Blogs From 2013

(These blogs have been transferred from our old website)

21st December 2013  ANOTHER FINE YEAR


Hello all,

The Six Bells Folk and Blues Club rolls on as ever!

It is some time since I was able to write something for the blog due to my new role and other responsibilities but I now find myself with a bit of time and space.

I would like to start by thanking Geoff and Elaine for their input at the Christmas bash and their excellent extended set. I think we all had a great deal of fun and some good music.
I would also like to thank Francis for doing the desk and Paul and Jaqui for the lovely food. We managed to raise £60 in support of the Burma Star Charity, in memory of Councillor Roy and it was lovely to see Madeleine and her husband attending the evening in memory of her dad. 
It still seems, only recently, that he was among us with his unique and unforgettable approach to the performing arts!! I am pleased that we have some footage of him as a legacy for him and the Folk Club.

As well as myself, we had sets from Simon Watt, Trace, Chris Martin, Paul Vaughn, Chris Liddiard, Glen and Chris(guitarist), Derry, Lisa with Mike Aldridge and Mick Hartwell and with Helga on flute and supported on many occasions by Bart on percussion.
Everyone was excellent and contributed to an excellent evening which was well attended and seemed to be well appreciated overall.

And so it seems to be becoming a regular comment of mine, that the Folk Club is doing well and being enjoyed by a whole range of people which is a fantastic testament to all who attend and make it happen, and to those who help.
We would not function without Simon doing the web-site and Francis and Andy managing the PA and without Paul for letting us use the venue in the first place….so a special THANK YOU to all of them.
I had no idea, all of those years ago, that we would still be doing this today having had so many people come and play and listen…..I think we are doing our job!!

So it only remains for me to say a big thank you to all of you who contribute to the evenings and make the whole thing such a pleasure to be involved in.

Seasons greetings and business as usual on the 7th January…..

All the best

chris



5th November 2013 UKULELES GALORE

Well my friends,
It was another fantastic night at the ole blues club with some new friends and some great performances.
Nice to see some new faces but always nice to see our regular friends as well and, all in all, it was well attended both in performers and audience and reports would indicate that the majority of people seem to have had an excellent evening. That is pleasing to me as it means that the club is performing a positive role and that people are enjoying coming to play and listen to some great stuff. It is real live music with all of its edge and the feeling that we are all in it together….communication!

There were some lively performances from El Banda Burros, Geoff Jackson, Woody, Chris Liddiard, Chris Martin, Simon Watt, Ruth and Clare and Mike Aldridge as well as myself.

El Banda Burros have been coming to the club for a while now and it was their night for an extended set which was extremely well received.

Roger, Phil and Bob who also work together in the Big Kahuna Soul Band, regular visitors to the Six Bells band nights, mainly work with the ukulele in various formats and play a range of standards and some excellent covers. Their style is quite unique, due to the transposition of the numbers into ukulele format, but they manage to maintain the original verve and quality of the originals to an impressive degree and standard. They gave us a broad range of numbers, some of which we could join in with, and the whole performance was really well delivered and very well appreciated as well as being lots of fun and full of energy……….an excellent set….we will have some more of that I think…….lets hope we see them again soon…..



Geoff has started to play his small guitar more often…I am not sure if it has a special name…I will have to ask him and it was good to see Woody doing some of his authentic blues. He has a really good style and a strong voice.
My attempt at Memphis Tennessee with Chris Liddiard went a bit awry at first…I must have played it hundreds of times when I was younger but I started in the wrong key however I recovered to demonstrate that I was not completely inept!!
Its a funny old world when youre not looking…..

Chris Martin has a new album out and he played a couple of tunes for us. He asked me to include the following information so I will just do it verbatim.

"iTunes for my new album Stories to be told

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/artist/c.-j.-martin/id592606211

Info about the album on my website

http://www.awesomeantix.com/music2.htm#stories

My You Tube page - the last two videos are for songs off the new album"

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLgwUiQov2u5wk5AeWjVYg/videos

So you can visit those areas and enjoy some of Chriss stuff.

It was notable that Gary and Jonquil, two friends of mine who were attending the night for the first time, were very impressed with Simon Watts  "Black Hole Song" to the extent that, when I met them a couple of days later, they could remember some of the words!!…..praise indeed….they thought it was very amusing and clever…as did the rest of us. I keep trying to get Simon to do an extended set but he keeps avoiding the issue….I know he is going to be reading this so we need every ones support…he can get some musicians to support him I am sure…..yay Simon!!!

Ruth and Clare were very good and played a nice Beach Boys number….there is another idea for a theme night…Beach Boys with Ruth and Clare….one to ponder upon…
Mike Aldridge finished off the evening in his own inimitable style and we all departed having had a very good time and thanks to all who took part.

I would like to say something about Lou Reed who passed away last week. As a founder member of Velvet Underground, and an amazing solo artist later, he was very influential and important in those early years of musical discovery, particularly for me. I have always enjoyed music and art which had some more meaningful and social message and, with his relationship and work with Andy Warhol, I felt that he achieved a kind of synthesis of two worlds and a means of expressing issues which were pertinent to both. He was a good friend, and later the husband, of Laurie Anderson who is another musician and performance artist who I have greatly admired for many years, again because of her employment of music and art, not just as a means of creating beautiful sounds and aesthetic works, but as a way of making meaningful and insightful observations about life and culture. I can truly say that my own life and creative development has been significantly enriched by both of these artists and I wanted to take this opportunity to say this.

We have a new programme emerging for the coming months which, I hope, will include some theme nights and some extended sets. 
I went to Lisas night at the Green Man on Sunday and it was good to see some people there in a different context. We also heard a track from Arthur Brown which was quite interesting.
However I spoke to a couple of people about extended sets and I am proposing to arrange dates for Chris Martin, Woody, Lisa and Friends (Jane and Helga) and Banjo Dave so there is plenty to look forward to and Simon and Myself will be getting together to put all of this on the programme asap.

Andy is away for a few months and we wish him well on his travels and I am hoping that Francis will be helping, where he can, with the PA.

So I think that is enough from me for the moment so I will wish everyone well and look forward to our next meeting,

All the best

chris

27th October 2013  THE REVENGE OF THE ELVIS SUPPORT GROUP

Hi Everyone,

It has been some time since I managed to write anything here due to a range of circumstances which have kept me busy in other areas and which are too many to mention and probably not that relevant or interesting anyway.

We have had some excellent nights recently and the old Folk and blues Evening seems to be holding its own for the most part.

Son Guaranchando were absolutely excellent, as I expected them to be, and all of those who attended had a good dance and a really enjoyable evening. They are a very versatile and talented group of people and played some wonderful South American Salsa style music with many original elements which gave it all that personal feel.

We had our floor spots as usual and the whole night was very enjoyable and successful, although slightly under attended……but who cares…those of us who were there had a fantastic night!!

Our most recent night, was equally as lively and interesting for a variety of reasons and also presented a wonderful opportunity for yours truly to indulge in a bit of repartee with the audience and have a few laughs.

We had a good range of floor spots which included Chris Lidiard, Simon Watt, John and Rachel, Helga, Geoff Jackson, Lisa Jackson, John Revell and myself but it was also special that it saw the return of some very welcome friends who had not been for a while.
It was good to see George and Mary, who now live in Greece and were visiting. George used to play regularly at the club and performed some excellent Everly Brothers songs with Alan who was also a friend we had not seen for some time. Nice to see and hear.

Their performance precipitated a whole cascade of audience repartee with Lisa and her Sister and Helga who were keen to promote the qualities of one, Elvis Presley, in comparison with the dulcet tones and fine harmonies of the Everly Brothers. It was a theme that I managed to maintain for most of the evening which led to some interesting exchanges and outbursts of ardent Elvis support to which I equally retorted with considerable support for the Everlys. I remember my brother and I sneaking the steam radio into the bedroom so we could listen to Radio Luxemburg which used to play the top twenty very late on a Sunday. We used to wait for the Shadows and The Everly Brothers and the likes of Billy Fury and Gene Vincent and Bobby Darin and Bobby Vee…..all those years ago….the Everly Brothers had the most amazing harmonies…..we did like Elvis but he became very commercial very quickly and went into films which were not always memorable for the quality of acting or story telling….

Some years ago a young band called the Golgi Apparatus used to come and play at the folk club. The name came from something medical, to do with protein management in humans, and they were particularly memorable for their ability to be semi or totally surreal. One occasion saw the lead singer riding semi naked on a monocycle while playing an accordion… it went down a storm at the Bells especially as he rode into the main bar and returned with a conga following him…..
So it was with great pleasure to me that Ade, the singer in question, appeared the other night to play for us and repeat a couple of those numbers……"The Hagfish"…..whats ee like….eees sticky….it was very nice to see him and to have him perform for us.
I hope he makes it back soon with some more studies of the natural world.

Next time, the 29th October, El Banda Burros will be doing an extended set for us and they came to play for us to pre-empt that event. They also play with Big Kahuna but their ukulele based numbers are well delivered and good fun. They are Roger, Phil and Bob and have played for us a few times now and always go down very well so we look forward to see them playing a more significant set.

I also want to say that it always good to see Chris Liddiard who also runs the White Horse club at Bodle Street. Chris has been supporting the club for many years and comes along and plays in his quiet but effective manner and is well appreciated.

You know I was just calculating, the other day, that I have now presented the folk club, getting on for, 500 times in the last 21 years and, when I look at it like that, I almost cant believe it…..it seems odd and hard to take in to be honest….
I must enjoy it but it is hard work sometimes…..
And long may it continue but I am still always on the look out for anyone who wants to organise an evening or two…
I have decided that we may need to buy a new PA system so we may not have any paid gigs for a while so….. more room for extended sets!!…and if anyone wants to do one then all you have to do is ask…..or I may just ask you….

I think Chris Martin may have some recording finished so that may be something to look out for. I will ask him if he wants to put some links on the website.
I am also trying to get some tunes recorded but it takes a while….it has taken me about 20 years!!
I was also thinking hat maybe it is time we did another Folk Club CD. I am going to look into it. We have the vids that Dan did but it would be nice to do a live CD would it not….just for posterity.

They say it is going to get windy so I am going to see if they are correct and stay indoors and play my guitar….maybe even do a bit of recording……

Nice to chat to you all and see you for El Banda Burros…..

The nights are drawing in……

All the best

chris


17th September 2013

Hi Everyone,


It is some time since I have had an opportunity to write something..things have been a bit busy of late but I am going to try and do a bit of summing up.

We have had a couple of nights, both of which have been very successful and enjoyable.
Geoff was very kind to run the 20th August which were back in those heady summer days of heat and green leaves and things.

The night went very well and it was good to see Sam Green make an appearance after his time in Durham University and Young William after his exams.
Both played particularly well and exhibited some sophisticated style and ability.
It was also good to see Allan come and do some Irish songs he is a welcome visitor when he can make it. He has been coming for many years.

Geoff and Elaine are booked to do the Christmas "Councillor Roy" event and Geoff and myself are going to plan something interesting for everyone.
John Revell came and played for us on the 20th and it was good to see Rachel come along and sing with John Oddie.

The others appearing on this evening, not yet mentioned, included Fran Galpin, Simon Watt, Bob Melrose, Derry, Chris Lydiard, Helga and Chris Martin all of whom played some excellent songs and music in their own inimitable style.

But then they always do and it is always a testament to the evening that everyone makes an effort to attend and play with such ability and intention.
However, as the person who runs the night, I would be very unlikely to say that someone was awful…..imagine that…..completely bizarre…..although, historically, I have had some challenging people. Challenging is a word you use nowadays which has a multiplicity of meanings….it is a polite word…..
It has been some years since I had anyone really "challenging"……the last one I can remember was a person who sang one of the longer Bob Dylan numbers about as slowly as the imagination could handle and left considerable spaces between each verse where it was not clear whether they had finished or not…..note the diplomacy…..the person in question does not come anymore….if you have heard my intro to "Spoonful" it was longer than that….I think Dynasties rose and fell  during this particular performance!! One of my fears is that the reason they have not been for so long is that they are still rehearsing "Sad Eyed Lady" and that they may turn up ready to lay it on us…..so please remember to bring a flask and a blanket as a general rule…..!! As for "Spoonful"  I am nurturing it to include extracts of the "1812" da da da daa da…..boom………..without the real cannon of course……

Dave Paul came and did his extended set on the 3rd Sept and was excellent. He is an accomplished guitarist and a good singer and he entertained us with some lovely pieces supported by some deft finger style. Everyone enjoyed it and it was a pleasure to have him come and play.
I would also like to mention Trace who played some strong pieces and Francis who always seems to play some of my favourite songs.
Geoff Jackson took number two slot and played some good stuff and was efficiently followed by Ruth who sang and played keyboard.
Derry played piano for us and Chris Martin did a lovely self-penned piece which I thought was especially well delivered. Mike Aldridge rounded off the night with some very good tunes.

I would like to say that it was especially nice to see Anita, who doesnt get to come that often as she has to come from Hastings. She sang a couple of songs but one, which was her own composition, was especially good. She has been coming to the club for as long as I can remember and, while she has always been a lively and interesting performer, I think her guitar skills are going from strength to strength…if I am allowed to say that……
Also good to see Alan (Woody) Woodham again. He does that blues stuff with great authenticity and strength. Good to hear some Delta Magic!!

And so the great leviathan that is the Six Bells Folk and Blues Club ploughs confidently through the surf of the good night with massive rounds of applause ringing throughout creation and beyond.

What is difficult about writing this stuff is that everyone is always good and I run out of ways of describing different performances without sounding like I have been at the Alphabet Soup…….
It is always lovely to see everyone and the next evening is  singers night on the 17th Sept and Son Guaranchando on the 1st Oct which I am looking forward to…..

My own recording is progressing slowly and I can say that I am happy with some of the outcomes….a lot of it is not final mix yet….it all takes time……but with hopefully be worth it in the end….whatever that is…..

Please come and talk to me or e-mail if you have any observations or ideas….someone suggested a JJ Cale night…he was a prolific and popular songwriter….Cajun Moon…..After Midnight….which we have to play before midnight……because that is when we have to finish…….
Anyway feel free to host an evening or make suggestions…..

When we played in the clubs in the North East we used to say……"Weve had a request but were going to play anyway……."

That was when I played with my rock band….we were loud….and much younger then…..time passes slowly up here in the mountains….

See you all soon folky bloozters….

chris


6th August 2013 STROLLING BONES VISIT TO THE HOME OF DADA AND BEYOND…..


Well, once again, we can hail a successful and enjoyable evening for a range of reasons!!

Firstly though I would like to thank Trace and Sharon for their very kind donation of an original 33 vinyl of "You cant always get what you want" from 1969 which we auctioned for St. Wilfrids Hospital. A very nice couple, Jonathan and Emma, who come to the night quite regularly, outbid all others to pay £30 which we duly donated to this worthy cause so thanks again to all of them for thinking of the spirit of the evening and initiating something a little different and interesting. We all participated with good fun and it was an excellent aspect of a successful evening…….

So it was that we embarked upon our first Rolling Stones Theme Night which saw a range of responses…there were those who actually knew that this was the theme for the evening and had rehearsed a couple of songs….and there were those who had no idea of the theme who had not rehearsed anything…and then there were those, like myself, who have been playing Stones stuff since 1966………..
Personally, I think the theme night are a bit like the pirates code (see Pirates of the Caribbean)…they are only guidelines to be honest. I wouldn’t want anybody to think that we are becoming dictatorial…. There may be those that don’t actually like the Rolling Stones and their music. My father thought they were going to cause the downfall of Western Civilisation, or at least, his interpretation of it. Some of us thought that they were the harbingers of a completely new civilisation but then we were young and carefree and waiting for the Sex Pistols to turn up….!!!
So I do not want anyone to think that the theme nights are a directive. However it does make an interesting focus and opportunity to do something a bit different.

As always I will start with our newcomers and especially Bunny, the daughter of Darren and Lizzie, who came on with Lizzie to play some interesting percussion using a specialist breathing and plastic cup technique. She was a little nervous at first but did a brilliant job all told…
When I arrived at the club there was a young man called John who was wondering whether to play and he eventually topped off the night for us with some good numbers including a good Tom Petty song….so that was quite a plus, as well as Tom and Hal, who I managed to get on for a number each. These two lads were new to the evening but were both proficient and talented performers with Hal performing a self-penned song.
I am always aware that, when I am even more of a gibbering wreck that I am now and taking at least ten minutes to do the intro to "Spoonful" (ask Simon), that it is young men and women like these who will be the cutting edge of the Six Bells Folk and Blues Club. In 2050 when we are playing music by remote viewing on individual atomic particles which can interpolate and re assimilate the most beautiful harmonic "music of the spheres" with a single thought, it is these young people who will be maintaining the reputation and eternal presence of the Folk and Blues club………or maybe we will still be playing "Route 66" on a beat up old six string made out of some old lizard skins with five strings woven from the hair of the one remaining antelope which is not even a music lover….or maybe I will be just finishing the intro to "Spoonful"…..hmmmm…..its a puzzle and that’s no mistake……

Anyway it was great to see Greg on Sax doing his usual, priceless support of those like myself and, on this occasion, opting for a little solo spot which was brilliant….
I would also like to thank Francis for doing a great job, as per usual, on the desk and helping everyone with their auditory machinations and presentation…..

Geoff Jackson started us off with some excellent songs and was duly followed by Ruth and Clair who gave us a couple of Stones standards…don’t forget Ruths night at the Cross in Hand….I think the next one should be the 5th Sept. ruth and Clair seem to have formed a strong and effective duo and sound really good together.

John Oddie should be given an extra big hand as he, like Greg, is always up for a bit of support and I always enjoy him playing on my numbers. He did some excellent numbers with our very own Simon Watt to keep the night steaming towards the Shangri La of Rhythm and Blues….the veritable Eldorado of expressionism….the Nirvana of Nietzsche…who, under the name of Jack, arranged that Stones single we auctioned…small world eh!!

It was lovely to see Emma and Sam, from Nightjar come and do some songs. One of their Stones choices had already been covered but they were brilliant as always. Sussanna was elsewhere but they assure me they will be back up to strength for their next visit.

Chris Martin had rehearsed a couple of good Stones toons and we all had a great time on "Its only RocknRoll"…. budalarkit..larkit…yessardooo….

I was doing my usual, unfunny, interspersion of the music with a range of Rolling Stones historical facts which I was trying to blend with the general ambience in an appropriate and informative manner….the fact the Charlie had lived at Halland and that I had once looked after some of Keefs gitters when he went for an Indian Meal in Sarf Ken….those were the days as Mary Hopkin so correctly observed….who? they all retort flask….wasnt he a cricketer….no!! I respondez-vous, that was Gruff Boycott…..whats the connection between Boycott and Major Tom? ….answer next time……or e-mail me if you know….

It is nice to see Bob Taylor making some regular visits and, although he had not picked up on the Stones theme he played an excellent JJ Cale tune which commemorated the life of said artiste who passed away, sadly, on the 26th July. Bobs choice was quite serendipitous as we had been talking of doing a JJ Cale theme night….he was such a prolific songwriter and worked with many artists such as Clapton, Captain Beefheart and Waylon Jennings. His passing is very sad and I am sure we will arrange something. Bobs set was excellent as per usual, nice vocals and deft guitar….

Mike Foy played a good set and some strong numbers and Derry played some good piano pieces. I was going to suggest that Derry listened to some Nicky Hopkins or Ian Stewart but he does his own thing so well……

Woody has been a welcome presence at the club and, once again, played us some excellent blues. I  suggested that he become one of our future extended set participants and all agreed as he has an authentic style and plays some interesting stuff. Hesitation Blues is one of my favourite songs and I used to play it with one of the first bands I played with albeit a more electric version with feedback and the like…..

My own approach was to intersperse the night with the odd number here and there which, I must admit, I enjoyed a bit more than playing at the beginning and "that’s it" for the night….maybe I will adopt that approach subject to everyones approval. I really enjoy it when John and Greg play along and it also means I get to play to all of the audience……but we boldly go don’t we and, as I was saying, the time will come when someone else will need to be enduring the slings and arrows….I will be a twitching heap in the corner……"Whats that Chris?….another spoonful…we only have packets…somebody get him a chair….the strings are on the other side…."

So as the big wheel of the night turned slowly past the window we came to the close of yet another enjoyable evening at the Six Bells Folk and Blues Club having heard some excellent music and musicians and having also entertained many people with our general good natured atmosphere and doings…we also raised some cash for a good cause so it was a successful event all round.
We even had a little post club jam when everyone had gone with some sharing tunes and guitar riffs.

As I say the JJ Cale night is a definite possibility and probably more than that to be honest so look out for that one…and tell everyone to read the website…….

See you soon

That spoon…..that spoon……that spooooonnnfooooollll……..yea……


chris



23rd July 2013 A VERY ENJOYABLE EVENING WAS HAD BY ALL…….


Sometimes there is no logic. Mr. Spock would not have been a happy bunny nor Vulcan at this one….however they do both have the "ear" thing……he would have said "it is not logical Captain"…. I am pretty sure…..which is interesting because there have been nights where the more appropriate quote may have been "I cant hold her Captain…shes breaking up"……… and that’s it for the Star Trek fans amongst us….at least for this week….before it gets out of hand and we need to get some more dilithium crystals…

Now and again, you get one of those nights which just goes perfectly and is very easy and enjoyable for everyone….

Francis was very kind to stand in for Andy and do the desk and he also played some lovely songs later in the evening so I am very grateful for his support and participation.

It was a funny night, in many ways, but certainly not because of my attempts at humour!! My inability to raise a glimmer of mirth seems to be reaching legendary proportions!! I even lapsed into Geordie, at one point, which was as much to amuse myself as anyone…..a little mischief there…..divvnt drop yer dottle shell….shell curl that is….

It was all very interesting as we had  mixture of regular performers and a considerable number we had not seen for some time, as well someone making their debut, and this exciting cauldron of creativity was all duly supported by Greg on Sax and Helga on flute who added spice, flair and decoration to many fine performances.

I quite like this approach, philosophically, as it is quite close to some of my original intentions for these evenings, in that it is a more homogenous and socially creative experiment and an opportunity for expression…….. as it says here in my copy of  "The ACME book of how to run a Folk and Blues Club on Planet Earth"

In the spirit of politeness, it would seem appropriate to start with our newcomer for the evening who is a young lady, from Germany, called Koko. Koko came with Mike Foy, who is something of a regular, and she had a lovely voice and, with Mike on Guitar, they played an excellent set…so a fantastic debut at the ole folky….

It was also great to see some folk who had not been for a while…

Anita, who must almost be a founder member, has been away on her travels to places such as Panama and the like. Anita hails from deepest Hastings and it is always good to see her. She played a beautiful, self penned number….one of the best originals I have heard at the club…and good guitar playing too…so thanks to her….
It was also her daughters birthday so we had a round of that…..which went down well!!

Woody also used to come to the club, quite regularly, some time ago. He is well known for his "one man band" but was playing some blues this evening with solo guitar. I must say his set was excellent with a significant sense of authenticity and rhythm in some original delta blues numbers….great to hear….great stuff…a steady rollin man!!

Nice to see Bob Taylor again. Bob played some excellent tunes including a great version of "Walk on the Wild Side" in which we all joined in with the do-de-doos. There was some reference to a certain, local chap, Mr Flowers who played bass on the original, which must not be forgotten, and a great song from Lou Reed. Very nice……
We used to see Herbie down at the Snowdrop quite regularly….



It was also excellent to see Darren and Lizzie who, in fact, played our very first extended evening way back when…….They played beautifully and the harmonies and songs are really special so I hope they come back soon. Darren, of course, plays with the Cajun Dawgs who are also excellent so look out for them as well….

However all of these attempts at propriety do not, in any way, pre-suppose that "we others" in attendance, were any less important, or influential, in the implementation of what was, a very successful and effective demonstration of creative and musical efficacy and triumph….we were there.…in the front line….yes, we were those deft magicians, juggling and conjuring with the quavers and semi-quavers and the iambic pentameters of outrageous fortune…..hang on theres someone at the door……no hes gone….wrong house probably……now where was I… oh yes….and so it was with some perspicacity and perspicuity that myself, John Oddie, Mike Aldridge, Chris Martin, Bob Melrose, Derry on classical piano and Fran Galpin ventured forth into that good night, ably supported on many an occasion by Greg and Helga in producing some fusion of soul, and intent, with sparks of creativity igniting the fuel of universal harmony and demonstrating much fortissimo, appassionato, vigoroso but not a lot of agitato…..thank the lord arry…….cos we don’t want too much of that around here…Ill say…it can be a right pain that can…….

What a great night!!

So..don’t forget the Rolling Stones night on the 6th August…..da da da da da….."I.. cant get no..oh…. Satisfacshern"……..lets really make them rock ……..and make sure they get some…..satisfaction that is…..not rock…..well they can have some rock if they want……its Brighton Rock at one end and kcoR nothgirB at the other….you choose….Gimme Shelter!! 
He can still do the hip shake thing!!….I saw him doing it on telly at Hyde Park…..oh my golly Miss Molly…..what a swiveller…..with Keef…..I was there the first time….I wonder if this was the last time…..the last time……come on… wake up!!

Its only rock and roll…….

Over and out

I am going to boldly go….and do the washing up…

All the best

chris

9th July 2013      A QUIET NIGHT AND THE SECOND ANTIPODEAN EVENT


It was with some relief that the 25th June ended up being a relatively quiet night but a successful and enjoyable one to say the least. We are so busy these days its a bit of a spin these days which I always take as a complement to the club on our popularity, but it is nice to have time and space to get everyone in comfortably. It doesn’t happen often these days at the club!!
There were some excellent spots and some lovely music. 
A special mention for a young Cellist called Grant who played some excellent pieces and to David on Guitar and to the ever-patient Chris Hillier for some rock and roll. Chris has to rely on us for a bit of backing as he is a solo singer but he does a good job.
Derry played a good set as did Chris Martin who is becoming a welcome element of the club. Chris sings his own compositions and some covers now and again…a creative man all round…I like that INXS number!

So it was we initiated and implemented the second "Down Under" event hosted by none other than "Antipodean" Geoff Jackson who is now an established member and good friend of the Folk and Blues Evening and, before I go any further, I would like to thank him for his hard work and organisation of the evening with the "barbie" and all the music…it is no mean feat…I can tell you!! He is a patient and friendly man and always a pleasure to work with!!
And we all enjoyed it and had a resoundingly good time!!!
Geoff e-mailed me a list of participants who, apart from me, all made a great effort to learn some "Down Under" music which gave a particular quality to the evening…what  great night.
The intro band were fantastic and started the night with gusto and some good tunes. Thanks to Elaine for her travels to play some excellent fiddle.
There were some notable newcomers in Doug Moss, Andy Fricker and Chris Comac who played some excellent rocknroll guitar reminiscent of James Burton….brilliant.
I like the theme nights because they have the effect of getting everyone together and it gives a different slant to the intent of the night. Keep an eye on the Rolling Stones night on the 6th August.

Here is the list of performers who all played some excellent music and we all had a great time. I think the Down Under night is now part of folklore and will be a regular feature of the club.

1. Jackaroo  (Elaine Savins and myself)  joined by Andy Fricker,  Lisa Jackson,  Helga on flute
2. Simon Watt
3. Chris Martin
4. Cowboy Roy
5. Michael Aldridge
6. Doug Moss
7. Emma and Sam  (from Nightjar)
8. Anne  (agricultural poet)
9. Lisa Jackson and Helga
10. Andy Fricker
11. Danny McEvoy
12. Mike Guy
13. Glyn Burgess and Chris Comac
14. Bob Melrose
15. Chris Mansell  & Rupert

I was the only one who didnt manage to play any antipodean music but Rupert came to my rescue with a fantastic trumpet solo on "Same Old Blues" to end the night. Helga did a recording on her phone and sent it to me and I was quite pleased with the result. Amazing thing these phones…my mum and dad got one and put it on a table in the hall…by the front door….in about 1968….but it was so special that we had to ask permission to use it….it was one of those with a metal dial on it…like in the Bogart movies….I don’t remember being able to make videos on it or take photos….but my dad took photos on his camera which probably covered that bit……but having said that I couldnt play "Same Old Blues" then either so it wouldnt have made any difference…I could however play "Apache" by the Shads…….but I didn’t know Rupert then…so the Matrix becomes a bit random…..anyway…thanks Helga!!

So thanks again to Geoff for a wonderful evening which everyone I spoke to enjoyed immensely and thanks to all who played and contributed to the success of the whole show!!

Further to all of this, I am still happy for anyone to host an evening and come up with a theme. If anyone wants to host the Rolling Stones night then let me know.

I would like to say Happy Birthday to John Oddie who had a great party with some fantastic music.
John has been a solid participant of the Folk and Blues night along with Rachel for a few years now.
So his party was like an extension of the Folk club because Bart and Rachel and Bob Melrose and Simon Watt and Chris Martin and Mike Aldridge and John on Bass and Myself and Helga and Lisa Jackson all attended and played a bit of music and we all had  great time in the glorious sunshine in amongst the dogs and horses and chickens….it was like a Grateful Dead gig!!
Mary, Johns wife, and his daughters produced some excellent nosh and we all had a wonderful day….we thought we might bring that music line up down to the Bells at some point!!

So we move on again towards another horizon and more music and enjoyment…friends new and old. 
I am enjoying playing and all of the other venues that are cropping up. 
Lisa at The Green Man, Ruth at the Cross in Hand and Bob Melrose at the May Garland are all worth a visit. Bob is next on 17th July.

So I think that is enough from me for the moment
Please keep coming and enjoying yourselves

All the best

chris


1th June 2013  THE NIGHT OF NIGHTJAR AND OTHER TALES


Hi Everyone,

It is some time since I managed to write something for the blog and this has been, mainly, because I have been busy in other areas of my life.

I want to start by saying that I thought that Nightjar gave us a fabulous extended set on the 11th June and it was everything I expected it to be and more. They grow and grow in ability and in the breadth of material which, I personally, find very interesting and quite well chosen for their style. I must say that I agree with Derry in that their version of "All My Trials" is second to none…in this world and the next!!….and literally their harmonies send shivers up my spine….very special. I could have listened to them all night so I think you are getting the impression that I think they are pretty good at what they do…..!!!
I hope they keep coming to sing for us and expanding their repertoire with interesting stuff….
You may have noticed that I didn’t hold the camera on this occasion….half an hour was  bit too long for my arms…..
You can see them on Youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWElds_AlCQ

We have had some interesting times recently and some great performances so I am going to comment upon some newcomers which means I may not get time to mention all of our regular friends but we all know they are all fantastic and the foundation of the club and what keeps us going from night to night……

A few weeks ago we had a visit from a very young couple…9 and 13 I seem to remember….Kuki and Izzy, her brother on guitar…she had an amazing blues voice and he was a pretty capable guitarist and they did a good set. They had been recording with Rupert who sent them along so thanks to him also.

The same night it was good to see Banda Burros..Phil,Roger,Bob and Jim, strut their ukelele stuff…lively professional and very entertaining..they went down well and are doing an extended set later in the year.

Ruth, who is running a night at the Cross in Hand…first Thursday…..has started performing with Claire on guitar and voice and they make an excellent duo. They have played a couple of nights now and have been particularly good.
Kalli and Katy were also very good when they came. They have played before, but not for some time, so it was nice to see them again.

Lizzie, very kindly, ran the 28th, giving me a little break and it was a great night with some excellent regulars and a welcome visit from Banjo Dave who I met a Lisas night in Laughton. I love his style of playing and the songs he plays….there is a kind of timeless quality to them which reminds me of an African thumb piano player called Ayub Ogada, also a beautiful singer. Listen to this most definitely!!
Please remember that Lizzie is running Midsummer Magic in East Hoathly on the 22nd June on the recreation ground. South of Saturn and the Curst Sons in the evening but lots of floor spots in the afternoon so good luck to her with all of that.

So it was we came to the 11th June which featured Nightjar but there were some other excellent sets to mention.
Alice and Ellie have been coming to the night for some time but only made their debut a few weeks ago. They sing very well together with some lovely harmonies and some good numbers and I hope to see them develop and perform on a more regular basis.
Roger Stevens has contacted me a couple of times about playing so it was good to see him with his friend Michael Whitehead in support. The played some interesting tunes and I have since found out that he is a Shadows fan which gives him massive cred in my book. Cliff and the Shads….now theres history for ya…..I used to be able to play a considerable number of Shads tunes but my favourite was Wonderful Land….sigh….
We will be  pleased to see Roger again.
It is also really nice to see Trace and Sharon coming more regularly he plays some strong stuff….

Frank Satesboro was a welcome visitor to the night. He had come down from Lewisham at the mercy of his satnav which took him to many interesting and far off lands…none of which were Chiddingly seemingly…but that’s progress…soon they will have a machine you put in your car which means you don’t have to go anywhere…..maybe it will show continuous repeats of a range of soaps like everything else does!!
Anyway Frank was excellent and played some lively up tempo tunes which were just right on the night so we hope to see more of him.

So without launching into a range of earth shattering dialogue about everything else that has been happening on various planets that’s about it for this instalment except to say that…..

I may be slightly mad but I always presume that people who come to the night are there to listen to the performances of their friends and colleagues…lord knows its hard enough just getting up to play!!…but I have been slightly worried about the levels of chatter which seem to be becoming a part of the accepted ambiance…two or three sessions ago I was dismayed that, on occasion, a considerable amount of people were chatting over the music…it was almost as if the music was the intrusion and that chatting was the reason to be there!! I do not want to run a club where we all sit in reserved silence all of the time but I want there to be some respect for players. You are not always going to appreciate every song on every night but that’s part of the pitch and, if you have just played yourself, don’t just presume that all else is not worth getting involved in cos that is not my idea of the spirit of the evening!! I hope people respond accordingly…..nuff said..so please do not get upset if I say something on the night…..

Please remember the Down Under night on the 9th July with the inimitable Geoff Jackson and the barbie and stuff…get those down under songs learned!! Or is it learnt?? Somebody Help Me…..Spencer Davis circa 1965!!

So this is your friendly host signing off once again and hoping that you have a wonderful life in-between your visits to the one and only Six Bells Folk and Blues Club….reported by some to be the best Folk and Blues Club in the known universe and possibly the unknown universe…..

Quantumly yours

chris

30th May 2013             BIRTHDAY GREETINGS FROM KEPLER 24…I TOLD YOU THEY WOULD GET BACK……


Hi Everyone,
Well, well, well……

It was all kept very secret from me and I had no idea that we were going to get food and a visit from outer space…

I would, firstly, like to thank a range of people for a range of things….

Simon Watt for organising my cake.
Lizzie Harman for manufacturing this amazing culinary work of art.
Paul and Jaquie for all of the lovely food.
Geoff Jackson for doing a great job of hosting the evening.
Francis Galpin for the desk and sound management.

Jimmy Lee and The Edge of Darkness Orchestra for the gig and all of the floor spots (to be covered later)

I would also like to thank Francis and Lindsey, Lisa and Helga, Glynn, Stuart and Jacko, Geoff Sue and Elaine, Simon Lesley and Laina, for all of their lovely cards and presents!!

So it was, with much gusto, that the evening began with Gills Ensemble which featured Gill on fiddle with a range of her students doing some excellent Irish tunes. These young people were exceptionally proficient and provided a lively and fitting introduction the evening which had an obvious Irish edge.
Geoff, our host, was up next and played us a couple of his interesting pieces. Geoff is a great asset at the club and a very nice guy and a very able host so a massive round of applause for him.
It was good to see the drummers Alison and Bart once again joining in with the evening and Greg on sax.

Lisa, and Helga on flute, made an excellent duo and played some great stuff and it would be good to see them playing together regularly as I felt that the combination was very fruitful and complementary.

Ellie and Alice have been coming to the club, as members of the audience, for some time and they have told me, for some time, that they sing in a choir. Tonight was their turn in the old "debut" chair and what a fantastic job they made of it. They sang a really good Steeleye Span song and their harmonies were excellent and they performed beautifully. Lets hope we see more of them. They only had one song but they were excellent and made a professional and successful performance. Well done I say!!

It is great to see Glynn coming regularly to the evenings and playing his semi-country, guitar friendly pieces with a kind of Johnny Cash influence going on…..excellent stuff and quite original. I first saw Glynn at Lisas night which is now at the Green Man in Ringmer.

It was good to see Mike Aldridge at the evening as always. A real true and welcome supporter of the club…..I think he had a good night with the rest of us!!

Simon Watt came on next and played a song which he had written for my birthday, which was very thoughtful and decent of him, some of the double meaning was double and meaningful and it went down a storm and got a good response from everyone and maintained the overall quality of the evening, which I was finding a lot of fun and I was touched by the warmth and supportive nature of everyone. Simon puts a lot of work into supporting the club, not just with the website, but also in the fact that he takes his performances seriously and does some considerable preparation which, I think, shows considerable dedication. So, good for him ladies and gentlemen….massive round of applause from Geoff!!

Chris Martin is also becoming a welcome regular and his self penned stuff is very thoughtful and well considered. Tonight he was in lighter vein with a bit of rocknroll from yer actual Chuck Berry……lets rock, rock, rock!!! Nice to see Chris.

And so it was we came to the Main event. 
Jimmy Lee has payed a couple of times at the club over the last couple of years. He lives in Ireland…Clare I think….and we had talked about doing a gig with the band for some time so this seemed like a perfect occasion for me!.

Jimmy came with his band The Edge of Chaos Orchestra who were, Clare on accordion, John on banjo and other instruments, Gary on bass and Jimmy on guitar and vocals. They played a whole range of excellent Irish and other music with different musicians now and again taking the lead. I loved Clares accordion work and Johns ability all supported by some solid and effective bass. Jimmy has a good voice and delivers songs in a meaningful and gentle fashion. Jaquie, the landlady, loved his voice and asked if we can have them back and I think that has to be a certainty for next year. They played a powerful first set and were warmly and enthusiastically received by all.

Then it was time for the cake from outer space…!!! We have been twinned with Kepler 24 for many years now but the time space continuum has always been a bit of a problem. Those of you who remember our skype link to Andy and Barbara in Cambodia will appreciate the ability of the club to initiate groundbreaking progress in communication but, since the back broke off the folk stool, it has been a bit more difficult sending messages beyond the fire exit in the music room…!!!
However as the foremost "Home of Dada" on the Folk and Blues circuit, and I cant think of many others, it would seem logical, Captain, that any cakes travelling through the vastness of space would land in our vicinity. It is interesting that the inhabitants of Kepler 24 decided to send a cake as their envoy but also a very intelligent move as I think that any large mechanical object they sent may just have ended up with a parking ticket and maybe more if it wasnt taxed or insured….!!!

The cake was delicious and devoured immediately, also a good reason for them not to appear in person…..we do have a habit of "eat first ask questions later"….and enjoyed by all, so a massive thanks to Lizzie and Simon. And what a work of art and craftsmanship. The Keplian is now living happily in the top of my fridge with the tomatoes and yoghurts which is better than having to encounter parking issues I would say……I occasionally hear a bit of music from him/her but…..



So the evenings entertainment continued with Ruth doing some lovely songs in the break. I have been going to her night in Cross in Hand which has been very good fun and I would definitely recommend it…..

We got back to the band who continued to play some engaging music and ended with a fine up-tempo and strong finale. Everyone stayed to listen and there was a significant round of applause and positive feedback from all….thanks for that….and we will see them again.

We had a bit of time left at the close and Keith came on and entertained us with a couple of humorous pastiches with were clever and funny and very enjoyable.

I had not planned to play, to be honest, but there were a few minutes left so I went on and did a couple with the help of Geoffs Fender…thanks mate…and then we were done.

I would especially like to thank Francis for doing the sound and being a patient and talented person…. his input is always much valued and appreciated!!

And I would also like to thank Rich who runs the bar and is so patient with us clearing up…..

So it was another great night out and I would like to thank everyone for making it a lovely night for me and one I will always treasure and remember….I cant see how it could have been any better!!!
But not just that, cos I think that it is also important to recognise that everyone makes the club work and we wouldnt have been there in the first place if it wasnt for the fact that we all turn up week after week because it is the best Folk and Blues Club in the known universe….they even know that on Kepler 24 cos we have the evidence which is more than they do on the X Files……tee hee…..they never seem to reach any conclusions….even after all that expense..and with famous actors and everything…..

Take this cake to your leader….

Another year older and a brilliant night…..

Watch the skies….

Chris (aged 25 or thereabouts)



16th April 2013           FLATTERED AND BATTERED


Hello All.

What a night!! We didn’t finish until 12.00 ish and we had some fantastic acts and performances and some lovely songs. Even starting early we had nearly four hours of entertainment with 22 different performances. PHEW!!
So I was flattered and battered because, by the time Andy and I had cleared up, we got home about very very, late.

It is flattering for the night to be so popular for performers, and I appreciate those who understand that some patience may be required in terms of going on, but everyone played who wanted to so we have kept up that reputation.
I am going to start earlier in future about 8.30 I reckon…..

I am trying to maintaining some kind of fair approach to putting people on. I know that everyone would like to go on between 9.30 and 10.30 but it simply isnt possible so I do try and notice if someone has been on late on an evening to try and put them on a bit earlier next time. It is a bit of a problem when we get so many people so I hope everyone understands that there is no sense of favouritism. I have reached the bizarre situation where I play at the beginning and then…….

So I started with a debut of my own and played piano for the first time ever in public…..well why not I say!!
John Revell came next with a couple of lovely pieces followed by Ruth who sang unaccompanied, she has a good voice and sings interesting stuff. I can also say that her night at the Cross in Hand seems to be progressing well so thanks to her for coming. Glynn, who I see regularly at Lisa Jacksons night, is a fine guitarist and entertained us with some Beatles instrumentals followed by Lisa herself who was excellent, and by Antipodean Geoff Jackson who maintained his usual positive and capable approach.
Look out for Lisas night…first Sunday at the Green Man in Ringmer and for Geoffs Antipodean night with us….Ill have to remember that Olivia Newton John song!!!
Derry came on and played some lovely piano as usual and the night was making great progress with many satisfied players and listeners and me dancing around like a fool….!! I was having fun!!

It was really good to see Trace, who used to come along some time ago but, due to an accident, had not been able to come and play so it was good to hear that strident voice and solid guitar, especially on Little Wing by Hendrix. Folk club is great at the best of times but even better when people play your own favourites. Good to see Trace and lets hope he makes it regularly now he is on the mend.

I think Nightjar, who are Emma, Sam and Susanna, are fantastic!! They are going to be doing an extended set for us on the 11th June and their natural harmonies and choice of material makes them quite mesmerising. It was noticeable that everyone was listening throughout their whole set. I really think they have a special blend in what they do and an absolute pleasure to listen to.

I have said before that when the drummers turned up we entered a new era so it was good to see Alison and Muso Bango do an excellent set for us and to have Bart playing with people throughout the evening.
I really enjoy having the rhythm behind me when I play cos it gives you a bit more freedom and, after all, I m just an old RocknRoll singer to be honest so "get your kicks on Route 66" is what I say. Strike while the iron is hot or whatever temperature you like!!

Once upon a time  young man called Dan braved the elements of the weather and the Chiddingly music scene to come and make some videos for us which he then edited into fine outcomes which can now be viewed on the website. So it was, then, that young Dan who is also a musician in his own right came and played some excellent original compositions for us on electric guitar and a kind of delay machine. He was ably accompanied by Bart and it was all very good and we hope for his return to regale us further with his skills.

It ws good to see Chris Liddiard come and play. Chris also runs the night at the While Horse in Bodle Street and he played a couple of nice tunes. Our very own Simon Watt was up next with his usual dextrous and incisive wit. He always gets a good response and the audience like his slightly obtuse observations and modifications of reality.
Mike Aldridge is a seasoned member of the Folk Night now and he played some good songs and gave us some inside info on the Elton John composition. Mike is good on this kind of thing. He was at Cousins Club in London when I was going there in the 60s and remembers some interesting facts.
Francis always plays some lovely tunes and this week was no exception with a great version of Joan Armatradings "Love and Affection".

Chris Martin has become a welcome regular at the club and he plays some intelligent and thoughtful self penned material, however, on this occasion he decided to do a couple of standards with myself and Bart including "House of the Rising Sun" which went down very well I thought. My friend used to have the guitar which Hilton Valentine used on the original Animals recording….we used to joke that it could play the riff by itself…….!!
It was good to see Neil and Chris back to play…they come from Croydon I believe, so real troopers, and they play some excellent stuff so lets have some more of that I say….!

Young William had returned for his debut a couple of sessions ago to play some excellent pieces. He is a good guitarist and has a strong voice. A good performer and we hope to see more of him. I keep saying that it is good to have these young people to carry on and preserve the tradition into the infinite beyond. Maybe in future episodes of Star Trek they will have references to the Six Bells Folk and Blues club and they will have holograms of us playing traditional instruments which they can study with great interest and logic…of course….I cant hold her Captain….shes breaking up….either its a bad signal or we need more dilithium crystals….which is all a bit dubious really…..and a sign of a mis-spent youth and middle age and beyond….!!!

So we moved swiftly and effectively on to Anne, our bard of the farmyard, with another agricultural rendering…very witty, informative and amusing….another uniqueism for our history I think…..

Liv is another young performer who has some talent and a good voice and plays some very interesting stuff. It is always good to see her and she is  lively and positive element of the evenings.

Jim has now visited us on a couple of occasions and sings some good songs and has a good voice. He seems to enjoy it and I thank him for his patience in being towards the end of the night.

And so it was that John Oddie and Myself and Bart went on…..last but not least….after a bumper evening….to play a bit of blues and didn’t we have a great time. I really like playing music with John…we have a similar understanding of rhythm and blues and he is a great slide player so, even though it was late and the audience had dwindled, we just sat and enjoyed ourselves playing music as humans have been doing since the dawn of time….I know….cos I was there…I was masquerading as someone else back then but I remember it quite clearly…..it was twelve bar with a minor drop……..RocknRoll ladies and gentleman….see you down the road…..I have nothing else to say….except……..keep on keepin on….

All the best

Moi x


2nd April 2013  IF IT AINT BROKE….IT CERTAINLY AINT….!!


Hello everyone,

Here I am again with some clods of wisdom for you all from the old rusty plough crunching across the stony fields of the mind of Mad Mansell!!

Firstly, the jury is still out on the weekly thing and I havent decided on that one. I am reluctant to change things when they are going so well…and they are…for all to see!!

Both recent Tuesdays have been excellent nights and, while I realise I didn’t write anything for the 19th March I would like to say that amongst all of the other performances it was very special to see Rupert Cobb doing his solo debut at the club with some beat box stuff. Rupert usually comes and plays trumpet with some of us but decided to take the Six Bells plunge and do a couple of solo numbers. Some self written, dextrous work and interesting technology and a great solo debut.

It was also lovely to see Gill on fiddle playing some stirring pieces and also to see Sally and Danny sing some unaccompanied songs. This was, of course, our night for Irish music and there was some lively stuff but I didnt enforce the theme too strictly.
When I first started going to folk clubs, playing the guitar was slightly unusual and solo work and more traditional instruments such as accordion and fiddle were much more the norm. bob Dylan and Donovan and Bert Jansch were just getting started in those days!!
Henry Bird also made a welcome return…becoming a bit of a regular I think..which can only be a good thing!!

So it was we came to 2nd April which was a wonderful night and once again we were hoist by our own petard in terms of our popularity. I like the idea that I have to continually search for superlatives in order to describe the evenings and I like the fact that we have such a wonderful body of friends and players that the evenings are becoming, more or less, a family affair.

It was Geoffs turn to do a bit of hosting which he does extremely well and we had nearly 20 acts performing on the night. For a free night I think this is more than value for money…it is value for no money!!!

It was great to see Yoni and Tom back at the club, nice version of "Fallen Leaves", and they started the evening with some lovely songs ably supported with guitar and fiddle followed by some strong stuff from Paul Vaughan who runs the Ark open mike on a Wed in Newhaven.
Mike Aldridge was his usual entertaining and amusing self and I actually managed to play a couple of numbers myself supported on rhythm box by Bart. I like that because the rhythm option has made a real difference and added something to the whole ambience. It give one a bit of freedom!!
CJMartin and John Revell played some very good stuff and it was great to see Chris Hillier back doing a couple of rocknroll standards supported by Francis and Myself and Bart….everybody lets rock!!

Francis played an excellent self arranged version of "Love will tear us apart" by Joy Division which led us smartly into a wonderful performance by Laurence and Jude also known as Lorcan. Laurence on vocals and guitar and Jude on cello played some beautifully arranged and performed pieces which were really stunning….everyone agreed….and it would be great to see them back. I believe they are making a few waves in London so good for them I say……
Henry Bird played next and started with some banjo tunes and moved onto guitar and a very nice blues number….he has a great voice for that kind of song and he is becoming a very welcome regular at the club. I would like to hear him play some more so I think an extended set must be in the offing…..

I would like to say that we had quite a few younger players there, no disrespect to the slightly more mature of us, and it was great to see such talent coming through……I would even say that most of what I hear from these guys is better than any commercial stuff I am hearing and I applaud them for their creativity and capable songwriting.

It is not the first time we have stoked the furnace of creativity….remember The Amazing Pilots!!

Simon Watt played some excellent tunes, especially the "Fireman" song which is very amusing and full of deep and d-d-d-d-double meaning.
So it was again that I was requested to take part by engaging in a little chorus of Lily the Pink which was led by Danny. Paul and Mick and Myself got to sing some verses and everyone sang along and had a lark about…I did my Lady Gaga dance….nothing like it I hear you say!!! I believe it was videoed and may appear on Youtube at some point. Have a look for Danny Mcevoy on Youtube as i believe he is a bit of a prolific uploader. He covers all decades of hits!! He also does some good drawings of performers on the night which I believe we have put on the website.

John and Rachel were there usual excellent selves and John played an excellent John Martin song and Rachel a lovely Joni Mitchell number which she did really well. She has a gift for the timing on that kind of number!!
I went to Bob Melroses night at the May Garland and it was very good and enjoyable. Next one is the 10th April.  He played some lovely stuff and played some excellent guitar.

Derry played a couple of excellent piano pieces and Ann, our emerging agricultural poet, entertained us with a clever ditty about a bull calf.
Another newcomer to the evening, Jim, sang the Mountains of Mourne, one of my dads favourites, and Desperado and our genial Host Geoff, finished doff the night with a couple of excellent numbers.

So it was another late one but it was encouraging to see how many people stayed on until the end and enjoyed the music.

Thanks to Geoff again for an excellent evening and to everyone who came and played and enjoyed themselves.

Remember you can e-mail me if you know you are coming.

Jimmy Lee on the 30th April, also my Birthday!!! But the next night is the 16th so be there for more free enjoyment!!!  How could anyone refuse….it would be mad……

Lisa is doing her first night at the Green Man in Ringmer on the 7th and Ruth is at the Cross in Hand on the 4th so there is plenty to do!!

Keep on rocking and doing whatever we do do to Folk and Blues, which is probably gentle, supportive swaying… and keep on coming and playing and supporting all of our pals….we are making serious history every time we have our evening, never mind the politicians and scientists, and it is great to be part of it!!!


"Further than weve gone,
The stars sing a song,
Together
That only lovers can hear"

Captain Beefheart 1941 – 2010


See you later alligatorz

chris



5th March 2013     A Night of Plenty and Plenty More


It was great to see Geoff running the night. I think he enjoys it and he is a friendly and natural host who makes everyone feel welcome and is fair and considerate in his ordering of acts.

It was also a kindly and welcome break for me as I have been struggling with time and effort and a bad chest.
Once again we had an abundance of players and audience…in fact it was as busy as I have ever seen it and Geoff did an outstanding job in getting everyone on with a decent slot.

Of course we had our regulars plus a couple of debuts from some younger players which is always nice to see so, it would only be polite to start with them.

Alex and Jayne played as a duo but are also part of a band called Red Butler. It was commendable that they turned up recently on a cancelled snow affected evening but they played a superb set and both singing and guitar playing were significantly capable. Jayne has a lovely soulful voice and a strong delivery and they played some excellent pieces. I really hope we will see them gain at the club but they are also looking for live dates for the band.

Another newcomer was Henry Bird, son of Jez and Fiona. Jez, who sadly passed away a little while ago was a regular performer at the Six Bells and a founder member of the Lambrettas. Henry played guitar and banjo and sang some lovely, self-penned tunes. I was informed, by mum, that he was very nervous but, after he had played, I commented that "I wish I could be that nervous" as he was excellent. Henry played some interesting banjo with that sort of lazy Louisianna style which has a name which I must research. Excellent stuff….and we hope to see both of these young acts in weeks to come.

It was also nice to see Ruth back at the club with some lovely singing and interesting tunes. I really respect those who can sing solo and unaccompanied, there is something pure and original or ancient about it. Ruth is starting a night at the Cross in Hand pub near Heathfield so we will keep in touch with that.

Geoff started the evening himself with a couple of strong pieces and was followed by Mike Osborne from Hastings who always maintains an interesting and professional approach and plays good songs. Mike is starting his own night at The Revolver in Hastings which, sadly, is also going to be on a Tuesday so we may not see much of him in the near future….unless, as Simon was suggesting, we get together and visit his new club on the "other Tuesday"….just an idea….I would be up for it!!!

It was nice to see Glyn playing some lovely guitar and John Oddie played a couple of early tunes ably accompanied by Helga on the flute. It is good that the cross-fertilisation of Folk Clubs e.g. The Ark, the Roebuck, The White Horse and Ourselves, to name but  few, is proving to be creative and productive in terms of players and audience…there is room for all of us and more…

As you may have noticed, my page is already littered with adjectives and nouns and form of elements of language and I am only just getting going so I think I am going to suggest that, rather than do a detailed description of everything every week, we have some kind of profile page where you can put info about yourselves….its just an idea at the moment.

I will comment, at this point, that I went to Ruths new evening at the Cross in Hand and it was an excellent night, full of potential.

CJMartin has been coming to play for a little while now and he "road tested" a couple of new tunes on Tues. He is a thoughtful songwriter and I like the idea that the club gives artists an opportunity to try things out. I do not want to run something that is simply about performance. I think there should be an opportunity for experimentation and random jamming which makes it all more interesting. Chris Martin also asked me to draw attention to his new video "Paul".

It was nice to see Fran Galpin, who I would also like to thank for doing the desk, do a lovely version of Nick Drakes "Time has told me", and John Revell from Seaford made a welcome return to play a couple of songs.

All of our esteemed regular players such as Mike Aldridge, Simon Watt and Derry played some wonderful stuff and it was notable that Derry played Rachels electric piano with some skill. Rachel usually plays some tunes with John but opted, on this occasion, to do a couple of lovely solo pieces on electric piano….and we would like to see more of that!!

Bob Melrose, a good guitarist and singer, is hosting the first of his new evenings at the May Garland on the 13th March and it would be good to support that.

It was lovely to see Susanna and Sam and Emma, now formally known as "Nightjar". I love their harmonies and their choice of material. Look out for their extended evening on the programme which will be worth seeing and hearing.

And so….Anne wound up the evening with some poetry which has become another interesting element of our evenings and oh yes!…..I managed to get a couple of numbers in at some point, which seemed to go down reasonably well. It was nice to play for a change as I am usually involved in arranging the night and just being generally bonkers!!

So thanks again to Geoff who also took a vote on the weekly thing!!….and many people seemed to be supportive of the idea and I have had some thoughts about it.
I think if I can get some support with hosting the evenings, I will consider a move to running weekly. 
It is quite a lot of work to run it as it is and I am not sure that I can make the commitment to the amount of time to set up and organise and write the blog.

I am open to suggestions and if anyone would like to get involved, then I am all for it…..but to take it on on my own may be a bridge too far…..but we will wait and see……

Thats all folks!!

See you soon

chris
19th February 2013     A Night of Interesting Debuts

Well…another fantastic night to report on!

I would like to start by re-emphasising the fact that I am seriously looking at, and discussing with others, the notion of running every week and I  am happy to hear your comments and ideas about this and also whether people would be happy to come every week…..is it too much of an ask??

The main reason for this is that we are a victim of our own success and we now, on more occasions, have more people than we can comfortably accommodate. There is a problem with this inasmuch as those who play later play to an ever decreasing crowd and I find it awkward to sort people out effectively and fairly.
It is great to think that we can go on til 12 putting people on but the simple fact is that others start to drift away at 11 ish which means that those who play later miss the best of the audience. 

I have struggled with this situation for years and there seems to be no easy answer. Some say "start earlier" but my experience is that we simply get the same problem at the beginning as many people do not turn up until 8.45-9.00.
Putting people on is the hardest part of running the club and I accept this situation but it doesn’t make it any easier. Being in teaching for 30 years taught me not to have favourites and I regard all of those who come to the club as my friends and I respect everyones involvement and ability, but someone has to go on first and someone last.
On Tues I nearly did not play at all and went on right at the end when there were about 7 people left, but I still enjoyed it…..so I am mulling things over and if you listen carefully enough you will hear the old brain cells grinding together or maybe its just the hedgehogs chewing something…….

Anyway…getting back to last Tuesday…the 19th…we had some excellent sets from regulars and new visitors alike.

Everything Fundamental are an excellent young band from Heathfield who sing and play some covers and some self penned stuff. Dale and Joe had with them a new lad, Will,  who Dale has been teaching guitar and together they performed some brilliant pieces with some excellent harmonies. There obvious popularity was emphasised by their strong following who came along and enjoyed the night and the other performers and this is what it is all about for me…people enjoying playing and being involved…they enhanced the night and the atmosphere so I hope we see more of them.

Another significant debut was young Will, who played and sang some lovely pieces with some confidence and ability both playing and singing. I am duly informed he has his studies to be aware of but I hope we are going to see more of him as it was a particularly successful debut, well delivered and professional.

Felix Fables were an excellent young duo also making their debut and their well rehearsed and technically capable songs were delivered effectively and professionally and to much applause. Another couple of lads to watch and hopefully we will see them again. They have an EP called "a little rain" which is now available from PLEDGEMUSIC/PROJECTS/A-LITTLE-RAIN so check it out….
I would also like to thank Bob Melrose and Mike Aldridge for kindly allowing them to jump the queue a little as their driver had to get back early so thanks for that………

One of the interesting things about the nights is the diversity of players and styles and my own approach is that the most important word in the phrase "Folk Music" is the word "Folk" which, simply, means "people" and people play what is meaningful to them, which can be anything, so that sorts that one out…..!!

So we had young Kayleigh, who has played before, performing and using her iPod as her backing music…fantastic!! I really respect the determination and attitude of some of these performers in that they want to put their creativity out there in whatever way they can do it and enjoy it, so I am all for that……I know that there are purists out there but I would question which path is richer and more interesting… said he sticking his neck out!!

All music is Folk Music as it is all generated by Folk…..I know, I know…..someone is bound to come up with a trombone playing camel….just to prove me wrong…. but hey!!…you get my gist….I hope!!

But look at this!!…..I have already written shed loads and havent mentioned everybody….so you see how it is……

Another newcomer I need to mention is John Revell who comes from Seaford who waited patiently til later but entertained us with some lovely pieces so thanks for his patience and ability and we hope to see him again…

Having talked about Kayleigh, at the other end of the temporal scale we have Derry who comes and plays classical piano and has been a great supporter of the club, so we cover a significant range of music, both in terms of style and history.

All of our other performers were excellent and it was great to see them and their on-going creative input.

Bob Melrose is opening his own night at the May Garland in Horam so look out for that…I am definitely going to that…
Fran Galpin played some lovely tunes..he always seems to play some of my favourite songs from way back…
Simon Watt played some excellent stuff as per usual and Geoff Jackson was his usual lively and positive self..,.Geoff is going to host some nights for us so be ready with that "massive" round of applause. Geoff kindly opened for us as I had been suffering from some chest problems which meant that singing was not entirely reliable…I managed a couple later on!!

David Kirby played some good tunes and it was nice to see Mike Osborne from Hastings who, impressively, was one of the only ones to turn up on the night of snow along with Glenn, Geoff and Simon.
Mike has a strong voice and an interesting repertoire and travels from Hastings to play so I think he deserves an extended set soon.
Mike Aldridge and his family have been coming and supporting the club for a number of years now and it is always a pleasure to see them and hear Mike do some humorous stuff or a bit of blues or both which he is particularly adept at.
No Rachel this time!.. so John Oddie gave us a couple of excellent solo pieces. I still say he does some of those covers better than the originals…a great slide player and always a pleasure to play along with.

Last time we saw Chris Martin who is also known as CJ Martin come and play some of his own stuff and it was good to see him round the night off with a couple of original songs. He has shown considerable support and complemented the club in a couple of e-mails to me and we will no doubt see an extended slot from him at some point.

I also want to mention that, as always, it was great to see Alison and Bart and Greg on Soprano Sax. They bring real interest and colour to the music and to the night in general.

And Mr Andy Barnes on sound and Paul the Landlord and the spider that lives behind the piano…I think well give him/her an extended set at some point and he/she can record it and put it in the web….

I promised this chap called Andy Lester I would mention that Martin Carthy is opening the Sandwich Folk and Ale 2013 festival at St Marys Arts Centre on Friday 12th July tickets £15. Tickets can be purchased at:
http://www.wegottickets.com/event/210864
Better be quick tickets are limited

I think thats about the lot for the moment

I hope I havent forgotten anyone.
Please keep coming and watching the website for info

E-mail me if you are coming for the list 

All the best and see you soon

chris



8th February 2013 LOOKING AFTER OUR FRIENDS


Hi Everyone,

As the Folk and Blues club matures and creates more history it seems I am getting more and more interested people wanting to do things which is great.

I have run a number of music nights in my life, in most places I have lived, and my philosophy was always to create an opportunity where people can come and play and join in and be creative in equality and friendship.

I know that some are more proficient, and perhaps professional, than others and I know that some have ideas about what is folk and what is blues and all of that kind of thing.

My intention is to create an opportunity for people to play their music whether they are an impresario tuba player or whether they can just bang two stones together, I am not going to be selective.

We have initiated the extended sets as a way of allowing people to have a bit more time and I think they have worked quite well so far and I have no reason not to carry on with this process.

I want everyone to have the opportunity of an extended set at some point.

I have my own itinerary but I also need to know if you are keen to do one so please let me know.

My e-mail is on the website.

Watch the web programme to see what is happening and if there is a particular night you might want then let me know.

We cant run an extended set every week, and we have to be fair to all of our participants and I have to try and please everyone…..so good luck to me!!

All the best

See you soon

chris


5th February 2013  Muso Banga and Dave.

Well, I would like to start by apologising for the cancellation of 22nd Jan but, to be honest, only three people turned up on the night and the weather was so bad that Andy and I had to make a decision…..
Anyway the 5th Feb was a completely different story and it was one of those really special nights that I am happy to report on more and more frequently.
A brilliant attendance and a mixture of regular and new people made it a very special night!!
It was the extended set of Muso Banga and Dave. Muso Banga is the drumming group run by Alison Sturridge and consists of a group of women who play a range of drums and drum pieces. On Tues they were joined by Dave who provided some extra drumming and Rhythm. Alison has been teaching drumming for a good while and has been a pal of mine for some years and it was a pleasure to have her and her friends and students playing at the club. They played some interesting and exciting stuff with immaculate dexterity and with an interesting explanation of the origins and purposes of the different pieces. It was lively and infectious and we all danced and had great fun…..a brilliant set!!
As many of you are aware, Alison and some of her group and Bart had been coming and sitting in with us and providing an interesting support and enhancement in previous weeks and it would be great to see this continue in some form.
I would like to make special mention of some new visitors to the club. We had a large input of acts on Tues and I was getting a little anxious that I was going to be able to get everyone on but we managed it, due to the patience of some, so thanks to them….especially John and Rachel, who went on last but performed some lovely pieces none the less so an extra special thanks to them!

So, our newcomers consisted, firstly, of Chris Martin and Phillip who played some excellent stuff from forthcoming Youtube and Itunes albums.



Chriss compositions quite personal and sensitive and well delivered supported by Phillip on Guitar. They have since reported that they enjoyed the evening and we hope to see more of them.

Mike Guy came with Alisons entourage and played some lively stuff which we all joined in with as did Danny who performed some 60s pop tunes which everyone knew and enjoyed.


Danny reported that he is working through a Youtube catalogue of hits from subsequent decades and I will try and get some more information from him about that. A lively and interesting performer and great energy and fun. While waiting his turn to play he made some sketches, see below.




Chris Dawson came to play guitar with Mick Hartnell who has been before. Chriss guitar skills are excellent and they played some good stuff together.

Lisa Jackson, who runs the ever improving Roebuck night, was supported by Helga on flute and she also told me that she had enjoyed the night immensely as we enjoyed her playing. Also an opportunity to mention Lisa whose singing and playing are lovely.
Two performers worthy of special mention are Dave Paull and Paul Meston. Dave played some lovely guitar and sang a couple of beautiful tunes including a particularly complex piece by Joni Mitchell, really wonderful delivery, serious skill and meaningful. Dave has kindly agreed to do an extended set for us sometime this year.

I met Paul some time ago in South Heighton when I was playing a gig there and he played some skilful pieces as he did on Tues. He is another one of those players who takes us into a different dimension with some very adept Flamenco and Classical work. Well played and well received. A serious performer and a nice chap!
So, our regulars are not to be missed and Simon Watt maintained his quality of delivery which included some self penned stuff. I think Simon is due and extended set.
Bob Melrose has become a very welcome regular and is a very adept player with some good material.

Mick Aldridge played some great pieces as usual and it is always a pleasure to see and hear him play, he is such a positive part of the club.

It was nice to see Greg on sax and to have Bart and the girls joining in on Rhythm here and there making a difference and adding interest and extra dimensions….excellent!!

Annie continued her excellent input with some more agri-verse!! That is where cereal galaxies are born…..in the agriverse….they come from rabbit holes…..from which nothing can escape…..not even Bob Dylan music…..I just made all of that that up!!!
I have left Geoff (Antipodean) til last as I wanted to say that he has kindly offered to host some evenings for us which is good news for all of us. He is also going to be doing another "Down Under" night so watch the skies!!
I appreciate his continuing support for the club and he was keen to do some nights so that suited me just fine and Jim Dandy!!!
The thing about good nights is that there is more to say and I need more time, space and energy top say it……but don’t all sympathise at once…not that you are going to!!!
Lovely to see you all and see you soon.
I just want to say that, as always, I enjoy the evenings more and more and it is lovely to join in with all of you to create such a good atmosphere and event.
You can send me stuff and links for the website and I will forward to Simon, photos and video clips, poems and links, lets build a new tomorrow…….
See you soon
With special regards to Andre Preview,
Moi xx