Liam Gallagher, John Squire & Jake Bugg Newcastle City Hall 18 March 2024

This concert sold out pretty quickly. Liam Gallagher remains a legend to this day. And here he was complete with band and Stone Roses guitarist John Squire along for the ride. Liam and John Squire received equal billing on this tour and quite rightly so.

But before the proceedings proper began, Jake Bugg warmed the crowd up. It is some years since I have heard anything from Jake; I first saw him at a sold-out Newcastle Academy many years ago. He was then very much an upcoming star. Next I saw him perform as support act for either the Who or the Rolling Stones in Hyde Park (can’t remember which it was). Anyway, he went down well with the crowd and finished with his big hit “Lightning Bolt” which I remember well.

After a short interval the main act took to the stage. It is some years since I have seen Liam perform. I saw Oasis many times: at Bolton football ground, Sunderland Stadium of Light, Sheffield Arena and. Newcastle Arena. I also saw Liam perform with his first post – Oasis band Beady Eye at Manchester Apollo. Anyone going along expecting to see Liam perform Oasis songs would have been disappointed. This was very much a Liam Gallagher concert with the added extra, and excellent, guitar of John Squire. Liam was dressed in his usual parka style top, all swagger with his arms round his back.

Liam played much of his new album which has been recorded with Squire and the songs sounded pretty good on first hearing. Squire was wearing a lovely Paisley shirt looking as if it came straight from Liam’s Pretty Green range (and maybe it did?) The encore was an excellent version of the Rolling Stones’ “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”. Fabulous. Liam through his maracas up to the left hand balcony and his tambourine to the right-hand balcony. A couple of lucky punters got some great memorabilia to show their friends and family.

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

Liam Gallagher Setlist: Just Another Rainbow; One Day at a Time; I’m a Wheel; Love You Forever; Make It Up as You Go Along; You’re Not the Only One; I’m So Bored; Mars to Liverpool; Mother Nature’s Song; Raise Your Hands.

Encore: Jumpin’ Jack Flash

Jake Bugg Setlist: Strange Creatures; There’s a Beast and We All Feed It; Trouble Town; Me and You ;  Seen It All; I Wrote the Book; Taste It; Slumville Sunrise; Simple as This; All Kinds of People; Two Fingers; Lightning Bolt.

Smokie and Allora (and Alice) Darlington Hippodrome 2 March 2024

Sally called when she got the word

And she said, “I suppose you’ve heard… about Alice?”

When I rushed to the window and I looked outside

And I could hardly believe my eyes

As a big limousine rolled up, into Alice’s drive 

Oh, I don’t know why she’s leaving

Or where she’s gonna go

I guess she’s got her reasons

But I just don’t want to know

‘Cause for 24 years

I’ve been living next door to Alice

(Chinn,Chapman;1973)

Yes you know the song, don’t you?

So, a night out in Darlo with our heroine Alice! I have been wanting to see Smokie in concert for many years but for some reason it never happened until now. Looking through their back catalogue I had forgotten just how many hits this band has had. And, hey, so there are no original members left in the band, but who cares? It is a Saturday night, in the lovely old theatre Darlington Hippodrome and I am going to see Smokie! What fun.

From Happening Next: “Look at the Guinness Book Of Hit Singles and you could be forgiven for thinking SMOKIE’s success story was a 1970s phenomenon. After all, 11 of their 14 British hits came in that eventful musical decade. However, their massive success story has continued to flourish around the globe including Scandinavia, South Africa, Germany and even China. Smokie are a band which has sold out tours and gained platinum records in four decades – 70s, 80s, 90s and the present day. A quick recap then on past glories. Smokie first got together at school in Yorkshire in the late 60s. After going through various names and styles, they signed with Mickie Most’s then ultra-hot RAK label and found themselves chartbound. Songs like ‘If You Think You Know How To Love Me’, ‘Don’t Play Your Rock’n’Roll To Me’, ‘It’s Your Life’ and ‘Oh Carol’ (all Top 10 entries) became radio staples and gave Smokie their ticket to travel the world.”

“Smokie continue to be one of the most successful bands in the world today. Recent global events, as well as the devastating news of the passing of Terry Uttley have seen the line-up of today having to change and develop with the addition of Pete Lincoln, formerly of The Sweet on lead vocals, and rhythm Guitar and Luke Bullard, son of Martin Bullard stepping into Terry’s shoes on bass and backing vocals, the legacy of Smokie that was founded by Terry will live on and Smokie look forward to seeing you all on their continuing journey.”

Smokie’s current line – up: Steve Pinnell on drums; Mick McConnell on lead guitar; Pete Lincoln on lead vocals and rhythm guitar; Martin Bullard on keyboards and Luke Bullard on bass guitar. Some of the band have been with Smokie from the 1990s, so I guess that means this grouping is pretty authentic. I last saw Pete Lincoln when he was the lead singer in a later version of The Sweet as mentioned above.

But before Smokie we were all treated to a short set by alternative/indie rock band Allora who played a small batch of their own quite catchy rock tunes, and a couple of covers including Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain”.

During the short interval I took the opportunity to purchase a “We sang Who the F**K is Alice with Smokie” T-shirt. Yes they really were selling them.

After a short interval the main act took to the stage starting with one of their many hits: “I’ll Meet You at Midnight”. Hit followed hit. Great. And yes, after they sang “Alice” quite a large proportion of the audience answered back “Who the F**K is Alice?” A magical end to a magical evening. Perfect.

Many thanks to Jan for taking the photos.

Setlist: (something like) I’ll Meet You at Midnight; It’s Your Life / Take Good Care of My Baby / Mexican Girl / For a Few Dollars More; (I Just) Died in Your Arms; Wild Wild Angels; Wild Horses; I Don’t Want to Talk About It;  Have You Ever Seen the Rain?; Baby It’s You; Boulevard of Broken Dreams; Rose-a-Lee; Needles and Pins; Oh Carol.

Encore: Don’t Play Your Rock ‘n’ Roll to Me; Living Next Door to Alice

Suzi Quatro The Glasshouse Gateshead 14 December 2023

It is quite a few years since I last saw the human dynamo that is Suzi Quatro. I first saw her on one of her early visits to Sunderland Locarno in 1972. I then saw her many times at the same venue as she kept returning while she was at the top of the charts with great rocking hit records “Can the Can” and “Devil Gate Drive”. She was a class act then and remains so to this day. I have seen her once or twice over the years since then. I think the last time was supporting Status Quo at an outdoor summer concert near Middlesbrough. This time the lady is 73 years old, still rocking and this is 50 years since she was Number 1 in the charts. Fantastic.

The Glasshouse website proclaimed Suzi thus: “Influential. Unstoppable. Timeless rock legend. A Suzi Quatro concert is a high-octane rock extravaganza; commanding the stage with her signature leather jumpsuit and rockstar attitude. Backed by her band, she rips through beloved retro hits as well as new material with her raspy vocals and searing bass lines. Quatro’s lively performance and rapport with fans create an electrifying experience celebrating one of music’s pioneering female rebels.” Well, I can’t argue with that.

I arrived in little late after a hospital visit to see my mam who is not so well at the moment. This meant I missed some of the first set. Suzi had no support act and performed two sets with a short interval. Sadly, I missed her singing “Stumblin’ In” which is one of my favourite songs. Never mind I saw her close the first set with a lovely quiet song on which she accompanied herself on piano and a great cover of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World”. During the interval a double Jack Daniels went down just nice and relaxed me ready for the second half of the show.

Suzi returned complete with leather catsuit and performed a rocky set of her own hits and some great covers. She explained that she has recently released an EP on which she has covered some of her favourite songs. Up on the screen behind her was a picture of Suzi in the early 1970s just as I remember. Fantastic. So we got “Can the Can”, “Devil Gate Drive”, “If You Can’t Give Me Love” and returning to covers, a great version of Credence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” and the final encore was a beautiful rendition of Eagles “Desperado”. Suzi can still rock out with the best of them. Everyone was up on their feet and enjoying one of the best female rock stars I have ever seen.

Many thanks to Joanne for the photos and Chris for navigating the site for me.

Setlist: Set One: The Wild One; I May Be Too Young; Daytona Demon; Tear Me Apart; Shine a Light; Stumblin’ In;  No Soul/No Control; The Devil In Me; 48 Crash; Slow Down; Rockin’ in the Free World; Can I Be Your Girl?.

Set Two: Motor City Riders; I Sold My Soul Today; Bad Moon Rising; She’s in Love With You; Overload; Too Big; Glycerine Queen; Can the Can; Devil Gate Drive.

Encore: If You Can’t Give Me Love; Sweet Little Rock & Roller; Desperado.

Slade Newcastle City Hall 3 December 2023

These Boyz Make Big Noize! Slade are back. Still playing it LOUD and proud. Only Dave Hill remains from the original band but they are still a great night out and lotz of fun. The memories come flooding back from seeing them at Sunderland Locarno in 1971 and 1972, the Lincoln Festival 1972 when they turned round a hippie/hairy crowd who saw them as pop chart artists and who started by booing them and then proceeded to get really into them and ended up singing, dancing and clapping along. That day was a triumph for Slade.

Then a concert at Newcastle City Hall around 1974 when they were at the height of their fame, lots of Noddy Holder top hats and screaming girls, followed by a Whatever Happened to Slade concert at the City Hall where shock horror Dave Hill appeared with a bald head and massive earrings. Next an appearance at Middlesbrough Rock Garden, filled with skinhead fans who went crazy and the band were somewhat down on their luck, followed by an iconic appearance at the Reading Festival where they replaced Ozzy Osbourne at short notice and once again triumphed with the rock crowd, resulting in them becoming heavy rock heroes for several years.

And finally some concerts again at the City Hall and Sunderland Polytechnic. Happy days. Throughout these years they were always a fantastic live act, very loud and much more of a rock band than you would expect. You had to see them to believe it. They were literally one of the best live acts I ever had the pleasure of witnessing.

The concert was opened with support act Sons of the Seventies, who played covers of Rocky songs from that era including T Rex’s “20^th-Century Boy”, Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild” and songs by Rainbow, Led Zeppelin and Whitesnake. Some of these songs were not strictly from the 70s but who cares, they did a good job of covering them and warmed the crowd up for the main act. Great hair, guys, by the way.

After a short interval during which I purchased a lovely red Slade Alive T-shirt which features the logo from the album of the same name which I bought when it was released in 1972 and played it again and again. It contains the live stage show of Slade in 1971/72 which included a lot of covers like opening song Ten Years After’s “I Hear You Calling”, the Loving Spoonful’s “Darling Be Home Soon” and the closer for which they turned the volume up to 11 Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild”. Magic. If you haven’t yet heard the album I fully recommend it to you.

The current line – up of Slade is quite different to the last time I saw them. As well as the concerts I have mentioned above, I have also seen the new line – up of Slade a few times, including a show for the fan club at London’s KOKO nightclub. Each time they have been great but tonight was a revelation. This time the frontline consists of Dave Hill centrestage, standing aloft on a speaker cabinet, flanked on either side by bass guitarist/violinist to his left and keyboard player to his right.

All three of them sing together and along with Dave’s guitar cranked right up to as LOUD as possible they recreate the sound of the original band. They were absolutely deafening and delivered many of the hits from throughout the band’s career. They finished of course with “Merry Christmas Everybody” complete with Santa hats. Fantastic. Elaine, Jan and I all really enjoyed it. This was the best time I have seen them for many years. Of course it is not the original line – up, but Dave Hill and the boys do a great job.

Many thanks to Elaine for the photos and Chris for helping me load this on to the site.

Setlist: Take Me Bak ‘Ome; Lock Up Your Daughters; Look Wot You Dun; Everyday; Coz I Luv You; Run Runaway; My Friend Stan; Far Far Away; The Bangin’ Man; My Baby Left Me; Gudbuy T’Jane; Mama Weer All Crazee Now.

Encore: My Oh My; Cum On Feel the Noize; Merry Xmas Everybody.

Free Convention Cullercoats Club 18 November 2023

This event has been going for many years, starting off in Leeds and then moving north to satisfy the need for an annual convention for the many fans of the great band Free in the north-east. My friend John, who is a massive Free and Paul Kossoff fan has been wanting to go for many years. However, he now lives in the USA, so arranging things to attend this event has been tricky. Things changed and this year he happened to be over in the north-east at the same time as the aforementioned convention.

Demand for tickets for the convention was such that the originally scheduled Saturday night sold out quickly and a second night, on the preceding Friday, was organised. It quickly sold out also. I had got us tickets for the Saturday night and John decided he would also attend the Friday night event. John is based in North Yorkshire when he stays in the UK, but made the journey up to Cullercoats both evenings to attend this convention. True dedication. He reported back to me that it was excellent and we were both looking forward to the Saturday show.

John arrived at my house around teatime and, with my carer Jan, we quickly set off to Cullercoats both excited about the event. In the past, the convention has featured guest performances by Free drummer Simon Kirke, and the late bassist Andy Fraser. This time we were treated to three Free tribute bands, and an excellent raffle and auction event. We arrived at the venue just before the start time of 7 PM and the organiser was very helpful in finding us a vantage point close to the stage. Many thanks indeed.

First up was a band called Stealer who played a great set based around the second Free album (the “Woman” LP). Stealer are a 3-piece rock band based in Lincolnshire play classic rock and blues covers from Free and Bad Company. They have their own following and play all over the UK. A good start and warmup to the evening.

After a short changeover the next band on stage were the Heartbreaker Collective who were absolutely fantastic. They played a set of Free classics and really did justice to the music and soul of Free. All musicians were excellent and the singer looked so cool, with a really great hairdo! See the images.Apparently this band come together once a year for this event. Considering this they were simply awesome. A group of passionate young musicians! The dancefloor soon filled and many people were up and dancing, reliving their youth. A great atmosphere.

Then it was time for the raffle. Seven items were raffled including a first prize of a magnificent Free at the Isle of Wight poster and a second prize of a lovely Paul Kossoff poster. Sadly, we did not score anything in the raffle. Next up was an auction of items signed by Paul Rogers and Simon Kirke. At this point we had to leave to catch our taxi.

A great event, and it is a massive credit to the organiser who is clearly a massive and passionate Free fan. Thank you so much John for recommending we attend. I bought a Bad Company programme from a previous tour, which I do not have in my collection. A great addition.

Thanks to John and Jan for the images and Chris for helping me manipulate the site as usual. I would recommend this event to any free fan. From shout outs during the interval, it was very clear that aficionados of the band had travelled from all over the country to witness something special, celebrating one of the best and most soulful, bluesy rock bands ever; their like will never be seen again. I was privileged to see Free on four occasions which I will never forget. RIP Paul Kossoff and Andy Fraser.

The Very Best Of Elvis In Concert- Live On Screen, Newcastle Utilita Arena 28 October 2023

I am not sure who suggested going. Maybe it was my sister-in-law Elaine or carer Jan, who both accompanied me to the show. Never mind, thank you to whichever one of you it was. I don’t think I would have gone along to Newcastle Arena otherwise. And I so glad that I did. This was to me, a new type of event and performance. Watching Elvis on screen accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was a novel concept which worked exceptionally well. 7000 people standing singing along to Elvis on screen performing “Suspicious Minds” with full orchestra, and cheering and clapping to the screen sounds bizarre. Yet it was brilliant, emotional, exhilarating and highly enjoyable.

The tour publicity heralded the concert thus: “The King is back! One of the most unique concert experiences of recent years is set to return for 2023 having won the hearts of critics and fans a-like, as Elvis is set once again to be back, in an arena near you! The full-scale concert brings the King up close on screen alongside the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra live on stage performing the King of Rock and Roll’s most well-known “rocking” songs and his tender, heart-wrenching ballads, with a special guest to be announced in due course.   A show like no other, expect an overwhelmingly encapsulating and enthralling evening!

This is the only chance to experience the man who changed the course of popular music, selling an unparalleled 1 billion records worldwide, his popularity unwavering as the critical and commercial success of the Baz Luhrman produced biopic Elvis showed us in cinemas this year! The collaboration between the music of Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra has spearheaded an incredible phenomenon, with new orchestral arrangements of the music of the most legendary artists of all time being presented with the original recordings of the artists’ own voice which led to three huge-selling and critically acclaimed albums (If I Can Dream, The Wonder of You, and Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra).

With Elvis never having toured the UK, or performing with a full sized orchestra as were two of his dreams, these shows are a chance to both honour the legacy of an icon who has defined popular culture for over half a century, and for fans to see ‘The King’ live, who never had the chance to before.”

This was a much easier and smoother journey than that of the previous evening when I went to see Fairport Convention at Hexham Queen’s Hall. After a short journey we arrived at the Arena, Jan, Elaine and I, ready to see “the King” in concert.

I have always been a fan of Elvis. Ever since I was very young and bought copies of “King Creole” and “Heartbreak Hotel” on 78 from a local second hand shop. I played and played those records. I then saw the 1968 Comeback Show on TV at some point and was totally knocked out by the guy, his energy, swagger, style and voice. Without Elvis, would we have The Beatles, and modern day rock ‘n’ roll? Who knows. I also remember buying “In the Ghetto” when it was in the charts. I love that record to this day.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra took to the stage to a loud round of applause. A large screen behind the orchestra displayed the initials “EP” to remind us of what we were about to experience. They performed “I Can’t Help Falling in Love With You” with the lyrics displayed on the big-screen. The orchestra was augmented by a band with an excellent guitarist and a group of very soulful singers. Next, another large screen descended from the rafters and Elvis, from Las Vegas, was singing “Burning Love” to us. The sound was amazing and this was the start of a wonderful journey through the life of Elvis Presley. Possibly the greatest singer and artist the world has ever seen.

We were taken through a range of Elvis classics including “Trouble”, “That’s All Right Mama”, “Hound Dog” and “Heartbreak Hotel” with footage alternating between early and mid-1970s Las Vegas performances to film from the aforementioned 1968 Comeback TV Show triumph. All of this reminded me of how great a performer the man was. I can’t quite recall the order of proceedings but there was a short interval during which I had a lovely tray of chips (lots of salt) having had a pint of beer on the way in. I also purchased a T-shirt which I am proudly wearing as I type this with my speech software and a programme (pictured).

There was a tour of Graceland, courtesy of Elvis’ old friend who now manages the estate (I would love to visit) and the voice of Priscilla Presley talking about her life with Elvis while images of Priscilla, Elvis, a young Lisa Marie and happy family memories were shown.

“Love Me Tender” was accompanied by images from the original black-and-white movie, Elvis sang covers of Dusty Springfield’s “You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me”, the Walker Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” and Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water”.

The aforementioned “Suspicious Minds” had everyone up on their feet dancing and singing. They remained so for the rest of the performance which closed with the magnificent “American Trilogy” from Las Vegas and “If I Can Dream” from the 1968 TV show. Very emotional stuff. Much, much better than I had expected.

Many thanks to Jan and Chris for the images.

Setlist: Burning Love; Welcome To My World; Steamroller Blues; Fever; You Gave Me A Mountain;   You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me; I Just Can’t Help Believing; Just Pretend; You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling; Amazing Grace; I Can’t Help Falling In Love; In The Ghetto; How Great Thou Art; Bridge Over Troubled Water; Trouble/Guitar Man; That’s Alright Mama; Hound Dog; Don’t Be Cruel; Heartbreak Hotel; Are You Lonesome Tonight; All Shook Up; Blue Suede Shoes; Memories; Love Me Tender;     The Wonder Of You; Suspicious Minds; What Now My Love; Big Hunk Of Love; American Trilogy; If I Can Dream.

Sensational 60s Experience Whitley Bay Playhouse 20 October 2023

Another 60s show. No apologies this time. You know what, I enjoy the old hits and it doesn’t seem to matter anymore as to whether there are original members or not. I guess we return to my old question “When is a band not a band?”.

The bands on show here, as far as I can ascertain, contain only one original member between them all. But more on this later. I went along with carer Elaine and my old friend Norman and you know what? We all greatly enjoyed the “Sensational 60s Experience” and I knew every song! And this 60s concert even had a proper compere, just like a 60s package tour should. He looked great with lovely long blonde hair. I will use some of the tour blurb to describe each band and then will add my own comments on the lineup and the performance.

Opening the show were: “THE FORTUNES. Hailing from Birmingham England, the band first came into prominence in 1964 with their hit single Caroline, which was used as the signature tune for the influential Pirate Radio Station of the same name. Other classics include, Storm In A Teacup, You’ve Got Your Troubles, Freedom Come Freedom Go. The Fortunes still continue to tour the world with shows in Australia, New Zealand and The USA incorporating a week long residency in the Fabulous Las Vegas.” I have seen this band a few times over the years and they used to include original lead vocalist Rod Allen. After his sad passing, current singer Eddie Mooney took on the role of fronting the band and he does an excellent job too. So, no original members here. But, a great job of some great songs: “You’ve Got Your Troubles”, “Freedom Come Freedom Go”, “Storm in a Teacup” and my favourite “Here It Comes Again”. Very enjoyable set.

“VANITY FARE. Formed in 1966 (often misspelled Vanity Fair, due to the similarity of the novel and magazine title) are a British pop/rock group famously known for such hits as, I Live For The Sun, Early In The Morning and the worldwide classic, “Hitchin A Ride” which scored the band a number one on the Billboard 100 in the USA. The harmonies of Vanity Fare are renowned throughout the sixties scene which makes them one of the best vocal groups still touring today.” No original members once again, but excellent renditions of “I Live For The Sun”, “Hitchin’ A ride” and “Sun, Sun, Sun, Sun”.

Closing the first half were: “THE SWINGING BLUE JEANS. The SBJ’s have a history that spans back to the early 1960’s. Over the years their hit singles ‘Hippy Hippy Shake’, ‘You’re No Good, ‘Good Golly Miss Molly and ‘Don’t Make Me Over’ have been the bedrock of the band’s memorable live performances. The Swinging Blue Jeans have been led by Alan Lovell, faithfully carrying on the long tradition of the band. Peter Oakman continues with the band to this day along with Jeff Bannister and Graham Hollingworth who complete the line-up.” So, once again, no original members but many of the band have been in position for a long time and, of course, they all dress in denim jackets and denim jeans. Excellent renditions of “Good Golly Miss Molly”, “Don’t Make Me over”, “Hippie Hippie Shake” and my favourite “You’re No Good”.

Time for an ice cream!

Opening the second part of the show were: “THE TREMS (former members of The Tremeloes). Starting out as an English beat group founded in Dagenham Essex in 1958, originally called Brian Poole And The Tremeloes. The Tremeloes toured the world from 1963 through 1974. The Trems are still a massive draw in Europe as well as the UK today as much as they’ve ever been. They have the fantastic reputation as one of the most entertaining bands on tour today. Hits include, Even The Bad Times Are Good, Do You Love Me, Call Me Number One and their world-wide number one hit Silence Is Golden.” This band could just as easily have called themselves the Tremoloes, as I remember seeing the singer/bass player Jeff Brown fronting the Tremoloes about 20 years ago when they still featured original drummer Dave Munden and guitarist Alan Blakley. I am pretty sure that Jeff Brown has been in the band since then. But then I have seen another version of the Tremoloes, Chesney Hawkes’ Tremoloes, having inherited the band from his dad Chip. I have subsequently discovered that there is also a further version of the Tremoloes featuring no original members, including former member Chip Hawkes’ son on drums and directed by Chip himself. Band heritage does get confusing, doesn’t it? Once again, they sounded great and played, from memory, “Even the Bad Times Are Good”, “Do You Love Me?”, “My Little Lady” and finished with their classic massive hit “Silence Is Golden”, all four members joining together at the front to sing the song a cappella. Wonderful.

Closing the show were: “DOZY BEAKY MICK & TICH. Originally called Dave Dee And The Bostons formed in 1961. Changing their name to Dave Dee, Dozy Beaky Mick and Tich in 1964. In 1966 the band were in the charts for 50 weeks out of 52. In Germany alone in 1967, record sales outsold The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. Hits include Bend It, Zabadak and The Legend Of Xanadu plus many more. This fast moving energetic set from DBMT will have you dancing and singing in the isles performing hit after hit after hit.” Well, when is a band no longer a band? In this case, lead singer and main man Dave Dee is sadly no longer with us and the only original member is Beaky. You know what, I am passed caring! Bring on the great music. According to my very poor memory they performed “Zabadak”, “The Legend of Xanadu” (complete with whip),” Hold Tight” and finished with “Bend it”. They didn’t play my particular favourite “Last Night in Soho”. Their sound of the 60s was pretty authentic and they deserved their spot as headliners..

Many thanks to Elaine and Chris for the photographs.

The Waterboys The City Hall Newcastle 7 October 2023

A Stream of Memories: please bear with for this blog entry. The afternoon and the brought back lots of memories. I will ramble through them here.

The Beatles. We started the afternoon by playing old Beatles albums. I used to have a stack of the original LPs. In the 1980s I would go to car boot fairs. Every Saturday and Sunday morning I would get up around 5 AM and drive to a car boot fair to get there really early, in the dark with a torch, to pick up bargains. I would alternate which fair to attend: Sedgefield Racecourse, Redcar Racecourse, Stockton Racecourse, Blaydon Rugby club, Wetherby Racecourse; and many others, I visited them all; sometimes more than one in a morning. I could pick up Beatles albums for 50p or £1.

I would buy every one I saw and I ended up with multiple copies of each album. So I had 5 copies of Sergeant Pepper, 7 copies of Please Please Me, 6 copies of The White Album, and so on. I gave family members full collections of all the albums and singles. I sold some on eBay. I am busy collecting a full set again on eBay, so that I have a set downstairs to play on my retro record player. I have sets upstairs but I can’t get to them in my wheelchair so I leave them intact and I start again!

I know this is crazy, but it is the madness of being a hoarder. Anyway, to get the point, Jan my carer and I were playing two albums: Hard Days Night and Beatles For Sale before leaving for the concert. I started thinking; without the Beatles where would we be? Would they be any pop and rock as we know it? Would there be any Waterboys? Anyway we left for the concert with “Babies in Black” and “I’ll Cry Instead” ringing through my head. Magic.

Newcastle City Hall. Returning to a magic place that I used to frequent throughout the 1970s. I remember seeing the Rolling Stones, David Bowie as Ziggy, Pink Floyd, The Who, Led Zeppelin, T Rex, Queen, Mott the Hoople and many others there. Happy days. Great to be back in the old venue. A sentiment I will return to later.

Newcastle Tiffany’s. The last time I saw the Waterboys was around 1985, when “Whole of the Moon” was in the charts. It was at Newcastle Tiffany’s, an old Mecca nightclub which was a great venue where I witnessed many great concerts: Altered Images when “Happy Birthday” was number 1 in the charts, Cocteau Twins, and many others. Happy days, lots of memories.

Limerick. My friend Ciaran, who I collaborate with at the University of Limerick, reminded me how great the Waterboys are live and encouraged me to go and see them. I have great memories of visiting the University of Limerick and drunken nights with too much Guinness and Irish whiskey at Durty Nellys public house (which I think may be the oldest pub in Ireland?) next to Bunratty Castle. Happy hazy memories.

The Waterboys. Re-familiarising myself with a classic rock band. I had forgotten how great Mike Scott and his band were and are. They were simply magic. Mike Scott is the consummate front rock man. Cowboy hat, tight jeans and winklepicker boots. So cool. And the influences are clear. Celtic tunes from his home country Scotland. Mythology and songs about his life. The Stones, Bob Dylan, Springsteen and many other classic rockers. Yet Scott draws together all of these influences to produce his own Celtic rock ‘n’ roll. The City Hall was packed, almost full, and everyone was up for it. The show was in two sets, each set was high-energy rock. Scott has changed the lineup of the Waterboys many times over the years. The current line– up is: Mike Scott (Vocals, Guitar, Piano); Brother Paul (Keyboards); James Hallawell (Keyboards); Aongus Ralston (Bass) and Eamon Ferris (Drums).

Surprisingly, for me anyway, the current band does not include violin which was central to the sound of many of the Waterboys better known songs. Instead, the Waterboys now comprise two keyboard players, who take the lead on many of the songs. One guy to the left of the stage is dressed in tight crushed velvet plum coloured flares (which he changes into tight white/black striped trousers during the interval), with a long coat and long flowing white hair to match. He plays a swirling 1960s style Hammond organ, pushing it backwards and forwards and running his fingers up and down the keyboard. He also comes to front of stage and plays a guitar keyboard (the same sort as Edgar Winter uses). He is a real showman and a great asset to the band. The other keyboard player is dressed in very smart mod gear with a natty hat to match. He concentrates on playing excellent electric piano. And Mike is front stage snarling, spitting out the songs and playing great see-through Perspex guitar, acoustic guitar and a selection of wonderful instruments.

I said I would return to the subject of loving Newcastle City Hall as a great venue. Mike Scott: “it is great to be back at the old City Hall. I have played the Sage many times, and it is a lovely venue, but it is a long time since I played the City Hall. It is good to be back here and to say “hello Newcastle” (big cheer) again” (or something like that). I don’t know many of the songs, “Fisherman’s Blues” stands out and is fantastic. “Ladbroke Grove” tells the story of Mike’s early years living in London, “It Was Over” relates the tale of an early schoolboy crush, “Piper at the Gates of Dawn” is a spoken word extract from Wind in the Willows and sounds quite mystical, appropriate and magical. Springsteen’s/Patti Smith’s “Because the Night” is mixed with a Scott song “The Pan Within”.

They return for an encore and finish with “The Whole Of the Moon” and everyone is up on their feet, singing and dancing. Mental note: go and see the Waterboys every time I can in the future. Thank you so much Ciaran for tempting me to go. It was great advice. Happy days. Thanks to Jan for the photos. I bought a lovely signed poster on the way out.

Setlist (something like this): Set 1: Where the Action Is; Glastonbury Song; How Long Will I Love You; Ladbroke Grove; A Girl Called Johnny; This Is the Sea; All Souls Hill; When Ye Go Away; Blackberry Girl; Because the Night / The Pan Within.

Set 2: A Rock in the Weary Land; Fisherman’s Blues; And a Bang on the Ear; It Was Over; Medicine Bow; Be My Enemy; Piper at the Gates of Dawn; Long Strange Golden Road.

Encore: Medicine Jack; The Whole of the Moon.

Graham Parker The Fire Station Sunderland 26 September 2023

There was no better band than Graham Parker and the Rumour in the late 70s. They exploded out of pub rock and were part of the scene, and sound, which influenced punk and new wave. Graham Parker was the coolest guy on the planet and rocked and sang white soul and R&B like no-one else (OK maybe that’s a little unfair on Van Morrisson who was clearly a strong influence on Graham). The Rumour came with all the right pub-rock credentials featuring the legendary Brinsley Schwarz (lead guitar) and Bob Andrews (keyboards) (both ex Brinsley Schwarz), Martin Belmont (rhythm guitar, ex-Ducks Deluxe) and Andrew Bodnar (bass) and Steve Goulding (drums).

And great songs: “Fool’s Gold”, “White Honey”, and the show-stopping reggae-tinged “(Hey Lord) Don’t Ask Me Questions”; it still makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up just thinking about being at a gig with the entire audience singing along “Hey Lord; Don’t Ask Me Questions”. There was just no-one to touch them on a good night; power, passion, rhythms, rock, dancing, and Graham Parker on fire in terms of his singing and his overall performance. See my programme from the distant past.

Graham Parker and the Rumour gigged relentlessly from 1976 on, and I saw them lots of times. My old ticket stubs tell me I was at gigs at Newcastle City Hall on 23rd March 1977 with Southside Johnny as support, 17th November 1977 (my late wife Marie’s birthday, she agreed to come along although she wasn’t a fan, and a drunken guy behind us spilled a bottle of Newcastle Brown Ale all over her head, I was never forgiven for that night), 5th March 1979 and 5th April 1982 (by that point the Rumour had departed and the concert was Parker solo). I also remember a great gig at Newcastle Poly and seeing Parker as part of the supporting bill for Bob Dylan at his massive Blackbushe concert. There were probably others which escape my fading memory.

So, it is time to see Graham Parker again. This time at my local venue, The Fire Station, which is hosting many excellent performers. The Fire Station website announced the concert thus: “Graham Parker returns to the UK for 6 exclusive dates with backing band The Goldtops, expect a night of classic Parker songs alongside some newer material.  Stereotyped early in his career as the quintessential angry young man, Graham Parker was one of the most celebrated singer/songwriters to emerge from England’s pub rock scene in the early ’70s. Drawing heavily from Van Morrison and the Rolling Stones, Parker developed a sinewy fusion of driving rock & roll and confessional folk-rock, highlighted by his indignant passion, biting sarcasm, and bristling anger.

At the outset of his career, his albums crackled with pub rock energy, snide witticisms, and perceptive insights, earning him a devoted following of fans and critics, who lavished praise on his debut, 1976’s Howlin’ Wind, recorded with the Rumour, his backing band of pub rock all-stars. After delivering Squeezing Out Sparks in 1979, which was a smash with critics and won him a larger audience in the United States, Parker courted a crossover career with solo projects such as 1982’s Another Grey Area and 1985’s Steady Nerves before settling into a cult following in the late ’80s and continuing to garner critical acclaim as his music mellowed but his lyrical perspective stayed sharp.”

Today Graham is once again surrounded by excellent musicians including old friend and legendary guitarist Martin Belmont, who I first saw in Ducks Deluxe in the Marquee club, London in 1974. He then became, of course, a member of the Rumour. Graham is no longer the angry young man but he is still a very soulful singer and yes, he still reminds me of Van Morrison. The set comprises songs new and old, many drawn from Parker’s latest album. But we also get treated to “Hey Lord, Don’t Ask Me Questions” and everyone sings along. As part of the lengthy encore Graham performs an exceptional version of Sinatra’s “That’s Life”. He really has mellowed in his later years. Finally, we are back to old favourites “Boogie Shoes” and “Soul Shoes”. Sadly, although someone in the crowd shouts for it, no “Fool’s Gold”. I can’t have everything. Still excellent after all these years.

Setlist: Ancient Past; Nothin’s Gonna Pull Us Apart; Under the Mask of Happiness; Last Stretch of the Road; Music of the Devil; It Mattered To Me; If it Ever Stops Raining; Hotel Chambermaid; Black Lincoln Continental; Get Started. Start a Fire; Lost Track of Time; Sun Valley; Back to Schooldays;     (Hey Lord) Don’t Ask Me Questions; Since You Left Me Baby.

Encore: We Did Nothing; You Can’t Be Too Strong; Them Bugs; That’s Life; Boogie Shoes; Soul Shoes.

Martin Turner (Wishbone Ash) The Cluny Newcastle 4 August 2023

I was due to see this concert back in March but sadly as announced by Martin Turner and The Cluny at the time: “It is with great regret and disappointment that we have to announce that Martin Turner’s show at The Cluny, Newcastle tonight is being postponed due to illness. As those who have attended recent shows may be aware, for the past week Martin has struggled bravely with throat / voice problems following a heavy cold and has continued performing shows the best as he could so as not to let fans, venues and promoters down. However, this morning he has woken up feeling extremely weak and with other added medical symptoms, and is simply in no condition to perform at all this evening. Martin truly regrets the obvious disappointment this will cause, particularly as the tour, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Wishbone Ash’s Live Dates double album – had been going extremely well with many sold out dates and delighted audiences everywhere.  As long-time supporters will know Martin has very rarely cancelled or postponed shows due to personal illness across his career to date.“

But roll on 6 months to August and the concert was rearranged. The Cluny was ram packed for this show by Martin Turner, founder member of Wishbone Ash. I must say that I don’t particularly like to swear allegiance to either version of Wishbone Ash. I enjoy seeing Wishbone Ash with Andy Powell; a band I have seen many times over the years and Andy is to be applauded for keeping the Wishbone Ash flag flying high. Martin, on the other hand, has put together a band of excellent musicians to recreate the original sound of Wishbone Ash as close to the albums as possible. So, I am happy for both bands to coexist and to have the opportunity of experiencing two different views of Wishbone Ash. Andy has kept the band going and transformed them into a rockier, louder format. Martin, on the other hand, attempts to recreate the original sound.

Coincidentally, the evening before I had been watching an online streaming of a tribute concert for the great John Wetton, featuring Rick Wakeman, Laurie Wisefield, Roger Chapman, Mel Collins and many others. I saw John many times over the years including when he was a member of Family, Uriah Heep, Wishbone Ash and UK. During the show Martin Turner appeared on video, apologising for his nonappearance at the event. He went on to explain that he was in the North rehearsing for the start of his new tour, which commenced in Newcastle the following evening.

 

Roll on 24 hours and Martin opened the evening at the Cluny explaining how he regretted not being able to attend the John Wetton tribute event because he was up in Newcastle. He said he did consider postponing the concert but realised it would not be right to do so, as it had already been postponed once before. Still, he explained his thoughts were with John Wetton and his family, and his many memories of the guy.

 

This tour is billed as the 50^th anniversary of the Live Dates album. Now another coincidence. I am pretty sure that some of the Live Dates album was recorded at Newcastle City Hall, a concert which I attended. I remember well how they announced that they were recording the concert for a future live album. There were microphones situated around the venue to record the sound from various vantage points. At the time we will very excited that we were going to be on a live album. Of course, I bought the album and still have a copy to this day. Sadly, I sold my record collection some years ago in foolishness. I have since rebuilt it all via car boot fairs, charity shops, vintage vinyl fairs and eBay.

 

The Cluny led Jackie, my carer for the evening, and me through a little hatch into the auditorium which holds 300 people and was sold out. It was already full by the time we arrived and the friendly guy led us through and asked people to make way for me in my wheelchair, taking us right down to the front of the stage with excellent view of the proceedings. 15 minutes later, at 8 PM sharp, Martin Turner and his band took the stage. We were immediately transported back to the 1970s and the classic Argos album with marvellous songs including “The King Will Come” (one of my favourites), followed by “Warrior ”and “Throw Down the Sword”. All three are classic Ash songs and Martin and his band delivered them true to the original. Then came another great track “Rock ‘n’ Roll Widow”. Now, I have often wondered what that particular song was about. I hadn’t really taken the trouble to listen carefully to the lyrics. I wrongly assumed that it was about a lady who was left behind while her man was out on the road playing with a band. Martin explained that the song was written by Ted Turner as a result of a concert they did in America where a guy turned up and shot the husband of someone, he had been having an affair with! It’s strange how you sometimes learn something new each time you see a band.

 

While I remember I must mention how impressed I was with Martin who looked well, was dressed incredibly bright and flashy which made him look even better! A bright red jacket and some really colourful trousers. Great gear. And of course, he was playing his usual Gibson Thunderbird bass, standing stage centre, clearly leading the proceedings, flanked on either side by two excellent guitarists who reproduced the twin guitar melodies of Wishbone Ash down to a T. Some great guitar duelling throughout the evening. This was followed by a track “Ballad of the Beacon” from Wishbone Four, which is less familiar to me. Then Martin took us right back to the start, to a song which he used to play with his brother in Torquay in the 1960s when they first formed a band The Empty Vessels with drummer Steve Upton. The song was the blues classic “Baby What You Want Me to Do” a cover of a Jimmy Reed song; Martin revealed that he and his brother preferred the Everly Brothers version. This was followed by another of my all-time favourite tracks, from the first album, the wonderful “Blind Eye”. The first set closed with the epic “Phoenix”, a track which I have grown to love over the years.

 

After a short break Martin returned resplendent in a very smart bright red top. Set Two commenced with yet another classic song “Lady Whiskey” taking me right back into the 1970s again. So many memories of Wishbone Ash at the City Hall, Sunderland Locarno, Newcastle Mayfair, the Lincoln Festival and headlining the Reading Festival. I was chatting to the guy next to me and he saw them at Reading as well! The audience was full of rockers of a certain age singing along with every track. Many wearing old Wishbone Ash T-shirts! “The Pilgrim”, an instrumental from their second album Pilgrimage followed, then another song this time from the Laurie Wisefield period of the band. A memory of a concert in Newcastle Odeon floods back: “F.U.B.B.” (F**ked up Beyond Belief, as I recall) is the tune in question. A song I had almost forgotten follows: “You See Red” and then another favourite, the excellent “Living Proof”. Next is “Blowin’ Free” and we know we are coming towards the end. The encore is, as it always used to be, “Jail Bait”. An excellent close to a wonderful concert reminding me just how great Wishbone Ash were, and continue to be through Martin and his band, and Andy Powell and his version of the Ash.

 

On the way out a guy recognises me and says “Were you at Soft Machine at York?” “Yes of course I was” I answer. It is great to touch base with friends old and new. Thanks to Jackie for taking some great photographs and to the staff in the Cluny for looking after me so well, as is always the case. And finally, thanks to Martin for a great evening.

 

Setlist: Set One: The King Will Come; Warrior; Throw Down the Sword; Rock ‘n Roll Widow; Ballad of the Beacon; Baby What You Want Me to Do; Blind Eye; Phoenix.

Set Two: Lady Whiskey; The Pilgrim; F.U.B.B.; You See Red; Living Proof; Blowin’ Free; Doctor; Jail Bait