Posts Tagged ‘concert’

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.

25 Nov

Tom Robinson The Fire Station Sunderland 6 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Rob Green, Tom Robinson. Tagged: , , , , , , .

Tom Robinson and I go back a long way. The Tom Robinson Band are often overlooked when the history of punk and new wave is written. That’s a shame, because they were one of the best live acts of the period, and their songs contained all of the necessary political messages of the time. I first saw them live in the early days, probably 1977, at Middlesbrough Rock Garden. It was probably only about half full, and the punks and skinheads were very unsure as to how to take an openly gay singer but managed some quite nervous singing along to “Glad to be Gay”.

Tom Robinson must have had some nerve, it was quite a brave thing to do, to go out and sing that anthem in clubs packed with punk and skins, many of whom had strong right-wing views. I was impressed by TRB that night, although it was the first time that I was seeing the band, and I hadn’t heard any of the songs before, it was obvious that they were strong pop songs, with political messages and great hooks.

The first, and classic, line-up of the band was Tom Robinson (vocals, bass), Danny Kustow (guitar), Mark Ambler (keyboards) and Dolphin Taylor (drums). The other band members were all an important part of the mix, particularly Danny Kustow; his guitar playing was excellent and his passion, energy, and presence matched Tom’s. And they had a clutch of great tunes, many of which ended up on the first Tom Robinson album, which is one of the strongest debuts of the time.

Most people remember the big hit single “2-4-6-8 Motorway”, but there were better tracks on the album including the call to arms: “Up Against the Wall” and “The Winter of ’79”, the simply excellent catchy “Long Hot Summer” and title track “Power in the Darkness”. The big live favourites were the sing-along chirpy ode to a big brother “Martin” (just listened to it on YouTube and it sounds as good as it ever did) and “Glad to be Gay” which seemed to be playing everywhere I went in 1977 and 1978.

I saw the Tom Robinson band at a triumphant concert at Newcastle City Hall on 27th September 1978 and also at Reading festival 1978 and at Sunderland Mayfair on 28th March 1979. By the time of the Sunderland gig both Ambler and Dolphin had left the band, and things were never going to be the same. The Tom Robinson band split in 1979, shortly after the 1979 tour and the release of their second, and much less successful, album. Support at the City Hall gig was the excellent Stiff Little Fingers. In those days I would always watch support acts as they often went on to greater things.

The Fire Station website stated: “A tour of songs from the albums POWER IN THE DARKNESS and TRB TWO. The first Tom Robinson Band emerged amid the turmoil of late 70s Britain – in a time of punk rock, political unrest, and economic gloom. TRB became known for the hit single 2-4-6-8 Motorway, their vocal support of Rock Against Racism and for the anthem Sing If You’re Glad To Be Gay, which made the Top Twenty despite a ban by BBC Radio 1.”

“The original TRB consisted of Robinson on bass and vocals, drummer Dolphin Taylor, keyboardist Mark Ambler and their incendiary guitarist Danny Kustow – who died early in 2019 at the age of 63. They made just two albums – Power In The Darkness and TRB TWO and ended – like the Seventies – just as Margaret Thatcher swept to power. The current Tom Robinson Band will play a 23-date tour in October/November 2024 showcasing those first two albums, in tribute to the original band members. The setlist has been chosen by fans via an online poll [I was not aware of this!] and will include some album tracks from the era that have never previously been performed live.”

“Alongside Robinson on lead vocals and bass, the band features Faithless drummer Andy Treacey, guitarist Adam Phillips from the Richard Ashcroft Band, keyboard virtuoso Jim Simmons and Northern soul singer Lee Forsyth Griffiths on acoustic guitar. “45 years on,” says Tom “some of the original TRB lyrics – about division, injustice and uncertainty – still feel depressingly relevant in a world of Trump, Farage & Suella Braverman. I also owe a huge amount to the musicianship of Mark, Dolphin, and Danny back in the day. We’re hoping to do that early band – and the songs – full justice this Autumn.”

Support came from Rob Green who delivered a rousing performance which warmed the crowd up for the main act. But everyone was waiting for one thing. To see their hero from all those years ago. Would he be as strong and outspoken as ever? What would Tom Robinson 2024 be like? We were soon to find out. And we were pleasantly surprised. He looked and sounded great.

Roll-on almost 50 years since I first saw Tom Robinson and he sounds as passionate and uncompromising as ever. He spits out the vocals with as much rage as he did in 1978. He starts with (as you would expect) “2 – 4 – 6 – 8 Motorway”, followed swiftly by the anthem “Glad to be Gay” with everyone singing along just as was “back in the day”. The crowd knew all the songs.

And so those classic songs continued. Many told the story of Tom’s young life: “Grey Cortina” was about his car and the fun he had in it, “Martin” was about his brother. Everyone sang “Martin” back to him. They had obviously seen this guy before in the late 70s. I often wondered if the story of Martin was really true. “Long Hot Summer” is a classic pop song.

To summarise the guy recreated the music and the songs just as they were all those years ago. The crowd knew them all and sang them well. He seems as uncompromising and angry as he ever was. It is great that some things never change. And thus so it should be. Another great performer returns to this great hometown venue and puts on a magnificent performance.

Many thanks to Elaine for the photographs and to Chris for manipulating the site. Some of the pictures come from Wikimedia Commons and my old programme and LP.

Setlist included: 2-4-6-8 Motorway; Glad to Be Gay; Up Against the Wall; Grey Cortina; Ain’t Gonna Take It; The Winter of ’79; Martin; Power in the Darkness; Bully for You; Long Hot Summer; Blue Murder; Days of Rage.

“The British Police are the best in the world
I don’t believe one of these stories I’ve heard
‘Bout them raiding our pubs for no reason at all
Lining the customers up by the wall
Picking out people and knocking them down
Resisting arrest as they’re kicked on the ground
Searching their houses and calling them queer
I don’t believe that sort of thing happens here
Sing if you’re glad to be gay
Sing if you’re happy that way”
(Tom Robinson, 1976)

25 Nov

The South Stockton Arc 5 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in The South. Tagged: , , , .

So, when the Beautiful South split up that was not the end for some of the band. In fact, the rest of the band continued, recreating all of those beautiful hit songs. And thus I was enticed down to Stockton Arc to see how well the south would check out. Carer Jan and I made the trip down to Stockton on a Saturday night to see The South.

The Arc website proclaimed the show thus: “The South are an impressive 9-piece band that features former members of The Beautiful South, including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. They play the songs made famous by The Beautiful South and bring back the full flavour and arrangements with this exciting live band.”

“The South are keeping alive all those timeless songs such as A Little Time, Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Old Red Eyes is Back, Good as Gold, Don’t Marry Her, plus many more singles and album track; these songs span an impressive 20-year career starting way back in 1989!
Come on! Let’s Carry On… Regardless!”

And from the South website which explains the evolution even better: “When great British pop institution, The Beautiful South split in 2007, some members of the band didn’t feel ready to hang up their microphones or instruments just yet… Two years later, singers Dave Hemingway and Alison Wheeler, alongside lifelong members Damon Butcher (keys), Gaz Birtles (sax) and Tony Robinson (trumpet), came out of retirement and formed the 9-piece band, The South. And so The South embarked on their journey. Celebrating the Beautiful South legacy and great songs of their own, the band continues performing the classic songs.”

“Fast forward to 2017 and it’s all change. Dave Hemingway has announced his retirement from the live music scene, Damon Butcher now resides in Ireland thereby leaving the band and Tony Robinson has moved on to pastures new. It was time for The South to regroup and have a rethink. With the support from their amazing fans, they were encouraged to strive onwards. Right under their nose was an obvious choice. Up stepped long time sax player Gaz Birtles to take centre stage and take over the male vocal duties.”

Quite complicated. To summarise the female vocals are now taken up by former backing vocalist Alison Wheeler while the male vocals are taken on by saxophone player Gaz Birtles. And they do a pretty good job of it to. And so we get all of the classic chart singles: “A Little Time”, “Rotterdam”, “Don’t Marry Her”, “Perfect 10” and “You Keep It All In”. Of course it isn’t the same but hey it is a pretty damn good show which we both really enjoyed. Great to hear all those hits again.

Onward to see Paul Heaton at Newcastle Arena in the New Year. Thanks to Jan for the photographs and to Chris for manipulating the site as usual.

Setlist: From Under the Covers; One Last Love Song; A Little Time; Dumb; My Book; Blackbird on the Wire; The Lure of the Sea; The Table; Prettiest Eyes; Baby Please Go; Song for Whoever; Pretenders to the Throne; Old Red Eyes Is Back; Livin’ Thing; Rotterdam; Woman in the Wall; How Long’s a Tear Take to Dry; We Are Each Other; Don’t Marry Her; Perfect 10; You Keep It All In.

Encore: I’ll Sail This Ship Alone; Good as Gold (Stupid as Mud).

24 Nov

Nik Kershaw: The 1984 Tour The Fire Station Sunderland 4 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Nik Kershaw. Tagged: , , , , .

The Fire Station website announced this show: ”Step back in time to 1984 as Nik and the band hit the road celebrating 40 years since the release of Human Racing and The Riddle with both epic albums being played in their entirety! Nik Kershaw exploded onto the UK pop scene in 1984 as a solo artist. A string of global hit singles – including ‘Wouldn’t it Be Good’, ‘The Riddle’ and his biggest hit, ‘I Won’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me’ – helped to propel him to 62 weeks on the UK Singles Chart through 1984 and 1985 – beating every other solo artist, together with performing at Live Aid.”

“After stepping out of the limelight to concentrate on writing and producing, Nik wrote Chesney Hawkes’s ‘The One And Only’ and has collaborated with Elton John (including writing and producing one of the songs on the Duets album), Sia, Gary Barlow and Bonnie Tyler , whilst continuing to release his own well-reviewed studio albums, featuring his distinctive voice and highly personal lyrics.”

Now it was actually in 1984 that I last saw Nik Kershaw at Newcastle City Hall. Nik was very busy during that year. I saw him at a massive Elton John concert at Wembley Stadium that summer, and on his winter tour, when he called at Newcastle City Hall. His backing band (who even had their own billing on the ticket!) were known as The Krew, and consisted of local Sunderland lad, and old friend, Keith Airey on guitar, along with Tim Moore, Mark Price, and Dennis Smith.

The 1984 tour was to promote the album The Riddle. The song “The Riddle” is quite a strangely structured, but also very catchy song, a great favourite of mine at the time, and remains so to this day. I remember the City Hall concert being packed and big singalongs. I also saw him, for the last time until recently at the massive Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium in 1985. Happy memories.

And so to the present day and The Fire Station concert. Nik Kershaw looked very smart and very much the same as I remember him, perhaps the hair is a little greyer, but the guy is still full of energy and delivered a magnificent performance which was in two parts. The first set focused on the album The Riddle. The second set focused on the album Human Racing.

Although many of the songs were lost in the depths of my memories somewhere, several were familiar with me. My favourite “The Riddle” still has its lovely melody complete with fascinating twists and turns. “Wouldn’t it Be Good” was well as good (pun intended) as ever, as was “I Won’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”. The guy still sounds great, and his backing band was excellent.

The encore finished with “The One and Only” which I had forgotten that Nik had written for Chesney Hawkes (I always thought that it was written by his father Chip Hawkes of the Tremelos). A great end to an impressive performance. The memories rolled back 40 years. Nostalgia is a wonderful thing, particularly at my age.

Many thanks to Jackie for taking the photographs, to The Fire Station for another excellent night out and to Joanne for manipulating the site.

Setlist:
The Riddle Set: Roses; Know How; Wide Boy; City of Angels; Easy; Don Quixote; Wild Horses; You Might; Save the Whale; The Riddle.
Human Racing Set: Cloak and Dagger; Human Racing; Bogart; Dancing Girls; Shame on You; Gone to Pieces; Wouldn’t It Be Good; Faces; Drum Talk; I Won’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me
Encore: When a Heart Beats; The Sky’s the Limit; The One and Only.

“Near a tree by a river, There’s a hole in the ground, Where an old man of Aran, Goes around and around, And his mind is a beacon, In the veil of the night, For a strange kind of fashion, There’s a wrong and a right, But he’ll never, never fight over you” (The Riddle, Nik Kershaw, 1984).

20 Nov

Fairground Attraction The Glasshouse Gateshead 3 October 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Fairground Attraction. Tagged: , , , , .

Another band I never got to see in back in the day. However Fairground Attraction reformed for one tour, so I figured it was time to put matters right and go to see the band. After all their smash hit “Perfect” is pretty great.

The Glasshouse website advertised the event thus: “Authentic. Enchanting. Captivating melodies and a timeless charm. Experience the long-awaited reunion of Fairground Attraction on their 14-date UK tour. After 35 years, all four original members unite to captivate audiences with their timeless hits.”

“There is no other band like Fairground Attraction – their use of the guitarrón (a large, Mexican acoustic bass), played by Simon Edwards, gives the bottom end of their records a warmth and character that combines with drummer Roy Dodds, Mark Nevin and Eddi Reader to create a charming acoustic antidote to all that is modern and digital.”

“I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to be back together, making music again. I think we had all given up hope that it would ever happen a long time ago. It is almost spooky, as though we are ghosts, who have come back to life, but something happens between us when we play together; time evaporates, and it could all have been yesterday.” Mark Nevin

Well, I greatly enjoyed the event. The Glasshouse was quite full and the music excellent. Although I only knew one song, that is of course, “Perfect” it was a really good evening of entertainment. I have tickets to see Eddi Reader in the New Year at Sunderland Fire Station and look forward to that. Should be good.

Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and Jan for manipulating the site. Apologies for the brevity of the review and those that follow but I really do need to work hard to catch up.

Setlist: (something like) A Hundred Years of Heartache; A Smile in a Whisper; Miracles; Hey Little Brother; The Simple Truth / The Wind Knows My Name; The Moon Is Mine; Sing Anyway; Comedy Waltz; Gatecrashing Heaven; Find My Love; Last Night (Was A Sweet One); Learning to Swim; Whispers; Sun And Moon; What’s Wrong With the World; Moon on the Rain; Clare; Fairground Attraction; Perfect; Beautiful Happening.
Encore: Allelujah; Walking After Midnight; Fear Is the Enemy of Love.

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