was joined by Ed Sheeran to extra-large cheers from the crowd. “Ed Sheeran made a surprise appearance on stage with the pair duetting on ‘Everything Has Changed’ – a song written by Swift and Sheeran together in 2013” (BBC News). All of which added to the excitement of the occasion.

So, as we returned to find a taxi down Wembley Way (which took us over one hour), I was now a convert. By 1 AM we were in the hotel. Next morning the four of us had some breakfast, and soon we were on our train which took us back north and homeward bound. Another bacon butty accompanied by my usual small miniature of red wine, helped me on my way. Soon we were back home, all of us were now converted Swiftys. A wonderful day was had by all.

Taylor Swift Setlist by Eras:

Lover: Miss Americana & the Heartbreak Prince; Cruel Summer; The Man; You Need to Calm Down;

Lover.

Fearless: Fearless; You Belong with Me; Love Story.

Red: 22; We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together; I Knew You Were Trouble; All Too Well.

Speak Now: Enchanted.

Reputation: Ready for It?; Delicate; Don’t Blame Me; Look What You Made Me Do.

Folklore / Evermore: cardigan; betty; champagne problems; august; illicit affairs; my tears ricochet; Marjorie; willow.

1989: Style; Blank Space; Shake It Off; Wildest Dreams; Bad Blood.

THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT:

Female Rage; The Musical; But Daddy I Love Him / So High School; Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?; Down Bad; Fortnight; The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived; I Can Do It With correctly Broken Heart.

Surprise Songs: Everything Has Changed (with Ed Sheeran) / End Game / Thinking Out Loud; King of My Heart / The Alchemy.

Midnights: Lavender Haze; Anti‐Hero; Midnight Rain; Vigilante Shit; Bejeweled; Mastermind; Karma.

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