Uncle Joe's By Keith

Wed 7th April2008

After my remissness last week I thought I had better write something!   We had a lovely evening as usual with a less than full list to start with although we did eventually fill all the spots.  John Twigg Richardson started us off for I think the very first time, so we had some blues played by a moderately sober man for a change and it didn't give him chance to back out of his obligations as he often does, "cross me off and let Johnno/ Jamie/ Anyone play" is his usual cry.  We had some semi new faces in, a band who's members have been in the audience for a couple of weeks came along and played to us, frighteningly they brought a ton of equipment with them but as it turned out it was just instruments well packaged including a hurdy-gurdy which a lot of people had never seen before and I for one had never heard, it's an interesting racket!  Another interesting racket was Jamie's version of a very long song, by the Doors apparently, and Jamie did a really good job.  No no I meant it was a song by the Doors not a song by the doors, I was by the doors hiding from Greg, Jamie was at the other end of the room.  Now me, my favourite subject, first of all I am very very sorry I did not get a chance to sing happy birthday to Jo I completely forgot and I feel really bad so, happy birthday Jo, sorry!   I was requested to sing my Mary Gauthier song this week by my good friend and sex bomb Donna,  I am afraid I got a little carried away and announced my undying love before the assembled throng, it didn't do me any good as I also managed to announce Nige and myself where going to be sharing a tent at the Gate To Southwell festival which seems to have put her off somewhat although I have had some interest from nicer boys in the club.  Now I know you are all desperate to know why I was hiding from Greg, well it was all down to me agreeing to help him out with the Mc'ing and then disappearing at a critical moment leaving him to struggle on alone, I don't think Greg's talking to me now, well he is but it isn't nice at all.  Finally and I want to stress this isn't from the club but from the Ormonde session on Thursday, Sian is under the impression that Fred Astaire was in The Godfather playing himself,  this apparently stems from Cookie calling her Ginger Rogers on the club Myspace site she now thinks she is Ginger Rogers and is actively looking for Fred.

OK Committee meeting next week all committee members please try to attend 7.15 prompt

See you all next week at the club    Keith

Tom's

Well it's Friday and I can reflect on a busy week, musically speaking. May day Monday and a trip up to the Star in Beeston; not a lot in but that meant doing quite a few songs, unusually the bride must have wanted me out of the house, insisting upon dropping me off so I could imbibe a couple of beers. Wednesday and the Stute beckoned, when Greg's ink ran out I offered a pen from the car and on getting to the front door happened on a sorry looking likely performer bloodied after going full length over a manhole cover. The treasurer in me decided to get him and his party in and paid up before deciding if they actually wanted to continue, all's well that ends etc. First up Young Twiggy excuseless, and he did Buckets of Rain and Strollin down the Highway, good start. DaveT did a TomP or two, not unusually you might say, Bottle of Wine and Did You Hear John Hurt respectively. Folk club proper singer PeteH did a Spotted Cow and a risqué song, Bonnie Black Hare. Not so newbie Nick did Neil Young's You and Me and a rather obscure song from the Big Star Band from the mid seventies, entitled Thirteen. Our Nige from up north did a self penned and Bad Company's Feel Like Making love. Keith, plus yet another new Guitar did a creditable version of Mary Gauthier's Mercy Now and Uncle Joe's Mint Balls, both ends of the proverbial spectrum you may say. Thoroughly rehearsed Fire and Brimstone did John Prine's Paradise and Catch us if you can, as if you'd want to. AlanSR did Long Years Gone and a Killers, Reasons Unknown. The Three Amigo's JohnB ChrisS and Colin were Knockin on Heavens Door after The Speed of the Sound of Loneliness. Supper came and went still no Lana. First up after was the bloodied trio calling themselves Perco's Offcuts, a splinter group from a Ceilidh band sporting a Hurdy Gurdy,  Accordion, Whistle and a bowed instrument triangular in shape which I think is called a Bowed Psaltery, they did a couple of olde English type folky tunes addressing Norse Invaders and Barren Lands all cheery stuff. They were well received. I got up next to accompany DTK and Lightening and after running through the harmonies for the chorus's on the stairs proceeded to do altogether different songs, stitched up or what! Mick the Sutton ender did a Bluesy, Before You Accuse Me and Fire in the Wind. Last man standing was the kidded and cajoled JeffB minus halter and monica giving us the Boxer and I Shall Be Released, Simon and Garfunkel and Dylan songs. Thursday and the Ormande usual crowd plus a couple from the Commercial sporting Mandolin, Fiddle and Bones, good late night but I suffered for my art Friday...or was it the Mushy peas???   Wednesday summary: supposedly less than active night…meaning the list didn't fill before 8.30…stuck to the sound all night giving Wal the chance to enjoy some of the performers for a change. Highlights; Perco's Offcuts, can't beat something different… Twiggy, must book a lesson or three…Fire and Brimstone, harmonious when Greg stops giggling…lastly not leastly Keith's Go-Shay number Mercy Now. Jeff also was to be applauded for stepping in to close whilst under the influence.

 

 

Wed 30th April 2008

I have writers block or amnesia or both!  Who said that?

Tom's

The notebook left on the sound table, no scribbling tonight. Started at the back after realising the much awaited feature night with Final Blend was in store for the gathered. So the impressions of the night, Terry our Liverpool lad gave a rendition of the Irish tune, Rare Old Thymes. PeteH outfought the sound system acapello of course. Donna and Jamie, duet ting. JohnB, lightening and DTK did a smashin couple from Springsteen's Seeger sessions. ChrisS accompanying two young ladies new to the club, newbie's, sounds familiar. Jeff with a halter round his neck, complete with Gob Iron (Harmonica) for those not aware of the vernacular. Sandalfoot acapello. Karen, filling the final spot, after the premature disappearance of the Chairman. Nick our recent newbie getting regular, no we haven't managed to break him down barracking his Micro tuning. All this tightly packed around the real treat of the evening Carol and Clive, good mix of songs, well performed, percussion in the right place and time; they'll be getting thrown out of proper folk clubs with performances like this. I learnt a new phrase to whit "I'm Bricking it" strange thing the lady didn't look at all like a member of the construction industry. Proper cobs, sorry rolls for supper. What I thought may have been a less well attended night due to the Football turned out to be very busy. Lots of new faces in the audience again it has to be the variety of entertainment.   Summary: Did a bit of rambling round the back…bit of sound, fancy JeffB having yellow lead plugged into guitar and singing down a yellow marked mic, I was bound to address the wrong one when balancing…highlights: most of final Blend, well I like Irish stuff…JeffB's virginal appearance with the harmonica, well done matey. And them Ham rolls. Flew past again, always does when your enjoyin it...DTK your on…Where's the Chairman???

 

Wed 23rd April 2008

Another great night out for everyone, I was less than enthusiastic due to being worn out by having to work 8 hours on two days this week and being forced to hang around in Granada all day on Tuesday,  shading from a blazing sun under orange trees, listening to buskers doing flamenco and drinking cheap Spanish beer.  That said Greg did a splendid job pulling everyone together.  As Greg was in charge he must take total responsibility for calling Suze on her return to the club after a short absence "big Sue", I can see his point, we have Little Sue, and so Suze being taller is naturally Big Sue but Suze didn't quite get the logic, Greg will recover by next week I am sure.  I am in trouble though, Brenda wasn't amused by my gentle leg pulling last week and has sworn revenge, miserable git, everyone else thought it was funny, whilst on the subject of Brenda, Pat found the ideal job for him this week, harmonica cradle!!  A rare site indeed Pat playing in his own inimitable style with Brenda hovering behind him holding the appropriate harmonica in place for Pat to play, I should explain Pat was playing a request but hadn't brought his harmonica's or cradle with him, there may be photographic evidence but I can't promise.  It was of course lovely to see Pat again and even better Maz came with him and even better still sang for us and better even than that gave me a quick cuddle on entering and leaving the club, it don't get much better than that.

 

 

 

Wed 16th April 2008

Nice busy night with a new face and an old one, Greg officiated with a little help from my good self and Dave the knobs, yes that's right Dave the knobs was heard speaking on the mike, I know some of you though he was dumb having never heard him utter anything except mines a pint but  no he has a good command of the English and appears capable of stringing simple sentences together, maybe I'll get a chance to fiddle with his voice sometime.  Clive & carol made an appearance and announced that they have been married for an incredible 35 years!  (Jade apparently).  Imagine that waking up next to Clive every day for 35 years, how they have managed not to murder each other I don't know, so congratulations you pair I imagine whisky sales will soar this week.  New face was ??? sorry but I didn't do the list and your name has eluded me but a fine singer he was maybe Tom will have the name (he was taking notes this week).  Old face was (with the emphasis on old) Brenda who has been missing for a while, nice to see you all.  A little bird tells me that Brenda has passed his bike test, no come on stop laughing, I have this mental picture of Brenda with his long hair and wild eyes wearing a a cream shell type helmet (you know the ones like a pudding basin with leather fastenings) riding a Honda 50 up to MFN for bike night.

Tom's

Well I thought the attendance was going to be diminished at the Stute due to one of it's finest having a Gig elsewhere, no not Keith, Cookie, but I was pleasantly surprised. We had a lot of new faces in and yet another couple of Ilkeston Virgins. Those two words don't often sit together. So well done to Mark and Chris. Question; are they all really new faces or is the Alzheimer's setting in? On to the night then, up first sound man PeteW with Try for the Sun and Moonshadow, good brace to start us off. Sophie was next to perform and did Dreams of Love and a local song called simply The Raleigh. Newcomer Mark did a song about Ireland which must have mentioned just about everywhere, just like geography in school and Clive's favourite Ye Jacobites by Name. Indeed Clive was next to step up did his own Mothers Love followed by Sunday morning coming down. Now the apologies I wrongly titled a song Final Blend did a couple of weeks ago as Come by the Sea when in fact it should have been Hills, nay mind eh! Little Sue and I mean that endearingly, was in great discomfort with a bad back doing High Germany, she remarked the last time the back played up was after Cossack dancing with Vladivar whoever he is. Hugh Gael iced the Cuckoo and a Rabbie inspired Ye Banks and Braes of Bonnie Doon. The sweet voice that is Karen did The Recruited Collier and My Youngest Son Came Home Today, which was superb considering she eluded to having a bad throat. Complete change with George and Barry, I Need Someone to hold Me when I Cry and Barry solo with Red roses for a Blue Lady, the owd un's are the best. Donna did Dylan's Popsatively 4th Street and a Beatles, The Universe song. The Salesman was up last before supper and did Blind Willie McTell, Good one Sir JohnB. After supper a bit of mirth and merriment from the Compere as it were announced that Final blend had celebrated Thirty Five years of marriage and in the same breath Steve aka Brenda had passed his test on a motorbike. Steve then accompanied Jonno on a couple of Zep numbers That's the Way and Bron-Y-Aur-Stomp, the latter complete with half moon tambourine duck tape and trainer for percussion on the right foot? Strange that Steve's a left hooker in the Guitar sense you should understand. Lightening Pete and Dave the Knobs did Mississippi Delta Blues, a Jimmy Rodgers version and my all time favourite from Pete, Sally Free and Easy. Next a real surprise Karen's other half, Chris slipped in to the order to do Fields of Athenry, unaccompanied, well done matey. Young Twiggy stepped up complete with big shiny resonator to do If I Had Possession over Judgement Day and In My Time of Dying, all good cheery stuff. Jamie brought up the rear to end the night with a Julian Lennon version of Saltwater Wells in My Eyes.   Summary: thought the night may have been a bit subdued and was happily surprised, I didn't even make the list. Highlights, Sally Free and Easy, the two Zeppelin numbers, Karen even with a dicky throat and Twiggy's two even tho they were a bit morbid. That Guitar sounds brilliant in the right hands. Low spot missing Cookies only likely acoustic gig this year, I may have to get round a promoter or two , but not on a Wednesday eh

 

 

Wed 9th April 2008

Back at the club this week no gigs to be had,  I was disappointed to find that the club ran superbly without me last week, so I thought I had better make an impression.  Lana is still missing in action but chelle is doing a terrific job, unlike some people, no names mentioned, who think it is funny to apply odd effects to my voice on the PA.  The list went well as usual, I am beginning to think the new system is really going to work, I suppose it will be all chairman Pete's idea when it is deemed a success.  Now back to me making an impression, I have nicked a song from Branka who in turn stole it from Mary Gauthier and after some hard practice I decided to show off with it, well despite mild panic and a bad case of rubbery fingers (it is finger picked) I think I got away with it unlike the "J Eat Hovis Witnesses"  joke Derek told me that I felt obliged to share with the assembled throng.  I left the stage to the poor comedians anthem, the echo's of my own feet, I swear I felt a chill breeze blow through the room as I walked off. 

Cookie has apparently had his "Nottingham" song played on Radio, I know various radio stations have been sent copies, but no one has actually played it, until now, Ok it was a digital station, 30 listeners is better than none! But........Glasgow! Bloody Glasgow, now I know a thing or two about Glasgow it is a lovely city populated by really nice people but they are totally incomprehensible and what they made of some loony playing a borrowed mandolin and wailing about Nottingham is anyone's guess, they probably thought it was Norwegian folk music or possibly some ethnic minority program, I would love to have heard the introduction they gave it. 

Finally It was pointed out to me that Tom wasn't taking notes this week as he often does (memory Knackered) so I don't know if there will be a Tom's bit.

See you all next week at the club    Keith

 

Wed 2nd April 2008

Don't know what happened I wasn't there!  I was playing a gig with Ta Be Sure at Farnsfield club in the Red Lion, a very nice pub in Farnsfield.  I am told you had a brilliant night with some new faces and loads of great music but I don't see how it could be that good without me at the helm, if there is anymore of this wanton enjoyment in my absence I will bring Suze back to MC then you'll be sorry.  lets hope Tom does his bit this week for all the absent friends we have.

See you all next week at the club    Keith

  Tom's Thoughts

Well as I sit here throwing this blog together I reflect on a few misinterpretations: Thoughts going through my head before last nights appearance at the Stute (1) Liverpool V Arsenal, there’ll be nobody there…wrong (2) Keith’s got a Gig elsewhere, there’ll be nobody there…wrong (3) I’ll just run through some old stuff and if needed on the night playing the club guitar will work out fine, there’ll be nobody there…wrong. Now before committing ring finger (left hand) and index finger (right hand) to keyboard another mistake …looked at Cookies posting of his interpretation of his performance last night, so sitting here totally bemused. I don’t often get on me high horse, at five foot five and a half in me barefoot it is difficult, but I disagree with his thoughts. We all think we could have done better, but fortunately it’s what others think that matters. The rapturous applause as he finished the two numbers back up my review…nuff said. The night started with Nige from halfway up north doing his Rainbows followed by Mr Bojangles, written by Jerry Jeff Walker in 1968 Nige, and I still require first refusal on the old Takemine. Next up a couple of chaps that I have had the privilege of playing with and listening to before, Ted of Banjo fame and Mel with really nice old Guitar did the Old Homeplace and an instrumental both with a Bluegrass flavour, nice to see Ted back playing after illness, come back soon guys. PeteH did his version of The Blackbird and I think a song called Arthur McBride, unaccompanied as is the norm for him. Our recent newcomer Nick did a Dylan, You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome when you go and a Paul Simon song. Final Blend did Come by the Sea and a song with Jacobite rebellious overtones. Colin did My Back Stairs, Gordon Lightfoot?? and David Gray’s You’re the One I Love. Yet another Ilko virgin, there’s not many, Chand did a self penned, Modesty not the Strongest Suit and Tom Baxter’s Moon and Me, good Guitar work and someone else we would want to see back again, well done matey. Magical GeorgeD did a smashin couple of John Denver’s on his twelve string, It’s good to be back home again and Nashville in the rain gave us a bit of country feel. Next up ChrisS did Sunday Morning Coming Down and a requested Tom Paxton, Born on the 4th of July. Now for me a real positive of the night we welcomed back to entertain us after an absence of over six months SteveW Aka Brenda who did his own Wrecking song and an absolute favourite song of mine, There Were Roses by Tommy Sands, I first heard this as did Steve closing Billy Connolly on his world tour of Ireland television series. After supper and the raffle Cookie was up with Mandolin in hand did the Pogues Old Main Drag ably followed by a Squeeze song, Labelled with Love he went down well and ten minutes is never enough for me. I did a Christy Moore version of a Woody, Deportees and Sorrow to cheer everyone up, unfamiliar guitar no excuse as fingerpicking planned for former didn’t happen. JohnB rose then to do  Eli the Barrow Boy from the Decemberists, good song well done as usual and secondly Dylan’s One More Cup of Coffee for the Road. Jonno ably assisted by ChrisS got us into rockin mood with a White Stripes. I get nervous when she comes around. And Stevie Wonder’s Lately. Jamie finished the night off with an eleven year old song of his own, Seed and lastly Kharma Police.   .. Summary: Still no Lana, get well soon…so many highlights tonight…not all musical …Ted back playing after illness…Steve and Jo back with us …yet another talented newcomer…on to the songs, JohnB and his barrow boy song, how apt for this guy who could sell ice creams to the proverbial Eskimoes, Magician’s Nashville in the Rain, Cookies Squeeze song, Jonno’s Lately, The Old Homplace, Bluegrass stuff…no lows tonight. The best feeling of the evening was the amount of people that commented on it being the best night for ages, now we usually have top nights but the night was a bit special.

 

Wed 26th March 2008

Busy again lots of singers, no Lana though and still no Suze & Sian (transport problems, come on Jackie get the car out!!)  Chelle did the bar and a good job she made of too.  We had a new singer in yet again this week, a guy called Jason and once again Peter H missed someone who he would have really appreciated, Jason is a fine singer and did two brilliant unaccompanied folk songs for us, try as I might I couldn't find time in the running order for an encore, shame is he isn't likely to become a regular as he lives in Essex but you never know.  Rare treats this week were the appearance of Fire & Brimstone, (The Gatlin Boys still don't have anything to worry about) and a scratch super group (a bit like The Travelling Wilberies) with Fire & Brimstone, half  The Gatlin Boys, Lightnin Pete & last but not least Mick from Sutton.  This week saw the long awaited Half hour from Jamie, and I have to say 10/10 for effort, singing and playing, Jamie like his dad is a very accomplished musician and a not half bad singer BUT (I know you could feel a but coming), why does he feel the need to shock?  To be honest I really do not like the gratuitous swearing and I don't think the folk club is the place to air this material, Sorry Jamie but I don't.

 

Tom's View

Emergency phone call…Number one raffle man unable to attend, can you do the honours, no problem hat swapped and prizes procured. Was running through a couple for the night’s assault on the Folk and Blues and so late and rushing. Now Jamie was on half hour spot and although late I got on the list to close the night at eleven, must be something to do with connections, o the fruits of office. Long Eaton’s answer to Tom Paxton, Dave opened the show with a couple of Tom’s. Kathy Anna was up early and did a brace of her own. Jason a new proper floor singer, well used to rowdy Rugby clubs did a fine set of two songs from the past about serving King and country in the Navy and Army respectively, move over PeteH. Hugh gave an airing to some tunes on the accordion, nice rounded sound. No they haven’t disbanded, Fire and Brimstone kept the humour in the job, on six sting and twelve string, next week they are going to do the a song in the same key. Our lad from further up north, Liverpool not Huthwaite did another Rod the Mod. Jamie up for his half hour did mostly his own songs with a cover of a Hendrix song for good measure. Dave the Knobs and lightening did a nice bit of Blues just to maintain the balance. There was a request from the forum on the web site to do more turning up and playing with each other un-rehearsed as it were. To this end a few adventurous souls got up and did Speed of the Sound of Loneliness, don’t know if it will take off but credit where it’s do, they all did the same song. Well done Mick, Keith, Greg, Derek and Lightening. Was a Nightmare for the Sound man?  Penultimate man our Nige from nearly up north did a Paul Simon and one of his own. I managed to close the show with a country song about Cows and a version of The Black Velvet Band, which I sang in the wrong key, good job those left in were happy with the Ale.   Summary: Rushing about last minute again, all the time management courses wasted….Highlight tonight the four plus one slung together band and Lightening’s Harmonica work…Low spot Lana being poorly, get well soon. Laughs of the night, not recognising the new sound man from behind, superb short back and sides Dave and then compounding that, the look on his face when I went to pay Derek and he thought I was switching on the MC’s mic.

 

 

Wed 19th March 2008

Bit quieter this week than of late but still a full list none the less, it was Greg's first go with the new list and a good job he made of it so I can see this new regime sticking around for a while.  There isn't much gossip going around at the minute so I am a bit short of material, I was drawn into cursing in front of Sophie but that wasn't my fault as Greg set me up and Sophie crept up behind me.  Anyhow suffice it to say Jamie has his half hour spot next Wednesday (anyone turning up after 10pm just to avoid it will be charged double) so see you there, Ta Be Sure will be playing The Staff Of Life pub Sutton In Ashfield Monday Night, everyone welcome although we can't stretch to bribery (free pints or free sweeties) like Jamie & Cookie

See you all next week at the club    Keith

Tom's View

 

We-hey Greg’s back and the new running order thingmy wotsit’s in for its first real test…Just like a well oiled machine sound gears installed, checks made and we’re into the first of the night, Young Neville sang of Black Jack and his county chains followed by Clapton’s Wonderful Tonight. Cathy Anna Sang a sweet rendition of an old favourite, Willy of Winsbury, acapello beautiful voice. Hugh did a couple in that Gaelic language, Isle of Inisfree came second. Carol and Clive aka Final blend did a tune I now can’t get out of my head and still can’t put the title to, and one for St. Patrick’s Day. Fields of Athenry. Another young protégé from IanS, Maria did Mr Bojangles and Neil Young’s My, My Hey Hey. Now there’s a thread appearing…Neil Young songs were greatly aired at Higham last Thursday and lo and behold the trio that did some sound Blues there were on next doing High heeled Sneakers and a Dr Feelgood tune that eludes me, maybe Goin Back Home. George and Barry introduced a bit of country with He stopped lovin her today and Pan American Queen, George Jones the former and Hank Williams the latter. Sophie beguiled everyone with Homeward Bound and Empty Pocket Blues, a tune from The Incredible Sting Band. Club proper folkie PeteH back from Amazonia did a song for old Saint Pat, The Blarney Stone and followed with another Irish ditty The Galway Shawl. Keith after excitably informing me of the purchase of an electric device for blowing up our airbeds (he’s on the festival drug already) did Newry Town and proceeded to advertise his services washing down Lobbies. A little bird tells me he asked Julie May for permission to do Newry Town. Derek after being usurped in the song department had to rapidly come up with alternates in High Germany and Leaving London  Well done matey superb stuff at short notice. Sandalfoot did 404 page not found after Supper. The new arrival from last week, Nick again performed admirably with McCartney’s Blackbird and, here’s the thread Neil Young’s Old Man. As an aside there’s a superb clip of Old Man done way back for the BBC on YouTube. JeffB up next back to Donovan ways with Belated Forgiveness Plea and Jersey Thursday. Three acts left according to the new form, Cookie did a new one, a tune entitled Tides of Morecambe Bay decrying the antics of the Criminals that sent twenty-one chinese to their deaths cockle picking in the bay. Then, thread again Neil Young’s Heart of Gold. Penultimate act Jamie did No Way Back for Me and Perfect Day. Last but not least Dave the Knobs and Lightening Pete did Married Women Blues by an obscure artist called Wilbert Jenkins and Help me. Finished all too soon again another good night.   Summary: Sound system appears sorted short term…lots of variety tonight… highlights: Willy of Winsbury from Kathy Anna, The Bluesy trio from Higham, Names to Follow, and PeteH with The Galway head scarf, a good old join inna.

 

 

 Wed 12th March 2008

Really good night again with loads of acts and a new face to enjoy.  The MCing was undertaken by myself, Nige And John R, I can report the new way of filling up the play list is working ok but we haven't really had to test it to the limit, maybe when Greg gets back we can give it to him and really test his resolve by flooding him with requests for a spot.  The sound system sadly is still causing problems and whilst members of the committee including myself think we should wait until we can afford a complete refit some repairs are obviously necessary and Tom I believe has this in hand, Tom you may have noticed is learning the ropes on the knobs alongside Wal (as well as being club treasurer) so well done and thanks Tom.  It has come to our notice that Steve H (Ex Treasurer) is a bit poorly, unfortunately we didn't find out for some time and he is well on the way to recovery now but get well soon Steve, lets hope he is back with us very soon and Terri survives all that running about after him.  Whilst we are on the subject if you know of any club member who has a birthday, wedding, birth or is ill etc. etc. let us know so we can make a bit of a fuss, ok Derek having the trots this week isn't really a case for concern unless of course he is still going next Wednesday but you know what I mean.  New face this week was ???? I am really sorry but the name escapes me (it could have been Nick), he was some player and earned himself an encore (not bad for a first timer) I hope we get him in again if spending all night in the company of Nige and Johnny B hasn't put him off.   And finally!  Ta Be Sure, Irish folk supergroup will be playing St Patricks night at The Rifle Volunteer in Skegby, I only mention this because I play with them and as author of this column I get to write whatever I like.

See you all next week at the club    Keith

Tom's View

Busy night tonight, opened the show, well someone has to: had a little taster of the sound mans job: and then managed to make a few notes to outline the evenings offerings from the good folks of the Ilkeston and surrounding….So after the opening with a few hiccups and crackles from the left side speaker came Karen who sang unaccompanied, a Scottish song phonetically called Shoolaroon??, spell check wants to change to Schoolroom ha-ha. And followed with that song with loads of different titles, Wild Mountain Thyme. Next our Nige from up North did Kris K’s Sunday Morning Coming Down and one of his own, Reach Out??. Pete W then gave us Julio Down by  the Schoolyard and his own, Nobody Listens. Scotty young protégé Sophie did Tangerine Puppet and Stagolee.  JeffB regaled us with a smashing couple of songs and I was so wrapped up with them I mislaid the titles, well done matey. Nick another newcomer to our club did a brilliant cover of a Martin Simpson traditional folk song called Fair Annie off The Bramble Briar CD, his second a rousing version of A Roving, rookie MC Nige then had him do a third which was the instrumental Gordon Giltrap hit of yesteryear, Heartsong. John B stepped up after much heckled abuse, he took all in his stride, to do firstly John Prine’s Far from Me and then my current favourite of his Dylan’s The Man in the Long Black Coat, all good stuff. Alan SR did a G K Chesterton poem put to music his classical sounding super. After supper, Colin on so late he nearly got a nosebleed, did a Buffy St. Marie and another Prine? Crazy as a Loon. In the star spot Cookie airing a couple for an impending performance elsewhere, did his own Francis Robinson, a good song about the enigma that was the xylophone busker from town now sadly deceased, followed by a Jam number Down in the Tube Station at Midnight, another poignant tale. To follow we had Jamie with God will Save the Day, highlighting the disappearance of Madeline McCann and Hells Bells. Mick a visitor from the Sutton area did Eighteen Wheels. Jonno gave a stunning performance of Creep from Radiohead, with loads of energy. Keith finished us off with Ten Pints of Tetleys.     Summary: got loads of new hats, Treasurer, Sound man, Raffle runner, soft touch??. Highlights tonight: JeffB tickling my old Takemine…Nick with that Martin Simpson tune…JohnB’s Long Black Coat and Cookie down the Tube. Low point has to be three hours is not enough. Breaking news…. the left speakers in bits.

 

   

 

Wed 5th March 2008

Brilliant night again this week, the new running order went well for a first attempt with Lightnin and myself overseeing it.  Just to recap, players are now put into the running order by the MC in a attempt to achieve a balanced and entertaining evening, see the committee pages for more information.  We had Two new players this week both of whom where very good, there was Clare who unfortunately for Yves came along and did some fine fiddling on the night he decided to show off his talents, (sorry Yves you were great but Clare was superb) and the ebullient, yes ebullient Ami who had us all spellbound, lets hope we see loads more of both these ladies.  I have a point to make, people have started noticing of late that I limit my beer intake to one pint, this is nothing to do with being breathalysed recently, I have always been of a sober persuasion as Lana will confirm after witnessing my reaction to the cost of buying a round the other week.  If Suze mentions Whitby and brandy I would like to point out she was drunker than me and therefore is an unreliable witness.

See you all next week at the club    keith

Tom's bit

Well the committee met and the seeds were sown for a new way to organise the list, so I relied on my popularity to get a spot instead of getting there early…big mistake... tongue firmly out of cheek. Oberfuhrermeister Clark was having none of it Treasurer or not I was first reserve. Even producing the raffle prizes didn't cut any ice. On to the night then proper. Started with a couple of country songs from GeorgeD's accompanist, good start. In no sort of order we had Jamie, Myself, Walt Sue and Lightening, a lady called Clare, Yves, Colin, Julie and ChrisS, Keith, DaveTK, Derek, Amy Notman and finishing with Jonno. Superlatives aside it was a top night and good big crowd in.     Summary: List still produced top night even with half the MC's doing a Fan dance up the Nile…Highlights top fiddle tunes from Clare and Eves and three belting songs from AmyN: Low point listening to Derek make my Guitar sound superb, well done Matey….After mutterings from unnamed lady upon two wine raffle prizes, this weeks offering of Chocolate and wine were better received.

 

 

Wed 27th Feb 2008

Feature & Guest night this week, Antonia did a brilliant half hour spot followed closely by one of Dick Pike's friends Graham Cooper.  A rather lively committee meeting preceded it all and for information about this and running the club in general visit the club committee page.  

See you all next week at the club    keith

Tom's View

Blogs taken a bit of a back seat these last few weeks, all sorts of excuses at the ready, none really fit, sufficient to say I've not been round the clubs and venues to give any variety to the mix so it got to look like an Ilkeston review. And we all know about variety and spices etc. Sort of promised Cookie a bit of a Summary since he's been AWOL for a few weeks, something to do with Little Pigs, funny that I thought he was into printing Inks??? Ilson continues to attract new and varied talent and averages an audience around the fifty mark, always a full list lately, newcomers and much travelled are fussed over and cajoled. The committee are meeting on a regular basis and we appear to be financially sound. The Ormande is going really well and we now have Fiddle players Banjo's Bodhran and Guitars in regular attendance. Last week had a distinct Bluegrass feel. This spin off venue will appeal if you have new songs you want to try, new instruments to get a hold of or just meet new folks…sort of workshop come watering hole…always good food on for free…and some bloody good musicians to give encouragement if you need it. That's me marketing done for a while. On a lighter note writing these things blind makes for dullish content methinks so a bit of feedback, not the musical sort, will go down a treat, all I can see looking at the Blogs are my six faithful subscribers so who are you other 300??? To keep the format.   Summary: Got a bit fed up writing Ilson review and not travelling, answer get off me jacks and perform more. Highlights of the last few weeks Karen singing solo Acapulco, why does this Yankee spell check keep putting that in? Don't they know it's not funny anymore? And several invites to festivals / gatherings. Low point all the good stuff I've listened to over the last month and made little or no meaningful comment about. Will try to give a flavour of stuff on me Ipod. Currently a CD called Acoustic 07 with some really good tracks; I even managed to listen to Martha Wainwright's swearing chorus.

 

 

Wed 20th Feb 2008

Another great night, loads of acts, we had to make an early start to accommodate everyone.  We had a three way split with the MC'ing, myself Greg and Nige sharing the job, Nige I should add is apprenticed to Greg & Myself as part of the youth development program initiated by John R.   We saw the debut performance this week by George, Dave the bar & Barry with Sue assisting as a mike stand again and a credible performance it was, I must once again apologise to Donna for getting over exited and making smutty remarks, I can't help it she brings out the animal in me, much the same as Sian who frequently gives me Tourette's.  Another debut was Karen who we have seen for a while now but not heard, she got up and did two unaccompanied folk songs really, really well,  pity Peter H wasn't in to hear her he would have loved it.  Not so good was lightnin Pete, yes lightnin Pete club chairman who managed a few bum chords, not covered up at all by his leg shaking routine or playing in the kneeling position at one stage.  As I was last man out of the car park none of you will have witnessed Dave Nige & myself being chased down the road by the local constabulary, I was hauled off to be breathalysed which I am glad to say I passed with flying colours but not before blowing myself cross eyed. 

Reminder  Next week is a guest night, No Singers,  £3.00 entry fee.  We have Graham Cooper ably Supported by our own Antonia B and reading the web he may well be assisted by someone else as well but I can't confirm that.

And Another Thing  All committee members please try to get to the meeting next week 7.00 start  

See you all next week at the club    keith

 

Wed 13th Feb 2008

Well I am blowed, after last weeks bun fight we had a very quiet night this week, as always we filled the play list very quickly and a great time was had by all.  I launched our long awaited spot the baby competition with eight little darlings to try and identify, they are all well known club members.  I kept an eye on one or two people through the night and a few right answers came up but a lot wrong ones as well you'll just have to wait till next Wednesday to find out but Sian is definitely not one of them,  I need to emphasise that because Sian is convinced that she is, despite her mother's assurance that she would have recognised her.  A quick reminder that the next committee meeting is a week next Wednesday, if you have any questions or issues you would like to bring up see a committee member sharpish or email me at mailto@ilkestonfolkclub.org.uk .  If you are a committee member please be at the Stute for 7pm so that we can get the meeting underway.  I believe I have redeemed myself and the reputation of the bodhran this week, I played heavy duty blues with Lightnin & Dave the knobs and a bit of rock with Johnno & Jamie proving yet again that the site of a bodhran entering a folk club is not necessarily bad news, unless of course if it is accompanied by me.

   See you all next week at the club    keith

 

Wed 6th Feb 2008

Everyone and his wife at the club this week, Not that we're complaining.  Two birthdays this week Chris reached the venerable age of 50 something (he's not telling) and Dr Joe hit the glorious milestone that is 40, she don't look a day over 30.  In the club tradition we passed a card around for each of them and invited people to sign, Chris bless him managed to sign his own, sending best wishes to himself, we didn't tell him we let him work it out on his own.  Twiggy came back this week after a bout of the flu, he sounds terrible but then how would you know he normally does, I hope it isn't the drags on for ages type I don't think Margaret has the strength to carry him.  Once again I am the object of ridicule especially from the front row, especially from the extreme right hand side, just because I had difficulty pitching my first song, To Ramona, which I have played and sung numerous times without a problem, Greg saw fit to giggle all the way through my set, not such a terrible crime you might think but when he is sat directly in front of you it does get difficult to ignore, my thanks to all those of you who sang it out loud trying to give me a start (it didn't help) we did get going eventually.

 

   See you all next week at the club    keith

    

 

Wed 30th Jan 2008

Bit of a quiet night this week although Derek informed us that over 50 folks were in, Baz did the first half hour of the year, this had been arranged about last August so he had lots of time to practice not that he needs it.  Not much gossip this week I think the new year blues are beginning to bite, the weather is turning cold and the fireside looks more inviting every day but we were warmed by the good friends and great atmosphere at the club.  I am still looking for any pictures of the Christmas party you may have or indeed any photo's from the club we could publish on the web site and talking about photo's I am about to launch the long awaited spot the baby competition I have just a few pictures, if you want to add yourself or another club member send a photo to me quickly you have about a week.

If you sent me a picture of yourself in a high chair in the garden please let me know as I cannot remember who this is!!

   See you all next week at the club    keith

 

Tom's Bit

Stepped it out on the afternoon walk round the park and left mesen five minutes to sit down and savour the lake and surroundings. At this juncture realised it was Sandalfoot on the half hour feature spot at the folk club. Got there dead early, well they'd not turned down the lights, up first tonight Hugh with an unpronounceable gaelic offering followed by a Scottish air about a lady from Dunoon who was Rabbie Burns secret lover??. Lightening Pete was up next and did a classic Dylan number and another Scottish song, Wild Mountain Thyme; this song must have more titles than any other. Now not a lot of people know that the Aussies have a national day to celebrate and Keith used the fact to give us The Cockie and Tie me Kangaroo down Sport. Our lady of the blue lamp, Donna did a McFly, It's all about you and Lennon's Imagine. It amazes me she had a roadie just to put on her capo. Next Barrie's half hour spot and it was full of the expected keyboard and quick lyrics. After supper Nige did his own Counting Rainbows and a Paul Simon, Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard. Jamie did Free's Wishing Well. Mick from somewhere near Sutton, well that's where I first saw him play, did a nice couple of numbers the latter being accompanied by Lightening. JeffB did a creditable version of Dylan's I'll be your baby tonight and All or Nothing by the Small Faces. The night was finished off in some style with ChrisS JohnB and Doctor Jo performing Jo's everso slow rendition of The Speed of the Sound of Loneliness and last song of the night Knocking on Heavens Door.   Summary: Quieter night tonight…highlight: some of that keyboard wizardry. Low spot poor old JeremyB ... Knocking on Heavens Door

 

Wed 23rd Jan 2008

ILL ILL ILL!  People may have noticed this week I was off my game, I took ill early on in the proceedings and although I rallied later I wasn't a happy bunny all night, Lana did her best, showed some motherly concern and loaned me a fan to stand near.   That apart we had a super night loads of talent loads of fun and not a little friendly banter.  This Nige thing has gone up a gear as he has progressed from accosting people in the toilets to assaulting the mc on stage, I fully expect protection in the future, I do get my own back by the way by frightening him on the drive there, this week I took us head to head with a large artic. unit, you may notice he is a little shaky until he has his first couple of drinks.  I am in trouble again and a public apology is required,  Donna took exception to my mentioning her bosom and not her musical talent last week, now I am the first to admit that Donna is a really nice singer and an accomplished guitar player, I love nothing more that to listen to her performing on stage, but visually she is gorgeous and a treat for me old eyes and what's more I don't do reviews anymore (too much trouble) Tom sees to that side of things.  The recent spate of flu has had some compensations I managed to resurrect the Suzie Flu joke once again you know "everyone has had it" unfortunately she was downstairs having a fag but it raised a laugh anyhow.  In the interests of fairness I have to report that a certain bodhran player buggered Clive's performance up, ok it was me I just lost it and wandered off on my own, of course everyone instantly became an expert, I would just like to say in my defence I was ill, I didn't know what Clive was playing and we did wander into 6/8 difficult at the best of times I find.  Finally Sian is bereft because Heath Ledger has died, who ever he is? I don't think we helped with the dead person jokes.

Addendum.   For Gods sake stop explaining who Heath Ledger is / was.  No I don't want to borrow your copy of A Knights Tale  

   See you all next week at the club    keith

Tom's Bit

This looking after the cash malarkey went to me head as I found myself through the doors and at the back realising I hadn't taken any money to the Stute. And once there someone was hoarsely belting out a version of The Blackleg Miner, sorry Keith get well soon. Things to mention this week Burns night meant some of his works from PeteH. A song in garlic or Gaelic from Hugh. More country blues from Twiggy, who incidentally didn't know where the alias came from, apparently the gent in the Royle family was the source. Clive abetted by the hoarse Bodhran beater did a couple of tunes on the Melodeon. Cookie and AlanSR did a couple at the death, the second of which had some superb picking from Alan on the Nylon strung which sounded Harp like,smashin. After crudely making reference to a blue glowing appendage last week Keith has left it to me to redress the balance and I can only say well done to Donna after all the banter and ribald comments she did make a good job of first the smokers new anthem light up, light up otherwise known as  Run from Snow Patrol and then the Killers Mister Brightside. Once again reinforcing my belief that variety is the spice etc. thanks also to the interloper from Spondon Garry with a couple of bluesy tunes accompanied by lightening.   Summary: Strapped for cash and no latch lifter…highlight Alan' picking for that second song, another master class request coming, low point massive dinner and then no supper, loads in again…full marks to Suze and the Knobs letting Cookie and Co finish the night.

 

 

 

Wed 16th Jan 2008

Hooray Lana is back after being off ill for a while, not that there is anything wrong with the rest of the staff but they are not Lana, we really miss her when she's not there.  The club filled up very quickly again this week and the best advice I can give you is get there early if you want to play, we do not guarantee anyone a spot but we strive to accommodate everyone.  We are in the happy position of being over subscribed most weeks and although it is great it does make MCing very difficult, so have a heart and don't moan if you miss out, there is always next week and Greg and myself try our best to get everyone on.  Once again I will say, if you think you have the answer to this problem let us know and if you think you can do a better job come and have a go.

There seems to be some needle creeping in to the club again so watch out for some exciting times!  Nigel apparently accosted Twiggy in the toilets to tell him he was a crap guitarist, a fair observation we thought but Twig had practiced all week and wasn't having any of it so there could be some lively debate on that issue, I managed to say Suze "normally looks like a sack of S--t tied in the middle" on the mike, so that could have repercussions, although she did sing a really nice song for me and I bribed her later with some sweeties.   I do believe Wal was heard to swear quite terribly at Greg for some comment about the sound,  and finally I was caught staring at Donna which I have to admit I was because her bosom seemed to be illuminated by a soft blue light, now I am no expert in ladies under garments but I have to say I have never come across illuminated Bra's before, it turns out it was just light filtering through the Alcopop she was clutching, shame really because it did look rather fetching.  Oh! just one other thing Jamie I think it was, told us about a face-book site where some one had managed to take a shower with 1000 naked ladies (over a period of time not all at once),  now this sounds to me like a hobby I could get into, I am not too interested in trying to beat any records, I would be just a recreational shower'r, it's reasonably cheap, not overly strenuous and clean if nothing else, so if any young ladies would like to assist me in my new hobby I can be found at the folk club every Wednesday.

keith  

See you all next week at the club

Tom's Bit

Wednesday 16th January - Ilkeston folk & Blues Club Category: Music   Late tonight no excuses, car park full with no rugby training it augured well for another full house…Colin was into his second song and the sound men had had a bit of a move round with the knobs now front and centre…any better sound? Don't know I was sat at the back waiting for the sandwiches, not really but there weren't many seats left. Lana the lovely barmaid had all but recovered from the tummy bug and so we were spared the light show and blackouts of last week. The room was full and erstwhile compere and general list juggler Greg was struggling to get everyone on that wanted to play. I must have been one of the few who didn't want to, an earlier run through of some old stuff was awful and I felt plateau'd, is that another word that would be challenged on the Scrabble board? Reason for the full list yet again new faces, one of which was last seen at the Cow, the real variety delivered at the Stute comes from this continual evolving of new tunes, people and songs long may it last. Decided against a list tonight but there were some exceptions which need a mention, Jamie did a shocker about his neighbours and a smashing cover of a song by the Bravery, An Honest Mistake, which incidentally got me playing them at work today? JohnR aka Twiggy did some amazing finger picking on the old Lowden, must approach him for a master class. JohnB did a song about a barrow boy which I need to have a go at. Taking nothing from the other performers tonight, but with Baz playing through the supper and Keith and Greg getting acts on and off in a timely manner we were treated to eighteen acts, a lovely supper and a raffle  all this for a quid, I think the Sky dish can go back.   Summary: Must have a night away can't go on raving about how good a night it's been…O yes I can… get there early for a seat…highlights already mentioned Jam, his dad and the guy from the cow era…lowspot Treasurers hat weighing heavy with more funding requests from the floor…Question…Would a festival style day at the rugby club outside in summer go down well???

 

 

 

 Wed 9th Jan 2008

I am back but not my usual ebullient self, and no singing yet.  we had the first committee meeting of the new year this week and under the guidance of Chairman Pete things are starting to come along,  minutes are available on Club Committee page.  There is nothing earth shattering to report and I will keep you abreast of developments as and when.  Nige has taken to wearing his pink socks gifted by the committee (development and needs resource sub committee)  but has seen fit to mock the sentiment and has written a song about them. I doubt there will be any further foot wear forthcoming however cold it gets! Birthdays this week:  Sian the lovely, I can't reveal her age of course but happy birthday all the same.

This week as a special treat I have given you a taste of the rubbish Cookie publishes on his Myspace site. 

keith  

See you all next week at the club

Tom's View

Bit of a rush this week, early doors at the Stute for the first committee meeting, no time then to pull in the quick repair to Mighty Mo's computer on the way, still sorted it for the latchlifter fiver. Meeting largely mundane, not so the rest of the night's entertainment, list and the room filled quickly and we were soon underway with the Dublin Busker, BobS opening the night. PeteH now announces his songs and sometimes their origins, I once remember a young lady making her way to the finals of the young folk singers of the year awards saying this type of banter helped both her nerves and broke down a few barriers, not to mention me getting a few song titles right here. For the record Pete did The Deserter and Matt Hyland both traditional and unaccompanied. Ilkeston never ceases to amaze me with the amount of new performers that turn up they are well received. Nige sporting his new fluffy pink socks promptly sang a song about them. Jamie did Johnny Cash, the Ring of Fire and his Pater went to the loo fearing the worst, no problems though. Jonno did a bit of heavy stuff, Highway to Hell with loads of false endings boy can he milk an audience. Lightening Pete seems to pop up with his harmonica and play with anyone, he's not fussy. Poor old Lana has fallen to the latest tummy bug and I wish her speedy recovery. Alan SR put in a good couple of songs as did Cookie, I always know when it's been a good night it goes so quickly.     Summary: a superb night enjoyed by a near full house, highlights Cookie with his song about the legendry speed ace Donald Campbell, Jonno and his folkie heavy metal and the visitor that did some marvellous guitar work on  Richard Thompson's Vincent Black Lightening. :no low point tonight….Congratulations go to Bob the busker for his most professional start getting through his numbers despite the lady from behind the bar trying to confuse him with an impromptu light show, which included several blackouts.

  The view from Cookie

First Performance of the Year Current mood: bouncy Category: Music   Over the last few months my infrequent sojourns to the Ilkeston Folk Club serve only to catch up on folkie tittle tattle, fondle Guinness and laugh at Keith – I haven't played since I did me half hour spot back in June 2007 – now but a distant memory!     Last week I was cajoled into a performance – well if your public demands it? Ha ha – of course the only spot was the one where yours truly had to call last orders at the bar in between songs!   Well brothers and sisters having not stroked my guitar for some time I had to place much strain on my aching noggin for a tune for which I could remember both the chords and the words! In the end I settled for 'Bluebird' a song I can play in my sleep (and which actually sends some folks to sleep!) and 'Please Please Please, let me get what I want' by The Smiths - a song that I haven't played before – I just love the version in the Shane Meadows film 'This is England' and could just about remember the words   Well I guess the performance was not that bad for instead of the usual response ('get off yer twat') I was greeted with both hefty and hearty applause from the small gathering of folkies huddled together at last orders   a result thought I?   Martha get them teacups READY!

 

Wed 2nd Jan 2008

Rumours of my death have been greatly exaggerated, but I am suffering.  I will be, God willing, back for the committee meeting next week, though singing could be doubtful.  I am sure I'll make some kind of impression

keith  

See you all next week at the club

 

Tom's View

First blog of the New Year…....first resolution….. Succinct and to the point no bull, then down to earth with a visit to the Stute. Now accepting office to "do me bit" was thought to be looking after the brass and keeping me head down….no chance, last night was like Beirut years ago, I even got a pull cause the left hand speaker developed a crackle. Everybody wants me to spend money, they never had my upbringing, me mother used to scratch on the Echo marge and then scrape it off so I have a reputation to live down to. On to the entertainment proper and the place was less than buzzing, thirty three braved the cold, with apologies for absence accepted from a fair few. No intention of creating a list this week suffice to say that we weren't short of performers and PeteH of the proper folk addressed the assembled with firstly a song with two names, Down by the River or The Lily White Hand and an aussie rude enough to have been penned by Jamie. Other notables Sandal foot number two Nige, honest no socks and it was freezing, and the Takamine sounded nice. JeffB back to Donovan days with The Alamo and The Ballad of Geraldine. I usually take weeks to perform a song so Suze's effort straight out of a book she found kicking about took me breath. JohnB finished off with a trio of songs…     Summary: Have I dropped a goolie with this treasurer lark??? Highlights… all that braved the cold with colds and coughs and Suze…lots of supper…was that a low spot with our house on resolution number two…weight loss??? Question: how big is a carbon footprint when your house is festooned with a million lights for Christmas?