Posts Tagged ‘punk’

17 Mar

Toyah & Robert Fripp Christmas Party The Firestation Sunderland 17 December 2024


Posted by vintagerock in Robert Fripp, Toyah. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

Seeing Toyah and Robert Fripp live is always an experience, and their set at the Firestation was no exception. An evening of pure entertainment—blending musical brilliance, theatrical energy, and an undeniable sense of fun. Toyah has always been a powerhouse performer, and Fripp, well… he’s one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Together, they make for an unlikely but utterly compelling duo.

I first saw Toyah perform in the early ‘80s, at the height of her punk/new wave fame, when she was a force of nature on stage. I remember being struck by her sheer presence commanding the crowd with “It’s a Mystery” and “I Want to Be Free”, two anthems that still resonate today. Fast forward to more recent years, and I saw her again with Robert Fripp as they began touring together, blending their respective musical worlds. That show was a surreal mix of Toyah’s theatricality and Fripp’s intricate, almost otherworldly guitar work a partnership that, despite seeming like an odd pairing on paper, works brilliantly in practice.

At this most recent gig, the duo took to the stage with their signature blend of high-energy rock, nostalgia, and cheeky humour. Toyah, ever the performer, was full of charisma, striding across the stage in a dazzling outfit, engaging with the crowd like she was born to do it (which, of course, she was). Fripp, sitting in his usual composed stance, let his guitar do the talking—delivering those unmistakable King Crimson-style flourishes with effortless precision.

I first saw Robert Fripp in King Crimson in 1974 at Newcastle Odeon, at which he performed the Red album, along with the encore “21st-century schizoid man” I saw him perform with the magnificent Crimson many years later at the Usher Hall Edinburgh. The lineup was very different but his guitar playing remained impeccable.

From the opening number “Rebel Yeah”, it was clear this was going to be a set full of fan favourites. “Thunder in the Mountains” sounded just as thrilling as it did back in the day, was delivered with a theatrical grandeur that few performers could pull off quite like Toyah.

Of course, the real joy of a Toyah & Fripp show is the unexpected moments, and this gig delivered plenty. Their now-infamous Sunday Lunch covers have given them a whole new audience, and it was fantastic to see them incorporate some of those into the set. Their version of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” was as fun as it was ferocious, while “Heroes”, a song close to Fripp’s heart, given his guitar work on the original Bowie track, was simply spellbinding.

The partnership is somewhat bizarre, but it somehow works: Toyah the punk Queen and Robert the quiet guitar hero. I believe that for part of the year he lives in New York and she in London. Yet when they come together their partnership is stronger than ever. This is clearly the case when you see them perform such as this evening.

Then came the crowd-pleaser of all crowd-pleasers, “It’s a Mystery”. The moment those opening notes rang out, the audience erupted. It’s a song that has remained iconic for over 40 years, and seeing Toyah belt it out with such energy and enthusiasm made it feel as fresh as ever.

Toyah closed the evening with a great version of Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll ”. And the girl clearly does. Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and Laura and to Chris for helping me put together the blog entry. Treated myself to a couple of signed prints. Toyah & Robert Fripp continue to prove that music should be fun, fearless, and, above all, full of life. Long may they keep bringing their unique brand of rock and theatricality to the stage!

Setlist: (something like) Thunder in the Mountains; Are You Gonna Go My Way (Lenny Kravitz); Echo Beach (Martha and the Muffins); Paranoid (Black Sabbath); It’s a Mystery; Fashion (David Bowie co written by Fripp); Sunshine of Your Love (Cream); Heart of Glass (Blondie); Sweet Child o’ Mine (Gunz and Roses); Roses in Chains; Sharp Dressed Man (ZZ Top); Enter Sandman (Metallica); Rockin’ in the Free World (Neil Young); Rebel Yell (Billy Idol); I Want to Be Free; Merry Xmas Everybody (Slade); Heroes (David Bowie co written by Fripp); I Love Rock’n’Roll (Joan Jett / The Arrows).

9 Mar

Punishment of Luxury, The Georgian Theatre, Stockton, 6 December 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Bones Park Rider, Cazimi, Punishment of Luxury. Tagged: , , , , , , , , .

For a band with such an unmistakable identity, Punishment of Luxury remains something of an underground treasure. Born out of the North East’s late-70s punk and post-punk scene, they were never quite part of the mainstream punk explosion, nor did they slot neatly into the new wave movement that followed. Instead, Punilux carved out a unique, theatrical, and often surreal space of their own—combining angular, spiky guitars with performance art, dystopian themes, and a real sense of the absurd.
From the Georgian Theatre website: “From a background working in experimental music and English fringe theatre groups, Punishment Of Luxury formed in December of 1976, in Gateshead. Taking their name from a postcard sent to Nev from Rob Meek of a painting by Giovanni Segantini, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool.

Brian met Nev when he visited him at the locally famous Walker Terrace, Gateshead and the band was formed; Nevilluxury (Neville Atkinson – guitar, vocals), Brian Bond (Brian Rapkin -vocals and keyboard (move (James Mario Davis -bass guitar, vocals), “Liquid” Les ( Les Denham-drums) and then Red Helmet (Mick Emerson- guitar, vocals).….

…… The band recorded their debut single, “Puppet Life” and this was released on the Small Wonder label in July 1978. In 1979 they signed to United Artists and released the singles “Jellyfish ” and “Brain Bomb”, and then the album, Laughing Academy, in the summer of 1979.” In the same year I saw them play at the Reading Festival on the opening (Friday) night after The Cure (who were playing low down on the bill) and before Motorhead, the Tourists and The Police who headlined that night. That was the year in which punk rock finally arrived at Reading.

Cazimi from Sunderland and Bones Park Rider from Sheffield were the support bands. I managed to catch the two of them, watching them from a lovely vantage point on the balcony which has plenty of room for wheelchair access. They were both great support acts and warmed the crowd up well for the crazy theatrics which was to follow. From their official site: “From Sunderland and Newcastle, Cazimi are a trio of post-punk misfits that play in-between music. They have been described as “Not so much the illegitimate sons, but the genetically engineered progeny of luminaries such as Magazine, The Bunnymen, The Stranglers, Hawkwind, Killing Joke, John Barry and Erik Satie”. Bullshit? Maybe.”

From their official site: “BONES PARK RIDER are widely regarded as one of the most exciting and proficient bands to emerge from Sheffield’s thriving underground music scene. Known for their fiercely energetic stage show and intelligent, skin-tight, textured songs, the seasoned four-piece conjure a rare and varied brand of alternative, high-octane rock n roll. BPR formed in 2009 with a mission to encapsulate the vibrancy and immediacy of ’78(ish) era alternative guitar bands. A myriad of influences and original thinking has set them apart, and the band has made a name for itself through its blistering stage show and run of very well received records.”

From the moment they took to the stage, it was clear that Punishment of Luxury still has that same edge. Neville Luxury, ever the theatrical frontman, delivered each song with an intensity that blurred the line between performance and provocation. The staccato rhythms, jerky movements, and surreal, almost nightmarish delivery were all still intact, giving the night a strange, otherworldly atmosphere. Although there were no costumes this time, the strange arm movements were the same as back in the late 1970s.

Hearing “Puppet Life” live was a reminder of just how ahead of its time it was. Released in 1978, it became a cult classic, picked up by John Peel, and still sounds as urgent and experimental today as it did then. Funk-meets-punk basslines, mechanical guitar lines, and absurdist lyrics … it could have been made yesterday, yet it still retains the raw, DIY spirit of the late ’70s.

Highlights included “Brain Bomb”, which brought chanted, robotic vocals over an almost Kraftwerk-esque rhythm. “Jellyfish”, with its twisting, unpredictable shifts, was another standout moment, like a punk band fronted by a dystopian theatre troupe although, somewhat disappointingly, the band did not have the strange theatrical set-up and presentation that I’d seen in the past.

I first saw Punishment of Luxury back in 1978, when they were still an emerging force in the local scene. That year alone, I caught them a few times, including a packed gig at Newcastle University Canteen and a support slot for Penetration at Newcastle City Hall. Even then, they stood apart from other punk and post-punk acts—their theatrical background gave their live shows an almost unsettling, performance-art feel, something completely different from the raw aggression of other punk bands of the time. I’m sure I remember them performing entirely concealed by a curtain, just silhouettes visible.

Their blend of art-rock, jagged rhythms, and absurdist storytelling was truly distinctive. While many of their contemporaries leaned into the political or nihilistic, Punilux embraced the bizarre and unsettling—making them one of the most unique bands to emerge from the Northeast in the punk era.

Whilst I’d have loved to see the theatrical performances of the past, silhouettes, and all, I was pleased to get a chance to catch this band again. it was clear that they remain one of the most fascinating, unconventional bands to emerge from the Northeast. Their legacy might be cult, but it’s one that has endured for decades—and on nights like this, it’s easy to see why. For those of us who were lucky enough to see them in their prime, it was a brilliant flashback. For those experiencing them for the first time, it was a reminder of how uniquely different and special they were. The final image is from the Georgian Theatre website. Many thanks to Jackie for taking the photographs and to Chris and Laura for preparing the entry.

25 Feb

Hugh Cornwell & eXTC The Fire Station, Sunderland, 23 November 2024

Posted by vintagerock in eXTC, Hugh Cornwell, Stranglers, XTC. Tagged: , , , , , , .

Seeing Hugh Cornwell perform live is a reminder of just how much of an impact he has had on British music. As the driving force behind The Stranglers, a band I have seen on many occasions, Cornwell was responsible for writing and singing some of their most iconic tracks, from “No More Heroes” to “Golden Brown”. Even after leaving the band, he has carved out an impressive solo career, continuing to release sharp, inventive, and often darkly humorous albums. This Fire Station gig was a showcase of both his classic Stranglers material and his solo work, proving that he still has the same energy and presence that made him one of punk and new wave’s most distinctive voices.

Opening the night was eXTC, a band dedicated to keeping the music of XTC alive, led by original drummer Terry Chambers. XTC were always a fascinating band, shifting from their early punky, jerky rhythms to their later, more sophisticated pop sound. I was lucky enough to see them several times at Newcastle University and Newcastle Mayfair between 1978 and 1981, back when they were still actively touring.

It was great to hear their music performed live once again, especially songs like “Making Plans for Nigel” and “Senses Working Overtime”, which have stood the test of time. Though Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding are absent, Steve Hampton does a solid job on vocals, capturing the essence of the originals without attempting a carbon copy. The set ended on a high with “Generals and Majors”, a perfect example of XTC’s ability to blend catchy melodies with clever, biting lyrics.

And then came Hugh. The first part of the set focused on Cornwell’s solo work, much of it taken from his latest album Moments of Madness, as well as older solo tracks. “Coming Out of the Wilderness” and “Too Much Trash” set the tone early, blending his signature garage rock edge with lyrics full of wry observations. His distinctive, slightly menacing vocal delivery was in full force on “Delightful Nightmare” and “Totem” while other tracks showed his ability to weave together melody, tension, and biting wit.

Then came the Stranglers material, and the atmosphere shifted—the crowd was suddenly buzzing with recognition as “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” kicked in. The highlights came thick and fast: “Golden Brown”, played with a delicate, almost hypnotic quality, “Duchess”, with its sharp new wave swagger, and “Nuclear Device”, which still sounds as urgent and rebellious as ever. He closed the set with “Wrong Way Round”, proving that he’s still more than capable of delivering something fresh and unpredictable.

It’s always a pleasure to see musicians with real pedigree still performing at such a high level. Hugh Cornwell remains a master of his craft, able to command the stage with an understated confidence, whether delivering spiky solo material or revisiting Stranglers classics. Meanwhile, eXTC provided a nostalgic yet powerful reminder of just how great XTC were—a band that, for all their quirks and oddities, left a lasting legacy on British music. This was a night of true veterans, proving that their music still holds as much weight today as it ever did.

Many thanks to Jan for the photographs and Laura and Chris for manipulating the site.

eXTC Setlist: This Is Pop, Statue of Liberty, Sgt. Rock (Is Going to Help Me), Towers of London, Senses Working Overtime, Ball and Chain, The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead, Rocket From a Bottle, Living Through Another Cuba, Generals and Majors, Making Plans for Nigel.

Hugh Cornwell Setlist: Coming Out of the Wilderness, Too Much Trash, Nice ‘n’ Sleazy, Wrong Side of the Tracks, Delightful Nightmare, Golden Brown, Totem and Taboo, Bad Vibrations, Dead Loss Angeles, Moments of Madness, When I Was a Young Man, Tank, Pure Evil, Mr. Leather, Nuclear Device, Another Kind of Love, Duchess, Live it and Breathe it, Wired, Big Bug, Mothra, Wrong Way Round.

20 Feb

The Skids & Spear of Destiny, Wylam Brewery, Newcastle, 21 November 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Skids, Spear of Destiny. Tagged: , , , , , .

There’s always a mix of excitement and nostalgia when going to see a band you first watched over forty years ago. The Skids were one of the most explosive and unforgettable live acts I saw in my youth, back when punk and new wave were at their peak. The memories of their gigs at Middlesbrough Rock Garden in 1979 and Newcastle City Hall later that year are still burned into my mind—packed venues, wild pogoing crowds, and anthemic singalongs to “Into the Valley” and “The Saints Are Coming”. It was raw, chaotic, and thrilling.

Fast forward to 2024, and The Skids, now fronted only by Richard Jobson, after the sad passing of guitarist Stuart Adamson were back, sharing a bill with Spear of Destiny at Wylam Brewery. Would they still have the same fire, or would this be a gentle nod to the past? The answer became clear as soon as they hit the stage: The Skids may be older, but they’ve lost none of their energy.

Before The Skids took the stage, we were treated to a short but intense set from Spear of Destiny. Led by the ever-charismatic Kirk Brandon, who I last saw as front man for his previous band, Theatre of Hate, their sound was just as grand and dramatic as I remembered seeing Kirk in his previous band. They worked through a tight selection of tracks, including “Rainmaker”, “Liberator”, “Mickey”, and “World Service”. Though it was a short set, it was enough to remind everyone why they were such a force in the 80s post-punk scene.

Richard Jobson took to the stage with all the energy of a frontman half his age, delivering a performance that was both nostalgic and full of life. His voice still carries that unique Scottish edge, and his stage presence remains as boisterous and animated as ever. They opened with “Animation”, immediately setting the tone for the night. As the first chords of “Thanatos” rang out, it became clear that this wouldn’t be a polite run-through of old hits—it was going to be a proper Skids gig.

Hearing tracks from Days in Europa, which was celebrating its 45th anniversary, was a highlight. “A Day in Europa” and “Dulce Et Decorum Est (Pro Patria Mori)” were performed with all the theatrical intensity and pounding rhythms that made the original album such a standout. “Masquerade” and “Charade” still sounded fresh, and “The Olympian” was a reminder of just how forward-thinking their sound was at the time.

Then came the big anthems, the ones everyone had been waiting for. “The Saints Are Coming” was an absolute standout, and “Into the Valley” turned Wylam Brewery into a massive, bouncing singalong. There was a real sense of community in the crowd, everyone revelling in the nostalgia of a song that, decades later, still feels like a battle cry.

They rounded off the set with “TV Stars”, a song that used to be a chaotic highlight of their early gigs, with the crowd chanting the now-famous roll call of “Albert Tatlock!”. It was rowdy, fun, and exactly what a Skids gig should be.For the encore, they returned with “A Woman in Winter”, a beautifully melancholic contrast to the power of the rest of the set. It was a perfect way to close the night.

There’s something incredibly special about seeing a band like The Skids in a small, intimate venue like Wylam Brewery. It brought me right back to those wild late-70s gigs, but with the added appreciation of just how well these songs have held up. Richard Jobson may be the only original member left, but his passion for these songs hasn’t faded one bit. The Skids are still a band worth seeing, not just for the nostalgia, but because they remain a genuinely great live act.

As I walked out into the Newcastle night, I couldn’t help but think back to Middlesbrough Rock Garden in 1979, when the gig was so packed we could barely move, and fights were breaking out all around us. Things were a little more civilised at Wylam Brewery, but the spirit of The Skids was still there, loud and defiant, 45 years later.

Treated myself to a copy of the lyrics to “Charade” signed by Richard Jobson himself (see image). Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and to Laura and Natalie for helping me create the blog entry.
Setlist: Animation, Thanatos, Charade, Pros and Cons, Working for the Yankee Dollar, The Olympian, Masquerade, A Day in Europa, The Saints Are Coming, Into the Valley, Circus Games, TV Stars, Dulce Et Decorum Est (Pro Patria Mori), Grey Parade, Hurry On Boys.
Encore: A Woman in Winter

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)

28 Apr

Interzone featuring Peter Hook and the Light, The Wedding Present, The Farm & Others Newcastle City Hall 13 April 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Peter Hook, Peter Hook & the Light, The Farm, The Wedding Present, Theatre of Hate, Tom Hingley & the Kar-Pets. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

inter0This was a Mini festival of music which started at 4:30 PM! As I had other commitments on the afternoon I could not make the start of the show. I went along at around 7:30 PM just in time to catch the end of The Farm’s set which was of course “All Together Now” (In No Man’s Land).

INTER1A massive singalong and a great introduction to our evening. Sadly, we had already missed Theatre of Hate, a band I have fond memories of seeing in the early 80s and Tom Hingley & the Kar-Pets (Tom was a member of Inspiral Carpets). Nevertheless, there was still plenty of great music to go.

 

INTER2Next up was the Wedding Present who were one of my main reasons for attending, the other being to see Peter Hook and his new (to me, anyway) band. My friend, Ciaran, had recommended the Wedding Present to me and I was more than pleasantly surprised by them. I had heard of this band, of course, but I have never got round to going to see them. Big mistake. They were excellent. The main man, who leads the band and is the sole original member and driving force is David Gedge. “I’ve always thought that The Wedding Present was an inappropriate name for a pop band — more like a poem, or a book or something — and therefore quite attractive (to me!). I’ve also always been fascinated by weddings..” (Gedge, courtesy of Wikipedia)

INTER3They were very loud, fast; reminiscent of the noise of The Birthday Party (Nick Cave’s first band); and David’s favourite band at the time of their formation. David is a very charismatic front man. The songs were unfamiliar to me but I greatly enjoyed each of them. Shades of punk and the Clash ran through my mind. They played a lovely loud, fast version of “Make Me Smile (Come up and See Me)” as a tribute to the late, great, sadly missed Steve Harley. Thanks Ciaran for the recommendation. I must see them again.

inter10I have seen Peter Hook several times over the years. Firstly, with the pre-Joy Division band Warsaw, then the legendary Joy Division themselves and several times with New Order. I also saw him in an intimate book launch show where he talked about his career, demonstrated his different bass guitars and signed copies of his book (which I purchased and stored away upstairs in my hoarder’s vault):. As expected, Peter was centre-stage, bass low down almost on his knee (although not quite as low down as it used to be, perhaps) and delivered an excellent set including many Joy Division classics.

INTER5One welcome surprise came a few songs into the set. Peter declared (something like this): “I played my second ever gig in this hall. Our first gig, when we were called Warsaw, before we transformed into Joy Division, was in Manchester and we were playing with north-east band Penetration. They kindly offered to let us play with them the following night here so we came up and supported Penetration and the Adverts in this very hall”. Well, you were almost right, Peter, but I was at that concert and I am 100% certain that it was not in the City Hall but it was in the old Guildhall down by the Quayside.

inter9I remember this particular concert very well. I followed Penetration, and many other punk bands at the time, and met Gary, from Penetration by chance outside the Guildhall. He said something like “We were playing in Manchester last night and met this new great band Warsaw. We invited them up to play here tonight”. The lineup was (in order of appearance): Warsaw, Harry Hack and the Big G (local Newcastle punk band), Penetration and headliners the Adverts, featuring Gaye) Advert on base and vocalist and bandleader TV Smith, had just had a hit with “Gary Gilmore’s eyes” (Gary Gilmore was an American killer who was executed in 1976 and the song is about a guy who wakes up in hospital having had an eye transplant and realises he has been given Gilmore’s eyes!) Crazy or what?.

INTER4My recollection of Warsaw is very sketchy but I did watch them and thought they were a reasonable new fast punk band. I almost shouted from my vantage point on the wheelchair platform “No Peter it was the Guildhall” but I was too reserved to do so and anyway I don’t think he would have heard me. I have a flyer for the gig somewhere but it doesn’t mention Warsaw at all as they were a late addition to the bill. Peter Hook then proceeded to play a Warsaw song which I’m afraid I did not recognise but sound quite good. Peter also dedicated a song to Steve Harley; the guy is much missed they ended their set with a brilliant rendition of “Love Will Tear us Apart”. Another fantastic singalong.

inter8

So, my perspective of Interzone was very positive. Pity I missed the other bands. Pity I bought myself a signed Theatre of Hate poster and a Wedding Present book, signed by leading man David Gedge (both pictured). Great memorabilia to add to my hoarder’s collection and memories of a fun night. Thanks to Jan for the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site.

inter7Peter Hook & the Light Setlist: No Love Lost; Exercise One; Digital; Warsaw; Reaction; Inside the Line; Ice Age; Novelty;     Disorder; New Dawn Fades; She’s Lost Control; Shadowplay; Isolation; Twenty Four Hours;   Atmosphere; Ceremony; Transmission; Love Will Tear Us Apart

23 Mar

Stiff Little Fingers & Glen Matlock O2 City Hall Newcastle 15 March 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Glen Matlock, Stiff Little Fingers. Tagged: , , , , , , .

STIFF0It is many years since I last saw Stiff Little Fingers. I seem to recall seeing them at Newcastle City Hall on their farewell tour, in the mid–1980s, supported by (I think) James (or did I dream that?). Somewhere along the line the band reformed, fronted by original member Jake Burns. Roll back a few years more and I remember witnessing their first Newcastle concert at the Guildhall in 1978 when they were supported by local punk heroes The Angelic Upstarts.

slf2There was a lot of trouble that night as I recall. Keith Bell, a.k.a. The Sheriff, the manager of the Upstarts stood at the front of the stage keeping the crowd in order. This was at the time of their first album Inflammable Material and great songs such as “Suspect Device” and “Alternative Ulster”. So, roll forward almost 45 years and I am trying to make up for lost time, going to a SLF concert again. The band is once again fronted by Jake Burns. Perfect.

slf6“In 2006, original bassist Ali McMordie returned to the fold, and the line-up has settled to the best ever; Jake Burns on lead vocals and guitar, Ali McMordie on bass, Ian McMallun on guitar, and Steve Grantley on drums. Though focused on their new material, they always play the old favorites at gigs. Jake said, “You have to strike a balance. The difficulty with a band like ourselves is to try not make it sound like a cabaret band.

slf4Obviously, it’d be very easy to go, ‘Hey, here’s another old one you may remember.’ A lot of the old songs the audience greet like old friends. I suppose it’s the same as any band that’s been around for any length of time. And yes, there are nights that we don’t particularly want to play “Alternative Ulster” or “Suspect Device” because we’ve heard them ’til they’re coming out our ears. But there’s always the possibility that somebody out there has never seen the band before, never heard them.”” (From SLF website).

slf5Support came from Glen Matlock, original Sex Pistol, who played a collection of his own songs, “Blank Generation” by Richard Hell, a Rich Kids song which was unfamiliar to me and “Pretty Vacant”. An excellent opening to the proceedings.

“Stiff Little Fingers formed in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1977 during the height of “The Troubles” and the early stages of the punk movement. In February 1978, in jest and as a very shrewd marketing move, the band made tapes of their inaugural single “Suspect Device” in packaging resembling a bomb, and dispatched it to record companies and radio stations.

slf3One notable recipient who refrained from promptly tossing it into a bucket of water was John Peel. He played the track repeatedly, ultimately catalyzing a deal with Rough Trade and igniting a career that has endured for nearly 50 years,  encompassing countless performances, 10 studio albums, 18 live albums, and only one breakup. 2024 is going to be a big year for Stiff Little Fingers with the “Hate Has No Home Here”  tour, which starts in March in the UK.”  https://www.inspitemagazine.com/in-spite-articles/stiff-little-fingers

slf1The band were as incendiary as ever opening with “Suspect Device” and closing with “Alternative Ulster”. Along the way we were also treated to great songs including an excellent cover of “Love Of the Common People”, “Wasted Life” and “Nobody’s Hero”. Excellent. Jake Burns was on top form and the band were as powerful as they ever were.

Many thanks to Elaine for taking the photos and Jan for helping me manipulate the site.

slf7Setlist: Suspect Device; State of Emergency; Fly the Flag; Hate Has No Home Here; At the Edge;     Silver Lining; Love of the Common People; Just Fade Away; Last Train From the Wasteland; Roots, Radics, Rockers, Reggae; Empty Sky; Wasted Life; Get a Life; Strummerville; Nobody’s Hero; Tin Soldiers; Gotta Gettaway.

Encore: Doesn’t Make It Alright; Alternative Ulster

22 Mar

The Stranglers Newcastle City Hall 14 March 2024

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

STRANG0One year on and much has changed. Last year when I saw the band in the same venue they were at the point of retiring, as a result of the sad passing of original member and fantastic keyboards player Dave Greenfield. His Doors tinged keyboard mastery formed the backdrop and rhythm to many of their classic songs. Remaining founder member Jean Jaques Burnell felt strongly that it was time to call it a day and close The Stranglers. However after a strong cry from the fan community he decided it best to continue. And thus it was.

stran3The other big change was the layout of the City Hall. Last time it was all standing downstairs with the wheelchair area on a raised platform to the rear of the hall, with a great view of the stage. This time it was all seated with wheelchair customers right at the front of the hall. The view was equally good. However it was surprising that the hall was seated rather than standing. Most energetic bands including heavy rock and new wave/punk usually warrant a standing setup. I was surprised at this and the band also seemed somewhat surprised. Nevertheless everything worked well.

strang2Finally the stage setup was amazing with raised platforms for the drummer and keyboard player who sat behind an amazing keyboard arrangement. Everything was set out in grey. It looked wonderful.

The Strangler’ s latest nationwide tour marks their 50th anniversary in the music business. It seems hard to believe that they have been around so long. The show was in two parts with a short interval. The Stranglers took us right back to the start playing their greatest hits such as “Golden Brown”, ”No More Heroes” and “Peaches”.

stran5The other noticeable change is that Jean Jacques Burnell has taken more of a leading role. It seemed to me that he sang a lot more of the songs and has to some extent reclaimed the legacy of the Stranglers. I could almost hear him saying “this is my band and I am proud to lead it”. And so he should be. Alongside him local lad Sunderland’ s Baz Warne has taken over the space fronting the band which was left by Hugh Cornwell many years ago. And a great job he does of it.

stran6As we got to the end and the encores, Jean Jacques announced “We started in 1974. There are few bands that have been around that long and kept going throughout. We came from the pub rock movement. Some bands seem ashamed of that but we are proud to have been born as a pub rock band. So let us go right back to the start and our first single “Go Buddy Go”. Fantastic. The Stranglers are back and proud to be filling venues like the City Hall again where I saw them over 40 years ago.

Bought myself a lovely signed album. Many thanks to Jackie for taking the photographs and to Harvey for helping me navigate the site. 

strang1Setlist: Set 1: Just Like Nothing on Earth; Hallow to Our Men; The Raven; Baroque Bordello; North Winds; Genetix; Princess of the Streets; Breathe; Hanging Around; Down in the Sewer.

 Set 2: Waltzinblack; Who Wants the World?; Dagenham Dave; Duchess; Time to Die; Ships That Pass in the Night; Peaches; Threatened; Skin Deep; Always the Sun; Golden Brown; Relentless; 5 Minutes;     Lost Control; White Stallion; Something Better Change; Tank.

 

Encore: Go Buddy Go; No More Heroes.stran7

It was great to see a classic pub rock/new wave/punk/pop band play their greatest hits in a classic venue. And the way which the band is almost reborn after a difficult period with their original bass player taking on the mantle, which he always held anyway, of front man. It was very clear whose band this was and so it should be. A great evening. A great concert. A great band. What could be better?

23 Jan

Hugh Cornwell and The Primitives The Boiler Shop Newcastle 18 January 2024

Posted by vintagerock in Hugh Cornwell, Primitives, Stranglers. Tagged: , , , , , , .

HUGH0Two interesting acts at a local venue. It has been many years since I have seen both of these. I last saw Hugh Cornwell at Durham Gala Theatre quite a few years ago. My recollections of that concert were very positive. Hugh played a selection of his solo material mixed in with several Stranglers classics.

PRIM1The last time I saw The Primitives was at Newcastle Mayfair when they were in the charts with their one-off power pop single “Crash”. My elder daughter informed me that I “fancied” singer Tracy Tracy at the time but I can’t really recollect that at all.

So time to catch up with these punk/postpunk acts again. It was a freezing night and The Boiler Shop is not the warmest venue so carer Jackie and I wrapped up well for the evening.

PRIM2We had a great vantage point on the wheelchair platform. First up were The Primitives who played a great selection of jangly pop tunes including, of course, “Crash” which sounded as fresh and singalong today as it did all those years ago. During Hugh Cornwell’s set Tracy was down in front of the merchandise stand and we caught her and she kindly signed my ticket (see image).

HUGH C 1Soon Hugh took to the stage with his three-piece band. Himself on vocals and guitar, a bass player who pounded away on his bass guitar in a similar way to that of Stranglers bass player Jean-Jacques Burnel and mid-stage a drummer also pounding away at his kit. The set was once again a mixture of solo material and a few Stranglers gems thrown in here and there.

HUGH3In total he played around 9 Stranglers tracks, some of which I recognised including “Always the Sun”, “Strange Little Girl” and the closing track which took me right back to the early days “Hanging Around”. A two hour set which didn’t drag at all. The crowd loved it and Hugh seemed to enjoy himself. At the end a guy dressed as a chicken arrived on stage to play maracas. Bizarre.

Thanks to Jackie for the photos and Chris for navigating the site.

HUGH1Setlist: I Wannahideinsideaya; Too Much Trash; Skin Deep (Stranglers); Wrong Side of the Tracks; Delightful Nightmare; Strange Little Girl (Stranglers); Totem and Taboo; Bad Vibrations; Who Wants the World? (Stranglers); Moments of Madness; When I Was a Young Man; Tramp (Stranglers); Pure Evel; Mr. Leather; Always the Sun (Stranglers); Duce Coochie Man; Goodbye Toulouse (Stranglers); Another Kind of Love; Out of My Mind (Stranglers); Live it and Breathe it; Leave Me Alone; Thrown Away (Stranglers); Lasagna; Hanging Around (Stranglers).

13 Oct

Punk No. 2 Exhibition Newcastle Central Library 12 October 2023

Posted by vintagerock in Jimmy Burns. Tagged: , .

punk 0Jimmy Burns is not only a massive punk hoarder and collector, he is also a real gent. We first touched base a few years ago when Jimmy contacted me through my blog and shared some images of posters which he had, of punk concerts I had been to in the past. Jimmy then kindly let me use these images on my blog. Last year Jimmy invited me to see his exhibition of memorabilia at Newcastle Central library. Well, he is back there again, with a second exhibition Punk No. 2 of marvellous memorabilia. The exhibition runs from October 8 until November 10.

punk 2Once again, Jimmy met me at the library and give me a private personal tour of his exhibition, which is as before, excellent and well worth visiting. My carer Jan and I arrived early and went upstairs in the lift to the space where his collection is currently on display. Jimmy soon joined us and took me around the exhibition space, explaining the details of the wonderful treasure trove of punk memorabilia which she has assembled for his second exhibition. What he revealed to me was another unique collection of memorabilia. Jimmy has a massive collection and this is only one small part of it.

punk 10Punk No. 2 exhibition once again takes the visitor through the history of punk, this time including posters from around the country as well as for concerts in the north-east. This includes very rare posters of punk bands including Sex Pistols posters from early gigs, there legendary Anarchy tour, early Clash concerts and posters of other major punk acts such as Joy Division, the Damned and many others. If you go along, you will also see part of Jimmy’s massive collection of flyers, tickets and very rare original vinyl records from around the world.

punk 9To say that Jimmy has assembled a unique collection of punk items which not only covers the north-east but is of national importance, is an understatement. I very much doubt that anyone else in the UK has assembled such a collection. And as before, only part of his collection is currently on display in the library. Jimmy has put this together largely through personal connections he has made over the years. He is touch with collectors around the world and is constantly trading with others to try and find other items to add to his collection.

punk 3We were soon chatting as before about punk concerts that we had both been to “back in the day” and rare items that we would both love to own, such as a ticket for the cancelled Sex Pistols Anarchy 1976 concert at Newcastle City Hall. I had a ticket and sadly returned it to claim my money back when the concert was cancelled. Big mistake.

punk 6Jan and I were once again knocked out by a fabulous exhibition and by Jimmy’s passion for anything to do with vintage punk rock. Thank you once again Jimmy for spending time with us, talking us through the exhibition and sharing happy memories with me. I really appreciate it and look forward to chatting with you more in the future. Good luck with the exhibition. I’m sure that many people will go to see it and that it will be well received. If you are interested in punk rock then I would urge you to go along and visit the exhibition while it is currently on display in Newcastle Central library.

punk 5The exhibition runs until November 10. I would urge you to go along and see it. Many thanks to Jan for taking the photos. Apologies for the reflection (the memorabilia is all safely housed behind glass) which has come out on some of the images.

« Older Entries